Fitness and Health Promotion

Helping others achieve a healthy lifestyle.

  • Students are eligible to challenge nationally-recognized certifications in Group Fitness and Personal Training
  • Placements in the final three semesters allow students to explore opportunities and work towards personal career goals
  • Fitness and Health graduates can consider a pathway into Recreation and Leisure Services the opportunity to earn two diplomas in three years

Program Availability and Schedule

Availability

Schedule

Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.

Program Summary

Credential

Ontario College Diploma (See overview for details)

Program Code

Area of Interest

Health Studies

Other Campuses

Other Delivery Options

Work Integrated Learning

No

The two-year Fitness and Health Promotion Ontario College Diploma program prepares you to perform the roles and responsibilities of fitness and health consultants who plan, promote and deliver a wide variety of services. These include activity and educational programs that enhance the health, fitness and well-being of individuals and groups in diverse settings.

In this program, you learn the skills and knowledge to live a fit and healthy lifestyle, which, in turn, allows you to help others achieve their own health and lifestyle goals. You prepare to meet the demands of an evolving, multi-dimensional market for fitness, wellness and health promotion service provision....(read more)

Overview

Helping others achieve a healthy lifestyle.

The two-year Fitness and Health Promotion Ontario College Diploma program prepares you to perform the roles and responsibilities of fitness and health consultants who plan, promote and deliver a wide variety of services. These include activity and educational programs that enhance the health, fitness and well-being of individuals and groups in diverse settings.

In this program, you learn the skills and knowledge to live a fit and healthy lifestyle, which, in turn, allows you to help others achieve their own health and lifestyle goals. You prepare to meet the demands of an evolving, multi-dimensional market for fitness, wellness and health promotion service provision.

Field placements in the program provide industry experience. These varied placements allow you to apply the skills and knowledge gained in classes to a workplace setting, as well as gain exposure to potential employers and add to your overall marketability and employability after graduation.

This program prepares you to challenge certification exams in group fitness and personal training with canfitproTM and personal training with Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP). You are also prepared to pursue other certifications in group fitness and personal training nationally and internationally.

Upon graduating, you may find employment in the fitness industry in a variety of settings. These may include:

  • fitness and health clubs (both corporately or privately owned)
  • non-profit and community organizations
  • public, municipal or institutional fitness and recreation centres
  • corporate employer fitness facilities, private fitness studios
  • sports specialty training facilities and camps
  • allied health and alternative health clinics

Additionally, you may choose to become a consultant or business entrepreneur offering private in-person or online personal training and coaching services.

To qualify for this diploma you must complete the program in six years.

Courses

Read this before applying:

Please refer to the Academic Planner or Archived Program Information to confirm the courses required for your Program of Study version.

OnlineDistance Education   
Course
Number
Hours Course NameFall
Series: 01
ENL1813S42.0Communications 1Online Learning
FIT221256.0Introduction to Fitness/WellnessOnline Learning
FIT221542.0PhysiologyOnline Learning
FIT221742.0AnatomyOnline Learning
FIT221928.0Field PreparationOnline Learning
FIT222442.0Group Training 1Online Learning
FIT222728.0Technology in FitnessOnline Learning
MGT810042.0Career and College Success SkillsOnline Learning
Series: 02
ENL1832C42.0Report Writing for RecreationOnline Learning
FIT001442.0NutritionOnline Learning
FIT001728.0Applied AnatomyOnline Learning
FIT222256.0Mechanics of ExerciseOnline Learning
FIT222542.0Exercise PhysiologyOnline Learning
FIT222945.0Field Placement 1Online Learning
FIT223342.0Group Training 2Online Learning
General Education Elective: choose 1
AST200042.0Introduction to AstronomyOnline Learning
COR173742.0Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental IllnessesOnline Learning
DSN210045.0Design ThinkingOnline Learning
ENL179842.0Contemporary Canadian IssuesOnline Learning
ENV000242.0Environmental CitizenshipOnline Learning
ENV500442.0Waste-Free OntarioOnline Learning
FAM100340.0Psychology of LearningOnline Learning
FIN230042.0Introduction to Personal FinanceOnline Learning
GED002142.0Disability in Arts: Portrayals and IdentityOnline Learning
GED002242.0Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-BeingOnline Learning
GED002442.0Anti-Racism: Theory and PracticeOnline Learning
GED220042.0Free Speech and the Challenge of Social MediaOnline Learning
GED500742.0Transatlantic Slavery and Its AbolitionOnline Learning
GED501042.0The Fungus Among UsOnline Learning
GED530142.0On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)Online Learning
GED710542.0Professionalism and EthicsOnline Learning
GEO001242.0Foreign Landscapes and Their InhabitantsOnline Learning
MGT234642.0Introduction to E-BusinessOnline Learning
PSI170242.0Government of CanadaOnline Learning
PSY001042.0Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsCriminal Psychology - Psychopathic Minds

What makes a psychopath tick? Are they born that way, or are they products of society? Are serial killers really possessed with evil, or do they know exactly what they are doing? In this course, students will study how and why some individuals become criminals and why some actually become killers. You will study what is known about serial killers, stalkers, rapists and criminals. Also, the latest techniques used in criminal profiling and questioning will be examined.

There are no classes currently scheduled for this course.

SCI220042.0Dynamic Dna: You Are Not AloneOnline Learning
Series: 03
FIT002024.0Fitness OperationsOnline Learning
FIT002748.0Personal Training FundamentalsOnline Learning
FIT004324.0Fitness Management Customer ServiceOnline Learning
FIT222036.0Fitness AssessmentOnline Learning
FIT223048.0Athletic InjuriesOnline Learning
FIT223524.0Career Planning and Professional DevelopmentOnline Learning
FIT2236P72.0Field Placement 2Online Learning
General Education Elective: choose 1
AST200042.0Introduction to AstronomyOnline Learning
COR173742.0Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental IllnessesOnline Learning
DSN210045.0Design ThinkingOnline Learning
ENL179842.0Contemporary Canadian IssuesOnline Learning
ENV000242.0Environmental CitizenshipOnline Learning
ENV500442.0Waste-Free OntarioOnline Learning
FAM100340.0Psychology of LearningOnline Learning
FIN230042.0Introduction to Personal FinanceOnline Learning
GED002142.0Disability in Arts: Portrayals and IdentityOnline Learning
GED002242.0Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-BeingOnline Learning
GED002442.0Anti-Racism: Theory and PracticeOnline Learning
GED220042.0Free Speech and the Challenge of Social MediaOnline Learning
GED500742.0Transatlantic Slavery and Its AbolitionOnline Learning
GED501042.0The Fungus Among UsOnline Learning
GED530142.0On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)Online Learning
GED710542.0Professionalism and EthicsOnline Learning
GEO001242.0Foreign Landscapes and Their InhabitantsOnline Learning
MGT234642.0Introduction to E-BusinessOnline Learning
PSI170242.0Government of CanadaOnline Learning
PSY001042.0Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsCriminal Psychology - Psychopathic Minds

What makes a psychopath tick? Are they born that way, or are they products of society? Are serial killers really possessed with evil, or do they know exactly what they are doing? In this course, students will study how and why some individuals become criminals and why some actually become killers. You will study what is known about serial killers, stalkers, rapists and criminals. Also, the latest techniques used in criminal profiling and questioning will be examined.

There are no classes currently scheduled for this course.

SCI220042.0Dynamic Dna: You Are Not AloneOnline Learning
Series: 04
FIT002830.0Industry TrendsOnline Learning
FIT003740.0Personal Training ApplicationOnline Learning
FIT004230.0Fitness Business ManagementOnline Learning
FIT2239130.0Field Placement 3Online Learning
FIT224040.0Programming for Diverse PopulationsOnline Learning
FIT224430.0Health and Wellness PromotionsOnline Learning

Careers & Pathways

Careers

Graduates may find employment as personal trainers, fitness instructors, program coordinators, activity coordinators, exercise specialists, rehabilitation assistants, health promoters. In addition, graduates may choose to become consultants or business entrepreneurs.

Pathways

Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Conduct an assessment of the physical fitness, activity level and lifestyle of the client using standardized protocols, to build an individualized exercise program.
  2. Develop, implement and evaluate safe training programs grounded in fundamentals of anatomy, bio-mechanics, cardiorespiratory physiology, and nutrition to support the fitness and wellness goals of clients.
  3. Instruct individual clients and groups in the correct techniques for executing fitness and training programs to achieve results that meet their goals for fitness, active living, and wellness.
  4. Select and apply interview tools and coaching strategies that will enable clients and groups to improve their fitness, and wellness in sustainable ways.
  5. Develop business plans for a fitness and/or training business organization to ensure sustainability and viability while mitigating risks.
  6. Support community health promotion strategies for active healthy living in the general population.
  7. Establish and maintain positive working relationships with clients, staff, allied health professionals and volunteers in the delivery of programs, activities, and the use of facilities.
  8. Provide positive reinforcement to empower clients and help them sustain their efforts.
  9. Develop plans and implement strategies for ongoing professional growth and development.
  10. Communicate information persuasively and accurately in oral, written, and other media formats.
  11. Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Tuition & Fees

2025/2026 Academic Year

Fees are subject to change.

Fees for part-time programs are charged on a course-by-course basis and are published on each individual course page. For questions related to fees, please call the Registrar's Office at 613-727-0002

Graduation Fee:

Once you have completed all the courses in the program, it is the responsibility of the student to complete a credential application (https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/certificationgraduating/). A graduation fee is charged when the application is submitted. After your credential application has been approved, you will be invited to Convocation.

Additional program related expenses include:

Books and supplies cost approximately $600 per term. For more information visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials/students/.

Admissions Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility

The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; OR
  • Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility

The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:

  • English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
  • Biology, Grade 11 or 12 or Chemistry, Grade 11 or 12 or Physics, Grade 11 or 12 or Health and Physical Education, Grade 12 (PLF4C,PSK4U,PPL4O,PAF40 or Equivalent).

It is recommended applicants with international transcripts have the following IELTS or TOEFL scores to ensure success: IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22. OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.

Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places for the full-time delivery of this program, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English, and Biology or Chemistry or Health and Physical Education.

Application Information

Read this before applying:

Please refer to the Academic Planner or Archived Program Information to confirm the courses required for your Program of Study version.

Additional Information

Program Resources

International students wishing to study online should visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/international for information related to International online students and for International fees information prior to registering. Please note that AC Online programs do not qualify international students for new study permits or study permit extensions.

Field placements provide on-the-job training and experience, contributing to the overall marketability and employability of graduates.

WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING OVERVIEW:

The FHP program includes two Field Project and two Field Placement courses, undertaken in each level of the program. Students will gain experience in the fitness environment and workplace through both the project and placement courses. In the final level placement, students should be identifying their career goals and choosing an agency that is in their field of interest.

Students are responsible for securing their own placement locations and will have additional guidance in this process from the course facilitator. Field placement hours can be completed all at once or in varying time periods throughout the term. All placement hours must be completed by the final day of the term.

ACADEMIC PROBATION

Students who have two or more F grades in a given term or whose term grade point average falls below 1.7 are considered to be on academic probation (Policy AA14 Grading System). This requires the student to meet with their Program Support Officer to sign a learning contract which identifies the conditions which must be met to continue in the program. Students who do not meet the terms of their learning contract are withdrawn from the program.

PLACEMENT ELIGIBILITY:

In order to be eligible for field projects and placements, students must meet the following requirements prior to the placement deadline:

  1. Academic Clearance: With the exception of FIT2219 which is undertaken in the first semester of the program, students must complete all required prerequisite courses prior to the placement start date.
  2. Placement Request Form: Students are required to submit a placement request form prior to each placement deadline.
  3. ParaMed Clearance: Students are required to meet the following medical and non-medical requirements. Upon completion, these requirements must be confirmed through ParaMed, our partner organization: a. Police Records Check (PRC); b. Standard First Aid/CPR Level C.
  4. Secure an appropriate placement agency: It is the student's responsibility to confirm their placement agency, dates, hours, etc. Supports will be provided by the course facilitator and further information can be found on the Field Placement Centre website: https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/field-placement

PRIOR LEARNING AND RECOGNITION (PLAR):

Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all of the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.

AC ONLINE ACADEMIC PLANNER:

The Academic Planner provides registered part-time students the ability to declare into a program of study. The Academic Planner outlines successfully completed courses to date, as well as courses that need to be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. It is therefore, essential that all part-time students declare to their program of study, allowing administrators to plan course offerings. The tool is available on ACSIS, located under 'Part-time Students' on the left-hand toolbar.

PROGRAM PROGRESSION:

As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed).

Contact

Future Students

For additional information, please contact our Customer Service Representative team at online@algonquincollege.com and they will direct you to the best person to answer your specific questions.

Current Students

For additional information, please reference the AC Online Circle of Care.

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