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About Us

Established in 1946 as the first School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation in the United States, the school and our programs have grown to encompass a broad spectrum of academic interests and professional fields. We have more than 2,500 students and almost 17,000 living alumni, with undergraduate and advanced degree programs in Applied Health Science, Kinesiology, and Recreation, Park, and Tourism Studies. Campus Recreational Sports provides sport and fitness services for the IU community and the public.

The School of HPER’s motto is carved into our building’s limestone façade: in corpore sano mens sana, meaning “a sound body provides for a sound mind.” This sentiment, influenced by the Greek concept of the indivisible duality of body and mind, is seen all around us as people worldwide are rediscovering the importance of personal health and wellness.

Our resources include more than 12,000 square feet of research and teaching laboratories, and nearly 275,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor sport and fitness facilities, including our award-winning recreation centers, aquatics centers, and acreage that includes Bradford Woods and Hilltop Garden and Nature Center.