Health, Wellness and Sport in Society Program
Health, Wellness and Sport in Society stands out by offering an interdisciplinary approach that blends insights from both the Faculty of Arts and the Sobey School of Business. This means you’ll not only gain expertise in the social and cultural aspects of sport but also develop key business skills that are essential for leadership in the field. The program starts with foundational courses in arts and business and incorporates experience that allows you to apply what you’ve learned in real-world settings.
You’ll have the opportunity to explore important topics like fair play, equitable access, diversity in sport and the ethics of wellness all while aligning your education with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This holistic approach will prepare you to tackle complex challenges in sport and wellness, whether you’re working with local communities or engaging with global issues.
Why study Health, Wellness and Sport in Society at Saint Mary's?
If you're passionate about sport, health and wellness and want to make a meaningful impact in the world, this program is for you. The interdisciplinary curriculum is designed to give you the skills to critically engage with the societal, ethical and cultural dimensions of these fields. By focusing on ethical decision-making, diversity and inclusion, the Health, Wellness and Sport in Society program prepares you for leadership roles in a variety of sport-related careers, all while emphasizing socially responsible and sustainable practices.
With a strong foundation in the humanities and social sciences, this program addresses the most pressing contemporary issues in health, wellness and sport. You’ll graduate with a comprehensive understanding of the socio-cultural, political and ethical contexts that shape sport today, equipping you to contribute to both local and global communities in a positive, impactful way.
Real-World Learning Opportunities
At SMU, we believe in learning by doing. That’s why this program integrates practical, hands-on experience alongside theoretical study. In addition to the core curriculum, you’ll participate in engaging projects and collaborate with local health organizations, allowing you to apply your classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. These opportunities will help you develop the critical skills needed for success in the sport and wellness industries.
The program also includes elective courses in areas such as Sports Marketing and Human Resources in Sports, giving you the flexibility to tailor your education to your unique interests and career goals.
Sample Courses
- Sport in Historical Context: Students explore the development of sport from antiquity to the present. Using historical concepts and frameworks, the course will cover topics like the Olympics, Indigenous games and sport, doping and performance enhancement, nation building, and the professionalization of sports.
- Philosophy of Sport: The sport sector is a complex field which raises many questions for participants and observers. What is sport and how does it differ from other activities? What is fair or ethical in sport and how should this be achieved? What is sportsmanship? Is sport a social good? This course invites students to use philosophical ideas and frameworks to answer questions like these in the interest of clarifying what sport means in contemporary society.
- Sport Diversity & Inclusion: This course explores diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the context of sport. Students will be provided the tools to consider how a range of factors—such as class, race, gender, ability, and sexual orientation—shape how sport is experienced and organized.
Career Opportunities
- Sport Development Manager
- Wellness Program Coordinator
- Sport Policy Analyst
- Health Promotion Specialist
- Diversity and Inclusion Officer in Sport
- Community Engagement Coordinator
Ready to turn your passion for sports into a career? Health, Wellness and Sport in Society is your gateway to a rewarding career that makes a real impact. With a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and social responsibility, this program will equip you to engage with complex issues and lead the way in creating a healthier, more inclusive future for sport and wellness around the world.