New Wayne State minor bridges health, fitness and future careers

Wayne State University is expanding opportunities for undergraduate students pursuing careers in health, wellness and fitness with the launch of a new bachelor's and exercise and sport science minor.

Developed in partnership between the Department of Applied Health Sciences in the Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (EACPHS) and the Division of Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies in the College of Education, the program blends coursework from both colleges to create a clear pathway toward graduate study and professional practice in clinical health, exercise science and related fields.

"We are delighted to partner with Applebaum to develop and launch the new Applied Health Sciences and Exercise and Sport Science minor. I truly believe that the new minor will provide yet another attractive avenue for undergraduate students in both colleges to attain additional credentials to best position them to successfully pursue their diverse future professional aspirations," said Nate McCaughtry, Ph.D., assistant dean and professor in the Division of Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies.

The interdisciplinary minor requires 18 credits, divided evenly between the two colleges. Students complete one required and two elective courses in Applied Health Sciences, along with one required and two electives in Exercise and Sport Science. Course options cover topics such as human health foundations, applied physiology and sport performance.

The curriculum is designed as a bridge to professional programs in health sciences, kinesiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy and related disciplines. By aligning coursework across the two colleges, the program ensures students can move efficiently toward their degrees while gaining practical, career-focused skills - a core aim of Wayne State's College to Career initiative.

"This partnership is all about giving students the strongest possible start," said Rachael German, Ph.D., program director of the Applied Health Sciences program at Wayne State University. "By connecting Applebaum's depth in health sciences with the College of Education's expertise in kinesiology and sport studies, we're creating opportunities from day one, whether that leads to graduate school, clinical training or stepping directly into a health-focused career. It's a clear path from coursework to meaningful work in the community, and that's what Wayne State is here to deliver."

The program will launch in the upcoming academic year. Enrollment priority will be given to students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Applied Health Sciences or Exercise and Sport Science to ensure timely degree progress.

To learn more about this opportunity, contact [email protected]