Health & Exercise Sciences

https://liberalarts.pacific.edu/liberalarts/academics/departments-and-programs/health-exercise-sciences
Phone: (209) 946-2209
Location: Main Gym

J. Mark VanNess, Chair (Health & Exercise Science)
 

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Science
Master of Arts
(see Graduate Catalog for information)

Majors Offered

Health and Exercise Sciences (BA), with concentrations in:

  • Health & Exercise Science
  • Human Performance

Health and Exercise Science (BS)

Public Health and Community Wellness (BA, BS)

  • Law & Ethics
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Data Analysis
  • Environment
  • Socio-Cultural

Minors Offered

Health & Exercise Sciences

Mission

The mission of the University of the Pacific’s Department of Health and Exercise Sciences is to provide student-centered instruction, offer a progressive, dynamic, cross-disciplinary curriculum in the liberal arts and sciences tradition, and attract and sustain students and faculty of diversity and quality. 

Degrees in Health and Exercise Sciences

The Department of Health and Exercise Sciences offers programs of study leading to the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Master of Arts degrees. The purpose of a Health and Exercise Sciences degree is to educate and prepare students for a variety of careers in the fields grounded in human-centered sciences.

Coursework provides students with a foundation of knowledge and understanding about the concepts within the discipline.  All degree options culminate with internships or practical coursework in clinical and applied settings.

Upon completion of a degree in the Department of Health and Exercise Sciences, it is expected that students have the capacity to: Obtain, read, and interpret important information from health and exercise sciences literature; write clearly, critically and persuasively; prepare and deliver presentations effectively; work and collaborate in groups toward a common goal; design and conduct research studies using appropriate methodologies; identify and apply ethical standards to the current issues in a selected track/major.

Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science options are available within the Public Health and Community Wellness major. The Bachelor of Arts option is for students who desire to focus on the social aspects of health and community medicine. The Bachelor of Science option is for students who desire to focus on clinical aspects of Public health and community medicine. 

Facilities

The Department of Health and Exercise Sciences has the following facilities for use in its programs: a Human Physiology laboratory, a Human Performance and Biomechanics laboratory, a Kinesiology laboratory, a Clinical Training laboratory, a computer lab, and Baun Fitness Center.

Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science

The Bachelor of Science degree in health and exercise science prepares students for careers and/or graduate study in areas such as medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, health sciences, nutrition and exercise physiology.  The program is science based and human oriented.  The study of human movement comprises understanding of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, immune and metabolic systems.  Foundational sciences as well as exercise physiology, kinesiology and clinical opportunities provide the underpinning of the program.  The majority of the major classes involve experiential laboratory components to illustrate and encourage the application of theoretical concepts.  Opportunities for taking specialty elective classes are available to tailor the undergraduate major for specific graduate interests.

Students must complete a minimum of 120 units with a Pacific cumulative and major/program grade point average of 2.0 in order to earn the Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Health and Exercise Science.

I. General Education Requirements

For more details, see General Education

Minimum 28 units and 9 courses that include:

A. CORE Seminars (2 courses)

CORE 001Problem Solving & Oral Comm3
CORE 002Writing and Critical Thinking4

Note: 1) CORE Seminars cannot be taken for Pass/No Credit. 2) Transfer students with 28 or more transfer credits taken after high school are exempt from both CORE seminars.  

B. Breadth Requirement (7 courses, at least 3 units each)

At least one course from each of the following areas:
Artistic Process & Creation
Civic & Global Responsibility
Language & Narratives
Quantitative Reasoning
Scientific Inquiry
Social Inquiry
World Perspectives & Ethics

Note: 1) No more than 2 courses from a single discipline can be used to meet the Breadth Requirement.

C. Diversity and Inclusion Requirement

All students must complete Diversity and Inclusion coursework (at least 3 units)

Note: 1) Diversity and Inclusion courses can also be used to meet the breadth category requirements, or major or minor requirements.

D. Fundamental Skills

Students must demonstrate competence in:
Writing
Quantitative Analysis (Math)

Note: 1) Failure to satisfy the fundamental skills requirements by the end of four semesters of full-time study at the University is grounds for academic disqualification.

II. Breadth Requirement

Students must complete 60 units outside the primary discipline of the first major, regardless of the department who offers the course(s) in that discipline.  (Courses include general education courses, transfer courses, CPCE/EXTN units, internships, etc.).

III. Major Requirements

Minimum 76 units that include

HLTH 129Exercise Physiology4
HLTH 133Functional Anatomy4
HLTH 135Nutrition and Metabolism4
HLTH 147Muscle Physiology4
HLTH 157The Clinician in Health and Exercise Science4
HLTH 177Cardiovascular Physiology4
HLTH 180Epidemiology4
HLTH 187Internship in Health and Exercise Science4
BIOL 051Principles of Biology5
BIOL 061Principles of Biology5
BIOL 170Human Anatomy5
BIOL 180Human Physiology5
CHEM 025General Chemistry5
CHEM 027General Chemistry5
PHYS 023General Physics I5
PHYS 025General Physics II5
Three HLTH Electives *9-12
*

 Excludes: HLTH 023 and HLTH 025.

Bachelor of Arts Major in Health and Exercise Sciences Concentration in Health and Exercise Science

The Health and Exercise Science concentration is scientifically based and human oriented. It prepares students for careers and/or further graduate study in health and fitness related areas such as physician assistant, nurse practitioner, medicine, chiropractics, nursing, athletic training, nutrition and exercise/work physiology. A primary goal of this concentration is to provide a scholarly environment in classes and laboratories that supports and encourages the application of theoretical concepts. Students study and apply principles relevant to the rehabilitation and enhancement of human performance.

In addition to completing the Health and Exercise Sciences, students must successfully complete a series of courses within the department and courses drawn from the life and physical sciences.

Students must complete a minimum of 120 units with a Pacific cumulative and major/program grade point average of 2.0 in order to earn the bachelor of arts degree with a major in health, exercise and sport sciences with a concentration in health and exercise science.

I. General Education Requirements

For more details, see General Education

Minimum 28 units and 9 courses that include:

A. CORE Seminars (2 courses)

CORE 001Problem Solving & Oral Comm3
CORE 002Writing and Critical Thinking4

Note: 1) CORE Seminars cannot be taken for Pass/No Credit. 2) Transfer students with 28 or more transfer credits taken after high school are exempt from both CORE seminars.  

B. Breadth Requirement (7 courses, at least 3 units each)

At least one course from each of the following areas:
Artistic Process & Creation
Civic & Global Responsibility
Language & Narratives
Quantitative Reasoning
Scientific Inquiry
Social Inquiry
World Perspectives & Ethics

Note: 1) No more than 2 courses from a single discipline can be used to meet the Breadth Requirement.

C. Diversity and Inclusion Requirement

All students must complete Diversity and Inclusion coursework (at least 3 units)

Note: 1) Diversity and Inclusion courses can also be used to meet the breadth category requirements, or major or minor requirements.

D. Fundamental Skills

Students must demonstrate competence in:
Writing
Quantitative Analysis (Math)

Note: 1) Failure to satisfy the fundamental skills requirements by the end of four semesters of full-time study at the University is grounds for academic disqualification.

II. College of the Pacific BA Requirement

Students must complete one year of college instruction or equivalent training in a language other than English.

Note: 1) Transfer students with sophomore standing are exempt from this requirement.

III. Breadth Requirement

Students must complete 60 units outside the primary discipline of the first major, regardless of the department who offers the course(s) in that discipline. (Courses include general education courses, transfer courses, CPCE/EXTN units, internships, etc.)

IV. Major Requirements:

Minimum 60 units that include:

HLTH 129Exercise Physiology4
HLTH 133Functional Anatomy4
HLTH 157The Clinician in Health and Exercise Science4
HLTH 180Epidemiology4
HLTH 187Internship in Health and Exercise Science4
BIOL 051Principles of Biology5
BIOL 061Principles of Biology5
BIOL 170Human Anatomy5
BIOL 180Human Physiology5
CHEM 025General Chemistry5
CHEM 027General Chemistry5
Five HLTH Electives (Five additional courses excluding HLTH 023, HLTH 025)12-16

Career Options for Health and Exercise Science

Employment opportunities following completion of the health and exercise science concentration include cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, cardiac disease prevention-rehabilitation, work toward advanced degrees in allied health sciences such as physican assistant, nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy and medicine or sports medicine. Health and Exercise Science is in part a self-contained program as curricular support for Pacific’s Physical Therapy Graduate program.

Pre-Physical Therapy (Optional)

Students in the Health and Exercise Science concentration who are interested in pursuing graduate studies in Physical Therapy are advised to complete the following courses:

MATH 035Elementary Statistical Inference (or similar course)3
PHYS 023General Physics I5
PHYS 025General Physics II5
PSYC 017Abnormal and Clinical Psychology4
PSYC 031Introduction to Psychology4
HLTH 061Medical Terminology4

Students are strongly advised to check with individual graduate programs for specific requirements.

Bachelor of Arts Major in Health and Exercise Sciences Concentration in Human Performance

The Health and Exercise Science concentration is scientifically based and human oriented. It prepares students for careers and/or further graduate study for health clubs, corporate fitness/wellness, sport performance, nutrition and exercise/work physiology. A primary goal of this concentration is to provide a scholarly environment in classes and laboratories that supports and encourages the application of theoretical concepts. Students study and apply principles relevant to enhancement of human and sport performance.

In addition to completing the Health and Exercise Sciences, students that study Human Performance must successfully complete a series of courses within the department and courses drawn from the life and physical sciences.

Students must complete a minimum of 120 units with a Pacific cumulative and major/program grade point average of 2.0 in order to earn the bachelor of arts degree with a major in health, exercise and sport sciences with a concentration in human performance.

I. General Education Requirements

For more details, see General Education

Minimum 28 units and 9 courses that include:

A. CORE Seminars (2 courses)

CORE 001Problem Solving & Oral Comm3
CORE 002Writing and Critical Thinking4

Note: 1) CORE Seminars cannot be taken for Pass/No Credit. 2) Transfer students with 28 or more transfer credits taken after high school are exempt from both CORE seminars.  

B. Breadth Requirement (7 courses, at least 3 units each)

At least one course from each of the following areas:
Artistic Process & Creation
Civic & Global Responsibility
Language & Narratives
Quantitative Reasoning
Scientific Inquiry
Social Inquiry
World Perspectives & Ethics

Note: 1) No more than 2 courses from a single discipline can be used to meet the Breadth Requirement.

C. Diversity and Inclusion Requirement

All students must complete Diversity and Inclusion coursework (at least 3 units)

Note: 1) Diversity and Inclusion courses can also be used to meet the breadth category requirements, or major or minor requirements.

D. Fundamental Skills

Students must demonstrate competence in:
Writing
Quantitative Analysis (Math)

Note: 1) Failure to satisfy the fundamental skills requirements by the end of four semesters of full-time study at the University is grounds for academic disqualification.

II. College of the Pacific BA Requirement

Students must complete one year of college instruction or equivalent training in a language other than English.

Note: 1) Transfer students with sophomore standing are exempt from this requirement.

III. Breadth Requirement

Students must complete 60 units outside the primary discipline of the first major, regardless of the department who offers the course(s) in that discipline. (Courses include general education courses, transfer courses, CPCE/EXTN units, internships, etc.)

IV. Major Requirements:

Minimum 60 units that include:

HLTH 041Health and Wellness for Life4
HLTH 129Exercise Physiology4
HLTH 133Functional Anatomy4
HLTH 135Nutrition and Metabolism4
HLTH 147Muscle Physiology4
HLTH 157The Clinician in Health and Exercise Science4
HLTH 161Biomechanics of Human Movement4
HLTH 182Exercise Testing and Prescription4
BIOL 011Human Anatomy and Physiology4-5
or BIOL 061 Principles of Biology
CHEM 023Elements of Chemistry4
or CHEM 025 General Chemistry
Five HLTH Electives: (Five additional courses from the following list: (at least 18 units)18
Health and Exercise Science Law
Psycho-Social Aspects of Health Care
Prevention and Acute Care of Injury and Illness
Clinical Evaluation and Diagnosis
Clinical Evaluation and Diagnosis II
Motor Development and Learning
Therapeutic Exercise and Rehabilitation
Cardiovascular Physiology
Epidemiology
Special Topics
Independent Research

Career Options for Human Performance

The Human Performance concentration is for students pursuing careers in human and sport performance, wellness/fitness, life coaching, health education or graduate _programs in exercise science or nutrition.

Recommended Courses

HLTH 155Motor Development and Learning3
HLTH 177Cardiovascular Physiology4
HLTH 187Internship in Health and Exercise Science4
BUSI 177Sport Event and Facilities Management4
COMM 027Public Speaking3

Students are strongly advised to check with individual graduate programs for specific requirements.

Bachelor of Arts in Public Health & Community Wellness

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Health and Community Wellness prepares students for careers and/or graduate study in the field of Public Health. This program examines health from both a traditional, science-based medical model; and holistic, population-based model.  This field of study includes bioethics, health law, healthcare administration and policy, epidemiology, health education and outreach, and psychosocial aspects of healthcare.  There will be an emphasis for students to obtain extensive fieldwork and experience in public health education and surveillance, effective health intervention and prevention program, and community outreach.  Opportunities for taking specialty elective classes are available to tailor the undergraduate major for specific graduate interests. This major provides students with a foundational knowledge of population health, and the opportunity to focus their education on specific student areas of interest within a specific concentration: Law & Ethics, Healthcare Administration, Data Analysis, Environment, and Sociocultural.

Students must complete a minimum of 120 units with a Pacific cumulative and major/program grade point average of 2.0 in order to earn the Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Public Health and Community Wellness with a selected concentration.

I. General Education Requirements

For more details, see General Education

Minimum 28 units and 9 courses that include:

A. CORE Seminars (2 courses)

CORE 001Problem Solving & Oral Comm3
CORE 002Writing and Critical Thinking4

Note: 1) CORE Seminars cannot be taken for Pass/No Credit. 2) Transfer students with 28 or more transfer credits taken after high school are exempt from both CORE seminars.  

B. Breadth Requirement (7 courses, at least 3 units each)

At least one course from each of the following areas:
Artistic Process & Creation
Civic & Global Responsibility
Language & Narratives
Quantitative Reasoning
Scientific Inquiry
Social Inquiry
World Perspectives & Ethics

Note: 1) No more than 2 courses from a single discipline can be used to meet the Breadth Requirement.

C. Diversity and Inclusion Requirement

All students must complete Diversity and Inclusion coursework (at least 3 units)

Note: 1) Diversity and Inclusion courses can also be used to meet the breadth category requirements, or major or minor requirements.

D. Fundamental Skills

Students must demonstrate competence in:
Writing
Quantitative Analysis (Math)

Note: 1) Failure to satisfy the fundamental skills requirements by the end of four semesters of full-time study at the University is grounds for academic disqualification.

II. College of the Pacific BA Requirement

Students must take one year of college instruction or equivalent training in a language other than English.

Note: 1) Transfer students with sophomore standing are exempt from this requirement.

III. Breadth Requirement

Students must complete 60 units outside the primary discipline of the first major, regardless of the department who offers the course(s) in that discipline. (This includes general education courses, transfer courses, CPCE/EXTN units, internships, etc.)
 

III. Major Requirements

Minimum 63 units that include:

HLTH 010Departmental Seminar1
HLTH 080Foundations of Public Health and Community Wellness4
HLTH 137Psycho-Social Aspects of Health Care4
HLTH 173Health Care Management and Professional Development4
HLTH 157The Clinician in Health and Exercise Science4
HLTH 180Epidemiology4
HLTH 146Health, Disease, and Pharmacology4
GESC 043Environmental Science for Informed Citizens4
PHIL 145Biomedical Ethics4
HLTH 183Global Health and Policy4
HLTH 185Special Populations in Health4
BIOL 041Introduction to Biology4
CHEM 015Chemistry in Society3
Select one of the following:
Elementary Statistical Inference
Introduction to Statistics and Probability
Concentrations: (Minimum 12 units required in selected concentration)
Law & Ethics
HLTH 110Health and Exercise Science Law4
PHIL 021Moral Problems4
PHIL 055Modern and Contemporary Philosophy4
POLS 136Jurisprudence4
RELI 043Social Ethics4
Healthcare Administration
COMM 045Communication & Health3
ECON 051Economic Principles and Problems3
ECON 053Introductory Microeconomics4
ECON 055Introductory Macroeconomics: Theory and Policy4
ECON 183Health Economics *4
POLS 111Introduction to Health Policy4
POLS 119Government in Action: Public Policy Analysis4
POLS 128Introduction to Public Administration4
Data Analysis
COMP 047Discrete Math for Computer Science4
COMP 051Introduction to Computer Science4
COMP 061Introduction to Programming for Data Science4
COMP 053Data Structures *4
COMP 162Data Analytics Programming *4
Environment
BIOL 035Environment: Concepts and Issues4
CIVL 060Water Quality *4
CIVL 171Water and Environmental Policy3
HLTH 045Nutrition for Health4
PHIL 035Environmental Ethics4
SOCI 111Environmental Health & Justice4
Socio-Cultural
ENGL 126Environmental Health and Literature4
HLTH 047Health Across the Lifespan **4
HIST 060A History of Medicine4
HIST 064A History of Alcohol and Intoxicants4
HHUM 051Introduction to Health & Humanities4
POLS 113Race and Politics4
RELI 106Illness and Healing in the Ancient World4
SOCI 108Food, Culture and Society4
SOCI 125Sociology of Health and Illness4
SOCI 172Diversity, Equity and Inequality4
*

Prerequisite Required

**

New Course in Development

Bachelor of Science in Public Health & Community Wellness

The Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health and Community Wellness prepares students for careers and/or graduate study in the fields of clinical healthcare focusing on population and community-based healthcare, or biomedical research, and graduate programs offering dual credentials in healthcare and Public Health (such as MD/DPH). This program examines health from both a traditional, science-based medical model and holistic, population-based model. This field of study includes bioethics, health law, healthcare administration and policy, epidemiology, health education and outreach, and psychosocial aspects of healthcare. There is an emphasis for students to obtain clinical experience in the healthcare profession of interest, such as hospitals, community-based health clinics, and outreach programs targeting populations in need.  Opportunities for taking specialty elective classes are available to tailor the undergraduate major for specific graduate interests.

Students must complete a minimum of 120 units with a Pacific cumulative and major/program grade point average of 2.0 in order to earn the Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health and Community Wellness.

I. General Education Requirements

For more details, see General Education

Minimum 28 units and 9 courses that include:

A. CORE Seminars (2 courses)

CORE 001Problem Solving & Oral Comm3
CORE 002Writing and Critical Thinking4

Note: 1) CORE Seminars cannot be taken for Pass/No Credit. 2) Transfer students with 28 or more transfer credits taken after high school are exempt from both CORE seminars.  

B. Breadth Requirement (7 courses, at least 3 units each)

At least one course from each of the following areas:
Artistic Process & Creation
Civic & Global Responsibility
Language & Narratives
Quantitative Reasoning
Scientific Inquiry
Social Inquiry
World Perspectives & Ethics

Note: 1) No more than 2 courses from a single discipline can be used to meet the Breadth Requirement.

C. Diversity and Inclusion Requirement

All students must complete Diversity and Inclusion coursework (at least 3 units)

Note: 1) Diversity and Inclusion courses can also be used to meet the breadth category requirements, or major or minor requirements.

D. Fundamental Skills

Students must demonstrate competence in:
Writing
Quantitative Analysis (Math)

Note: 1) Failure to satisfy the fundamental skills requirements by the end of four semesters of full-time study at the University is grounds for academic disqualification.

II. Breadth Requirement

Students must complete 60 units outside the primary discipline of the first major, regardless of the department who offers the course(s) in that discipline. (This includes general education courses, transfer courses, CPCE/EXTN units, internships, etc.)
 

III. Major Requirements

Minimum 78 units that include:

HLTH 010Departmental Seminar1
HLTH 080Foundations of Public Health and Community Wellness4
HLTH 137Psycho-Social Aspects of Health Care4
HLTH 173Health Care Management and Professional Development4
HLTH 157The Clinician in Health and Exercise Science4
HLTH 180Epidemiology4
HLTH 146Health, Disease, and Pharmacology4
GESC 043Environmental Science for Informed Citizens4
PHIL 145Biomedical Ethics4
BIOL 051Principles of Biology5
BIOL 061Principles of Biology5
BIOL 170Human Anatomy5
BIOL 180Human Physiology5
CHEM 025General Chemistry5
CHEM 027General Chemistry5
Select one of the following:
Elementary Statistical Inference
Introduction to Statistics and Probability
Health Electives
Choose three courses from any of the following Concentrations:
(Once course must be from HLTH)
Law & Ethics
HLTH 110Health and Exercise Science Law4
PHIL 021Moral Problems4
PHIL 055Modern and Contemporary Philosophy4
POLS 136Jurisprudence4
RELI 043Social Ethics4
Healthcare Administration
COMM 045Communication & Health3
ECON 051Economic Principles and Problems3
ECON 053Introductory Microeconomics4
ECON 055Introductory Macroeconomics: Theory and Policy4
ECON 183Health Economics4
POLS 111Introduction to Health Policy4
POLS 119Government in Action: Public Policy Analysis4
POLS 128Introduction to Public Administration4
Data Analysis
COMP 047Discrete Math for Computer Science4
COMP 051Introduction to Computer Science4
COMP 061Introduction to Programming for Data Science4
COMP 053Data Structures4
COMP 162Data Analytics Programming4
Environment
BIOL 035Environment: Concepts and Issues4
HLTH 045Nutrition for Health4
PHIL 035Environmental Ethics4
CIVL 060Water Quality *4
CIVL 171Water and Environmental Policy3
HLTH 045Nutrition for Health4
SOCI 111Environmental Health & Justice4
Socio-Cultural
ENGL 126Environmental Health and Literature4
HHUM 051Introduction to Health & Humanities4
HIST 060A History of Medicine4
HIST 064A History of Alcohol and Intoxicants4
HLTH 047Health Across the Lifespan4
HLTH 183Global Health and Policy **4
HLTH 185Special Populations in Health **4
POLS 113Race and Politics4
RELI 106Illness and Healing in the Ancient World4
SOCI 108Food, Culture and Society4
SOCI 125Sociology of Health and Illness4
SOCI 172Diversity, Equity and Inequality4
Recommended Courses outside of Major:
ECON 183Health Economics *4
POLS 111Introduction to Health Policy4
SOCI 125Sociology of Health and Illness4
PHYS 023General Physics I5
PHYS 025General Physics II5
BIOL 148Emerging Infectious Diseases4
*

Prerequisite Required

**

New Course in Development

Minor in Health & Exercise Sciences

The minor in health and exercise sciences provides students outside the major with opportunity to gain detailed exposure to one specific sub-discipline of the field. The minor is intended to complement a student's major course of study, but does not provide the depth of the major curriculum. To earn a minor in health and exercise sciences, students must complete a minimum of 20 units and 5 courses with a Pacific minor grade point average of 2.0.

Minor Requirements 

1. Under the supervision of an advisor, students must select 5 courses.

2. The unit total for all courses must meet or exceed 20 units.

3. Lower division courses (i.e., courses below the 100 level) may not count toward the minor.

Health & Exercise Scien Courses

HLTH 010. Departmental Seminar. 1 Unit.

This class provides first year students with information relevant to the study of Health and Exercise Science at the University of the Pacific. The class has three parts: 1) About HLTH; a summary of the programs, courses and an introduction to extracurricular activities within the department. 2) About You; an exploration of individual strengths, weaknesses and learning styles to improve collegiate studies. 3) About Pacific; introductions to campus programs and people that support learning, career building and health. Goals and Objectives: Each student develops academic goals by understanding themselves, knowing required curriculum and support offered by professors and support staff at the University. Students will plan coursework and understand available opportunities and programs that aide in the process.

HLTH 011. Director's Seminar: Health and Healing. 1 Unit.

This course is designed to introduce students to the Health Studies major and to the numerous ways the University of the Pacific can help support student success. The seminar begins by attempting to define health and Health Studies at Pacific, with special emphasis on the perspectives of the humanities and social sciences, and then applies understandings of health to the lives of Pacific college students. Students will become familiar with the critical perspectives necessary to view health as a state of equilibrium between an individual and the social, political, and economic environment, rather than simply freedom from disease or pathology. The important roles of social services, health leadership and health policy and governance will be emphasized. Students will also develop an academic plan while learning about University resources and opportunities to help ensure successful academic work.

HLTH 023. First Aid. 1 Unit.

This course is designated to help the student achieve Red Cross certification in Standard First Aid and CPR. In addition to developing safety awareness, the student obtains a body of knowledge and practice skills that relate to proper medical emergency responses. Lab fee is required.

HLTH 025. Advanced First Aid. 2 Units.

Advanced First Aid and Emergency Care reviews concepts and theories in Standard First Aid and includes more sophisticated skill development: triage, extrication, traction splinting and water rescue. Includes CPR instruction. Standard First Aid is not a prerequisite although it is recommended that students have some basic first aid knowledge. Lab fee is required.

HLTH 041. Health and Wellness for Life. 4 Units.

This course presents general principles of health and wellness with a focus on the relationship of exercise and nutrition to cardiovascular health, chronic diseases, body composition, and psycho-social well-being. Students apply course content to their individual circumstances. Each student develops an individualized health plan that addresses physical fitness, nutrition, weight management and stress management. Lab fee is required. (GESI)

HLTH 043. Health Education for Teachers. 3 Units.

This course examines objectives from the California Health Education Framework, the health status of youth, at-risk students, components of comprehensive school health education, the role of the teacher in school health services, and special health concerns of today’s youth. It is designed to satisfy the Commission for Teacher Credentialing requirement for health education and includes mandated information on nutrition, alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

HLTH 045. Nutrition for Health. 4 Units.

This is a basic introductory nutrition course designed to help students make healthy diet choices. This course includes an examination of the digestion and absorption of nutrients, and an overview of the biochemistry of the macronutrients; carbohydrate, lipid, protein, and water; and micronutrients; vitamins and minerals. The role of nutrients in disease processes such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and aging as well as diet planning, production of food, and control of energy balance are covered. Students may not receive credit for this course if they take either BIOL 045 or HLTH 135. (GESI)

HLTH 047. Health Across the Lifespan. 4 Units.

This course will examine the changes in health and development across the lifespan. Students will study the human developmental stages: prenatal and maternal, infancy, young children, adolescence, adulthood, and geriatric. This course will look at anatomical, physiological, cognitive, and psychosocial differences in each developmental phase of life. This class will examine differences in health factors and risks that affect mortality and morbidity, as well as quality of life and life expectancy. Students will examine each phase from a public health perspective.

HLTH 061. Medical Terminology. 4 Units.

This course provides a foundation in medical terminology for students in allied health curriculums who need to know the language on health care. Students are introduced to the major word parts used in the formation of medical terms which include suffixes, prefixes, and combining forms. Common words associated with the systems of the body are also studied. Instruction takes place online through the Blackboard Learning System. There are no prerequisites for this course.

HLTH 080. Foundations of Public Health and Community Wellness. 4 Units.

This course provides a practical approach to the fundamentals of public health. It is organized into two sections: Public Health Fundamentals and Community Wellness. The first section covers key concepts in public health: The ecological model of health, history of public health, controversial issues in public health, social determinants of health, biostatistics, epidemiology, and biomedical sciences. The second section of the course; Community Wellness, focuses on physical fitness, community and environmental health. Students will appreciate how politics and policymaking are inherent to public health in action; they will gain perspective on the range of programs that public health practitioners implement in order to improve health; they will understand that well-designed and conducted research underlie public health work; finally, students will recognize how movements for change have advanced and continue to advance achievement toward public health goals.

HLTH 087. Fieldwork. 2-4 Units.

This course is laboratory work in school and community agencies. The course is open to non-majors by permission of instructor. Grading is Pass/No credit only.

HLTH 089. Health Studies Practicum. 2 Units.

This course provides an opportunity for students to observe an area of career interest within the health field. Students are encouraged to pursue opportunities relevant to planned career and/or graduate school goals, such as health policy and law, health leadership, and social services.

HLTH 089J. Practicum: Kinesiology. 2 Units.

Non-classroom experiences in activities related to Sport Medicine, under conditions determined by the appropriate faculty member. HLTH 189 represents practicum work involving increased independence and responsibility. Enrollment is limited to six units maximum of HLTH 089/189A, B, C, D offerings and no category within a course may be repeated for credit. Grading is Pass/No Credit only.

HLTH 089K. Practicum: Athletic Training II. 4 Units.

This is the second in a series of four consecutive clinical education courses in the field of Athletic Training. The course incorporates an experiential learning environment designed to prepare students for a career in Athletic Training. Advanced Athletic Training knowledge and skills will also be introduced within the daily operations of the Athletic Training Facility and your Clinical Assignment and in the care of patients. Prerequisite: HLTH 089B.

HLTH 093. Special Topics. 1-4 Units.

HLTH 110. Health and Exercise Science Law. 4 Units.

This course examines legal issues and responsibilities relevant to health and exercise science professionals. This course is divided into two parts. Part I introduces basic concepts of the legal system and reviews general legal principles of tort and contract law. Part II focuses upon specific topics to which legal principles and risk management strategies apply. This course is taught combining lecture, class discussions, and experientially based assignments designed to develop the ability to practically apply circumstance to the law and risk management planning. In-class oral arguments using relevant case law, review of local facilities and programs, and legal observations in San Joaquin County courtrooms will supplement course content and offer students “hands on” learning opportunities.

HLTH 129. Exercise Physiology. 4 Units.

This course is designed to introduce Health and Exercise Science students to core physiological concepts relevant to acute and long-term adaptations to the stress of exercise. An overview of metabolic, cardiovascular, respiratory, and skeletal muscle adaptations will be discussed along with special topics such as environmental stressors, obesity, and nutrition. Outside laboratory assignments are carried out for the purpose of applying lecture to practice and providing “hands on” opportunities to develop basic competencies in the interpretation of laboratory testing in exercise physiology. Lab fee required.

HLTH 131. Assessment and Evaluation. 4 Units.

This course is the development of competencies of Health, Exericse and Sport Sciences majors for the design and implementation of procedures to appropriately measure and evaluate students, clients and/or programs. Basic data acquisition methods and statistical analysis techniques are presented. A Lab fee is required.

HLTH 133. Functional Anatomy. 4 Units.

This course is a functional study of musculoskeletal anatomy and its relationship to human movement, posture, exercise prescription, and rehabilitation. Prerequisites: BIOL 011 or BIOL 051 or BIOL 061 or permission of instructor, and lab fee required.

HLTH 135. Nutrition and Metabolism. 4 Units.

This course provides a thorough study of the principles of nutrition as they relate to health of individuals who participate in sports or physical activity. Topics include calculating energy balance and the role of carbohydrates, lipid, protein, vitamins, minerals and water in sports performance. The application of these topics for optimal metabolic functioning to a variety of physical activities is also presented. Prerequisites: HLTH 129; BIOL 011 or BIOL 061.

HLTH 137. Psycho-Social Aspects of Health Care. 4 Units.

Students study comprehensive, integrated coverage of psychosocial topics in healthcare involving clients, families, and other caregivers affected by pathology, impairment, functional limitations, and/or disability. This course will have a broad coverage of topics in healthcare including multicultural issues, spirituality, chronic condition, abuse/neglect, and PTSD. Emphasis will be placed on current, evidence-based literature, connecting theory to practice.

HLTH 143. Prevention and Acute Care of Injury and Illness. 4 Units.

This course provides an overview of the field of Athletic Training, its organization, and the responsibilities of a Certified Athletic Trainer (AT) as part of the sports medicine team. Instruction emphasizes prevention, recognition, and immediate care of injuries and illnesses associated with physical activity. This course is recommended for freshmen.

HLTH 145. Therapeutic Modalities. 4 Units.

This course is a lecture and laboratory experience designed to expose the student to the theory, principles, techniques and application of therapeutic modalities pertaining to the treatment of athletic or activity related injuries. Topics include discussions of the physiological effects, indications, contra indications, dosage and maintenance of each modality. Recommended: BIOL 081. Lab fee is required. Junior standing.

HLTH 146. Health, Disease, and Pharmacology. 4 Units.

This course is an in-depth exploration of physical, mental, and social health with specific emphasis on recognizing the signs, symptoms, and predisposing conditions associated with the progression of specific illnesses and diseases as they relate to the physically active individual. Students also develop an awareness of the indications, contraindications, precautions, and interactions of medications used to treat those illnesses and diseases.

HLTH 147. Muscle Physiology. 4 Units.

This course is focused on skeletal muscle physiology. Topics include the structure and function of muscle tissue, protein synthesis, cell signaling cascades, the specificity of adaptation, enzymes and their roles in metabolism, endocrine function, anabolic steroids, muscle damage, inflammatory physiology, neuromuscular principles (e.g., size principle), and the mechanisms of muscle fatigue. Laboratory assignments focus on skeletal muscle testing and evaluation. Lab fee required. Prerequisites: HLTH 129 and upper-division class standing.

HLTH 148. Research in Health and Exercise Science. 4 Units.

The purpose of this course is to gather, analyze and publish findings in health and exercise science. It is a practical course that focuses on collection of scientific information, appropriate analyses of data, and formulating conclusions that fit or modify existing paradigms. Students must have completed training in research methods and statistics and be capable of effective review of scholarly literature. At the conclusion of the course students are expected to submit their findings for peer review and publication. Prerequisites: HLTH 180.

HLTH 149. Clinical Evaluation and Diagnosis. 3 Units.

This course presents an in-depth study of musculoskeletal assessment of the lower extremity, thoracic and lumbar spine for the purpose of identifying (a) common acquired or congenital risk factors that would predispose an individual to injury and/or (b) musculoskeletal injury common to athletics or physical activity. Students receive instruction in obtaining a medical history, performing a visual observation, palpating bones and soft tissues, and performing appropriate special tests for injuries and conditions of the foot, ankle, lower leg, knee, thigh, hip, pelvis, lumbar and thoracic spine. This course is directed toward students who pursue athletic training and/or physical therapy professions. Prerequisite: HLTH 133 or BIOL 071, and a lab fee is required.

HLTH 150. Clinical Evaluation and Diagnosis II. 3 Units.

This course presents an in-depth study of musculoskeletal assessment of the upper extremity, cervical spine, head and face for the purpose of identifying (a) common acquired or congenital risk factors that would predispose an individual to injury and/or (b) musculoskeletal injury common to athletics or physical activity. Students receive instruction in obtaining a medical history, performing a visual observation, palpating bones and soft tissues, and performing appropriate special tests for injuries and conditions of the shoulder, upper arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, hand, fingers, thumb, cervical spine, head, and face. This course is directed toward students who pursue athletic training and/or physical therapy professions. Lab fee is required. Prerequisites: HLTH 149; HLTH 133 or BIOL 071.

HLTH 154. Stress Physiology. 4 Units.

In this course you will examine what stress is and how your body tolerates, adapts, and allows you to flourish with stresses.

HLTH 155. Motor Development and Learning. 3 Units.

This course examines aspects of skilled performance and motor learning from a developmental perspective. It is concerned with the major principles of human performance and skill learning, the progressive development of a conceptual model of human actions and the development of skill through training and practice. Topics include human information processing, decision-making and movement planning, perceptual processes relevant to human movement, production of movement skills, measurement of learning, practice design, preparation, organization, and scheduling,; use of feedback, in addition to the application of motor learning principles to sport, physical education, industrial and physical therapy settings. Fieldwork requires clearance for local school districts (clear LiveScan fingerprint screening and negative TB test results). (GESI)

HLTH 157. The Clinician in Health and Exercise Science. 4 Units.

This course integrates theory and practice and requires students to develop a research topic, consistent with an explicitly and narrowly defined area of interest. Permission of the instructor is required.

HLTH 159. Health Optimizing Physical Education. 3 Units.

This course introduces prospective physical education teachers to the principles and components of health-related fitness, appropriate curriculum for K-12 programming, comprehensive school and community-based physical activity planning, effective teaching principles, behavior change strategies, and advocacy approaches of physical activity and fitness. Prerequisites: HLTH 131 and EDUC 145.

HLTH 160. Principles of Coaching. 3 Units.

This course is designed as an introduction to the principles of athletic coaching for modern day athletes. Emphasis is on a holistic approach to the theories, knowledge, and practices of coaching sport as prescribed by the National Standards for Sport Coaches. This course will explore coaching at various levels. Topics will include developing a coaching philosophy, evaluating theories in student-athlete motivation, understanding team dynamics, leadership, administration responsibilities, and improving player performance.

HLTH 161. Biomechanics of Human Movement. 4 Units.

This course is an introduction to the biomechanics of human movement and the analytic procedures and techniques for subsequent application in the sport sciences and related fields. The course includes a review of basic functional/mechanical human anatomy and kinesiology. Outcome objectives are an understanding of mechanical principles governing human movement, skill in use of a variety of measurement techniques commonly applied in biomechanics, an ability to analyze motor skill performance via cinematographic/ computer methodologies and skill in prescriptively communicating results of analysis. Prerequisites: BIOL 011 or BIOL 051 or BIOL 061 or permission of instructor, and a lab fee is required.

HLTH 163. Therapeutic Exercise and Rehabilitation. 4 Units.

This course is an application of the theory and principles associated with therapeutic exercise and the application of various rehabilitation techniques and procedures during the course of an athlete’s rehabilitation to attain normal range of motion, strength, flexibility, and endurance. Prerequisites: BIOL 071; HLTH 133 or permission of instructor, and a lab fee is required.

HLTH 173. Health Care Management and Professional Development. 4 Units.

This course is an in-depth study of the management of health care organizations related to finances, facilities, equipment, organizations structures, medical/insurance records, risk management, human relations, and personnel. Practical and conceptual skills are taught to help students focus on more efficient health care delivery. Also covered is the development of leadership skills, future trends in health care management, guidelines for designing effective work groups and managing conflict.

HLTH 177. Cardiovascular Physiology. 4 Units.

This course seeks to fulfill two main objectives: 1) to establish a foundational understanding of clinical cardiovascular physiology and 2) to be able to perform and interpret cardiopulmonary exercise tests to examine cardiac, metabolic and respiratory pathology. Lab fee required. Prerequisites: HLTH 129 and upper division class standing.

HLTH 179. Introduction to Research. 4 Units.

This course covers the rationale for and status of professional research; research designs and their applicability to students’ disciplines, review, critique and synthesis of selected literature; development of research proposal and pretest of instrument.

HLTH 180. Epidemiology. 4 Units.

This course is an introduction to the principles and practice of epidemiology. It explores the history, concepts, and methods of epidemiologic investigation. The statistical models taught in this class include the receiver operating characteristic curve, chi-square test, t-test, binary logistic regression, and linear regression. Students will learn to develop research designs that employ these tests and will be able to conduct them to evaluate patient care, quantify risk, and understand the patterns of illness and disease in populations.

HLTH 182. Exercise Testing and Prescription. 4 Units.

This course is primarily designed to provide students with the hands-on training and theoretical background to competently assess levels of wellness/fitness in an “apparently healthy” (i.e. low risk) adult population. The topics and skills addressed include health screening protocols/risk stratification, use of Informed Consent documents, as well as measurement protocols for the health-related components of fitness (i.e. cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, flexibility, body composition). These skills are then used to prescribe lifestyle and/or exercise modifications that result in individual progress toward a desired goal. Prerequisite: HLTH 129.

HLTH 183. Global Health and Policy. 4 Units.

This course is intended to familiarize students with the global burden of diseases from the perspective of public health. The course will cover health measurements and health determinants. We investigate how nations' economic levels, inequity, and policies influence the health of their citizens, how the global burden of disease shifts from infections to now primarily noncommunicable diseases, and how global policies influence global health (such as the UN’s Development Goals, trade regulation, patents, and how human rights influence health). The course content and instruction will help students prepare for careers in the public health field.

HLTH 185. Special Populations in Health. 4 Units.

This course will examine special populations within society, looking at specific health needs, inequalities, and health risks for different vulnerable groups. Students will discuss different populations based on: gender, age, race/ethnicity, sexuality, disability, occupation, culture, socioeconomic status, geography, religion, and health status. This course will examine specific health needs, disparities, and factors affecting health and wellness within different populations in society. The course content and instruction will help students prepare for careers in the public health field.

HLTH 187. Internship in Health and Exercise Science. 4 Units.

This course provides an opportunity for qualifying students to work in an area of Health and Exercise Science that interests them. Prerequisites: HLTH 157, GPA 2.0 no grade below “C-“ in major and approval of course supervisor.

HLTH 189. Public Health and Community Wellness (PHCW) Internship. 2 Units.

This course facilitates the development of job/career experience through an internship in an area of career interest within the health field. Students are encouraged to pursue opportunities relevant to planned career and/or graduate school goals, such as health policy and law, healthcare administration, data analytics, environmental science, and social services. Prerequisites: HLTH 080.

HLTH 189B. Practicum: Athletic Training III. 4 Units.

This is a clinical education course in the field of athletic training. It incorporates an experiential learning environment designed to prepare students for a career in athletic training. Advanced skills are introduced within the daily operations of the athletic training room and in the care of the athletes. Criteria for progression must be met before enrolling in subsequent practicum course. Prerequisites: HLTH 089K.

HLTH 189C. Practicum: Biomechanics. 2 Units.

These courses provide advanced practicum work in Sport Medicine. See HLTH 089 for subcategories and enrollment limitations. Grading option is Pass/No Credit only.

HLTH 189D. Practicum: Exercise Physiology. 2 Units.

These courses provide advanced practicum work in Sport Medicine. See HLTH 089 for subcategories and enrollment limitations. Grading option is Pass/No Credit only.

HLTH 189F. Practicum: Coaching. 2 Units.

Students are assigned to an intercollegiate or interscholastic sports team for the semester and participate in practice sessions throughout the specific sport season. Written guidelines are developed cooperatively by the supervisor, coach and student. Prerequisite: HLTH 155.

HLTH 189H. Practicum: Sports Law. 2 Units.

These courses provide advanced practicum work in Sport Medicine. See HLTH 089 for subcategories and enrollment limitations. Grading option is Pass/No Credit only.

HLTH 189J. Practicum: Kinesiology. 2 Units.

These courses provide advanced practicum work in Sport Medicine. See HLTH 089 for subcategories and enrollment limitations. Grading option is Pass/No Credit only. Prerequisite: HLTH 133 with a "C-" or better.

HLTH 189K. Practicum: Athletic Training IV. 4 Units.

This is the fourth in a series of four consecutive clinical education courses in the field of Athletic Training. The course incorporates an experiential learning environment designed to prepare students for a career in Athletic Training. Advanced Athletic Training knowledge and skills will also be introduced within the daily operations of the Athletic Training Facility and your Clinical Assignment and in the care of patients. Prerequisite: HLTH 189B.

HLTH 191. Independent Study. 1-4 Units.

Special Topics.

HLTH 193. Special Topics. 4 Units.

HLTH 195. Ethical Issues in Sport. 3 Units.

The primary goal of this course is to enhance student awareness regarding their values, their evolving moral and ethical codes, and the ways of addressing moral problems. Students examine various ethical theories and questions encountered in the field of Sport Sciences. As part of this course, students need to identify necessary information from various sub-disciplines in order to make professional and ethical decisions. Senior standing.

HLTH 197. Independent Research. 1-4 Units.

Independent Research.

Health and Exercise Science

  1. Meet all requirements to enter graduate programs in medicine or allied health sciences, particularly physical therapy, occupational therapy, and physician assistant programs.
  2. Apply fundamental concepts of exercise biology to fulfilling health-related goals of a physical training program
  3. Use concepts, language, and major theories of exercise physiology to describe acute responses to exercise and chronic adaptations to exercise training
  4. Become reflective pre-professionals that are knowledgeable consumers of exercise science research in order to prescribe evidence-based exercise programs and be familiar with common measurement techniques and equipment in exercise science.
  5. Develop the skills necessary to plan, implement, and evaluate effective and individualized exercise- or health-related exercise programs.
  6. Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills appropriate for success and advancement in the fields of health and exercise sciences.

Fitness, Coaching and Wellness

  1. Identify, apply and evaluate discipline-specific scientific and theoretical concepts critical to the development of physically educated individuals
  2. Create and implement training programs consistent with the goals, skills, and capability of clientele. 
  3. Apply and evaluate effective communication and skills and strategies to enhance client engagement and learning
  4. Demonstrate mastery of current technologies to enhance client engagement and improvement
  5. Utilize assessments and reflection to foster improvement and inform instructional design and modification.
  6. Demonstrate dispositions essential to becoming effective professionals
  7. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary for competent movement performance and health-enhancing fitness for persons of all skill levels.

Public Health and Community Wellness

Critical Thinking, Major Field Competence, Intercultural/Global Perspectives

  • Explain how functions and characteristics of laws, policies, systems, organizations, inter-personal relationships, and individual health behaviors affect the health of both individuals and communities
  • Identify and address power dynamics related to culture, ethics, race, gender, and place that create health disparities

Ethical Reasoning, Major Field Competence

  • Apply ethical frameworks associated with health and prevention

Information Literacy, Major Field Competence

  • Use sources of health data to inform critical thinking and action

Written/Oral Communication, Major Field Competence

  • Communicate effectively in a professional environment, using written and oral expression

Health & Exercise Sciences Faculty

J. Mark VanNess, Professor & Chair, 1999, BS, Wheaton College, 1990; MS, California State University, Sacramento, 1993; PhD. Florida State University, 1997., mvanness@pacific.edu

Peter Wang, Director; Public Health, MPH, ATC, Ed.D., pwang@pacific.edu, 6-3182, 214

Sharon West-Sell, Graduate Director and Assistant Professor, 1998, PhD, University of Miami, MA, University of the Pacific, BS Fresno State, Ph.D., swest@pacific.edu

Margaret E. (Peg) Ciccolella, Professor, 1985, BA, University of Colorado, 1970; MS, Brigham Young University, 1972; EdD, 1978; JD, Humphreys College of Law, 1993., mciccolella@pacific.edu

Courtney Jensen, Associate Professor, 2015, PhD, University of Connecticut, MA University of the Pacific and BA, Willamette University, cjensen1@pacific.edu, pacificlectures.com

Alexis King, Instructor, August, 2023, Ph.D., aking1@pacific.edu, 2-3283, 213

Annette Martinez, Instructor, August, 2023, Ph.D., amartinez@pacific.edu, 6-2588, 212

Nathan Rhea, Instructor, MA, nrhea@pacific.edu, 2-3029, 207