Department of Health and Human Perfomance - Academics - West Virginia State University

Welcome to the Department of Health and Human Performance

Healthy living is more than a career choice, it is a way of life for West Virginia State University’s Department of Health and Human Performance. HHP majors know that with a stronger body comes a stronger mind. As future Health and Human Performance professionals, their lives will be devoted to helping others achieve their health and fitness goals as teachers, coaches, health, and recreation specialists. Whether it’s promoting exercise for 5-12 through the department’s Active Kidz program or organizing Community Outreach, the HHP Department works to show others how physical activity can and should be a part of their daily lives.

About HHP

Our Mission
The mission of the Department of Health and Human Performance at West Virginia State University is to prepare students and health professionals with the knowledge and skills to assume positions in delivering health, physical education, and recreation programs and services to schools, communities, agencies and businesses. The department also promotes the concept of life-long living through positive health, wellness, and fitness practices among faculty, staff, students, and community.

The department contributes to the University’s mission by preparing health, physical education, recreation, and human service professionals with the skills and knowledge to meet local employer needs. It also meets the needs of the multi-faceted health care delivery system by providing residential and commuting students a comprehensive schedule of classes; emphasizing the use of technology in all aspects of the curriculum; providing co-curricular activities which foster cultural, social, and ethical growth; and, providing a strong general education core which develops a high level of competence in English and mathematics, increased appreciation of the liberal arts, and an expanded awareness and respect for the contributions of women and minorities to our American society.

Consistent with this focal point, the department offers many fields of study and courses in the health and human performance area. The Bachelor of Science degree is also available in Health Sciences and Recreation. Subject specialization is also available in Health Education and Physical Education. Within these programs are a variety of minors, certifications, and emphases. The department also takes advantage of the beautiful outdoor resources in West Virginia by offering courses in fly fishing, kayaking, and scuba diving. Backpacking, rock climbing, and white water rafting are incorporated in the department’s Outdoor and Leisure Activities Camping class.