Personal Training, Certificate

Contact Information

Program Requirements

Typical Program

Degree/Certificate:    Certificate
HEGIS Code:            5299
SUNY Code:             2227
Major Code:             PTRN

The Career

This two-semester program will serve those who would like to work in the fitness industry as personal trainers. The program is designed for students who have never worked in a fitness-center setting, those who are currently employed as non-certified personal trainers in a fitness setting who desire to upgrade their educational background and other fitness-industry professionals seeking the personal trainer designation. The program will prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to work as personal trainers and certify through the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) after graduation at a reduced rate.

The SUNY Niagara Approach

Core courses of Personal Training, Nutrition and Healthful Living make up the core of the curriculum. The life sciences component of Human Biology paired with the elective Kinesiology prepares students with a practical and applicable understanding of the human body. Additional emphasis in communications, psychology and mathematics complete the liberal arts experience and prepare candidates for the elements of varied experiences they may encounter in this profession. Professional development activities and career exploration will be emphasized early and throughout the Personal Training certificate program.

In addition to earning a Certificate in Personal Training, students are positioned to take the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) Personal Trainer Certification Exam upon graduating from this program.

Admission

Students admitted in fall, spring and summer.

The Personal Training program is a full-time program with coursework available both day and evening. Some courses are also available online through Distance Learning.

Program Goals and Objectives

• To provide students with skills in personal fitness training
• To assist students in completing three general education areas specifically chosen to develop knowledge of interpersonal communication, body systems and of writing skills for industry
• To prepare students to obtain NCSF certification

Program Learning Outcomes

At the completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate fundamental training skills such as nutritional analysis, physical assessment, biomechanical analysis and exercise programming
• Examine the unique needs of individual clients based on needs analysis
• Communicate relevant programming information to clientele
• Accommodate diversity in body types and the special needs of diverse clients
• Demonstrate skills in the area of training instruction such as spotting, technique and tempo correction and effective breathing techniques