Numerous chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and depression, can be prevented, delayed, or managed with proper physical activity. Students completing the minor in Physical Activity in Public Health gain knowledge regarding the impact of physical activity on health. In addition, students learn to advocate for policy and systems changes at the population level, improving public health and enabling equitable opportunities to enjoy physically active lives.
Policies
Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor and students must complete all coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.00. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.
Minor Requirements
Total credits: 18
Required Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| KINE 110 | Physical Activity and Wellness | 3 |
| or KINE 310 | Exercise Physiology I | |
| KINE 260 | Behavior Modification for Physical Activity | 3 |
| GCH 300 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
| GCH 376 | Health Ethics, Leadership, and Advocacy | 3 |
| GCH 410 | Physical Activity and Public Health | 3 |
| GCH 466 | Physical Activity in Public Health Capstone (Mason Core) 2 | 3 |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
| 1 | |
| 2 | Required prerequisites of GCH 376, GCH 380 (or KINE 450 or other equivalent research methods course) and GCH 410. Students need to contact the department for an override and must complete GCH 376 and GCH 410 prior to enrollment. |
Program Outcomes
After completing this minor, students will be able to
- Define the principles and foundations of public health.
- Describe the connection between physical activity and physical well-being.
- Analyze physical activity programs that are designed to meet the needs of a specific community or population.
- Examine the factors that influence adopting health behaviors, such as physical activity.
- Explain various forms of advocacy to affect health policy.
- Synthesize evidence to recommend physical activity interventions.