Movement Science Degree, Preventative Health and Physical Activity Concentration, B.S.

Movement Science student practicing blood pressure measurement on a classmate during a hands-on lab activity.

Promote Wellness and Prevention Through Movement

The Preventative Health and Physical Activity concentration equips students with the skills to promote healthier individuals and communities through education, physical activity, and preventative care. Whether added as a specialization to another major or pursued as a concentration within Movement Science, this program emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and health equity.

You’ll study how lifestyle, environment, and behavior influence long-term health—and learn how to educate and empower others to make positive changes. Courses explore health communication, medical terminology, elementary health education, and public health intervention. Students also complete the Movement Science core, with foundational coursework in nutrition, kinesiology, physiology, and motor learning.

With support from faculty advisors, you’ll personalize your academic path by completing either 18 credits of focused coursework or a related minor—helping you prepare for credentialing exams and specialized careers in community health, education, and wellness.

Whether you aim to work in schools, healthcare, nonprofits, or government settings, this concentration offers a flexible, interdisciplinary path that blends physical activity with impactful, community-based health education.

Program Highlights

  • Promote healthier lifestyles in schools, communities, and healthcare settings
  • Study movement science, public health, and communication
  • Get ready for CHES, PAPHS, and other certifications
  • Engage in applied learning and collaborative projects
  • Learn to communicate health information clearly and effectively

Ready to Make a Difference in Public Health?

Gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to make a real impact in your community and beyond.

From the Classroom to the Community: Be an Advocate for Wellness

  • Students in the Medical Aspects of Physical Activity class learn to use an otoscope and opthalmoscope.

    In-Depth Training in Preventative Health Practices

    This concentration equips students with the knowledge to design and implement preventative health programs aimed at improving the well-being of diverse communities. Students explore health behavior models, learn how to advocate for physical activity, and develop the skills needed to address the social determinants of health. Through collaborative learning and real-world applications, students are trained to create programs that reduce risk factors and promote lifelong wellness.

  • Two students lifting weights in a movement science lab.

    Hands-On Experience in Public Health and Physical Activity

    Students in the Preventative Health and Physical Activity concentration gain valuable experience through internships, community engagement, and service learning. By working directly with schools, healthcare organizations, and public health initiatives, they learn to apply evidence-based strategies in real-world settings. Whether leading fitness classes or developing health education campaigns, students build critical skills in program management, community outreach, and advocacy that directly impact public health.

  • Movement Science student presenting research findings at the Undergraduate Research Conference.

    Credentialing Opportunities to Enhance Career Prospects

    In addition to their core coursework, students in this concentration have the opportunity to pursue nationally recognized certifications, such as the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist (PAPHS) credentials. These credentials enhance graduates' qualifications, opening doors to career paths in health education, wellness coaching, public health programming, and more. Students receive personalized advising to help tailor their coursework and exam preparation, ensuring they are well-prepared for their chosen career paths.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Learn to educate, collaborate and engage with external partners from a variety of disciplines to promote physical activity in multiple settings and with a variety of populations for opportunities for the promotion of physical activity.
  • Identify and use public health data as a tool to develop and prioritize community-based interventions, including policies, to promote physical activity, knowledge of current trends and research in the field through evidence-based practices for the develop
  • Use theoretical frameworks and models to plan and evaluate physical activity interventions.
  • Recommend and translate effective intervention strategies to partners and other constituents.
  • Identify appropriate resources and continuing education for the implementation of a personal professional development plan, which includes training and ongoing technical assistance for promoting physical activity.
  • Understand exercise physiology and related exercise science for both health promotion and disease prevention and physical activity assessment.

Department Learning Goals

What Can You Do with a Movement Science, Preventative Health and Physical Activity Concentration, B.S.?

A Movement Science, Preventative Health and Physical Activity Concentration, B.S. opens up a range of career opportunities focused on health, wellness, and public health. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to promote healthy lifestyles, prevent disease, and improve physical activity in various populations. Here are some career paths and opportunities:

  • Health Educator
  • Wellness Coach
  • Public Health Specialist
  • Physical Activity Coordinator
  • Health and Wellness Program Manager
  • Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
  • Graduate Studies
Student presenting research on the impact of preventative care at the Undergraduate Research Conference.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a welcoming campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 87%

    Of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship opportunities

  • 17:1

    Student-Faculty Ratio

Personalized Attention from Dedicated Faculty

At our institution, faculty members hold advanced degrees in the subjects they teach. Imagine a learning environment where personalized attention is not just a promise but a reality. Your professors are not just educators; they are mentors committed to expanding your horizons. Through a blend of dynamic coursework and hands-on projects, we're dedicated to not just teaching but elevating your knowledge and skills.

Movement Science students smiling with a faculty member at an academic awards ceremony.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or Student Accessibility Services, the academic support team is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth.

Learn more about our student support services here.

Related Programs

Majors and Minors

Graduate Programs

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Movement Science Degree, Preventative Health and Physical Activity Concentration, B.S.