Physical Education

Physical fitness and sports are more than just important parts of many students' college experience. They can be important ingredients in a successful and healthy life. Developing the ability and habit to exercise regularly and the teamwork and strategy skills honed by playing sports are important elements of your education.

In addition to taking a coaching certification to get you eligible to take the American Sport Education Program certification, which allows you to coach in Illinois schools, you can take classes in First Aid, volleyball, soccer, yoga, baseball, golf, and more.

Oakton College's Physical Education department provides you with the chance to pursue your own physical fitness while earning credit hours. We utilize the most up-to-date research and contemporary teaching strategies to ensure total body fitness and lifelong learning.

A variety of our fitness and wellness courses take advantage of our well-equipped Fitness Center supervised by qualified professors and instructors. Other classes focus on physical education theory and the practice of sports skills. Some courses are designed for students who prefer an online approach or those whose schedule does not allow for traditional class meetings.

We also offer a number of classes that provide a starting point and a wealth of useful knowledge if you are interested in pursuing a career as a physical educator, coach, or physical therapist assistant. Recent Physical Education department students have gone to careers in teaching, coaching, recreation, and some medical fields.

Job Outlook

There are many benefits of physical education in schools. When students get physical education, they can:

  • Increase their level of physical activity.
  • Improve their grades and standardized test scores.
  • Stay on-task in the classroom.

Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Potential Careers

  • Teaching
  • Coaching
  • Recreation
  • Some medical fields

Meet Your Faculty

Get to know our knowledgeable and energetic Physical Education faculty.

Michael Graves, Chair
Professor of Physical Education
B.S. Chicago State University
M.S. West Virginia University
Ed.D. West Virginia University
mgraves@oakton.edu
847.635.1921
Office: Room 1340, Des Plaines

What's Next?

We are glad you are considering attending Oakton College. No matter where you are in your decision-making process, we are here to help you with your next steps. Whether you're ready to apply now, need information on paying for college or have questions and want to contact someone, we're here to help.

Contact Us