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Health Promotion, Nutrition and Exercise Science

Degree: BS

Campus: Columbus

College: Education and Human Ecology

The health promotion, nutrition and exercise science program offers students a comprehensive introduction to the health and wellness industry and equips them with the skills to educate individuals, groups and communities on the importance of considering nutrition, activity and other aspects of health and wellness in their lifestyles.

This joint program between human nutrition and kinesiology prepares students with content expertise in nutrition and exercise science and qualifies students to sit for the Certified Health Education Specialist exam.

The major has several prerequisite requirements, including a minimum 2.75 GPA, 15 Ohio State credit hours and credit for the following courses:

  • English 1110
  • Math 1130 or 1148
  • Biology 1113
  • Chemistry 1210 and 1220
  • Biochemistry 4511
  • Molecular biochemistry 3311 and 3312 or chemistry 2510

Learn more about applying to the health promotion, nutrition and exercise science major.

Students will take at least 36 hours of major course work on topics including nutrition, health behavior theory, health program planning and evaluation, kinesiology, nutrition and physical performance, and changing behaviors. Students will also take an additional 10-13 hours of science course work. 

The Global Option in Education and Human Ecology is an option for students in good academic standing on any Ohio State campus. In this program, students develop their ability to communicate with and work alongside individuals from other cultures through education abroad programs and globally themed course work.

The College of Education and Human Ecology Honors Program offers students rigorous course work and opportunities to work closely with faculty to design and complete a research project. Students in this program also have access to smaller classes, priority scheduling and unique housing opportunities.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that careers in health education will grow nearly twice as fast as other occupations over the next decade. Upon graduation, students will be well prepared for a career in the growing health and wellness industry. 

Graduates of the health promotion, nutrition and exercise science major may be qualified to sit for the Certified Health Education Specialist examination or for  American College of Sports Medicine certification. With the selection of appropriate course work, graduates will also be prepared to pursue a variety of graduate programs, including in occupational and physical therapy, nutrition, and exercise science. 

On average, the starting salary for a health promotion, nutrition and exercise science graduate ranges from $30,000 to $44,000, depending on the student's career field.