Exercise and Nutrition Sciences
Studying how we move and fuel our bodies.
The role of physical activity and nutrition in the prevention and management of chronic diseases is an important public health priority in the United States and globally. Physical inactivity and poor nutrition increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer and contribute to premature mortality. We use cross-disciplinary approaches to prevent and manage chronic diseases, advance food systems and food safety, promote food and nutrition security, and enhance sport and human performance, within an equitable public health framework. Our work applies a social determinants lens to address issues of health disparities and inequities across the life course.
Graduate and Undergraduate Programs
One of only a few schools of Public Health with a department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences.
Our Bachelor of Science (BS) programs deliver a versatile background in topics such as physiology, psychology, nutrition and exercise science. Our master's degree students learn the more advanced science behind exercise performance, physical activity promotion, and nutrition science, as well as how to design programs that promote health and wellness at the individual, as well as at the population level.
The Institute for Food Safety and Nutrition Security is housed within the Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences.
Meet Our Department Chair
Sameera Talegawkar
Interim Department Chair
Dr. Talegawkar research focuses on nutritional assessment and chronic disease risks of underserved elderly, African American, and South Asian populations and, at various times on GW faculty. She has been a program co-director, a mentor for masters and PhD students, and a member of several influential committees. In December 2024, she completed a term of service as a member of the USDA and HHS Dietary Guidelines for Americans scientific committee that culminated in the submission of an advisory report.
Student Opportunities
EXNS in the US
National Opportunities
Each semester, faculty, staff and students from EXNS practice what they teach and learn in the classroom with the goal of better health for all.
EXNS in DC
In Our Own Community
EXNS offers a unique location in the nation's capital providing unparalleled access to the most pressing problems facing the world.
EXNS at GW
Here on Campus
GW is home to a wide range of public health research and practice activities both within EXNS and across the university.
Explore EXNS
Practice Experience
Our extensive partner network enables students to work with top Washington, D.C. health organizations as practice settings.
LSPA Courses
We offer a range of sports and activity classes that give SPH students a chance to learn a new activity or to improve their skill level while earning credit.
Careers and Alumni
Earning one of our degrees can lead to a wide range of professional opportunities. Click for a sampling and alumni profiles.
Department News
Experts Recommend Caution on the Use of Non-Sugar Sweeteners
January 22, 2024
Despite ongoing concerns about the health impacts of non-sugar sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose and stevia, these sweeteners are increasingly found in a variety of foods and beverages, including those aimed at children
School-based Gardening and Food Programs May Support Healthier Food Attitudes Later in Life
January 8, 2024
School-based Gardening and Food Programs May Support Healthier Food Attitudes Later in Life
National Food Safety Expert Joins Milken Institute School of Public Health
Barbara Kowalcyk will direct the new Institute for Food Safety & Nutrition Security
September 7, 2023
Barbara Kowalcyk will direct the new Center for Food Safety & Nutrition Security