Be ready to coach others to success.
In this rigorous two-year diploma, you’ll learn how to turn your passion for healthy living and an active lifestyle into a career helping people of all ages and abilities maintain their physical well-being. Through courses in movement education, exercise program design and fitness assessment, you’ll learn how to share your knowledge with others
Why should you study Exercise Science at Lethbridge Polytechnic?
Our fast-paced Exercise Science program is designed to help you earn fitness certifications before graduation. You’ll break a sweat during classroom assignments that involve indoor and outdoor activities and meld the theoretical and physical aspects of exercise and gain experience working with actual clients preparing you for your career. After graduation, you’ll be ready to start working in the health and wellness industry or continue your education. Our courses are transferable to post-secondary institution across Canada and the world.
1
year in the program, you'll be ready to write the exam for your Fitness Leader certification with the Alberta Fitness Leader Certification Association
2
years in the program, you'll be ready to write the gold standard in exercise science and personal training: the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology – Certified Personal Trainer
45
the minimum number of hours of practicum experience you'll complete during your program
Career Opportunities
With a diploma in Exercise Science, you'll be ready to work in a variety of capacities in the health and wellness industry, complete two industry certifications or continue your studies in a degree program. Qualified exercise professionals are found working in a variety of positions including:
- Fitness centre manager
- Health and fitness coordinators
- Health and wellness coach
- Personal training
- Physiotherapist assistant
- Strength and conditioning coach
Visit ALIS website for more career information.
At-a-Glance
Starts-in
September
Credential / Accreditation
Diploma
Duration
2 years
International Eligibility
This program is available for International Students.
Application Deadlines
Visit the Program Application Status page for more details.
Academic Centre
Program Availability
Admissions
Apply NowGeneral Admissions Requirements
All applicants must meet the general admission requirements for Lethbridge Polytechnic programs.
Academic Requirements
Applicants to this program must also satisfy the following specific course requirements (or equivalencies):
- Biology 30 or equivalent
Note: Effective for the 2027-2028 academic year, applicants will be required to meet the following admissions requirements:
- English 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent
- Biology 30 or equivalent
- Demonstrate English language proficiency
Medical Requirements
Although no physical requirements are placed on applicants for entry to the program, applicants should ensure, through a medical examination, that their cardiovascular system is suitable for undertaking strenuous exercise. Interviews may be requested.
Upon successful completion of all program requirements, students are awarded an Exercise Science diploma.
Students who successfully complete the program are eligible to become certified as a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) as recognized by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP).
| Partner Institution | Partner Program | Incoming/Outgoing | Effective Dates and Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Lethbridge | Post-Diploma Bachelor of Health Science - Public Health | Outgoing |
May 2022 - May 2027
Post-Diploma Bachelor of Health Science - Public HealthGraduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Exercise Science Diploma, with a GPA of 3.00 or higher, are eligible for admission into the University of Lethbridge's Post-Diploma Bachelor of Health Science - Public Health. Students should contact an Academic Advisor at the University of Lethbridge or visit their website for more information. |
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Requirements
This program includes a required Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) placement. Lethbridge Polytechnic establishes the legal terms and conditions governing WIL participation.
Students must meet and maintain specific requirements set by the program, host organizations, and/or government regulations. These may include:
- Health requirements (e.g., immunizations, screening tests)
- Privacy and security requirements (e.g., Police Information Check, IT access)
- Occupational Health and Safety requirements (e.g., CPR certification, Fire Safety, WHMIS, mask fit-testing)
An organization may suspend a student’s placement if the organization considers such action reasonably necessary in the best interests of the organization or its clients.
Security Clearance
Participation in WIL placements may require a Police Information Check or other security clearance, to the satisfaction of both Lethbridge Polytechnic and the host organization.
WIL Agreements
Organizations that host students for WIL placements must have a WIL agreement with Lethbridge Polytechnic. This agreement helps ensure expectations are clear and protects the interests of the student, the host organization, and the Polytechnic.
Workers’ Compensation Coverage
Students registered in and attending an academic course or program at Lethbridge Polytechnic and during WIL placements are considered workers of the Government of Alberta and are typically covered by Alberta Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) on the Government of Alberta account. (https://www.wcb.ab.ca/assets/pdfs/workers/WFS_Student_coverage.pdf)
In some circumstances, WCB coverage may not apply—for example, for non-Alberta residents or non-Canadian citizens completing distance learning with a placement outside Alberta. Students in these situations should contact the program before applying for placement. Alternative insurance coverage is available from Lethbridge Polytechnic for those situations.
Accessibility and Accommodations
Students who require accommodations should contact Accessibility Services at Lethbridge Polytechnic, preferably upon acceptance to the program and no later than one week prior to the start of the academic term. Students who fail to consult with Accessibility Services in a timely manner may affect placement opportunities and success in the WIL setting.
Accessibility Services may collaborate with WIL supervisors to determine appropriate accommodations that do not compromise client safety, essential placement requirements, or mandatory licensing processes.
Placement Locations and Scheduling
Placements may occur in Lethbridge, surrounding rural communities, or other approved locations, depending on site availability. Placements may include day, evening, and/or weekend schedules.
Students are responsible for travel to their assigned placement sites and any associated costs.
Employment and Professional Regulation
Completion of a WIL placement does not guarantee employment with the host organization.
Some professions are regulated by provincial or other governing bodies. These processes are outside the control of Lethbridge Polytechnic. Completion of a WIL placement and graduation from the program do not guarantee licensure or admission to a regulatory body. Students with concerns about licensing requirements should consult the relevant regulatory body.
Fitness to Practice
Students are responsible for ensuring they are mentally and physically prepared to participate safely in Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities. By attending a WIL placement or activity, students are declaring their Fitness to Practice, as outlined in the Student Guide for Fitness to Practice, and their ability to engage in learning without compromising their own safety or the safety of others.
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | ||
| Term I | ||
| BIO-1169 | Structural Human Anatomy | 3 |
| ENG-1159 | Writing for the Workplace | 3 |
| EXS-1159 | Exercise and Healthful Living | 3 |
| EXS-1178 | Resistance Training | 3 |
| PSY-1168 | Sport and Exercise Psychology | 3 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Term II | ||
| BIO-1155 | Human Nutrition | 3 |
| BIO-1180 | Human Physiology | 3 |
| EXS-1188 | Movement Education | 3 |
| EXS-2252 | Research Methods in Kinesiology | 3 |
| EXS-2260 | Biomechanics and Applied Kinesiology | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Term I | ||
| COM-1162 | Interpersonal Relationships and Communications | 3 |
| EXS-2256 | Prevention and Care of Athletic Injuries | 3 |
| EXS-2261 | Adapted Physical Activity | 3 |
| EXS-2262 | Exercise Physiology | 3 |
| EXS-2267 | Fitness Assessment | 3 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Term II | ||
| EXS-2258 | Practicum | 3 |
| EXS-2259 | Exercise Program Design | 3 |
| EXS-2271 | Advanced Conditioning | 3 |
| EXS-2274 | Exercise and Chronic Conditions | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Total Credits | 63 | |
Electives
Students may select from the following electives, with choices dependent on scheduling. Some courses may require a prerequisite that is not included in the Exercise Science curriculum or electives list.
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIO-1150 | Cellular Basis of Life | 3 |
| BIO-1152 | Physiology of Aging | 3 |
| BIO-1156 | Wellness and Health Issues | 3 |
| BUS-1124 | Service-Based Small Business Management | 3 |
| CPU-1151 | Introduction to Computers | 1.5 |
| ENG-1150 | Composition | 3 |
| HUM-1150 | Logic | 3 |
| HUM-1155 | Ethics | 3 |
| PED-1180 | Introduction to Coaching | 3 |
| PED-2257 | Therapeutic Exercise | 3 |
| PED-2272 | Leadership in Physical Education | 3 |
| PED-2280 | Advanced Coaching | 3 |
| PSY-1170 | Human Development Across the Lifespan | 3 |
| PSY-1177 | Psychology of Aging | 3 |
| PSY-2255 | Psychology of Sports | 3 |
| SOC-1160 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 |
| SOC-1167 | Sociology of Aging | 3 |
| SOC-2250 | Sociology of Sports | 3 |
| SOC-2273 | Multicultural Issues | 3 |
Tuition costs are estimates for the 2026/2027 year.
| Title | Tuition | Fees | Books/Supplies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1
|
$4,941.00
|
$2,115.00
|
$1,500.00
|
| Year 2
|
$4,280.00
|
$2,002.00
|
$1,400.00
|
View detailed program cost estimates
International Students
| Title | Tuition | Fees | Books/Supplies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1
|
$18,141.00
|
$2,115.00
|
$1,500.00
|
| Year 2
|
$17,008.00
|
$2,002.00
|
$1,400.00
|
Notes
Costs for supplies may vary considerably depending on what students already have or where they purchased their supplies; cost provided is on the moderately high end.
Students will be charged a medical/dental benefit fee unless they opt out by demonstrating alternative coverage prior to the end of the first week of class.
Some specific courses and pursuing certification may require additional fees. Please contact the program for details.
Budget Wizard
Our Budget Wizard is a free self-service tool that can help you make sense of your finances and the cost of your education. Give it a try!
With just one online application, you can apply for all the Lethbridge Polytechnic awards and scholarships - visit our Awards and Scholarships page for more information.
The Exercise Science program is available through on-campus delivery.
On Campus
This program is delivered in a face-to-face format on the main Lethbridge Polytechnic campus. Lectures, labs and hands-on training opportunities will all take place on campus in Lethbridge.
Featured Graduates
Michael Clemons – El Paso, Texas
"The entire Lethbridge community was welcoming and I felt at home immediately. The instructors were very hands on and helpful – the quality of education was second to none.”
Jonah Van Ham
"I got into Crash Conditioning thanks to the college. They knew I had a background in hockey and sports and I knew someone there who liked my presence and my educational background. The instructors at Lethbridge College were great. They were very personal, they knew your name and you weren’t just a number.”
Kaitlyn Sembalerus
"I really understood what I was learning and I was able to apply it to everything that I was doing day to day."