Exercise Science Certificate

Immediately join the workforce as a fitness professional while giving yourself a deeper understanding of the human body and its respective functions.

Overview for Exercise Science Certificate

A certificate in exercise science prepares you to sit for a range of fitness and training exams, including the exams to become a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, health coach, and more. It can also complement other programs such as the biomedical sciences, nutritional sciences, or dietetics and nutrition, as it bolsters your knowledge of exercise, in particular, strength and conditioning.

RIT’s Certificate in Exercise Science

College-level knowledge and professional certification are increasingly required for those who wish to work in the fitness industry, whether full- or part-time, in an athletic club, wellness center, or sports medicine facility. Knowledge of, and professional certification in, personal training, fitness instruction, and related programming also are of increasing value to allied health professionals who wish to augment their level of care with the ability to prescribe exercise and wellness programs that address special medical needs.

Exercise Science Courses

In just three classes, RIT’s exercise science certificate can open the door to a range of exciting opportunities. The exercise science certificate enables you to:

Bolster your knowledge of exercise, in particular, strength and conditioning.
Qualify you to sit for a range of fitness and training exams, including the exams to become a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, health coach, and more.
Boost your professional options.
- For students majoring in biomedical sciences or nutritional sciences the certificate can enhance your professional opportunities.
- For students in other majors the certificate is a way to continue your involvement in fitness, wellness, and health regardless of your career path.

Exercise Science Certification

The certificate in exercise science covers the basic principles of exercise physiology, fitness assessment, the preparation of fitness programs and prescriptions, and the development of exercise prescriptions for individuals with medical or other significant limitations. Students who successfully complete all three courses are prepared to sit for professional certification examinations from the American College of Sports Medicine, American Council on Exercise, and the American Academy of Health and Fitness Professionals, as well as for certifications from the Cooper Institute for Aerobic Research, the National Academy of Sports Medicine, and a number of other recognized organizations.

Request Info about undergraduate study

Curriculum for 2025-2026 for Exercise Science Certificate

Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements

Admissions and Financial Aid

For requirements to apply, please email the program contact or inquire with your academic advisor.

Facilities

Simulation Lab

The Simulation Laboratory consists of three parts a patient room that contains a simulation mannequin, a control room where operation of the mannequin occurs, and a debriefing room where faculty interact with students after simulated medical scenarios end.
August Family Human Movement Laboratory

The August Family Human Movement Lab houses state-of-the-art equipment utilized by exercise science students to gain hands-on experience conducting fitness assessments and testing.