External Certifications
Start planning early in your degree to receive certification in your chosen field.
The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology Health and Fitness Program (CSEP)
CSEP is the principal body for physical activity, health and fitness research and personal training in Canada. They generate, grow, synthesize, transfer and apply the highest quality research, education and training for exercise physiology and science. They are considered the GOLD STANDARD of health and fitness professionals. They are dedicated to getting Canadians active safely by providing the highest quality customized and specialized physical activity and fitness programs, guidance and advice based on extensive training and evidence-based research.
If you would like to qualify for CSEP certifications, begin planning early in your undergraduate degree.
Provincial Fitness Unit of Alberta – (AFLCA)
The AFLCA provides certifications in group exercise and individual fitness consultation. They are nationally affiliated and their certifications are based on research, tailored for Alberta’s thriving exercise and health marketplace, and they provide personal liability insurance.
National Strength and Conditioning Association – Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists® (CSCS®)
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists® (CSCS®) are professionals who use scientific knowledge to train athletes to improve their athletic performance. They conduct sport-specific testing sessions, design and implement safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs, and provide guidance for nutrition and injury prevention.
Canada's National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP)
The National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) is a collaborative program of the government of Canada, the provincial/territorial governments, national and provincial sport federations and the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC). This partnership, in place since 1974, is largely responsible for building an internationally recognized coach education program for coaching development in more than 65 different sports in French and English.
The NCCP is designed to meet the needs of all types of coaches, from the first-time coach to the head coach of a national team. The NCCP is the recognized national standard for coach training and certification in Canada. As part of the program, all coaches are trained in ethical decision-making and sport safety.