Area of Study: Sport and Exercise Studies 

Degree/Certificate: Associate of Applied Science degree in Sport and Exercise Studies 

Program Sequence 

The SPORT AND EXERCISE STUDIES program at Cuyahoga Community College is a unique experience that offers students the knowledge and skills to become fitness specialists. Students completing the program will receive an Associate of Applied Science degree in Sport and Exercise Studies.  

The program is designed to prepare students for the following entry-level roles in the fitness profession: Health Fitness Specialist, Personal Trainer, Fitness Coordinator, Group Exercise Coordinator,  Group Fitness Instructor, Specialty Instructor, and Sport Coach. The degree will open the doors for students to gain career opportunities in private and public fitness centers as well as entry level management positions in health, fitness, or rehabilitation centers, recreations facilities, and retail sales.

The program is designed to prepare students to demonstrate the following program outcomes:
1.  Accurately interpret health status and risk stratification data and perform industry-standard fitness assessments and exercise tests for individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

2.  Effectively demonstrate a variety of exercises and teach safe and correct use of exercise equipment and other exercise apparatus to individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

3.  Effectively design, implement supervise, and evaluate exercise prescriptions and exercise programs in accordance with individual needs, goals, and assessment date results.

4.  Effectively educate, motivate, and/or communicate with individuals to influence healthy lifestyle behavior modifications.

5.  Perform safe, ethical, and legal practices in a variety of health and fitness-related settings within the scope of practice.

6.  Demonstrate organizational and administrative leadership by establishing program directions, risk management, budgetary and financial plans.


 
Graduates of the program will be prepared to take accredited certifications in personal training and/or group fitness instructor from organizations such as the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Resistance Training Specialist (RTS), and other certifications in the field. Graduates of the program may transfer to four-year institutions to continue their education in exercise science, exercise physiology, sports management, or other fitness related fields.

Students pursuing the Associate of Applied Science degree in Sport and Exercise Studies can choose to study on a full- or part-time basis. Students complete courses in anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, kinesiology, exercise testing, measurement and evaluation, exercise prescription and program design, CPR/AED, first aid, sport injury care, exercise training techniques, fitness and wellness coaching, sport management, nutrition, health, English, mathematics, speech, and psychology. Students will also complete a practicum experience in their desired profession.

Courses are available on campus, in hybrid format or online at the following Tri-C campuses:  Eastern, Metropolitan, Western.