To Register in the Certificate Program

Certificate registration is required to complete the program. Candidates are encouraged to register in the certificate program as early as possible to take advantage of program benefits. See Certificate FAQs for more information.

Certificate Guidelines

Enrollment Options
All courses are offered twice a year in alternating quarters, with the exception of the elective "Techniques in Group Training and Exercise," which is offered only in the summer quarter.

Intensive Format
You commit to completing all of the courses in four quarters and receive a 20 percent discount on your ACE personal fitness trainer or group fitness trainer manual, ACE products, and on the ACE exam fee (you must pass the ACE exam to earn the certificate), as well as receiving complimentary enrollment in the internship (a $275 value). To maintain eligibility for complimentary enrollment in the internship, students must begin and complete their internship within a year of completing the courses.

Extended Format
You complete the program in two to five years, including passing the ACE exam. You can begin taking courses at any time starting with "The Physiology of Exercise" or "Fundamentals of Anatomy and Kinesiology." They are prerequisites for all the other courses except “Nutrition for Fitness and Sport,” which can be taken prior to completing the foundation courses. You also need to pay the $50 nonrefundable fee to enroll in the certificate program and receive the certificate, which can be done at any time while you are taking courses.

The Internship
Prerequisite: Completion of all required courses and current CPR certification. The internship offers students the opportunity for growth and development of relevant skills in the fitness field. It encompasses the pertinent aspects of fitness testing, programming and training, wellness and health education, and management and administration of health clubs and wellness facilities. Three tracks are offered: commercial, corporate, and preventive/wellness. Fee: $275. Internships are by application only. Students are responsible for finding their own internship sites, but will be assisted by the internship coordinator, as needed. Email eloui@ucsd.edu for an application.

Please Note

UCSD Extension is recognized by ACE (American Council on Exercise) as a continuing education specialist. All of the certificate courses are approved for ACE continuing education credit (CECs).

Advisors

Lenita Anthony, M.A., CDE

Mark D. Bracker, M.D.
UCSD Sports Medicine

Holli Clepper, B.S., CSCS, ACE Certified
Group fitness training instructor

Fabio Comana, M.S., M.A., ACSM H/FI, CSCS, ACE Certified
Research Scientist and Exercise Physiologist
ACE

Howard Hunt, Ph.D.
President
Life Management Group

Marcia Klaiber, M.A., ATC
Athletic Training Education Program Director
San Diego State University

Cindy Swann, M.S., R.D.
Registered Dietician

Larry Verity, Ph.D., FACSM
Professor, Dept. of Exercise & Nutritional Sciences
San Diego State University