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An ROE land-based class in single-file backpacks up a flat mountain meadow with the Castles and West Elk Peaks in the background.

Explore Health Sciences

On Our Side of the Mountains
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1

Small Classes

Our 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures you’ll know your professors and peers on a first-name basis and get the personalized attention you need to succeed.

2

Hands-On Learning

We prioritize going beyond the classroom and gaining real-world experiences and internships to jumpstart your career and life after college.

  • A student wears a face mask as he walks on an inclined treadmill inside the HAP Lab, simulating a trek to Mt. Everest base camp. A different student holds a clipboard and collects data.
  • Professor Dave Erbe points his ski pole uphill in front of his backcountry skiing class. Mount Crested Butte is seen in the background.
  • A student harvests kale from the Chipeta Garden.
  • WCU Program: Coaching
  • Two students smile at the top of Storm Pass while on a backpacking trip.
  • A female student takes weight off of bar at the gym.

Explore Our Majors

At Western, Health Sciences programs within RESS connect through a shared focus on movement, the outdoors, and well-being. Whether studying exercise, nutrition, or outdoor leadership, students learn how active lifestyles and the natural environment work together to support whole-body health.

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A girl wearing ski bibs and a backpack points at a triangular shaped mountain with her ski pole as she stands on a snowy alpine ridge on a blue sky day.

Recreation & Outdoor Eduation

Combine your love of the outdoors with skills in leadership, stewardship, and planning.

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Go to Nutrition Science
Three girls hold up w's with their hands as they stand on Taylor Lawn.

Nutrition Science

Explore the impact of nutrition on human health and athletic performance.

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Go to ESS
Michael Adams uses an assisted pull-up machine in the field house gym.

Exercise & Sport Science

Dive into topics like clinical exercise science or sport and fitness management.

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Request Information About Western Health Sciences

Want to learn more about Western’s health science degree programs? Fill out the form to receive information about our program offerings, small class advantages, expert faculty, and how we’ll grow your passion for health and wellness.

Whether you’re looking to dive into outdoor education, explore human performance through cutting-edge research, focus on nutrition, or lead teams in sports management, we have a path that matches your passion.

By filling out this form, you’ll also connect with one of our friendly admissions counselors, who are ready to answer your questions and support you on your college journey, no matter where you are in the process.

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Accelerated Degree

Earn your bachelor’s and master’s in as little as five years. Western’s Accelerated Degree programs let you save time and money while advancing your career faster. Check out the RESS’s Accelerated Degree programs.

View Accelerated Degree Programs

Go Beyond the Classroom

Explore the unique hands-on learning experiences we offer our health science students.

  • A student with the Wellness Elevated program coaches a community member through stretches and exercises at the Mountaineer Field House.

    RESS – Wellness Elevated

    Wellness Elevated connects students to hands-on wellness experience through real-world community partnerships.
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  • Aspen walks with Bernie Goldberg during a six minute walk test as a part of Wellness Elevated.

    RESS – Community Engagement

    Students promote wellness by collaborating with community members on fitness initiatives that inspire active lifestyles.
    Read More

The Western Health Science Difference

A Mountain Sports Nordic Skiing athlete roller skis on a treadmill in the HAP Lab. She is wearing a face mask that is measuring her VO2 Max.

Research Facility

Our Exercise & Sport Science students explore human performance through cutting-edge research in our on-campus High Altitude Performance Lab.

Clara Lantz smiles as she skins up Snodgrass Mountain. Frosty mountains are seen behind her.

Field-Based Courses

Recreation & Outdoor Education students sharpen their hard and soft skills in various climates and environments, from rafting in Utah to backcountry skiing in Crested Butte.

Dr. Lance Dalleck tests junior Alex Lambro on a treadmill in Western's HAPLab.

Exceptional Faculty

No matter your program, we ensure you study under professors who are distinguished experts, have unparalleled knowledge, and are motivated by your growth.

Top 3 Reasons to Choose Western

Four students smile in front of Teocalli at sunrise making a W with their hands.

Our Unbeatable Location

With over 2 million acres of public land, an extensive trail system, and Crested Butte Mountain Resort just 35 minutes from campus, Western offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and hands-on learning.

Two students wearing pink cowboy hats ride a tandem townie bike down main street and bring joy to community members during the Homecoming parade.

Our Close-Knit Community

Western and Gunnison are known for their strong sense of community. The people here are genuinely welcoming and supportive, creating an environment where you can thrive and feel a true sense of belonging.

Professor Dave Erbe points his ski pole uphill in front of his backcountry skiing class. Mount Crested Butte is seen in the background.

Our Class Environment

At Western, it’s easy to build meaningful relationships with professors both inside and outside the classroom. With an average class size of 17, you’ll work closely with your professors and have your education personalized to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Western’s Health Sciences program different from other schools?

Will I get real-world experience before I graduate?

Can this program help me get into grad school or a professional program?

What kind of facilities will I get to use?

How will I figure out my focus if I’m not sure what I want yet?

We're Here to Help!

Still have questions about Western and if it’s right for you? Connect with our friendly Admissions Team or schedule a visit!

  • Chase Watts smiles at the camera.

    Chase Watts

    Director of Admissions

  • Alissa Bevan

    Alissa Bevan

    Associate Director of Admissions

  • Headshot of Brice Koval.

    Brice Koval

    Admissions & Recruitment Counselor - STEM

  • Kelsey Kusnetzky

    Kelsey Kusnetzky

    Enrollment Communications Strategist

  • Vadood Ziroki

    Vadood Ziroki

    Admissions & Recruitment Counselor

Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science Department

Department Chairperson

  • Gary P. Van Guilder, PhD.

  • Professor, Exercise & Sport Science; Faculty, Applied Exercise Science and Performance Graduate Program; Chair, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science

AESP Graduate Program Director

  • Lance Dalleck

  • Professor, Exercise & Sport Science; Director, Applied Exercise Science and Performance Graduate Program; Director, Wellness Elevated

Contact Information

970.943.7129
970.943.7125

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Paul Wright Gym 209
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231