School of Public and Allied Health
Purpose and Goals
The School of Public and Allied Health at Prairie View A&M University is ideally situated to respond to ongoing public health crises and the wellness needs of our communities.
Programs in public health prepare students, informed by a behavioral health science approach, for professions dedicated to improving individual, community and population health, eradicating health disparities, and achieving health equity and social justice. As the state of Texas and the country responds to health concerns, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the role of public health in ensuring the delivery of equitable health care to all populations has become evident. The School of Public and Allied Health addresses the role institutions of higher education can play in strengthening public health infrastructure by preparing public health professionals. PVAMU’s academically rigorous and relevant interdisciplinary Public Health program is offered to a diverse population of students, whom, upon completion of the program, can think critically, provide leadership, and develop and apply strategies designed to address challenging global public health issues (e.g., COVID-19, Climate Change, Food Insecurities, and Racism and Health).
Programs in health sciences and kinesiology expose candidates to rigorous programs focusing on improving the overall quality of life and prepares them for professional health and kinesiology-related careers. The learning environment is structured to provide a solid foundation for research in rural, urban, and suburban issues affecting health, wellness, sport, and physical fitness. Students are exposed to experiences and intentionally taught how to become morally responsible leaders who think critically, act wisely, and work skillfully to advance various career paths associated with the fields of health, kinesiology, and physical education. In addition, the undergraduate program offers health and fitness activity classes to every Prairie View A&M student for physical activity participation opportunities.
Admission
Freshman and transfer admission is based on the University’s general academic requirements. Transfer credits toward the major or minor must be approved by the department head and dean of the college in which the program is located. Students interested in graduate study must meet all requirements as outlined by the Office of Graduate Studies.
Instructional Organization
| Program | Degree Offered |
|---|---|
| Health Sciences | BS |
| Kinesiology | BS |
| Public Health | BA, BS |
| Health | MS, MED |
| Physical Education | MED, MS |
Minor in Health
| Health Minor | ||
| HLTH 1304 | Personal Health and Wellness | 3 |
| HLTH 2302 | Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases | 3 |
| HLTH 3301 | Nutrition | 3 |
| HLTH 3304 | Consumer Health | 3 |
| HLTH 4306 | Health and Communities | 3 |
| HLTH 4307 | Community Health Planning and Assessment | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Minor in Public Health
| Public Health Minor | ||
| PHLT 1310 | Foundation to Public Health | 3 |
| PHLT 2325 | Biostatistics | 3 |
| PHLT 3312 | Health Policy & Health Systems | 3 |
| PHLT 3320 | Determinants of Health and Health Disparities | 3 |
| PHLT 3324 | Epidemiology | 3 |
| PHLT 4302 | Global Health | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Minor in Applied Exercise Science
| Applied Exercise Science Minor | ||
| KINE 2307 | Psycho-Social Aspects of Sport | 3 |
| KINE 2308 | Practicum in Kinesiology and Sport 1 | 3 |
| HLTH 3301 | Nutrition | 3 |
| KINE 4308 | Administrative Management of Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINE 4323 | Fitness Program | 3 |
| SPMT 4311 | Legal Aspects of Sport | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Minor in Sports Management
| Sport Management Minor | ||
| SPMT 1302 | Foundations of Sport Management | 3 |
| KINE 2308 | Practicum in Kinesiology and Sport 1 | 3 |
| MGMT 2320 | Leadership and Ethics | 3 |
| SPMT 2310 | Sport Governance | 3 |
| MRKT 3311 | Sports, Entertainment, and Event Marketing | 3 |
| SPMT 4311 | Legal Aspects of Sport | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Minor in Kinesiology
| Kinesiology Minor | ||
| KINE 1208 | Fundamentals of Human Movement | 2 |
| HKIN 1112 | Conditioning and Self Analysis | 1 |
| KINE 1330 | Foundation to Kinesiology | 3 |
| KINE 3302 | Applied Anatomy and Kinesiology | 3 |
| HKIN 3366 | Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| KINE 4303 | Measurement and Evaluation | 3 |
| KINE 4306 | Adapted Physical Activity | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Minor in eSports and Virtual Reality
| eSports and Virtual Reality Minor | ||
| ESPT 1301 | Introduction to eSports | 3 |
| ESPT 2301 | The Business of eSports and Virtual Reality | 3 |
| ESPT 3301 | eSports and Virtual Reality Physical Training and Rehab | 3 |
| KINE 2308 | Practicum in Kinesiology and Sport | 3 |
| MGMT 2320 | Leadership and Ethics | 3 |
| SPMT 4311 | Legal Aspects of Sport | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Professional and Service Organizations
Honor Societies
Chi Tau Epsilon Honor Society
Endeavors to support the growth and development of talent and scholarship within university, college, and community college dance programs and to honor outstanding students in the field of dance.
GPA: 3.0 or above
Requirements: Dance minor/major
Intake: Invitation only
Eta Sigma Gamma
Mission: Promotion of the discipline by elevating the standards, ideals, competence, and ethics of professionally prepared men and women in health education.
Eta Sigma Gamma (ESG) is the Health Honorary organization for men and women who are in the field of Health or Health Education. The mission of the organization is promotion of the discipline by elevating the standards, ideals, competence and ethics of professionally prepared men and women in Health Education. The objectives of the PV Chapter of Eta Sigma Gamma are 1) Epsilon Epsilon to provide the opportunity to become acquainted with and enjoy the fellowship of students and faculty whose professional interests are dedicated to the Health Education discipline; 2) to keep the members informed of recent trends in Health Education; 3) to promote professional growth and leadership; 4) to encourage outstanding people to enter the Health Education field; 5) to evaluate professional standards and ethics of the discipline; 6) to stimulate and recognize research, service, and academic achievement within the membership; and 7) to assist in the professional preparation of Health Education students and faculty at PVAMU. To be eligible for membership, applicants must be either an undergraduate or graduate student with a GPA of 2.75 or higher and have a major or minor in Health or Health Education.
GPA: 3.0 or higher
Requirements: Health major
Intake: Invitation only
Phi Epsilon Kappa
Mission: Professional fraternity for persons engaged in or pursuing careers in physical education, health, recreation, dance, human performance, exercise science, sports medicine, and sports management.
Phi Epsilon Kappa is a national professional fraternity for persons engaged in pursuing careers in Physical Education, Health, Recreation, Dance, Kinesiology/Human Performance, Exercise Science, Sports Medicine, and Sports Management. Membership is open to persons interested in the purposes of the Fraternity and in providing time and energy for the benefit of these areas.
Membership: Open to Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) Kinesiology students who meet the following requirements:
-
Have at minimum a 3.0 overall grade point average (GPA) at the time of their membership application.
-
Be in good standing with PVAMU.
-
Be declared as a Kinesiology/Human Performance major and/or minor for at least one year and must have enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student at PVAMU for a minimum of 2 semesters.
Social Clubs
Allied Science Professional Society
Empower and direct its members on a guided pathway to prepare for careers (e.g. dpt/pta, ot/dot/ota, atc, pa, dc, pm&r, pharmd, and related professions) As well as ensuring growth of all members for success through development of its members professionally, mentally, and socially.
GPA: 3.00+
Requirements: Health or Kinesiology major, Department Minors
Intake: Application and review of requirements
Classic Dance Ensemble
The mission of CDE is to achieve excellence through dance, by portraying a commitment to discipline, technique, and dance education.
GPA: 2.5 or above
Requirements: Technique in Ballet, Modern & Jazz
Intake: Completion of CDE Application and Audition
P.A.H.P.E.R.D
Panther Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (PAHPERD) is open to all majors and minors in the department. A grade point average of 2.0 or higher is required for membership. All Health and Kinesiology majors are expected to participate in PAHPERD.
Provide networking opportunities to those students transitioning into the professional atmosphere. Expose students to current trends, activities, and issues in health and physical education. Committed to the development of knowledge and programs that promote active, healthy lifestyles.
Requirements: All Health and Kinesiology majors and Dance minor (No GPA required)
Intake: Open invitation
Other Professional Organizations
American Alliance For Health, Physical Education Recreation, and Dance (AAHPERD) is an educational organization at the national level that is structured for the purposes of supporting, encouraging, and providing assistance to member groups and their personnel throughout the nation as they seek to initiate, develop, and conduct programs in health, leisure, and movement-related activities for the enrichment of human life.
National Association of Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) is a division of AAHPERD which controls the quality of Physical Education and Sport by enhancing knowledge, improving professional practice, and increasing support for high quality physical education, sport, and physical activity programs.
American Association of Health Educators (AAHE) is a division of AAHPERD which controls the quality of Health Education programs by advancing the profession by serving health educators and others who strive to promote the health of all people through education and other systematic strategies.
Texas Association For Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (TAHPERD) is the professional organization for the State of Texas which supports the fields of Health, Human Performance, and Dance.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is the driving professional organization in the Sports Sciences. ACSM promotes and integrates scientific research, education, and practical applications of sports medicine and exercise science to maintain and enhance physical performance, fitness, health, and quality of life.
The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) strives to enhance the professional practice of Health Education by promoting and sustaining a credentialed body of Health Education Specialists. To meet this mission, NCHEC certifies health education specialists, promotes professional development, and strengthens professional preparation and practice.
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is a nonprofit organization committed to enriching quality of life through safe and effective exercise and physical activity. As America’s authority on fitness, ACE protects all segments of society against ineffective fitness products, programs and trends through its ongoing public education, outreach and research. ACE further protects the public by setting certification and continuing education standards for fitness professionals.
The Micro-Credential in Athletic Training
This certificate would serve multiple audiences:
- Athletic Training Students seeking to either transition into a Licensed Athletic Trainer in Texas or to advance their education of athletic training by progressing into a graduate athletic training program.
- Other students in kinesiology, health sciences, or related majors who seek to distinguish themselves with an applied credential that supplements their future profession.
- Professionals (e.g., coaches, personal trainers, physical educators, allied health practitioners) seeking continuing education to strengthen their skill set and advance their careers.
- Community stakeholders involved in youth sports, recreational leagues, and fitness organizations who require evidence-based training in injury prevention and care.
The certificate will not only bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and professional practice but also enhance the employability and preparedness of participants. By equipping learners with competencies in injury prevention, basic emergency care, rehabilitation principles, and athlete wellness, the program supports broader institutional goals of community engagement, workforce readiness, and academic innovation.
In addition, offering a micro-credential in Athletic Training positions the division as a leader in responsive, cutting-edge education. It reflects the institution’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, applied learning, and addressing the evolving needs of diverse populations in sports and health.
Ultimately, this initiative will expand the impact of the Kinesiology program by preparing learners with recognized, industry-relevant skills while strengthening the institution’s reputation as a hub for health, wellness, and performance enhancement education.
Course Requirements for Micro-Credential in Athletic Training
| KINE 4304 | Athletic Injuries | 3 |
| KINE 4322 | Advanced Athletic Injuries | 3 |
| KINE 4309 | Practicum in Athletic Training | 3 |
| KINE 4334 | Athletic Injury Assessment | 3 |
| Total Hours | 12 | |
Requirements for the Micro-Credential in Health Informatics
Importance of the Micro-Credential in Healthcare Informatics
- Develops competencies in health information systems, data management, and healthcare technologies.
- Supports professional development and career advancement in healthcare, information technology, and health information management.
- Improves the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery through the effective use of data and digital tools.
- Addresses the growing demand for professionals skilled in electronic health records, data analytics, and healthcare information systems.
This Micro-Credential will provide learners with the knowledge and technical skills needed to manage, analyze, and utilize health information to improve the quality, efficiency, and delivery of healthcare services. The Micro-Credential in Healthcare Informatics is designed to serve multiple audiences, including healthcare professionals, information technology specialists, administrators, public health practitioners, and individuals seeking to advance their careers in the rapidly evolving field of health information management. The program prepares participants to apply data-driven solutions, support clinical decision-making, and enhance patient care through the effective use of health information technologies.
| HLTH 2325 | Biostatistics | 3 |
| or PHLT 2325 | Biostatistics | |
| PHLT 3306 | Technology in Health Communication and Technology in Health | 3 |
| HLTH 4305 | Health Law and Ethics | 3 |
| HLTH 4310 | Health Administration and Leadership | 3 |
| Total Hours | 12 | |
Requirements for the Micro-Credential in Community Health Promotion
Importance of the Micro-Credential in Community Health Promotion
- Strengthens competencies in health education, disease prevention, and community engagement.
- Supports professional growth and career advancement in public health, healthcare, and community-based organizations.
- Promotes healthier populations by addressing social determinants of health and encouraging positive health behaviors.
- Responds to the increasing need for professionals who can design and implement effective health promotion initiatives in diverse community settings.
- This Micro-Credential will provide learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote health, prevent disease, and improve the well-being of individuals and communities. The Micro-Credential in Community Health Promotion is designed to serve multiple audiences, including healthcare professionals, community health workers, public health practitioners, educators, and individuals seeking to expand their expertise in health promotion and disease prevention. The program prepares participants to develop, implement, and evaluate strategies that address health disparities and foster healthier communities.
| HLTH 1304 | Personal Health and Wellness | 3 |
| or PHLT 1310 | Foundation to Public Health | |
| PHLT 1320 | Principles of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
| HLTH 3302 | Mental Health Promotion | 3 |
| HLTH 3305 | Public and Community Health | 3 |
| PHLT 3320 | Determinants of Health and Health Disparities | 3 |
| HLTH 4307 | Community Health Planning and Assessment | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Requirements for the Micro-Credential in Health Care Administration
Importance of the Micro-Credential in Healthcare Administration
- Enhances understanding of healthcare systems, organizational leadership, healthcare policy, and operational management.
- Supports professional development and career advancement in hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, insurance organizations, and long-term care facilities.
- Promotes effective management practices that improve efficiency, patient outcomes, and quality of care delivery.
- Addresses the growing need for skilled healthcare administrators capable of navigating regulatory requirements, financial challenges, and evolving healthcare environments.
This Micro-Credential will provide learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and coordinate healthcare services across a variety of clinical and organizational settings. The Micro-Credential in Healthcare Administration is designed to serve multiple audiences, including healthcare professionals, administrative staff, public health practitioners, and individuals seeking to enter or advance within the healthcare management field. The program prepares participants to understand healthcare systems, organizational operations, finance, policy, quality improvement, and leadership principles that support efficient, ethical, and patient-centered care delivery.
| HLTH 2325 | Biostatistics | 3 |
| or PHLT 2325 | Biostatistics | |
| HLTH 3311 | Overview of the U.S. Healthcare system | 3 |
| PHLT 3314 | Public Health Budget & Personnel | 3 |
| HLTH 4305 | Health Law and Ethics | 3 |
| HLTH 4310 | Health Administration and Leadership | 3 |
| Total Hours | 15 | |
Requirement for the Micro-Credential in Global Health
Importance of the Micro-Credential in Global Health
- Enhances understanding of global health challenges, health disparities, and emerging public health issues.
- Supports professional development and career advancement in healthcare, public health, international organizations, and community-based settings.
- Promotes culturally responsive approaches to improving health outcomes and advancing health equity worldwide.
- Addresses the growing need for professionals equipped to respond to global health trends, infectious diseases, and population health concerns.
This Micro-Credential will provide learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex health challenges that affect populations across the world. The Global Health Micro-Credential is designed to serve multiple audiences, including healthcare professionals, public health practitioners, community health workers, researchers, and individuals seeking to expand their understanding of international health issues. The program prepares participants to examine the social, economic, environmental, and cultural factors that influence health outcomes and to develop strategies that promote health equity and improve population health on a global scale.
| HLTH 1306 | Environmental Health | 3 |
| or PHLT 1306 | Environmental Health | |
| PHLT 2383 | Multicultural Health Issues | 3 |
| HLTH 3324 | Epidemiology | 3 |
| or PHLT 3324 | Epidemiology | |
| PHLT 3341 | Geography of Health/GIS Mapping | 3 |
| HLTH 4302 | Global Health | 3 |
| Total Hours | 15 | |