Health Sciences (Healthy Lifestyles and Fitness Science), BS

The Bachelor of Science in health sciences with a concentration in healthy lifestyles and fitness science is a dynamic program that blends multidisciplinary coursework with hands-on training, providing a strong foundation in promoting healthy lifestyles. Students gain expertise in nutrition, fitness, stress management, substance abuse prevention, behavior change, health coaching and health promotion program management.

Students are equipped to make a meaningful impact on individual and community health, addressing challenges related to social determinants of health.

The program offers three academic tracks that prepare students for nationally accredited certifications:

Fitness science: Students learn to assess clients and create personalized exercise programs to optimize health. Courses cover physical activity planning, exercise prescription, body image, wellness and injury risk assessment. Graduates are prepared for personal training certification through the American College of Sports Medicine. https://www.acsm.org

Health education and health promotion: Students develop, lead and evaluate health promotion programs, addressing topics such as diabetes prevention, sexual health and emergency preparedness. This track prepares graduates for the Certified Health Education Specialist exam through the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing. https://www.nchec.org

Health and wellness coaching: Students learn behavior change strategies and motivational interviewing techniques. Graduates are prepared for certification as Health and Wellness Coaches through the American Council on Exercise (https://www.acefitness.org) and may pursue additional credentialing through the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaches (https://nbhwc.org).