College of Health Sciences

Administrative Officers

Title/Department Officer
Interim Dean Ryan K. Zapalac, Ph.D.
rzapalac@shsu.edu; (936) 294-2394
Associate Dean Jennifer A. Bunn, Ph.D.
jab229@shsu.edu; (936) 294-2393
Interim Associate Dean Ronald L. Reed, M.S.
rlr054@shsu.edu; (936) 294-2392
Department of Human Sciences Ronald L. Reed, M.S., Chair
rlr054@shsu.edu; (936) 294-1242
Department of Kinesiology Jennifer J. Didier, Ph.D., Chair
jennifer.didier@shsu.edu; (936) 294-1398
Department of Public Health Amanda Scarbrough, Ph.D., Interim Chair
aes060@shsu.edu; (936) 294-1168
School of Nursing Devon M. Berry, Ph.D., Director
devonmberry@shsu.edu; (936) 202-5116

About the College

The College of Health Sciences (COHS) consists of the Department of Human Sciences, the Department of Kinesiology, the Department of Public Health, and the School of Nursing.  The College is comprised of undergraduate and graduate degrees focusing on clinical training and work-based learning. Internships in prestigious healthcare and medical fields, hospitals, sports organizations, government agencies, and volunteer agencies are available for many of the degree fields.

The COHS offers the most up-to-date curricula using the latest technologies. Degree fields include human sciences, kinesiology, nursing, and public health, as well as preparation for further medical study in areas such as occupational therapy, chiropractic, and physical therapy. Some of the degree areas allow for an international focus--with language immersion--through study abroad opportunities to expand the student learning experience.

Factors such as an aging population, new medical technologies, and federal legislation have increased the need for qualified healthcare employees, educators, and professionals.  The COHS has made great advancements in addressing those demands by offering programs that will increase the number of educated employees for the Texas workforce.

The COHS promotes healthy living by preparing professionals for health and medical careers with a quality education at an affordable cost. Graduates will be prepared to succeed in their chosen health profession through mastery of the appropriate knowledge and skills, a well-developed sense of professionalism, and a strong commitment to promoting health and providing quality care.

Mission

The College of Health Sciences collaborates with community and global partners to advance knowledge and practice to inspire the lifelong pursuit of health and well-being.

Vision

The College seeks to empower society to cultivate the enduring health of individuals and communities.

Core Values

Teamwork: Engage in active participation to foster an environment of shared responsibility.

Outreach: Serve the current and future needs of individuals, families, and communities.

Excellence: Strive for the highest standards and quality in all that we do.

Diversity: Embrace our differences to ensure each unique voice is encouraged and valued.

Curiosity: Nurture innovation/creativity through consumption, creation, and dissemination of knowledge.

Entrepreneurism: Welcome risk-taking and view failure as an opportunity for discovery.

Highlights

  • The School of Nursing became an accredited nursing program by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN formerly NLNAC) in August 2013 and received full approval by the Texas Board of Nursing for the Baccalaureate Degree Nursing Education Program in January 2014.
  • The School of Nursing has a 94.70% success rate (2021) for nursing students sitting for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which is above state and national averages. Additionally, 100% of students had secured a job in the field of nursing by graduation (Spring 2022).
  • The MS in Athletic Training (MSAT) program has received initial accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) (2023-2028).
  • The Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) Program in the Department of Kinesiology is accredited by the Council for Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE).
  • Study Abroad opportunities in Human Sciences, Kinesiology, Public Health, and Nursing.
  • The Interior Design Program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).
  • The MS in Dietetic Internship Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
  • The Food Science and Nutrition Program is accredited by The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Scholarships

College of Health Sciences

Department of Kinesiology

Department of Human Sciences

Department of Public Health

School of Nursing