Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Sport and Exercise Therapy)
Hours: 120 On-Campus
About
The Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Sport and Exercise Therapy) at Fort Hays State University offers a comprehensive pre-professional foundation for students preparing to pursue advanced degrees in physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, physician assistant studies, and chiropractic care.
This program blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience to ensure students are well-prepared for graduate-level study. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, from the fundamental principles of physical fitness to specialized instruction in injury prevention and rehabilitation. The program provides a well-rounded education that promotes academic excellence and professional growth in health and sports therapy by combining core coursework with focused study areas.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Sport and Exercise Therapy) at Fort Hays State University?
The B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Sport and Exercise Therapy) stands out for its student-centered approach and strong emphasis on applied learning. The program combines academic rigor with practical experience to prepare students for the demands of professional health and therapy careers.
Graduates are well-equipped to enter competitive postgraduate programs with a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge and hands-on training. Through personalized instruction and dedicated mentorship, students receive the guidance needed to achieve their professional aspirations, making this program an outstanding choice for those pursuing careers in healthcare, therapy, and sports-related fields.
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for individuals passionate about advancing health and wellness through sports and exercise. It is ideal for students who combine scientific knowledge with practical skills to prepare for healthcare, rehabilitation, or athletic performance careers. The program is particularly well-suited for:
- Aspiring physical therapists and occupational therapists seeking a solid undergraduate foundation before pursuing graduate studies
- Current professionals in the health and fitness industries looking to deepen their knowledge and enhance their credentials
- Athletes and coaches looking to integrate scientific principles of fitness and health into their training regimens
- Individuals interested in a career in sports medicine, rehabilitation, or therapeutic practices
- Students seeking careers in wellness coaching, personal training, and related fields where they can directly impact the health and performance of individuals and communities
Real-World Applications
The program delivers practical, impactful training, equipping students with essential skills in emergency response, athletic training, and injury prevention and care. It also includes an in-depth focus on adapted physical education, preparing graduates to work with individuals with special needs and broadening their professional versatility.
Moreover, the program emphasizes the design and leadership of comprehensive fitness and health promotion plans. Through hands-on experiences, students apply their knowledge in real-world settings, promoting health at both individual and community levels. These practical opportunities ensure graduates are confident and well-prepared for their careers.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University incorporates the latest advancements and trends in health and human performance throughout its curriculum. This dynamic approach ensures that students learn current best practices and are prepared to adapt to emerging developments in physical therapy, sports medicine, and exercise science.
Courses—from physiological assessments in Exercise Physiology labs to the strategic design of health and fitness programs—are regularly updated to reflect the newest research and technology. This forward-thinking curriculum equips students to lead and innovate in a competitive, rapidly evolving field.
Hands-on Activities
The B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Sport and Exercise Therapy) program offers extensive hands-on activities integrating theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students receive comprehensive training in first aid, CPR, and AED use, critical for managing emergencies in sports and exercise environments. The curriculum also includes specialized courses focused on preventing and caring for sports-related injuries, preparing students to address common physical challenges in therapy effectively.
With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and exercise facilities, students apply their learning in real-world settings. The program further supports internships and cooperative education opportunities, providing valuable field experience directly aligned with their future health and human performance careers.
What You’ll Learn:
- Biomechanics and physiological processes of movement
- Injury prevention strategies and techniques
- Rehabilitation techniques for sports injuries
- Nutritional strategies for athletic performance
- Skills in first aid and emergency care
How You’ll Learn:
- Practical training in injury prevention
- Role-playing in interactive courses
- Internships in sports and health facilities
- Capstone projects in real-world scenarios
- Participation in research in sports science
The curriculum blends foundational knowledge with specialized training to prepare students for advanced roles in health and sports professions. Core courses address physical fitness, emergency response, and basic health principles, while specialized classes concentrate on sports injury care and adapted physical education for individuals with special needs.
The program also offers in-depth studies in nutrition, fitness leadership, exercise physiology, and kinesiology, deepening students’ understanding of body function, movement, and fitness program design. This comprehensive curriculum equips graduates with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for further professional education or immediate entry into health and sports therapy careers.
HHP 345: Introduction to Athletic Training Clinical Practice
This course provides pre-professional healthcare students with a foundation in athletic training principles, including risk management, musculoskeletal injury pathophysiology, evaluation and diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions.
HHP 440: Kinesiology
This course focuses on the mechanics of bodily movement and the relationship of muscles to various forms of exercise, daily activities, and sports.
TEEL 231: Human Growth and Development
This course studies individual development across the lifespan, focusing on physical, social, sexual, emotional, intellectual, and linguistic growth.
Discover the full Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance (Sport and Exercise Therapy) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are well-prepared to pursue diverse and rewarding careers. The program’s comprehensive health, fitness, and rehabilitation training equips students with the skills necessary to excel in various roles within healthcare, sports, and wellness industries. Key career paths for graduates include:
Physical Therapy Assistant
Physical therapy assistants support patients recovering from injuries or surgeries by administering treatments and exercises under physical therapists’ supervision. This role is key to helping patients regain mobility and manage pain, directly applying skills learned in exercise therapy and rehabilitation courses.
Athletic Trainer
Athletic trainers work directly with athletes and clients to prevent, assess, and treat muscle and bone injuries. They provide emergency care, design rehabilitation plans, and implement injury-prevention strategies, ensuring the health, safety, and optimal performance of those in their care.
Wellness Coach
Wellness coaches guide individuals in improving physical and mental health through personalized fitness and nutrition plans. This career suits those passionate about helping others reach their health and fitness goals, applying their knowledge of human physiology and health promotion.
Sports Rehabilitation Therapist
Sports rehabilitation therapists guide athletes through recovery from injuries using targeted exercises and therapeutic techniques that restore function, improve performance, and prevent re-injury. They design individualized rehabilitation plans, monitor progress, and adjust treatments to help athletes safely return to their sport.
Community Health Coordinator
Community health coordinators develop and implement programs that promote health and wellness for diverse populations. They assess community needs, design initiatives, coordinate resources, and engage stakeholders to improve public health outcomes.
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.
Related Programs
The B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Sport and Exercise Therapy) is closely connected to several other academic programs that complement and expand the knowledge and skills it provides. Students interested in related fields may consider exploring the following programs:
- B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Exercise Science)
- B.S. in Biology (Health Professions)
- M.S. in Health and Human Performance (Exercise Science)
- Master of Professional Studies (Sport Management)
- Master of Business Administration (Sports Management)
The B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Sport and Exercise Therapy) prepares you for various healthcare, sports, and wellness careers. Some of these careers include physical therapy assistant, athletic trainer, wellness coach, sports rehabilitation therapist, and community health coordinator.
This program is designed as a pre-professional pathway to prepare you for graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other health professions.
The program offers numerous hands-on activities to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. These activities include training in first aid, CPR, and AED usage, injury prevention and care courses, internships in sports and health facilities, capstone projects in real-world scenarios, and participation in research in sports science.
The curriculum is constantly updated to reflect the latest health and human performance advancements. This includes using the newest technology in exercise physiology labs, developing health and fitness programs based on current research, and focusing on new injury prevention and rehabilitation trends.
To enter this program, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum GPA of 2.5, and a personal statement outlining your career goals and interest in the field. Letters of recommendation are optional.
Information about the Department of Health and Human Performance
The Department of Health and Human Performance at FHSU offers specialized, in-demand degree programs that combine innovative, hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art facilities. Supported by a dedicated faculty and staff, students are encouraged to address community needs and make a meaningful impact beyond the campus.
The department is committed to preparing students for fulfilling and rewarding careers that align with their personal and professional goals. Emphasizing practical learning experiences, flexible academic options, and close mentorship from experienced faculty, the programs equip students to succeed in diverse, high-growth fields such as professional sports, healthcare, and more. By joining this community, students become part of a network of accomplished alumni and embark on a career path that fosters both personal satisfaction and professional achievement.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities. For more information about the following student organizations, please contact the Department of Health and Human Performance.
- 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 active involvement in campus, community, and professional activities, members develop valuable leadership skills and enhance their professional growth.
- HHP Majors Club: The HHP Majors Club offers students an excellent opportunity to stay engaged in departmental activities, connect with classmates, and take part in university events. The club fosters a strong sense of community within the Department of Health and Human Performance while encouraging involvement and collaboration among students.
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes: The Fellowship of Christian Athletes provides students with the opportunity to integrate their faith with a passion for athletics. This organization sponsors the national annual event Fields of Faith, where FHSU students worship and serve alongside members of the Hays community. FCA welcomes all students interested in Christianity, regardless of their involvement in FHSU athletics.
- Pre-Professional Healthcare Club: The FHSU Pre-Physical Therapy Club fosters a sense of community among students pursuing careers in fields such as Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Occupational Therapy, Pre-Athletic Training, Pre-Physician Assistant, and Pre-Chiropractic. The club supports professional development by offering resources and activities designed to strengthen students’ applications for graduate healthcare programs and future careers. Membership is open to any FHSU student interested in entering a professional healthcare or related field.
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
