Turn your Passion for Wellness and Exercise into a Career
Our graduates work as fitness professionals in commercial gyms, medical and sports performance facilities where salaries are only limited by how hard you’re willing to work.
Degree PlansWellness and Exercise Science
As a fitness professional you will test, assess, lead, instruct, train and motivate individuals or groups in all aspects of fitness and wellness. Our program, curriculum and low faculty-to-student ratio are designed not only for you to complete your Associate of Applied Science degree but to prepare you for an industry leading national certification as well.
Our students take part in practical application of skills during a rotation of elite level medical fitness, athletic performance and commercial fitness facilities. You will have the opportunity for hands-on experience right here in East Texas working with some of the most respected professionals in the fitness industry.
Degree Plans
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Wellness & Exercise Science (AAS)
In Wellness and Exercise Science, you will test, assess, lead, instruct, train and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities including cardiovascular exercise, strength training, endurance training, sports performance and flexibility.
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Wellness & Exercise Science (Certificate)
Our Certificate of Proficiency in Wellness and Exercise prepares you to become a certified personal trainer and/or certified group exercise instructor.
Certification
Graduates in this program are prepared for and may take the American College of Sports Medicine or the National Strength and Conditioning Association exam to become a certified personal trainer (CPT).
Holding either of these highly respected national certifications along with the Associate of Applied Science in wellness and exercise will earn you the practical and scientific knowledge needed to work in a variety of facilities, including health clubs, gyms, medical fitness centers, athletic performance facilities, universities, corporate fitness centers, and community or public fitness centers in positions ranging from freelance to full time.
About the Facility
The wellness and exercise program is located in the Robert M. Rogers Nursing and Health Sciences Center, and includes a state-of-the-art human performance laboratory as well as plenty of classroom space.
How to Apply
TJC is an open admissions college; however, acceptance into the Wellness and Exercise Science program is limited. You'll need to apply for the selective admissions application to be considered for the program.

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Next Steps
For students in this program who may have a criminal background, please be advised that the background could keep you from being licensed by the State of Texas. If you have a question about your background and licensure, please speak with your faculty member or the department chair. You also have the right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the applicable licensing agency.