Health Science Course Descriptions
HS 175 Health Systems
3 hours
This course provides an overview of how healthcare is organized and how healthcare services are delivered in the U.S. It explores issues such as healthcare access, cost, and quality. It will cover the roles of government, patients, health professionals, hospitals, insurers and pharmaceutical companies, as well as the interactions of these stakeholders. The course aims to provide skills in critical and analytical thinking and decision-making related to the U.S. healthcare system and the people in it. (Fall, Spring)
HS/PE 190 Social and Behavioral Determinants of Health
3 hours
This course considers health and health behaviors within the context of social, cultural, and environmental influences on individual behaviors. The course will also explore motivation and self-esteem theories. Health behavior programs related to communities and athletics. Theories of health promotion, health behavior change, and health education will be explored. (Fall, Spring)
HS 200 Public and Community Health
3 hours
This course offers a basic introduction to the issues of public health, major public health problems, and public health systems. The class examines core principles of public health, focusing on a community perspective. Students learn about public health approaches to health assessment, health promotion, disease prevention, and the outcomes of public health initiatives at the local, state, and national levels. Prerequisites: HS 175. (Fall)
HS 207 Medical Terminology
3 hours
An introduction to the study of medical terms that brings to life the language of medicine. This course will help students develop an understanding of how to communicate fluently in a healthcare setting. This course will explain medical terms in the context of the anatomy and physiology of different body systems as well as how the body works in health and disease. This course does not include a laboratory. (Spring)
HS 275 Career Exploration in Health Science/Healthcare Management
3 hours
This course educates students about the wide range of careers available in the healthcare industry. A minimum of 20 total hours of observation in a hospital setting is required. Outcomes of this course include enhanced clarity about career directions through deeper understanding of personal strengths, values, aptitude, and interest. Prerequisites: HS 175. (Spring)
HS 290 Health Policy
3 hours
Students explore key health policy concepts in the U.S. health care system. They examine governmental and non-governmental policy-making processes and learn to analyze policies and evaluate policy outcomes. Students will learn how U.S. policy-making processes interact with the structure of the U.S. healthcare system and the implications of changes to these processes and the system. The effect of health policy on the health of rural communities, in particular, is analyzed along with the intersection of U.S. health policy with infectious diseases, bioethics, and globalization. Prerequisites: HS 175 or HS 190. (Spring)
HS 325 Healthcare Finance
3 hours
This course focuses on the critical issues in financing healthcare in the U.S., from supply costs to third-party reimbursement. The course addresses determinants of demand for healthcare, such as population demographics and health status, insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs, and public expectations of health professionals and technology. The course will explore the role of health professionals in guiding and shaping the allocation of resources in healthcare markets and the roles of competition in U.S. healthcare. A focus of the course is how healthcare managers use financial data to manage their organizations and inform decision-making processes. The course also introduces students to the basic principles and tools of budget and resource management. Prerequisites: HS 290. (Fall)
HS 360 Health Aspects of Aging
3 hours
This course explores the physiological, psychological, and social aspects of aging, with a focus on health and wellness throughout the aging process. Topics include the impact of aging on physical fitness, chronic disease prevention, exercise interventions, nutrition, cognitive health, and the role of lifestyle choices in promoting healthy aging. Students will gain an understanding of how to design fitness and wellness programs tailored to older adults, aiming to improve quality of life, functional independence, and overall health. This course is ideal for students pursuing careers in exercise science, physical therapy, or public health. Prerequisites: PE 111 or HS 175; a minimum of Junior status. (Fall)
HS 375 Junior Seminar in Health Science/Healthcare Management
2-3 hours
This course builds on the foundation of personal development and career exploration achieved in HS 275 Career Exploration in Health Science/Healthcare Management. Students will work with experienced healthcare practitioners a minimum of 20 hours. The course also takes students through the steps of developing, writing, and submitting the proposal for their senior capstone project. Capstone proposals are reviewed by the appropriate health science/healthcare management faculty and must be approved before capstone experiences begin. Prerequisites: HS 175 and a minimum of Junior status. (Fall, Spring)
HS 395 Healthcare Administration, Leadership, and Management
3 hours
This course connects an overview of healthcare delivery systems with in-depth explorations of organizational theory and traditional managerial and executive leadership roles found in healthcare facilities. Leadership competencies and skills are developed through the examination of topics such as team building, strategic planning, compliance with professional standards and governmental regulations, management and development of human resources, managerial problem solving, and organizational communication, among others. Prerequisites: HS 175 and a minimum of Junior status. (Spring)
HS 475 Senior Capstone in Health Science/Healthcare Management
3 hours
Students will complete their capstone hours over their final two semesters at McPherson College. Students will finalize their capstone proposal in consultation with a proctoring faculty member. Capstones are designed based on unique personal and professional goals. Students will record their experience and observations and reflect on their personal and professional growth throughout their capstone experience. In the final semester, students will present their capstone portfolio in a public presentation. Prerequisites: HS 375. (Fall, Spring)
Sport Studies Course Descriptions
PE 100 Introduction to Physical Education and Sport
3 hours
Students will explore the historical and philosophical origins of physical education and sport, which have influenced the development of these institutions in American society. (Fall, Spring)
PE 105 Introduction to Sport Management
3 hours
Students will be introduced to the intricate nature of the sport industry. This course will provide an overview of the historical aspects, managing and leading techniques, various sporting environments, functions, and challenges related to sport management. (Fall, Spring)
PE 111 Introduction to Exercise and Sports
3 hours
This course introduces key concepts in sports science, focusing on biomechanics, exercise physiology, and sports psychology to understand and improve human movement and performance. Emphasis is placed on either strength and conditioning, exploring training methods and program design, or exercise physiology, examining the body’s adaptations to exercise and recovery. Prerequisites: Majors or instructor approval. (Fall, Spring)
PE 125 Emergency Care and First Aid
3 hours
This course provides students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to recognize and respond to emergency situations. Topics include injury prevention, basic first aid procedures, CPR, AED use, and handling medical emergencies in a variety of settings. Students will gain hands-on experience and will have the opportunity to earn CPR/AED certifications upon successful completion of the course. (Spring)
PE 150 Concepts in Holistic Health
3 hours
This course is designed to present the student with health and wellness principles and offer suggestions for their application. These principles will be examined using a traditional approach with a variety of cultural influences. Major areas of study include mind-body interrelatedness and control, stress management, individual fitness, health and health related topics, and lifestyle management. (Fall, Spring)
PE 220 Human Anatomy and Physiology
4 hours
This course is designed to introduce the student to the science of the body structure and function. Content is presented in a simple to complex pattern which includes the design and function of cells, body systems, and the interdependence of systems. Prerequisites: PE 111, BI 101 or BI 111. (Fall)
PE 225 Sports Kinesiology
3 hours
This course explores the principles of human movement and their application to sports and physical activity. Students will study the anatomical and mechanical aspects of motion, focusing on how muscles, joints, and bones work together to produce movement. Emphasis is placed on analyzing movement patterns in sports, understanding injury mechanisms, and applying kinesiology concepts to improve performance and reduce injury risk. This course is essential for students pursing careers in exercise science, coaching, athletic training, or physical therapy. Prerequisites: PE 220 or BI 225. (Spring)
PE 233 Principles of Personal Training
3 hours
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of personal training, preparing students to sit for the ACSM-Certified Personal Trainer exam. Topics include exercise science fundamentals, client assessment, program design, behavior change strategies, and professional ethics. Practical application and exam preparation are emphasized, making this course ideal for those pursuing careers in personal training and fitness coaching. Prerequisite: PE 220 or BI 225. (Fall)
PE 234 Principles of Group Exercise Instruction
3 hours
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead safe, effective, and engaging group exercise classes, while preparing them for the ACSM Group Exercise Instruction certification. Topics include class design, cueing techniques, music selection, safety considerations, and strategies for motivating diverse participant groups. This course is ideal for students interested in careers in group fitness instruction and wellness coaching. Prerequisite: PE 220 or BI 225. (Spring)
PE 244 Sport and Society
3 hours
This course will provide students with an opportunity to learn about the sociological and cultural aspects of sport. Students will acquire a broad understanding of social settings and cultural issues as they relate to sport and physical activity. Prerequisite: PE 111 and a minimum of Sophomore status. (Fall)
PE 289 Sport and Exercise Psychology
3 hours
This course will provide insight into the theories, subject matter, and latest empirical research concerning the cognitive processes and emotional states that regulate and influence performance in sport, exercise, and other physical activities. Prerequisite: PE 111 and a minimum of Sophomore status. (Spring)
PE 301 Human Growth and Motor Behavior
3 hours
Students will examine how the human body grows and develops and the relationships with motor control, learning, and development. Prerequisites: PE220 or BI 225. (Fall)
PE 304 Theories, Principles, and Leadership of Coaching
3 hours
This course will provide students the knowledge and tools to develop a philosophical and practical foundation to their coaching styles. Students will learn how to make sound decisions that will lead to success in the coaching profession. Prerequisites: PE 220 and a minimum of Junior status. (Fall)
PE 305 Organization and Management of Fitness Facilities
3 hours
This course focuses on the principles and practices of effectively managing fitness and wellness facilities. Topics include facility design, equipment selection, budgeting, staffing, marketing, risk management, and customer service. Students will explore strategies for creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for clients and employees. Prerequisites: PE 111 and a minimum of Junior status. (Spring)
PE 325 Exercise and Sports Nutrition
3 hours
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the principles, practices, and applications of nutrition in the context of sports and physical performance. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of how nutrition affects athletic performance, recovery, and overall health. Throughout the course, emphasis is on evidence-based practices, critical thinking skills, and practical application of sport nutrition principles to enhance athletic performance, promote recovery, and optimize overall health and well-being. Students will also have opportunities for hands-on experiences, such as designing nutrition plans, analyzing dietary intake, and interpreting research findings in the context of sport nutrition. At the completion of this course, students will attempt the ISSA Nutritionist Certification exam. Fee required. Prerequisites: PE 220 or BI 225. (Spring)
PE 330 Exercise Physiology
3 hours
Students will study the relationship between exercise and human physiology. Prerequisites: PE 220 or BI 225. (Fall)
PE 331 Principles of Tactical Strength and Conditioning
3 hours
This course focuses on the specialized principles of strength and conditioning for tactical populations, such as military personnel, law enforcement, and first responders. Topics include performance optimization, injury prevention, recovery strategies, and the physical demands, unique to tactical professions. A key objective of the course is to prepare students for the NSCA Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F) certification exam, equipping them with the knowledge and credentials to work effectively with tactical athletes. Prerequisites: PE 233 (Fall)
PE 355 Biomechanics
3 hours
This course provides an in-depth study of the mechanical principles governing human movement, with applications to sports, exercise, and rehabilitation. Topics include kinematics, kinetics, the analysis of motion, force production, and the mechanical properties of tissues. Students will learn to analyze movement patterns, evaluate performance, and identify factors contributing to injury and performance optimization. This course is essential for those pursuing careers in exercise science, physical therapy, athletic training, or biomechanics research. Prerequisites: BI 315. (Fall)
PE 340 Fitness Test and Measurements
3 hours
This course focuses on the principles and practices of assessing physical fitness and performance. Topics include methods for evaluating cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, body composition, and functional movement. Students will learn to administer, interpret, and apply fitness assessments to design individualized training programs. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, reliability, and the ethical use of fitness testing in diverse populations. This course is ideal for students pursuing careers in personal training, strength and conditioning, or exercise physiology. Prerequisites: Math Credit; PE 220 or BI 225. (Fall)
PE 345 Sports Injury Epidemiology
3 hours
This course examines the patterns, causes, and prevention of injuries in sports and physical activity. Students will explore epidemiological methods to study injury trends, risk factors, and the effectiveness of prevention strategies. Topics include injury surveillance, the role of biomechanics in injury risk, and the impact of training, equipment, and environment on athlete safety. This course is essential for those interested in careers in sports medicine, athletic training, injury prevention, or research in exercise science. Prerequisites: Math Credit; a minimum of Junior status. (Spring)
PE 350 Theory of Strength Training and Conditioning I
3 hours
This course provides a foundational understanding of the principles and methodologies behind strength training and conditioning. Topics include exercise physiology, muscle mechanics, periodization, program design, and physiological adaptations to resistance training. Students will learn how to design effective strength and conditioning programs for various populations, focusing on improving performance, strength, endurance, and power. A key goal of the course is to prepare students for the Nationals Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam after graduation, equipping them with the knowledge and credentials to pursue careers in strength coaching, sports performance, and fitness training. Prerequisites: BI 315. (Fall)
PE 375 Corrective Exercise Training
3 hours
This course focuses on the principles and techniques of corrective exercise to address and prevent musculoskeletal imbalances and movement dysfunctions. Students will learn to assess postural and movement patterns, identify common injuries, and design individualized corrective exercise programs to improve mobility, stability, and function. Emphasis will be placed on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and enhancing overall movement efficiency. This course is ideal for students pursuing careers in personal training, athletic training, or physical therapy. Prerequisites: PE 335. (Fall)
PE 385 Care and Treatment of Athletic Injuries
3 hours
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a wide spectrum of information on the care and treatment of athletes and their injuries. It is designed to provide an overview of emergency procedures and immediate assessment of injured athletes. The importance of preventative measures and an overview of the responsibilities of an athletic trainer and coach will be addressed. Prerequisites: PE 330 and a minimum of Junior status. (Spring)
PE 400 Skill Development, Physical Training, and Tactics in Coaching
3 hours
Students will learn the proper teaching and analytical techniques and methods to develop healthy and successful athletes and teams. Some of the topics covered include athlete performance assessment and evaluation, skill acquisition, athletic conditioning techniques, development, practice and conditioning programming, and the social-psychological aspects of training and coaching. Prerequisites: PE 304, and Junior status. (Spring)
PE 409/EE 305 Methods for Teaching Physical Education and Health in Elementary Schools
2 or 4 hours
This course is designed to introduce prospective elementary school physical education, health, and classroom teachers to the fundamentals, principles, and practices of physical education and health at the elementary school level. Movement exploration and methods, including adaptive physical education, will be learned in the variety of play and sport activities. Further, the methods and modalities for teaching school health will be explored while examining the potential health problems of the individual school child associated with school and home environments. This course includes a practical laboratory component. Elementary Education majors will take EE 305 for 2 credit hours. Sport Studies Licensure majors will take PE 409 for 4 credit hours. Prerequisites for Sport Studies majors: CI 150, CI 220. (Spring)
PE 410 Methods for Teaching Physical Education and Health in Secondary Schools
4 hours
This course is designed to acquaint the student with a variety of teaching techniques, methods, and modalities for teaching physical education and health at the secondary school level. Proper movement skills and development, and healthy habits will be stressed to encourage lifelong physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. Adaptive physical education and the impact of sociocultural and socioeconomic factors will be integrated in the course. There is a practical laboratory component. Prerequisites: CI 150 and CI 220. (Fall, even years only)
PE 415 Sport Management
3 hours
Students will develop an advanced understanding of the planning, organizing, leading, and controlling aspects of a sport organization. Prerequisites: PE 105, CM 218, BA 324, BA 339, and a minimum of Junior status. (Spring)
PE 420 Sport Marketing
3 hours
Students will explore the historical, contemporary, and future issues and trends in sport marketing. Further, students will learn and apply the marketing concepts and strategies utilized in the sport industry. Prerequisites: PE 240, CM 218, BA 221, BA 324, and a minimum of Junior status. (Fall)
PE 425 Sport Finance
3 hours
Students will extend their financial management knowledge within the sport realm by focusing on topics such as time value of money, debt and equity financing, capital budgeting and spending earnings in the sport industry. Prerequisites: PE 240, BA 130, BA 220 or MA 221, BA 325 and a minimum of Junior status. (Fall)
PE 430 Governance and Policy in Sport
3 hours
Students will explore governance structures and processes related to policy within public, private, not-for-profit, and non-profit sport sectors in the United States. Through this examination, students will learn effective governance systems and the challenges and obstacles encountered by sport organizations. Further, it will be highlighted how sports issues revolved around specific topics such as ethnicity, national identity, sex, gender, diversity, disability, violence, deviance, health and event hosting can impact policy and governance structures. Prerequisites: PE 240, BA 215, BA 324, and a minimum of Junior status. (Spring)
PE 435 Clinical Exercise Physiology
4 hours
This course examines the role of exercise in the management and rehabilitation of individuals with chronic diseases and medical conditions. Topics include physiological responses to exercise in various populations, exercise prescription for specific conditions, (e.g. cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and pulmonary disorders), and the assessment of fitness in clinical settings. Students will learn to design safe and effective exercise programs tailored to improve health outcomes and functional capacity for individuals with medical conditions. This course is ideal for students pursuing careers in clinical exercise physiology. Prerequisites: PE 330. (Fall)
PE 440 Exercise Testing and Prescription for Special Populations.
3 hours
This course focuses on the principles and practices of exercise testing and prescription for individuals with special health considerations, such as the elderly, pregnant women, individuals with chronic diseases, and those with disabilities. Students will learn how to conduct fitness assessments, interpret results, and design safe and effective exercise programs tailored to meet the specific needs and limitations of these populations. Emphasis will be placed on understanding medical conditions, modifying exercises to accommodate physical limitations, and promoting health and wellness through physical activity. This course is ideal for students pursuing careers in clinical exercise physiology, rehabilitation, or fitness training for special populations. Prerequisites: PE 435. (Spring)
PE 450 Theory of Strength Training and Conditioning II
3 hours
This course is a continuation of Theory of Strength Training and Conditioning I. Topics include sport-specific program design, advanced periodization techniques, injury prevention, recovery strategies and the application of strength training principles to elite athletes. This course further prepares students for the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam. Prerequisites: PE 350. (Spring)
PE 456 Motor Neuroscience and Disordered Behavior
3 hours
This course explores the neurological mechanisms underlying human movement, with a focus on how the brain and nervous system control motor function. Topics include the study of motor learning, motor control, and the impact of neurological disorders on movement and behavior. Students will examine conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, cerebral palsy, and other disorders that affect motor function. The course will also explore therapeutic interventions and rehabilitation strategies for improving movement and quality of life in individuals with motor impairments. This course is ideal for students pursuing careers in physical therapy or fitness training for special populations. Prerequisites: Junior status; BI 315. (Spring)
PE 460 Exercise Electrocardiography
3 hours
This course provides an in-depth study of electrocardiography (ECG) and its application in exercise testing and cardiovascular health assessment. Topics include the principles of ECG, the interpretation of resting and exercise ECGs, identification of normal and abnormal heart rhythms, and the use of ECG during exercise stress testing to assess cardiovascular function. Students will learn how to conduct exercise ECG tests, recognize signs of cardiovascular distress, and apply this knowledge in clinical and fitness settings. This course is ideal for students pursuing careers in exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, sports medicine, or clinical health settings. Prerequisites: PE 435. (Spring)
PE 475 Senior Capstone
1-3 hours
This is the culminating or “capstone” course for Sport Science and Sport Management majors who do not participate in student teaching. Students are paired with a mentor in their chosen field to gain practical experience that will enhance their understanding of a potential career in the sport industry. Prerequisite: Senior status. (Fall, Spring)
Special Course Options
PE 295/PE 495 Field Experience (1-4 credit hours for each course)
PE 297 Study Abroad (12-16 credit hours)
PE 299/PE 499 Independent Study (1-4 credit hours for each course)
PE 388 Career Connections (1-10 credit hours)
PE 445 Readings and Research (1 credit hour)
Intercollegiate Competition Credit Hours
After completing one year of intercollegiate athletic competition, students may enroll in intercollegiate competition for 1 credit hour; however, a maximum of 2 credit hours for intercollegiate competition will count toward graduation. Students who transfer credits are limited to 2 credit hours for intercollegiate competition.
Fall Semester
AA 200A, AA 300A Intercollegiate Volleyball (1 credit hour each)
AA 200B, AA 300B Intercollegiate Football (1 credit hour each)
AA 200C, AA 300C Intercollegiate Cross Country (1 credit hour each)
AA 200D, AA 300D Intercollegiate Cheer (1 credit hour each)
AA 200E, AA 300E Intercollegiate Men’s Soccer (1 credit hour each)
AA 200F, AA 300F Intercollegiate Women’s Soccer (1 credit hour each)
Spring Semester
AA 201A, AA 301A Intercollegiate Softball (1 credit hour each)
AA 201B, AA 301B Intercollegiate Baseball (1 credit hour each)
AA 201C, AA 301C Intercollegiate Men’s Basketball (1 credit hour each)
AA 201D, AA 301D Intercollegiate Women’s Basketball (1 credit hour each)
AA 201E, AA 301E Intercollegiate Men’s Track and Field (1 credit hour each)
AA 201F, AA 301F Intercollegiate Women’s Track and Field (1 credit hour each)
AA 201G, AA 301G Intercollegiate Bowling (1 credit hour each)