Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management)

Bachelor's

Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management)

Hours: 120 On-Campus

About

The Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management) at Fort Hays State University prepares students for careers in the dynamic and evolving fields of sports and recreation. Designed for individuals passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles, managing sports organizations, and coordinating recreational programs, the curriculum blends foundational theory with practical, hands-on experience essential for success in the field.

The program offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies to match specific career goals. Coursework covers a wide range of subjects, including exercise science, sports psychology, facility management, and community health. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers in sports administration, coaching, recreation management, and health promotion, entering the workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management) at Fort Hays State University?

Pursuing a B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management) at FHSU offers students a range of distinct advantages. The program features a flexible curriculum allowing students to customize their academic experience to align with career aspirations in sports management, recreation, or health promotion.

Through hands-on learning opportunities such as service-learning projects and internships, students gain valuable real-world experience that directly prepares them for professional roles. A strong emphasis on community engagement further sets the program apart, as students contribute to initiatives that benefit local populations—enhancing both their practical skills and sense of civic responsibility.

Guided by expert faculty who provide personalized mentorship, students receive the academic support and career preparation needed to succeed in the field.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for individuals who are passionate about promoting health, managing sports organizations, and coordinating recreational activities. It is especially well-suited for those who:

Have a strong interest in sports and physical activity
Aspire to manage sports teams or recreational facilities
Want to promote health and wellness in their communities
Enjoy working in dynamic and team-oriented environments
Seek a versatile degree that offers multiple career paths

Learning Outcomes

The Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management) program prepares students to become impactful professionals within their communities. Through a comprehensive curriculum and immersive hands-on experiences, graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a variety of roles in sports management, recreation, and health promotion.

Crisis Preparedness

Graduates are equipped with the skills necessary to respond effectively to medical emergencies. They demonstrate proficiency in CPR and AED use through simulated scenarios, apply appropriate first aid techniques for a variety of conditions, and design venue-specific emergency action plans to ensure safety and preparedness in diverse settings.

Human Movement Science

Students gain a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology as it relates to human movement, essential for enhancing performance and ensuring safe exercise practices. They apply their knowledge of the cardiorespiratory, metabolic, musculoskeletal, and neuromuscular systems to design effective exercise programs and identify key factors that influence movement and physical function.

Professional Behavior

Graduates demonstrate professional conduct by emphasizing personal wellness, effective communication, and continuous growth. They articulate a clear wellness philosophy, advocate for the value of their profession, produce well-organized written and oral communications, navigate conflicts constructively, and actively participate in ongoing professional development.

Effective Programming

Students are prepared to assess community needs, design impactful health programs, and evaluate their effectiveness. They conduct comprehensive needs assessments, develop age-appropriate and targeted programming, create crisis communication plans, and select appropriate evaluation tools to measure program outcomes and success.

Real-World Applications

The program guides students through extensive experiential learning opportunities. Service-learning projects allow students to address community health challenges by applying classroom knowledge to real-world situations, thereby enhancing their critical-thinking skills. Additionally, field experiences and internships provide hands-on training with local sports teams, recreational facilities, and health organizations. These experiences offer valuable work exposure and help build professional networks, equipping graduates with the practical skills and confidence necessary for career success.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University integrates the latest advancements and trends to ensure students remain at the forefront of the field. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect emerging technologies and methodologies in sports management, health promotion, and recreation. This forward-thinking approach equips graduates to adapt to the evolving demands of their professions.

Students engage in coursework covering current fitness and wellness trends, digital sports management tools, and innovative community health promotion strategies. By aligning with industry standards and innovations, they gain a competitive advantage that prepares them to become leaders in their fields. This commitment to ongoing advancement ensures that graduates remain relevant and effective throughout their careers.

Hands-on Activities

The program incorporates hands-on learning to foster professional development. Field courses, internships, and research projects allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, develop practical skills, and build a robust professional portfolio. These experiential opportunities serve as a vital bridge between classroom learning and professional practice.

Internships with local sports teams, recreational facilities, and health organizations offer valuable on-the-job experience. Labs and demonstrations simulate real-world scenarios, helping students cultivate essential career skills. Additionally, participation in conferences and workshops enables students to network with industry professionals and stay informed about emerging trends and best practices.

What You’ll Learn:

Fundamentals of human movement science
Sports psychology principles
Facility management techniques
Community health strategies
Leadership and team management

How You’ll Learn:

Practical field experiences
Service-learning projects
Interactive lectures and labs
Internship placements
Conference participation

Courses

The B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management) features a core curriculum that establishes a strong foundation in exercise physiology, kinesiology, health promotion, and sports psychology. Students then advance to specialized coursework in recreation and sports management, covering topics such as facility management, sports marketing, and event planning. This well-rounded curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to prepare students for a wide range of roles within the field.

Elective courses offer additional flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies to align with their personal interests and career objectives. Options like advanced sports analytics, community health, and sports leadership provide opportunities for deeper expertise in key areas. Together, the core and elective courses deliver a comprehensive education that equips students to thrive in diverse professional settings.

HHP 271: Introduction to Recreation and Sports Management

The course examines the nature, scope, and significance of recreation in today's world.

HHP 381: Field Work in Recreation and Sports Management

This course offers students the opportunity to gain professional experience in Recreation and Sport Management by exposing them to daily operations and the development and implementation of programs and events.

HHP 450: Program Organization and Administration

This course addresses issues in the organization, administration, supervision, and coordination of physical education and athletic programs.

Discover the full Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates can pursue a variety of careers, each presenting their own unique opportunities and challenges. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen fields, paving the way for a successful and rewarding professional future.

Sports Manager

Sports managers oversee the operations of sports teams and organizations, including event planning, marketing, and facility management. This role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and knowledge of sports management principles.

Recreation Director

Recreation directors manage programs and facilities, design wellness activities, coordinate events, and engage the community. The role requires strong planning, coordination, and dedication to community wellness.

Health Promotion Specialist

Health promotion specialists create programs to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent disease. They develop educational materials, lead campaigns, and support behavior change in healthcare, nonprofit, and government settings. Strong communication and program management skills are essential.

Fitness Instructor

Fitness instructors lead classes and provide personal training, designing exercise programs, and teaching proper techniques. They motivate clients to achieve their fitness goals, relying on knowledge of exercise science and strong interpersonal skills.

Sports Coach

Sports coaches train athletes at all levels, helping improve skills, develop strategies, and enhance performance. They lead practices, provide mentorship, and analyze performance. This role requires strong leadership, analytical abilities, and extensive sports knowledge.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that appeal to students seeking to broaden their expertise and career opportunities. These programs provide complementary knowledge and skills that enhance professional development:

FAQ

What are the job prospects for graduates of the B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management)?

Graduates have diverse job opportunities in sports management, recreation, health promotion, and fitness instruction. They can work in various settings, including sports teams, recreational facilities, health organizations, and educational institutions.

Where are your graduates employed?

Our graduates are employed in various industries, including professional sports teams, community recreation centers, corporate wellness programs, and healthcare organizations. They also find positions in educational institutions, from schools to universities.

What hands-on experiences are included in the program?

The B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management) includes internships, field experiences, labs, and service-learning projects. These experiences provide students with practical skills and real-world insights, making them job-ready upon graduation.

How flexible is the program in terms of course selection?

The B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Recreation or Sports Management) offers a variety of elective courses that allow students to tailor their education to their career goals. This flexibility helps students focus on areas of interest and gain specialized knowledge in their chosen field.

What support is available for students during the program?

FHSU provides academic advising, career development, and access to faculty with industry expertise. These resources help students navigate their educational journey and prepare for successful careers.

Information about the Department of Health and Human Performance

The Department of Health and Human Performance provides specialized, in-demand degrees that combine innovative, hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art facilities. You will be supported by a dedicated faculty and staff who are committed to helping you address the needs of the community and make a meaningful impact beyond the campus.

We strive to prepare you for a fulfilling and rewarding career that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Our programs emphasize practical learning experiences, offer flexible academic options, and foster close-knit mentorship from our experienced faculty. With opportunities in diverse, high-growth fields such as professional sports, healthcare, and more, you will be equipped to pursue your career aspirations. Join our network of accomplished alumni and embark on a path that leads to both personal satisfaction and professional success.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Phi Epsilon Kappa - Delta Theta Chapter: The Delta Theta chapter of Phi Epsilon Kappa, a national honor society, recognizes FHSU students pursuing careers in physical education, health, recreation, dance, human performance, exercise science, sports medicine, and sports management. Through Phi Epsilon Kappa, you will gain leadership skills by engaging in campus, community, and professional activities. To get involved, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
HHP Majors Club: The HHP Majors Club is ideal for students wanting to stay involved with departmental activities, meet classmates, and participate in university events. This club fosters a sense of community within the department. For more information, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes: The Fellowship of Christian Athletes offers students the chance to combine their faith with their passion for athletics. This organization sponsors the national annual event, Fields of Faith, which allows FHSU students to worship and serve alongside the Hays community. All students interested in Christianity are welcome to join, regardless of their participation in FHSU athletics. To get involved, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
Pre-Professional Healthcare Club: The FHSU Pre-Physical Therapy Club is dedicated to providing meaningful experiences for students preparing for physical therapy school. This club brings together students interested in professional development to strengthen their applications for physical therapy programs and beyond. Membership is available to any FHSU student interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy or related fields. For more information, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.

Recreation or Sports Management

Bachelor's

On-Campus

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