What is it?

The FWS certificates provide students with the educational and practical experiences needed to prepare for certification as qualified personal trainers or athletic coaches. Each 24-credit hour certificate can be completed in as little as three consecutive semesters.

The Personal Training certificate prepares students to successfully complete the National Strength & Conditioning Association's Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT) exam. This credential is one of the most respected in the personal training industry. The RVC Personal Training certificate program is an approved NSCA Education Recognition Program. One of the benefits of this recognition is that students receive discounted certification exam fees.

The Coaching Education certificate helps students obtain the American Sport Education Program's (ASEP) coaching certification. The ASEP coaching certification is required by the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) for high school varsity coaches who are not certified teachers. Several other sport organizations require this certification as well. The RVC Coaching Education certificate program is an approved IHSA coaching education classroom certification program.

What kind of jobs are we talking about?

Students who complete either certificate will have the necessary knowledge and skills to obtain a position in personal training or coaching.

Personal training certificate students may seek employment as a personal trainer in private health clubs, public fitness centers, college/university fitness centers or personal fitness studios.

Coaching Education certificate students may seek employment as an assistant or head coach at all levels between youth sports and high school varsity sports.

What's the big deal about this program?

In addition to helping prepare students to obtain professional certifications, students will complete an internship as part of their certificate requirements. Personal Training students will complete their internship while training RVC employees under the direct supervision of FWS staff. Coaching Education students will complete their internship with the athletic department of one of the following local organizations – Rockford School District 205, Harlem High School, Belvidere & Belvidere North High Schools, Rockford Boys & Girls Clubs, or an approved program of the student's choice.

The FWS department is housed in the newly renovated Physical Education Center (PEC). The PEC has a 6,350 square foot fitness center, a 1,500 square foot dance studio, and six classrooms featuring state-of-the-art instructional technology.

All of the FWS courses are taught by highly trained faculty and staff with several years of educational and hands-on experiences. Below is a list of the full-time faculty in the FWS department.

Suggested Course Schedule by Semester

Disclaimer: For students concerned about completetion of program in two years, it is strongly suggested that you explore summer course offerings at RVC. Several general education and degree program courses are available during summer session. 

Refer to course descriptions for details on any of the above FWS courses. Refer to the college catalog for other course descriptions.

Requirements for admission to the program:

1. Complete Rock Valley College enrollment steps
2. Complete application for FWS division
3. Receive follow-up acceptance letter
4. Attend required orientation program for FWS

Educational Planning

Download this helpful Advising Sheet to help you better plan each semester.

Gainful Employment Program Requirements

Personal Training (9020)

Suggested Course Schedule by Semester

Disclaimer: For students concerned about completetion of program in two years, it is strongly suggested that you explore summer course offerings at RVC. Several general education and degree program courses are available during summer session. 

Refer to course descriptions for details on any of the above FWS courses. Refer to the college catalog for other course descriptions.

Requirements for admission to the program:

1. Complete Rock Valley College enrollment steps
2. Complete application for FWS division
3. Receive follow-up acceptance letter
4. Attend required orientation program for FWS

Educational Planning

Download this helpful Advising Sheet to help you better plan each semester.

Gainful Employment Program Requirements