Overview

Do you like to motivate others to live a healthier lifestyle? Do you care about supporting people in their health and wellness journey?

Our Fitness and Wellness Management program is designed for those passionate about health and well-being.

In this program, you will: 

  • learn about the physical and mental aspects of healthy living 
  • understand the psychological factors affecting physical fitness and sports 
  • apply knowledge of anatomy, exercise physiology, and biomechanics 
  • create tailored fitness programs for diverse client needs 
  • master the art of conducting safe and effective fitness assessments and evaluations
  • discover fitness activities unique to specific geographies and climates
  • study nutrition to support clients’ health and wellness goals
  • develop business acumen for managing and growing fitness programs 
  • learn strategies to attract and retain program members
  • acquire digital skills for online fitness coaching and program delivery 
  • enhance your ability to motivate, understand, and support clients. 

You will graduate with health and performance-related physical and physiological fitness certifications, opening up many career opportunities, including roles as a group exercise instructor, personal trainer, program designer, wellness coach, youth program facilitator, fitness manager, and development coach. 

If you want to make a tangible impact on community health, fitness and wellness and are keen on pursuing a career that offers both personal fulfillment and professional growth, this program is for you.

Those in fitness and wellness management tend to be social, methodical, and innovative. 

You need:  

  • emotional maturity and a healthy lifestyle 
  • self-confidence 
  • honesty, patience and empathy 
  • to be highly organized 
  • the ability to motivate and encourage people 
  • the ability to think quickly and adapt to unexpected changes. 

Some occupations require shift work and extended hours, including nights and weekends.

You should enjoy living a healthy lifestyle, developing new ways to promote good health and helping others achieve personal health goals. 

You are strongly encouraged to refer to the ALIS website for career, learning, and employment information for personal trainers and group exercise leaders to ensure you can successfully meet the occupational requirements for the program and profession.

You will participate in two required practicum placements, with consideration given to your preference of location. However, due to limited availability in Calgary, it might be necessary for you to travel or relocate outside the city. Special considerations will not be accommodated.

In compliance with the practica agreements with our clinical partners, you will be required to provide specific documentation before you can participate in your practicum. Find out what requirements you need for this program. 

International students must also complete their Immigration Medical Exam (IME) and obtain a co-op work permit to attend practicum. For more information, please contact the International Centre.

You will graduate with the Health and Fitness Federation of Canada Certified Personal Trainer (HFFC- CPT) certification. 

You’ll also be ready to take the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology Certified Personal Trainers (CSEP-CPT) exam. 

Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll be awarded a SAIT Fitness and Wellness Management diploma.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education. 

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 41406, 50012, 54100, 32109, 31121, 64322.

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Career counselling and support

Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.

You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.

Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.

Courses

The Fitness and Wellness Management diploma requires 67.5 credits (24 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with three semesters each year.

View classes by semester

Course Credits

This course provides an introduction to financial accounting from the perspective of the user who makes decisions based on financial information. The course includes an introduction to the accounting framework, generally accepted accounting principles and financial statements. Accounting concepts such as accounting for cash, accounts receivable, assets, liabilities, sales and inventories, are covered in the context of how they are applied to decision making. Decision analysis regarding corporate ownership and application of financial ratios will also be studied.

Equivalents:
  • ACCT 1010
3

This course provides an overview of the basic anatomy and physiology of the human body. While focusing on the functions, structures and processes of the different body systems you will learn about anatomical positions, cells, muscle fibers, bones and joints, the spinal cord, sensory receptors, hormones, the major organs and digestion. Other topics covered in this course include healing, immunity, aging, the body’s adaptive responses to sickness and disease, the menstrual cycle, and reproduction.

3

This applied computer course provides students with critical electronic communications, data and file management skills, along with a strong focus on using common productivity applications to format, calculate, analyze, visualize, and present or report data and information.

Equivalents:
  • COMP 264
1.5

Entrepreneurship is a course offering you insights and experience into the dynamic environment of entrepreneurial thinking and innovation. Working individually through guided content and discoveries, you will evaluate yourself and case studies to identify mindset and career opportunities. In teams, you will work through the development and presentation of an applied business plan to explore the many integrated facets of business in entrepreneurial ventures. Your research, self discovery, application and collaboration skills will be developed and reinforced as you progress through the journey of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Pre-requisites:
  • One of:
    • ACCT 210
    • ACCT 215
  • One of:
    • MKTG 205
    • MKTG 260
    • MKTG 265
Equivalents:
  • ENTR 2350
3

This course is an introduction to biomechanics and physiology as it applies to exercise. Students will explore how the body produces motion using kinematics and kinetics. Students will examine the impact of environment, age, and biological sex on exercise performance, as well as acute and chronic adaptations of various physiological systems in response to exercise.

Pre-requisites:
  • ANPH 209
3

This course introduces the concepts and principles of psychological and social factors that apply to the facilitation of health, sport and physical activity. Topics will examine concepts that explain human behaviour and participation in sports and exercise. 

3

This course will introduce you to theory and terminology related to training and exercise. The main topics covered in this course include the general benefits of exercise, resistance training for muscle development, trends and developments in the fitness industry, effective warm-up and stretching routines, and the fundamentals of cardiovascular training. You will also learn how to apply instructional techniques for individual and group-based activities, how to use a needs assessment to help clients meet their fitness goals, and how to establish healthy trainer and client relationships.

3

Building on concepts previously introduced in the program, students will explore the theory and practice of resistance training. Students will learn concepts related to resistance training, muscle physiology, and more advanced strength training techniques.

Pre-requisites:
  • FTNS 205
3

In this course students will look at the theory behind functional movement and apply the concepts across a variety of age spans. The impact of lifespan on mobility and functional movement will be examined. Students will examine long term athletic development and concepts of physical literacy.

Pre-requisites:
  • HLTH 200
3

In this course students will apply theory learned in previous courses to perform physical fitness assessments and program designs.  This course will meet the pre-requisites for the certified personal trainer with the Canadian Society for Exercise. 

Pre-requisites:
  • FTNS 300
  • HLTH 300
  • HLTH 302
3

This course will apply an integrated multidimensional approach to health and wellness. This approach highlights the physical, emotional, spiritual and environmental elements of health and wellness. While focusing on these dimensions you will learn how health and wellness are impacted by emotional intelligence, interpersonal relationships, spiritual connections, the natural environment and many other interrelated factors linked to overall health. You will also learn about the importance of continuous education and evidence-based approaches to health promotion.

3

In the course, students will look at key leadership concepts and apply them to the outdoor setting. Students will be introduced to the benefits and rationale for outdoor leadership, and participate in outdoor activities unique to the Bow Valley Corridor.   

1.5

This course looks at the best practices in the prevention and care of athletic injuries.  Students will examine their scope of practice. This is a blended course that will use theory and lab to give students the opportunity to recognize common injuries and apply basic immediate care, including taping techniques. 

Pre-requisites:
  • FTNS 203
3

This course introduces the student to health promotion across a variety of wellness domains. Learners will gain an understanding of the differences between health education and health promotion and how to apply health promotion principles in various contexts, including schools, the community, and workplace settings. Principles for coaching and motivating clients for long term behavior and cognitive change will be taught and applied.

Pre-requisites:
  • HLTH 200
3

This course develops student theoretical knowledge in fitness assessment and exercise prescription. Learners will explore the processes and techniques used to complete a thorough fitness assessment for a diverse range of clients. Principles and tools used for interviewing clients will be examined  Students will examine how to design safe and effective exercise programs based on client interviews, proper exercise techniques, and exercise training principles. 

Pre-requisites:
  • FTNS 203
3

In this course students will explore the theory and application of mindfulness in fitness and wellness. Students will explore mindfulness in yoga and other activities. Students will further discover the concepts of resilience and stress management through the lens of mindfulness. 

Pre-requisites:
  • HLTH 200
3

In this course students will examine various mental and physical disabilities and disease states that impact an individual’s overall wellness. Learners will look at the impact and challenges of physical activity delivery to persons with disabilities.  A variety of adaptions for physical, mental, and nutritional impacts will be experimented with.  

Pre-requisites:
  • FTNS 300
  • HLTH 300
3

In this course, you will develop a practical approach to using digital, social and mobile platforms that achieve business goals. Current applications and tools, community management practices and legal/privacy issues related to digital marketing tactics will be examined. Teams will develop a digital plan that specifies the use of email, websites, SEO, social media and mobile marketing, all with the goal of targeting and delivering effective communication to digital media-savvy audiences. An emphasis is placed on the return on digital marketing investment and on building relationships that lead to a culture of trust.

Equivalents:
  • MKTG 1265
3

Business Development is defined as the creation of long-term value for an organization from customers, markets, and relationships. This course will look at the relationship between traditional transactional sales, relationship selling and the evolution of the Business Development function. Market scanning and analysis, and the identification of potential growth markets, and key customers will be examined. Relationship, customer-centred selling techniques will be developed including relationship building, needs analysis, along with after sales customer care. Managing a sales force is explored including the effective organization of a sales department, forecasting and analyzing sales, recruiting and training a sales force, evaluating performance, and legal and ethical issues within the sales profession.

Equivalents:
  • MKTG 2366
3

This course introduces the fundamentals of human nutrition in relation to healthy living and national standards for nutrition. This course will focus on the six essential nutrients found in foods, factors that impact food choices, the role of diet in preventing chronic diseases, and how medical conditions impact health and wellness. You will also learn about key characteristics of a healthy diet, the anatomy of the digestive tract, common digestive disorders, and how macronutrients, micronutrients, and water contribute to overall health.

3

The course covers nutritional principles and guidelines for physical activity, training, and competition. In addition, sports-related topics such as strength-building, nutrition principles, physiology of movement and metabolism will be studied. Students will explore a variety of individual and team-based sports, focusing on the nutrition requirements of athletes. Students will begin to explore their passion and observe potential practicum placements.

Pre-requisites:
  • NUTR 201
3

This practicum course introduces students to the personal training and group fitness industry. Designated fitness facility partners will guide students through the required competencies. Under supervision, students will professionally interact with certified personal trainers and group fitness instructors, facility members and staff to gain extensive practical experience in delivering personal training services. This practicum experience will also include reflective learning practices.

Pre-requisites:
  • ACCT 215
  • ANPH 209
  • COMP 261
  • FTNS 203
  • FTNS 204
  • FTNS 205
  • FTNS 206
  • HLTH 200
  • NUTR 201
  • NUTR 207
  • PROF 240
3

In this course you will apply the skills learned throughout the program during a six-week 5 days per week practicum placement. This will further provide you with an opportunity to integrate theoretical knowledge and practical skills in on-site settings. Learners will be supervised and evaluated by industry partner staff.

Pre-requisites:
  • ENTR 350
  • FTNS 300
  • FTNS 302
  • HLTH 202
  • HLTH 300
  • HLTH 301
  • HLTH 302
  • HLTH 303
  • HLTH 304
  • MKTG 265
  • MKTG 366
  • PRCT 206
3

As future health care professionals, students in this course will require strategies for working effectively and respectfully within interdisciplinary teams. The course examines topics such as conflict management, problem solving, decision making, customer service, leadership, ethics and values in the health care workplace.

1.5

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure >

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Explore your options!

Some courses in this program are available through Open Studies. You can complete courses via Open Studies to get a head start on your education, reduce your course load once accepted into a credentialed program, or determine which career path best suits you before you fully commit. 

You may also take courses for general interest or personal and professional development.

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents:

  • at least 65% in Biology 30 or Science 30, and
  • at least 65% in Math 20-1 or Math 20-2, and
  • at least 65% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

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Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

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English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Transfer agreements

At SAIT, we evaluate post-secondary credit you have previously earned and apply it to your SAIT credential. Explore our formal transfer agreements available for this program.

We can evaluate your prior education, even if we don't have a formal agreement in place.

Submit a transfer credit application

There are no formal transfer agreements currently in place for this program.

Transfer options for graduates

Build on the knowledge you’ve learned at SAIT. The opportunity to advance your education at an accredited post-secondary institution may be available.

🔗 Visit Transfer Alberta search tool for a full list of transfer opportunities within the province.

Available intakes

Fall 2024

Start dates:

Domestic students: Open
  • Application deadline: June 28, 2024
International students: Closed
  • Application deadline: May 29, 2024

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

The following costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year. 
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2.5* $6,900 $1,840 $8,740
2 2.5* $6,600 $1,840 $8,440
Total cost:
$17,180

*.5 indicates a combination of full-time semester(s) and part-time semester(s) in the same academic year. In many cases, students are completing a practicum during their part-time semester. Part-time students are those taking less than nine (9) course credits in a semester.

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year. 
Year Number of semesters Tuition fees Additional fees Total per year
1 2.5* $18,630 $1,840 $20,470
2 2.5* $17,820 $1,840 $19,660
Total cost:
$40,130

*.5 indicates a combination of full-time semester(s) and part-time semester(s) in the same academic year. In many cases, students are completing a practicum during their part-time semester. Part-time students are those taking less than nine (9) course credits in a semester.

Books and supplies are approximately $1,000-$1,500 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

An Apple or Android laptop or tablet is preferred to other device types. Phones are not suitable.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. Booklists are created by semester and available approximately two weeks before classes begin.

Additional fees

You are responsible for additional expenses related to your practicum, including pre-practicum requirements and relocation costs to practicum sites outside of Calgary.

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Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Application process

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

Learn how to apply

Communication during admission

Email is the primary source of communication during the admission process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. 

We recommend you add hps.info@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages. 

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Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal. 

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $150 for international applicants. 

Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

  • What sets SAIT apart
  • An introduction to the program and area of study
  • Admission requirements
  • Future career paths
  • Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Contact us

School of Health and Public Safety Advising

Phone
403.284.8500
Email
hps.info@sait.ca

International Student Advising

Phone
403.284.8852
Email
international@sait.ca
a view of the moutains and stream in between

Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.

SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.

We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3.