Advanced Personal Trainer Certificate
MC's personal trainer certificate curriculum is designed to develop fitness specialists who are knowledgeable and skilled in fitness, wellness instruction, and program design. The curriculum blends science and theory with practical application and hands-on experience.
Students will acquire an academic foundation in the fundamental principles of exercise and nutrition in addition to a basic understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Practical skill training will focus on the development of expertise in fitness assessment, health and fitness program design, safe exercise technique, training methodology, injury prevention and care, behavior change, exercise leadership, and personal training business practice.
The certificate curriculum offers the educational framework and competencies for career opportunities in the fitness industry. Successful completion of the certificate will prepare students for many of the nationally recognized personal training certification examinations and provides a course foundation for those interested in pursuing an AA in exercise science/health fitness specialist.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, a student will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and use of cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and musculoskeletal risk factors and appropriate use of health histories, physician referrals, and informed consent.
- Demonstrate knowledge and use of appropriate fitness assessments for the following fitness components, cardiorespiratory, endurance, strength, flexibility, and body composition.
- Demonstrate knowledge and use of appropriate exercise program development for the following fitness components, cardiorespiratory, endurance, strength, flexibility, and body composition.
- Demonstrate knowledge and use of specific behavioral strategies to enhance exercise and health behavior change.
- Demonstrate knowledge and use of ability to communicate effectively and teach exercise participants proper exercise techniques, exercise progression, and lifestyle change strategies.
Program Advising
Meet with your academic advisor regularly to discuss your academic plans. The program advising guide outlines the certificate requirements and is meant to supplement the advising process.
Careers
For some positions listed, a bachelor's degree or higher may be required. Use the Career and Program Explorer to see a full report for this career field. See links below chart for further guidance and/or connect with a Program Advisor to discuss career goals.
Related careers include personal trainer/manager, group fitness instructor/manager, fitness specialist—corporate fitness, general manager—commercial fitness, and wellness director.
- MC Student Employment Services: Speak with the Student Employment Specialist for help with resume writing, interviewing, setting up a College Central Network (CCN)new window account and other job search topics.
- Career Coach: Explore Career Coach to learn more about this career and/or discover related majors and in-demand careers based on your current interests! Take a Career Assessment and then browse careers and job opportunities in the area.
Curriculum
Related Programs and Courses
General Studies Degree
Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional, and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.
Workforce Development and Continuing Education
MC offers a wide variety of noncredit classes. These courses are designed to help you upgrade your skills, pursue career training, or learn something new.