Adapted Physical Education Specialists
O*NET 25-2059.01 · SOC 25-2059
Adapted Physical Education Specialist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $77k a year with +1.9% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 2,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Design individualized physical education programs for students with disabilities.
- →Assess students' motor skills and physical fitness levels formally.
- →Modify sports and movement activities to accommodate various physical limitations.
- →Consult with physical therapists to align motor development goals.
- →Train general PE teachers on adapting activities for disabled students.
Education & How to Get In
Adapted Physical Education Specialist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
People-facing, clinics, schools, or client sites
Collaborative, frequent interaction with teams, clients, or patients
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Adapted Physical Education Specialist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Adapted Physical Education Specialist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Adapted Physical Education Specialist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Adapted Physical Education Specialists is projected to grow 1.9% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·43% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Adapted Physical Education Specialist make?
The median Adapted Physical Education Specialist earns $77k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Adapted Physical Education Specialist jobs?
Our model puts Adapted Physical Education Specialist at 27 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 43% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace.
Is Adapted Physical Education Specialist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 1.9% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 2,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Adapted Physical Education Specialist?
Adapted Physical Education Specialist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become an Adapted Physical Education Specialist?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Adapted Physical Education Specialist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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