About the College

Message from the Dean

Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, and Community Partners,

It is my privilege to welcome you to the College of Health Professions and Wellness at Jacksonville State University. As we continue to build upon our legacy of excellence in health education and wellness programming and promotion, I am excited to share our commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals and wellness leaders who will serve our communities with compassion, competence, and integrity. Our college uniquely bridges the critical connection between clinical healthcare and comprehensive wellness, recognizing that true health encompasses not only treating illness but also promoting physical fitness and sport, preventing disease, and creating environments where individuals and communities can flourish.

Our college stands at the forefront of health education and wellness, offering innovative programs that blend rigorous academic instruction with hands-on experience. Through our School of Nursing, Department of Kinesiology, and Department of Respiratory Therapy, we provide comprehensive curricula in nursing, respiratory therapy, exercise science, health and physical education, and sports industry. We are particularly excited to introduce our newest offerings: the Bachelor of Public Health and Master of Public Health programs, which address the growing need for public health professionals in our region.

Our programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of both the healthcare industry and the wellness sector while addressing the unique health challenges facing Alabama and the broader Southeast region.
What sets us apart is our dedication to student success. Our accomplished faculty bring both academic expertise and real-world experience to the classroom, creating learning environments that challenge students to think critically and develop the practical skills essential for their chosen career. Through state-of-the-art simulation and human performance laboratories, community partnerships, and fieldwork experiences, our students gain the confidence and competence needed to excel when they enter the workforce.

We recognize that healthcare and wellness are fundamentally about people helping people reach their full potential. Our programs emphasize not only technical proficiency in clinical settings but also the promotion of wellness through education, physical activity, and sports industry leadership. We develop professionals who understand that health extends beyond treating illness to include preventing disease, promoting fitness and sports, and creating environments where communities can thrive. Our partnerships with local healthcare systems, schools, sports organizations, community agencies, and public health departments provide our students with meaningful opportunities to make a positive impact while still in school.

Whether you are a prospective student considering your next steps, a current student pursuing your degree, or a community member interested in our programs and services, I encourage you to explore all that our college has to offer.

Warm regards,

Dr. Tracey Matthews
Dean, College of Health Professions and Wellness
Jacksonville State University