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Human Performance and Wellness
At VMI all cadets are required to take seven semesters of human performance and wellness classes.
The Human Performance and Wellness program mentally and physically develops cadets, through exposure to comprehensive and progressive academic (non-degree granting) and experiential (co-curricular) programs designed to enhance self-esteem, physical fitness, leadership characteristics, and the pre-requisite knowledge that produces graduates with a commitment to life-long physical fitness and health.
The program also provides cadets:
- with knowledge & skill to enhance physical fitness and self-confidence
- with the knowledge to develop leadership capabilities
- on how to apply exercise science principles to design exercise/fitness programs
- with experience to respond appropriately to situations where CPR/lifeguard skills are needed
Degrees and Programs
The Human Performance and Wellness curriculum offers an Exercise Science Minor.
All cadets are required to take seven semesters of human performance and wellness classes, and earn four semester credit hours (exclusive of any 3 credit hour course) to meet graduation requirements.
HPW in the News
Find out more about the department's cadets and faculty in recent VMI news.
SURI: Heavy Loads and Harsh Environments – The Effects on the Human Body
Caroline Lassalle ’25 has always had a strong desire to learn about exercise science and work in the medical field. The biology major spent five weeks last summer becoming a certified emergency medical technician (EMT) at Virginia Military Institute.
Swim Classes Are Historic Part of VMI
Cadets are required to take swimming classes — a requirement that sets VMI apart from other colleges and universities, Col. James Coale, head of the Department of Human Performance & Wellness (HPW), said.