Adapted Physical Education Specialists
Adapted physical education specialists design and deliver individualized PE instruction for children, youth, or adults with physical disabilities or developmental delays. They work in schools, rehabilitation centers, community recreation programs, and healthcare settings. The role combines teaching, assessment, and therapy to help individuals with exceptional physical needs build strength, coordination, and confidence.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against adapted physical education specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes assessing students' physical abilities, planning modified exercises and activities, and delivering one-on-one or small-group instruction. Specialists might work with a child on balance and coordination one hour, then consult with parents and other therapists the next. They adapt standard PE activities using specialized equipment, techniques, and progressions based on each person's specific impairments and goals.
Who this work suits
Holland code SCR. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're drawn to this work if you enjoy helping people solve problems within clear systems and supporting individuals with disabilities. You likely value structured environments and measurable progress, and you find satisfaction in following established protocols while tailoring them to unique needs.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $82,090 | $103,050 | $120,860 | 8,920 |
| New Mexico | $86,520 | $86,520 | $107,250 | 100 |
| Delaware | $75,040 | $85,040 | $96,090 | 50 |
| Oregon | $71,280 | $82,240 | $95,890 | 820 |
| Rhode Island | $62,800 | $80,080 | $83,300 | 110 |
| Colorado | $53,760 | $79,290 | $92,510 | 180 |
| Michigan | $62,060 | $78,540 | $85,470 | 3,320 |
| Massachusetts | $65,610 | $78,440 | $96,370 | 300 |
| Virginia | $60,830 | $77,280 | $105,130 | 540 |
| Washington | $63,820 | $76,790 | $90,270 | 170 |
| Pennsylvania | $57,910 | $76,530 | $97,760 | 450 |
| Georgia | $61,740 | $76,130 | $92,300 | 980 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- DoDEA Certification — Department of Defense Education Activity
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against adapted physical education specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-2059.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.