ATC's health, fitness program can now lead to four-year degree
The health and fitness specialist program at Alexandria Technical College (ATC) is the latest program at the college to enter into an articulation agreement with a four-year university.
Students graduating with the health and fitness specialist associate in applied science degree now have a definitive pathway to a bachelor of science degree in exercise science with Minnesota State University Moorhead.
This latest agreement between Minnesota State University Moorhead and Alexandria Technical College ensures students interested in the health and fitness industry a smooth transition from an associate degree to a bachelor's degree, according to ATC leaders.
The health and fitness specialist program at ATC teaches industry standard skills that prepare students for technician-level careers in exercise science. Strongly emphasized skills include client assessment, program design, exercise technique, and program implementation.
Coursework also covers client communications, motivation, coaching skills, group fitness training, nutrition and counselor selling. An integral part of the program is the national certification testing. Students take the National Academy of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association certified personal trainer exams in the second year of the program.