This degree is perfect for those individuals who would like to be involved in designing and facilitating fitness programs in a variety of recreational, nonprofit, corporate, and health club settings. At the end of the degree program, students will be prepared to select and sit for a nationally recognized certification for personal training or health and wellness coaching.
It is no wonder that the need for fitness and wellness professionals is growing, as a healthy lifestyle improves the quality and length of your life. If you are interested in helping others stay fit and healthy, you should consider the Fitness Wellness BS.
You will emerge fully prepared for a career in personal training or designing and facilitating fitness programs in a variety of recreational, nonprofit, corporate, and health club settings. In addition to the degree, you will pass a nationally recognized certification for personal training or health and wellness coaching. The flexible hybrid design of this major integrates face-to-face and online classes, allowing you flexibility in your schedule.
To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 120 |
| Major GPA | 2.0 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Required |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| Some online/blended coursework | Required |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
Purpose Statement
The purpose of the B.S. degree in Health Sciences Fitness Wellness degree program is to provide focused educational and practical experiences to those interested in a career in the emerging fitness/health/wellness industry. The Fitness Wellness program is a combination of general education and core course work to prepare competent entry-level exercise professionals with the knowledge and skills to assist individuals across the lifespan in adopting and maintaining healthy behaviors that lead to increased fitness, wellness, and optimal health. Students will be able to design and facilitate fitness programs in a variety of recreational, nonprofit, corporate, and health club settings as well as on- and off-campus field experiences that prepares students for a variety of work environments. This degree was developed to align with and meet standard and guidelines established by the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education.
Outcomes align with Standards from the American College of Sports Medicine
Domain I: Health and Fitness Assessment
Take the following 62 units with a Grade of "C" or better in each course:
Health sciences core (17 units)
Three 1 unit PES credits which must include the following:
*HS 408C satisfies NAU's senior capstone requirement. Students must sign-up, pay-for, and take a nationally accredited certification; ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C). (Please Note: a department approved CPR/First Aid course is required prior to taking this course. The student must locate, take and obtain verification of current certification to be cleared for internship/fieldwork.)
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.