CertPersonalTrainer
Career & Academic Pathways >> Allied Health
Contact Information
Erin O'Hare (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4184
eohare@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet 
• Visit Kinesiology website
• Connect with a Counselor 

Program Overview

Do you enjoy exercise and fitness?  Would you like to help others achieve their fitness goals?  The Certified Personal Trainer program provides an overview of fitness techniques and skills, from weight training to aquatic exercise. Students also receive instruction and hands-on experience in prescribing and designing fitness regimens for others. Graduates are prepared to take the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Personal Trainer Examination — the gold standard for personal trainers. 

Job Outlook

Consumers have embraced personal health and wellness, and demand for personal trainers is high with job opportunities slated to grow 10% through 2026.  Graduates who obtain NASM certification can work in commercial clubs and personal training studios as well as manage and own clubs or gyms.

Potential Careers

Sports Coaches

$24,310 - $75,500

Personal Trainers

$25,060 - $83,010

*Fitness Center Managers
(may require additional training)

$58,487 - $115,694

*Fitness & Wellness Directors
(may require additional training)

$71,680 - $208,000

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Certified Personal Trainer - Certificate of Achievement (COA) 

Suggested Course Sequence (COA)

Year 1

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS

KINS 46

 3

KINS 47

 3

KINS 51

 2

KINS 92

 1

PFIT 10A

 1

PFIT 15A, 17-19A, 21A, 

 1

PFIT 15A, 17-19A, 21A, 

 1

   22A or 23A

   22A or 23A

  

PFIT 15A, 17-19A, 21A, 

 1

PFIT 15A, 17-19A, 21A, 

 1

   22A or 23A
   22A or 23A      
       
Total Fall Units
 8 Total Spring Units
 6

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling. 

Testimonials 

Cornell Whitmore

The C.O.A Certified Personal Trainer program has prepared me for success in the profession of personal training by providing physical knowledge about different types of exercises that will address clients’ personal goals. Knowing how to use assessments and figuring out what areas need correction was a major strong point of the program.