ABOUT US

Robinson Center

The department of Health, Sport, and Exercise Sciences (HSES) has a proud history. James Naismith (ppt), the inventor of basketball and KU's first basketball coach and athletic director began teaching physical education in 1898 – twelve years before the School of Education came into existence. Notable alumni of the department include runner Billy Mills and football great Gale Sayers.

The department is housed in Robinson Center. In addition to its academic programs, HSES offers research opportunities for faculty and students in a variety of laboratories and clinics. Current research endeavors include: the Research and Coaching Performance Team and various projects in the Applied Physiology Laboratory.

The department is also active in community outreach with swim classes for children, a summer sports camp, and the Strong Girls program that offers mentoring and healthy activities for girls in grades four-six.

In addition, the department offers physical activity classes (HSES 108) for KU students and fitness and recreation facilities for faculty and staff.

See our academics page for more specific information.


The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression and genetic information in the University’s programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Director of the Office of Institutional Opportunity and Access, IOA@ku.edu, 1246 W. Campus Road, Room 153A, Lawrence, KS, 66045, (785)864-6414, 711 TTY.