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About Us

Our History

The Department of Health and Exercise Studies has been in existence since 1923. Learn more about the historical timeline of our department.

Our Mission

The mission of the Department of Health and Exercise Studies is to foster an inclusive academic environment in which to educate and inspire students to build and sustain a healthy body and mind for lifelong productivity and wellbeing.

Our Vision

The Department of Health and Exercise Studies at NC State University will be a leading innovator and key contributor for a global focus on physical health and quality of life.

Our Values

We Value: 

  • Inclusion – a student centered model with acceptance for diversity of bodies, capabilities, perspectives and ideas
  • Integrity – professional, ethical and responsible practices
  • Innovation – creativity, risk-taking and the constant pursuit of new information and ideas
  • Impact – through challenge and support, we foster and empower the development of potential and the pursuit of lifelong health and wellbeing
  • Academic Excellence – in teaching, research, engagement and scholarship 

Instruction

The Department of Health and Exercise Studies offers a variety of both activity and lecture courses. The Department also provides four academic minors including Coaching Education, Health, Outdoor Leadership, and Sports Science. The department serves both traditional and non-traditional students with courses offered through distance education courses.

GEP Requirements

All students attending North Carolina State University are required to complete two Health and Exercise Studies courses to meet the university General Education Program (GEP) requirement. One course must be a Fitness and Wellness course (Fitness and Wellness courses are those found in the HESF 100-level series). Students with disabling conditions and special needs will be accommodated and assisted by the Department of Health and Exercise Studies and the Disability Resources Office.

Public Service

The department’s public service contributions encompass instruction, continuing education, research, public school outreach, community engagement, and special needs activity involvement. While the sense of service permeates throughout the university, the primary function of the Department of Health and Exercise Studies is to extend NC State’s resources to the citizens of North Carolina. Listed below are a few examples of the department’s faculty commitment to public service.

  • Host – Special Olympics
  • Host – North Carolina Senior Games
  • NC State Upward Bound Program
  • NC State Adult Fitness Program
  • Instruction for North Carolina School for the Deaf
  • Outdoor Education Team Building Initiatives
  • International Basketball Officiating
  • University Connection Teacher Liaisons

Our Facilities

Health and Exercise Studies classes are conducted primarily in the Carmichael Gymnasium Complex. For more information about the facilities, please visit the Wellness and Recreation website.