Catalog 2025-2026
Physical Education and Recreation
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 Return to: Degrees and Certificates
Program Location
Greeley Campus | Physical Education and Recreation Center
Program Contacts
Program Director
Nikki Smiley | nicole.smiley@aims.edu | (970) 339-6337
Program Assistant Director
Tanner Wiemers | tanner.wiemers@aims.edu | (970) 378-3518
Faculty/Advisor
Katie Hansen | katie.hansen@aims.edu | (970) 339-6421
Staff Associate
Amanda Sheehan | amanda.sheehan@aims.edu | (970) 829-5287
Health and Human Performance
Facility: Physical Education and Recreation Center (The PERC)
Opened in Fall 2015, the 46,000-square-foot Aims Campus Physical Education and Recreation Center (PERC) in Greeley serves as a vibrant, state-of-the-art hub for student wellness, recreation, and community. Designed with modern fitness and wellness trends in mind, the PERC accommodates busy lifestyles and a wide range of health-related activities.
Facility Features
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1.1 acres of green space
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1,113 sq. ft. Cross Training Studio
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2,500 sq. ft. Fitness/Cardio Training Center
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Dance and Aerobics Studio
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Expansive Strength Center with free weights and circuit stations
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Indoor and outdoor student centers
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Indoor elevated walking/jogging track
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Indoor Group Cycling Studio
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Mind and Body Studio
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One racquetball court and functional fitness space
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Renovated gymnasium with two volleyball courts
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Spacious men’s, women’s, and family locker rooms
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Three tennis courts
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Two smart classrooms
Degree Pathway: Associate of Arts - Health and Human Performance Emphasis
Do you want a career that allows you to stay active and help others lead healthier lives? The Associate of Arts degree with a focus in Health and Human Performance provides a strong foundation in liberal arts alongside specialized coursework in fitness, wellness, and exercise science.
With increasing awareness of the benefits of physical activity and wellness, job opportunities in this growing field are diverse and in high demand. Whether entering the workforce after Aims or transferring to a four-year university, this degree helps launch your career in health and human performance.
Career Opportunities
Graduates may pursue roles such as:
Degree Requirements
Complete the general requirements of the Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree, plus the following courses:
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HPE 2031 - Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries
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HPR 1017 - Anatomical Kinesiology
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HWE 1065 - Introduction to Exercise Health Science
Electives
Up to 3 credits of physical education (PED) courses may be applied as electives toward the general A.A. degree.
Transfer Opportunities
Students planning to transfer can take additional recommended courses based on their intended transfer institution:
Aims2UNC - University of Northern Colorado
B.S. in Sport and Exercise Science, Human Performance
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HPE 2031 - Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries
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HPR 1017 - Anatomical Kinesiology
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HWE 1065 - Introduction to Exercise Health Science
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HWE 2062 - Physiology of Exercise
Colorado State University
B.S. in Health and Exercise Science, Health Promotion
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HPR 1017 - Anatomical Kinesiology
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HWE 1050 - Human Nutrition
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HWE 1064 - Weight Management and Exercise
Regis University
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HWE 1050 - Human Nutrition
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PED 1000 - Fitness Concepts
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PED 1003 - Weight Training II
Accessibility
The Physical Education, Recreation & Fitness Department (The PERC) is committed to inclusive access for all students. Whether participating in fitness classes, earning a degree, or accessing recreational facilities, faculty and staff prioritize equitable access and support.
For more information or to request accommodations:
Student Accessibility Services (SAS)
Phone: (970) 339-6565
Email: disabilities@aims.edu
Certificates in Health and Human Performance
Exercise Specialist Certificate (Two Semesters)
This certificate prepares students to work in fitness and personal training environments, including health clubs, gyms, and private settings. Students gain foundational knowledge in human movement, strength training, and personal training practices, along with hands-on experience through an internship.
Certificate Requirements - 10 Credits
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HPR 1017 - Anatomical Kinesiology (3 credits)
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HWE 1068 - Certified Personal Trainer Preparatory Course (3 credits)
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HWE 1080 - Internship (2 credits)
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PED 1003 - Weight Training II (2 credits)
Health and Fitness Certificate (Two Semesters)
Designed for individuals interested in general health, fitness, and wellness, this certificate provides essential knowledge in injury prevention, nutrition, and wellness principles. Graduates are equipped for entry-level roles or further study in health promotion or exercise science.
Certificate Requirements - 12 Credits
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HPE 2031 - Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries (3 credits)
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HWE 1050 - Human Nutrition (3 credits)
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HWE 1062 - Health and Wellness (3 credits)
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HWE 1065 - Introduction to Exercise Health Sciences (3 credits)
Health and Exercise Specialist Certificate (One Year)
This advanced certificate offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines the core competencies of fitness training, exercise science, nutrition, and health promotion. It is ideal for students pursuing careers as personal trainers, health coaches, or exercise specialists.
Certificate Requirements - 22 Credits
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HPE 2031 - Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries (3 credits)
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HPR 1017 - Anatomical Kinesiology (3 credits)
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HWE 1050 - Human Nutrition (3 credits)
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HWE 1062 - Health and Wellness (3 credits)
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HWE 1065 - Introduction to Exercise Health Sciences (3 credits)
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HWE 1068 - Certified Personal Trainer Preparatory Course (3 credits)
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HWE 1080 - Internship (2 credits)
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PED 1003 - Weight Training II (2 credits)
Return to: Degrees and Certificates
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