Fitness Management and Personal Training

About the fitness management and personal training major

Fitness management and personal training students gain an in-depth knowledge of movement, physical activity programming, and nutrition. The program is a combination of general and core coursework and includes field internship experience that prepares you for a variety of careers and work environments in the fitness industry. In addition, you'll be provided with the theory and practical training skills that are needed to be eligible to sit for professional fitness certifications from national organizations, such as the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Skills and abilities this major develops: knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and nutrition; successful communication skills; ability to think critically and problem solve; management and leadership training; and an understanding of diversity.

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IUPUI’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Exercise leadership and program design
  • First aid and emergency care
  • Fitness testing and interpretation
  • Introduction to sport psychology
  • Nutrition for health
  • Structural kinesiology
  • Theory and practice of cardiovascular fitness

Possible careers

  • Community activity director
  • Employee wellness director
  • Personal trainer
  • Sports performance trainer
  • Strength and conditioning coach

Where could I work?

  • Health and fitness
  • Hendricks Regional Health
  • Life Time Fitness
  • Self-employment
  • YMCA 

Health and Life Sciences Cluster

This major belongs to the Health and Life Sciences (HLS) cluster.

Learn about the HLS cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

Schedule an appointment