Des Moines Area Community College.

Requirements and Competencies

Program Entry Requirements

Complete an application, satisfy the assessment requirement and attend any required information/registration session. A program orientation will be required for all students entering the program. Students start any term.

Graduation Requirements

To earn a Fitness and Sports Management AS degree, a student must complete all course work as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

  • Use and instruct people on the proper use of various types of physical fitness/exercise equipment
  • Inform people on the physiological functions of the body in fitness training
  • Determine the fitness level people should work at and develop an appropriate fitness program
  • Evaluate and maintain records of fitness progress
  • Work in conjunction with rehabilitation/physical therapy staff
  • Assist in chiropractic/physical therapy clinics
  • Direct the operation of a fitness/wellness center/recreation department
  • Budget facility needs

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

  • Operate and maintain fitness/exercise equipment
  • Demonstrate proper techniques on various types of fitness/exercise equipment
  • Must have the necessary physical abilities to perform demonstrations
  • Apply knowledge of physiological principles
  • Build confidence in those with doubt or difficulty associated with exercise
  • Be able to identify individual fitness/exercise needs
  • Organization skills for performance of fitness activities
  • Communication skills for diverse types of personalities
  • Organize sports tournaments

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?

  • You must complete the required orientation session for this program
  • You will be assigned to a program advisor
  • This program is mainly a transfer program
  • You will be working and advising people of all ages
  • You may be working with injured people/athletes
  • You may be dealing with physically disabled people
  • You may have to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Anticipated starting salary $20,000