Health and Nutritional Sciences

Welcome to the Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences (HNS). The HNS Department provides undergraduate programs in Athletic Training, Nutrition & Dietetics, Exercise Science, Health Education, Physical Education, and Sport, Recreation and Park Management, as well as a number of supporting minors. The integration of academic programs, which focus on nutrition,  health, recreation, exercise, and human performance, provides students and faculty with unique opportunities to collaborate and to promote interaction among students in different majors with a common focus on promoting health through proper nutrition and physical activity.

The course offerings help develop students with a strong foundation of knowledge, skills, and abilities to enter graduate school or employment within the health care field, industry, or education. Students learn how to critique and analyze research within their designated field and apply that knowledge. Students have access to state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories, nationwide internship programs, and study abroad experiences. Our faculty are nationally recognized as experts in their field and are dedicated to student success.

We encourage students to get involved in one the many student organizations associated with each of the major areas of study. Students are able to attend regional and national professional meetings, participate in service projects and research projects.

To indicate your interest in one of our programs, contact our department. We would be happy to visit with you personally about your interests and career goals. We can arrange a campus and department tour, visit a class, or visit with one of our current students or faculty members.

For more information, contact the department head:

Matthew Vukovich, PhD.
Department Head, Professor
Health and Nutritional Sciences
College of Education & Human Sciences
South Dakota State University
Office: 605.688.4668