A conditioning coach instructing a student on proper deadlifting technique

Clinical Exercise Physiology and Strength and Conditioning

21 Credits
1 year
In-Person (Edinboro)

Turn Exercise Science Into Career-Ready Expertise

If you're passionate about improving health, enhancing athletic performance and helping others achieve their physical potential, PennWest's Clinical Exercise Physiology and Strength & Conditioning Certificate can help you take the next step. Designed exclusively for Exercise Science majors, this certificate combines evidence-based coursework with extensive hands-on experiences in laboratory, clinical and performance settings. You'll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to work with athletes, healthy individuals and people managing chronic disease while preparing for industry-recognized professional certifications.

This program is for you if...

  • You want to build advanced skills in clinical exercise physiology and strength and conditioning.
  • You're an Exercise Science major looking to expand your expertise through specialized coursework.
  • You enjoy applying scientific principles to improve health, performance and rehabilitation.
  • You want hands-on experience with exercise testing, physiological assessment and performance training.
  • You're preparing for graduate study or professional certifications in exercise physiology or strength and conditioning.
Locations
Locations
Credits
Credits
  • XX Credits for AA

  • XX Credits for BS

What You'll Study

Through a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory experiences and supervised practical learning, you'll study exercise physiology, exercise testing and prescription, strength and conditioning, health promotion and adaptive physical education. You'll gain experience conducting physiological assessments, developing therapeutic exercise programs and designing evidence-based training programs for athletes and individuals with chronic health conditions.

The curriculum emphasizes real-world application through strength and conditioning practicum experiences, campus and community engagement and laboratory-based assessments using specialized equipment. Coursework is designed to help prepare eligible students for certification pathways offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

An athletic trainer selecting a dumbbell from a weight rack
Degrees Table
Degrees, Certificates, Minors Offered at...
  California Clarion Edinboro Global Online
Clinical Exercise Physiology and Strength and Conditioning, Certificate Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location

 

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

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How You'll Learn

This certificate is offered at PennWest's Edinboro campus, where you'll learn in specialized laboratories equipped with advanced exercise testing and assessment technology. Hands-on experiences include physiological testing, strength and conditioning practice, supervised clinical experiences and community engagement opportunities that reinforce classroom learning and prepare you for professional practice.

More About Learning at PennWest

    What You'll Become

    You'll graduate with advanced knowledge in clinical exercise physiology and strength and conditioning, preparing you to assess human performance, develop evidence-based exercise programs and support athletes and individuals with chronic health conditions while strengthening your preparation for graduate study and professional certification opportunities.

    Career Paths

    • Clinical exercise physiology
    • Cardiac rehabilitation
    • Pulmonary rehabilitation
    • Strength and conditioning
    • Sports performance
    • Corporate wellness
    • Commercial fitness
    • Human performance laboratories
    • Exercise science research
    • Graduate study in physical therapy, occupational therapy or athletic training

    Dr. Kim Schwabenbauer

    Fueling Performance, From Inonman to the Classroom

    Read More
    Highlight
    Dr. Kim Schwabenbauer crossing the finish line of an ironman triathlon

    How We'll Help You Succeed

    At PennWest University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.

    Hands-On Training

    Develop practical skills through laboratory experiences, exercise testing, physiological assessment, strength and conditioning practicum and supervised campus and community engagement opportunities.

    • Affordable Programs

      Discover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.

      Tuition & Fees
    • Success Coaching

      Achieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.

      Success at PennWest
    • Post-Graduation Support

      We're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.

      Life After PennWest

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