OU Department of Health and Exercise Science

The Department of Health and Exercise Science is a leader within the State of Oklahoma and surrounding regions in research and graduate education in the areas of health promotion and exercise science. A primary goal of the Department is to be nationally recognized for development and dissemination of knowledge in the academic areas of health and exercise science. A broader goal is for the Department’s efforts to contribute to the enhancement of quality of life for the citizens of the community, state, and nation. Knowledge is disseminated through intra- and inter-departmental activities. The cornerstone of this process is the teaching of a curriculum for undergraduate and graduate majors that draws from the humanities, life sciences, social sciences, and disciplines of the Health and Exercise Science. The Department, by means of a flexible interdisciplinary approach to intellectual inquiry, strives to respond to emerging societal and University needs through dynamic and responsive teaching and research programs.

The Department’s Bachelor of Science, Master’s of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy Degree programs are available to students on the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman. In addition, the Department provides related study and research opportunities for students throughout the University by offering general education and elective courses.

conducting and directing scholarly inquiry and generating knowledge through teaching and research
disseminating generated knowledge to the University community, public, and related professions and disciplines
fostering free inquiry, and through critical thinking, effective communication, and an understanding of the world in which we live
preparing students for careers and professions
serving the State of Oklahoma, the region, the country, and the world by sharing facilities, faculty and staff, and the products of teaching, research, and self-study

Service is also recognized as an important aspect in achieving these objectives. The departmental faculty recognize that teaching, research, and service are interrelated processes, since performance and development in any one area is associated with continued growth in the other two. To this end, each faculty member strives to contribute to the mission of the Department and University, with individual contributions varying according to disciplinary training, abilities, assigned role, and University needs.

The process of fulfilling the mission will be guided by high standards of academic excellence for student achievement and faculty productivity through teaching, research and other scholarly activities. Achievement of the mission is enhanced by interdepartmental and interdisciplinary course support and degree programs.

Mission