a nutrition and fitness student doing a squat in an exercise room

Nutrition and Fitness

21 Credits
1 year
In-Person (Clarion)
Blended Format (California, Edinboro)

Fuel Health, Fitness and Performance

Help individuals improve their health through the powerful connection between nutrition and exercise. PennWest University's Nutrition & Fitness Certificate combines evidence-based nutrition with kinesiology to prepare you for careers in health promotion, fitness, wellness and sport performance. You'll develop practical skills in nutrition assessment, fitness programming and wellness education while building a strong foundation for careers that promote healthier lives.

This program is for you if...

  • You want to combine nutrition and exercise science to improve health and wellness.
  • You're interested in careers in fitness, strength and conditioning or exercise physiology.
  • You enjoy helping others achieve healthier lifestyles.
  • You desire to build practical skills in nutrition counseling and fitness assessment.
  • You're pursuing a career in health, wellness, sport or community education. 
Credits
Credits
  • XX Credits for AA

  • XX Credits for BS

What You'll Study

You'll explore the relationship between nutrition and physical activity while learning how to assess nutritional health, educate diverse populations and develop evidence-based fitness programs. Coursework covers nutrition assessment and counseling, food and weight management, community nutrition, fitness assessment and exercise prescription, with an emphasis on improving health, wellness and athletic performance across a variety of settings.

a nutrition and fitness student exercising with dumbbells in a campus exercise facility
Degrees Table
Degrees, Certificates, Minors Offered at...
  California Clarion Edinboro Global Online
Nutrition and Fitness, Certificate Program Offered At This LocationBlended Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Offered At This LocationBlended 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.

View faculty  

How You'll Learn

Complete coursework through face-to-face instruction at the Clarion campus with multimodal options available for students at the California and Edinboro campuses. You'll gain practical experience in nutrition assessment, counseling, fitness evaluation and program planning while learning to apply current research to real-world health and wellness challenges.

More About Learning at PennWest

    What You'll Become

    You'll graduate with interdisciplinary knowledge in nutrition and fitness that prepares you for entry-level roles in health, wellness and performance settings. Whether working in clinical fitness, corporate wellness, community health, strength and conditioning or exercise physiology, you'll have the practical skills to promote healthier lifestyles through evidence-based nutrition and exercise strategies.

    Career Paths

    • Clinical fitness
    • Strength and conditioning
    • Exercise physiology
    • Cardiac rehabilitation
    • Corporate wellness
    • Community wellness
    • Hospital wellness programs
    • Health promotion
    • Nutrition education
    • Fitness coaching

    PennWest Clarion student is ready for the big leagues

    Through two Northwoods League internships, James O'Dell is gaining the real-world experience needed for a career in professional sports

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    Highlight
    PennWest Clarion student James O'Dell (far right), clubhouse manager for the Duluth Huskies, poses with (from left) Assistant Coach Jake Pashby, Head Coach Marcus Pointer, Huskies athlete Jalen Smith and Assistant Coach Jake Lewis at the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, Iowa, during the Northwoods League All-Star Game.

    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.

    Evidence-Based Learning

    Apply nutrition and fitness science to improve health.

    • 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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