HES Careers

Most majors in Health and Exercise Science pursue careers as health professionals, including allopathic and osteopathic medicine, dentistry, optometry, physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, and pharmacy. While the majority of students majoring in HES pursue a profession as a physician, there are many other options available.

Other interests are in public health, nutrition, exercise science, health research, corporate fitness, medical sales, and personal training.

There are several websites that provide good information about various health careers:

• Prehealth @ WFU
• ExploreHealthCareers.org
• Wisconsin Health Careers

Professional and graduate schools in these areas routinely require additional science courses (biology, chemistry, physics, psychology) outside the Health and Exercise Science Department. The specific requirements for these programs vary depending on the program and the school. Be sure to check with the schools to which you will be applying for specific prerequisites to their program.

Additional information for pursuing postgraduate degrees can be found on the Prehealth @ WFU website.

It is important to speak with your HES major adviser or the Prehealth Professions adviser regarding course selection for your specific career of interest. These advisers can also be good sources for examining different careers in your area of interest. The Office of Personal and Career Development (OPCD) is also a good resource to explore career options.

Students interested in nutrition as a career can research accredited programs at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website.