Physical Fitness Specialist
School of Health Sciences
Bardo Gymnasium, Rm. 104 · (570) 326-3761, ext. 7417
Frequently Asked Questions
- What types of employment are available to a graduate with this degree?
- Can I continue my education for a B.S. degree?
- What makes the Physical Fitness Specialist degree unique?
- What is the major strength of the program?
- What are the qualifications of the faculty?
- Where will most of my classes meet?
- Do Physical Fitness Specialist students have access to the fitness labs?
- Is the program content up-to-date?
Q: What types of employment are available to a graduate with this degree?
A: A graduate could work as a personal trainer or a wellness/health/fitness director in any of the following settings:
- Health and fitness clubs
- YMCAs and YWCAs
- Corporate fitness centers
- Cruise lines and major resort hotels
- Personal fitness training
- Rehabilitation and assisted living centers
Q: Can I continue my education for a B.S. degree?
A: Yes! Several of our graduates have stayed at Penn College and completed the bachelor of science degree in Applied Health Studies. Others have successfully matriculated to other colleges such as Lock Haven University, The Pennsylvania State University, and Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Q: What makes the Physical Fitness Specialist degree unique?
A: When the major was established in 1998 it was the only associate's degree program in the nation with a total fitness emphasis.
Q: What is the major strength of the program?
A: The hands-on opportunities. Each student during the two-year program will have assigned clients as part of several major classes. Also in the fourth semester, a professional fieldwork course assigns the student to a fitness facility for 150 hours of direct experience.
Q: What are the qualifications of the faculty?
A: All the full-time faculty have a minimum of a master's degree, are certified personal trainers and are members of professional fitness organizations. One has work experience in a fitness facility and as a collegiate strength coach, one has managed a fitness center, and one owns and directs a private fitness business.
Q: Where will most of my classes meet?
A: The majority of the major classes (FS) meet in the Bardo Gym. After extensive renovations in 2001, the Gym now has three well-equipped fitness labs:
- Cardio Room/PFS Testing Lab
- Free Weight Room
- Magnum Selectorized Equipment Weight Room
Q: Do Physical Fitness Specialist students have access to the fitness labs?
A: The Bardo Gym fitness labs are open additional hours each week to the FS students for personal workouts, to complete assigned projects or to work with assigned clients. A certified lab supervisor is available to assist students.