Department Overview
Health, Wellness, and Exercise Science

Mission

Classes in the Department of Health, Wellness, and Exercise Science (HWES) focus on lifelong wellness through the development of the whole student and are interdisciplinary in nature. By combining the fields of education, social sciences, and healthcare, students in the HWES department are equipped to serve in many roles. These include positions in schools, sports arenas, fitness centers, community and public health organizations, physical therapy clinics, and outdoor recreation endeavors. The HWES department provides high quality education and career preparation by forming dynamic professional relationships with all of our students, both in learning theory and providing practical application of material. HWES majors graduate as effective teachers, coaches, athletic trainers, therapists, and sports managers who promote healthy lifestyles in a variety of settings. 

Objectives

  1. Prepare professional and skilled athletic health care professionals; physical education and health teachers; strength and conditioning coaches; sport-specific coaches; and leisure and sport managers.  
  2. Assist and advocate for program alumni in pursuing graduate studies as desired. 
  3. Facilitate opportunities for students to learn theory and application through practical extracurricular experiences. 
  4. Equip students with certification in first aid, CPR, strength and conditioning, and water safety instruction. 
  5. Promote positive attitudes about health and fitness so all students recognize, discover, and utilize the benefits of active and healthy choices across the lifespan.   

Majors

  1. Exercise and Sport Science with specializations in:
    • Teaching Physical Education and Health
    • General Healthcare
    • Coaching
    • Sports Management
  2. Strength and Conditioning
  3. Athletic Health Care
Location