Health & Exercise Science

Finding ways to help people live healthier lives.

Health & Exercise Science major and minor

Simpson’s Health and Exercise Science (HES) major offers a hands-on, practical approach to studying human movement and its role in health. You’ll gain valuable experience working directly with patients and clients through internships and independent research, helping to prevent and manage chronic diseases, injuries, and improve physical performance. The curriculum is designed to build strong foundational skills while allowing you to tailor your studies with upper-level courses that align with your career goals and interests.

View major course requirements

View minor course requirements

Why Simpson College for Health & Exercise Science?

Students working in lab for pre-professional programs

A Pathway to Diverse Careers in Health and Wellness

Health and Exercise Science prepares you for a wide range of rewarding careers in healthcare and wellness. Whether you’re interested in health coaching, strength and conditioning, cardiac rehabilitation, or corporate wellness, this field offers opportunities to make a real impact. It also serves as excellent preparation for pre-professional programs such as athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, medicine, and more — empowering you to advance your knowledge and skills in support of healthier lives.

Career Ready

Our graduates are prepared to launch successful careers and make an immediate impact in the workforce. Here are a few examples of where Simpson alumni are building their careers:

Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Ankeny Community School District
Axis Therapy Centers
Balance Autism
Dallas Fire & Rescue
Des Moines Public Schools
DSM Performance
Elite Edge Transformation Center

Graduate School Ready

Our faculty will prepare you for every step of applying to and getting accepted into high-quality graduate or medical schools after graduation. Here are a few examples of schools where Simpson alums have studied:

Concordia University Wisconsin
Drake University
Grand View University
Iowa State University
Pennsylvania State University
University of Iowa
University of Kentucky
Western Illinois University

Explore Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

Interested in the unique opportunities the department has to offer? See more opportunities and experiences that will shape your future at Simpson.

Pre- Health and Exercise Science Club

The Pre-Health and Exercise Science Club at Simpson College provides students with opportunities to engage in topics related to physical fitness, health, and wellness. Our club organizes various activities such as Workshops and Seminars that focus on health education, fitness, and nutrition, led by professionals or faculty members. Fitness and Group Workouts: We may host regular group exercise sessions, such as yoga or strength training, to encourage physical activity and peer support in maintaining fitness goals. Community Outreach: Members may participate in health fairs, offer fitness classes or wellness activities to the broader community, or collaborate with local health organizations to promote active lifestyles. Professional Development: The club often provides networking opportunities with professionals in health-related fields, career panels, or guidance on internships, certifications, and job opportunities in areas like physical therapy, sports medicine, and dietetics. Research and Learning Opportunities: The club encourages participation in research projects related to health and exercise science to support academic growth. Social Events: To build a close-knit community, the club organizes biweekly gatherings, recreational sports games, or outdoor activities like games for team members or those who are interested. The Health and Exercise Science Club promotes a culture of health, wellness, and academic/professional development within the context of exercise science and fitness.

Sport Administration Club

As a member of the Sport Administration Club, you’ll have opportunities to connect with industry professionals, gain hands-on experience, and expand your professional network. Club members help plan and participate in the annual Sport Administration Symposium, which brings together leaders from across the sport industry for networking and career development. Students also travel to meet with local and national sport organizations, learning directly from professionals and gaining valuable insight into careers in the sport industry.