Health Fitness Specialist
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11/26/2009 - Thanksgiving (School Closed)
11/27/2009 - Thanksgiving Friday (School Closed)
12/4/2009 - Winter Quarter Registration Ends
12/23/2009 - Fall Quarter Ends
12/24/2009 - Christmas Eve (School Closed)
12/25/2009 - Christmas (School Closed)

Health Fitness Online at Minnesota School of Business


Health, wellness and fitness professionals are increasingly expected to have degrees in health fitness, exercise science or a related field. It is difficult, however, to find a college program that is both convenient and provides access to top experts in the field.

The Minnesota School of Business (MSB) online Health Fitness Specialist degree programs fit that bill. When designing our associate and bachelor’s degree programs, we consulted with employers and industry professionals. Our students now learn from internationally recognized specialists, while enjoying the convenience and accessibility of distance learning. Contact us to find out how you can earn a degree that will set you on the path to a rewarding career.

Health and exercise science training online—how does it work?

Our students study fundamental sciences—anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics and nutrition—in online forums, where they explore and discuss topics under the direction of their instructors. Methods classes—exercise prescription, fitness analysis, exercise for special populations, and other hands-on classes—are presented through video lessons. Students then apply all of those concepts in clinical externships, working under the supervision of highly qualified trainers.

MAT Jumpstart and RTS certification seminars

Students in the online Bachelor’s in Health Fitness Specialist program can take elective seminars in Muscle Activation TechniquesTM (MAT) Jumpstart and Resistance Training Specialist 1,2,3. MAT Jumpstart is a unique program that prepares students to evaluate imbalances that can lead to repetitive stress injuries. Resistance Training Specialist 1,2,3 is a certification allows students to focus on exercise myths, teaches strategic resistance, discusses the Functional ContinuumR and leads students to precision exercise prescription. We offer the seminars annually in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and in various locations throughout the United States.

Upon successful completion of one of the classes, a student will receive a MATTM Jumpstart or RTS certification—both are strong credentials that complement the bachelor’s degree and set our graduates apart.

Online Health Fitness Specialist programs

  • Bachelor of Science in Health Fitness Specialist. A full-time student can complete this degree in 3 years. In addition to fundamental training provided in the AAS program, the BS program includes advanced coursework in sports nutrition and psychology, clinical stretching, child and youth fitness, sales and marketing and research.
  • Associate in Applied Science in Health Fitness Specialist. This degree can be completed in 21 months of full-time study. Students receive strong, science-based training in exercise science, fitness analysis, nutrition and related areas, in addition to courses for small business management.

Both programs combine technical and scientific training with training in business skills for managers and owners of health clubs, fitness centers, wellness clinics and related businesses.

Career opportunities for graduates of the programs

Students in these programs can look forward to a wide range of opportunities in the health fitness industry. Examples include:

  • Personal trainer
  • Wellness coach
  • Corporate fitness consultant
  • Group fitness leader
  • Strength and conditioning coach
  • Community recreation leader
  • Youth athletic coach
  • Owner or manager of a fitness center or health club

Our students receive career placement assistance before and after graduation. The following employers have hired our graduates:

  • Life Time Fitness
  • Jo’s Gym
  • Snap Fitness
  • Gold’s Gym
  • Central Community Center
  • St. Paul Jewish Community Center
  • Boutwell’s Landing
  • Beyond Fitness
  • Anytime Fitness
  • Presbyterian Homes
  • YMCA
  • Foley High School
  • Heritage Home Health Care & Hospice
  • Physician Neck & Back Clinic
  • Suburban Health Club           
  • Acceleration Minnesota
  • Midtown Fitness
  • Balanced Self Studios
  • Courage Center

 

Online students enjoy strong support at MSB

Online health fitness students benefit from the same robust support system that our students at our various campus locations enjoy. The technology helpdesk is open for long hours, including evenings and weekends. The distance learning platform allows online students to chat with instructors and classmates via e-mail, IM and phone. Tutorials prepare them to use all software applications, and they have full use of the extensive resources of our online library. These are just a few of the tools we offer to help our online students succeed.

Learn more about health fitness online

To learn more about the health fitness specialist associate and bachelor’s degrees, please, contact Minnesota School of Business. Our online division can be reached toll-free at 1-877-609-8889. Or if you’re ready to apply, complete our online application form today.