William & Mary is launching two new degrees to meet critical demands in human health and public health. 

Beginning this fall, students in the Department of Kinesiology in Arts & Sciences may pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in human health & physiology and either a B.S. or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in public health. The degrees are part of the university’s dedication to address societal needs through innovative academic programs.

“These new degree offerings underscore our mission to prepare students to be forward-thinking leaders,” said Provost Peggy Agouris. “By equipping them with the tools to improve human health and advance public health initiatives, we are shaping a better future for our communities and our world.” 

Meeting student demand and workforce needs 

The programs respond to significant student interest and growing demand for professionals trained to address complex health challenges. Enrollment trends show a strong desire among W&M students to pursue studies in human physiology and public health so they can move into careers that promote individual and community well-being. The Department of Kinesiology has experienced the second-greatest percent increase in graduating majors of any department in Arts & Sciences over the last 10 years. 

“Students are increasingly drawn to fields where they can make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” said M. Brennan Harris ’93, chair and Ken Kambis Professor of Kinesiology. “These degrees will prepare them to tackle pressing health issues, from chronic disease prevention to the development of innovative public health initiatives.” 

Preparing future health leaders 

As the global landscape of health evolves, these programs aim to cultivate leaders who can address current and emerging challenges. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in health sciences and public health are projected to grow significantly in the coming decade, driven by advancements in technology, an aging population and a heightened focus on preventative care. 

“Our students graduate with a deep understanding of the science behind health, enhanced by the broader understanding and perspectives that a liberal arts education provides,” said Suzanne Raitt, dean of the Faculty of Arts & Sciences. “These programs not only align with workforce demands but also embody our commitment to fostering an interdisciplinary education that makes a meaningful impact.” 

A bright future ahead 

The new offerings also build on William & Mary’s commitment to experiential learning as outlined in the Vision 2026 Careers initiative. These opportunities outside the classroom, including internships, research collaborations and community-based projects, empower students to apply their curricular knowledge in real-world settings, ensuring they are prepared for both careers and graduate programs. 

“W&M students are our future health leaders. We are excited to see how our students will use their education to improve health outcomes and promote health equity,” said Sarah Menefee ’03, associate chair and teaching professor of kinesiology. “This new curriculum reflects the current departmental offerings, highlighting the strong preparation students have to solve complex health problems.” 

New curricula

The B.S. in human health & physiology will focus on the biological and physiological foundations of health, offering students hands-on experience in areas such as anatomy, physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics and health assessment. This degree is tailored for those aiming to pursue careers in healthcare, research or further graduate studies in medical and allied health fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy and nursing. 

This program will also be of value for international students. The kinesiology department’s B.S. in human health & physiology is listed among other STEM programs in the federal Classification of Instructional Programs, allowing students from abroad to request an extended two-year visa following graduation to apply their training within the United States. 

The public health program, offering both a B.S. and a B.A., is designed to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of the core disciplinary areas of epidemiology, environmental health and social and behavioral public health. The B.S. will emphasize scientific and quantitative approaches, which are crucial for students interested in epidemiology, data analysis or environmental health. The B.A., meanwhile, will emphasize community and social perspectives to address health disparities and promote health equity. 

Students can declare a major in the new human health & physiology and public health programs starting later this spring.

, University News & Media