:: Personal Trainer Certificate Program FAQs
Personal Trainer Certificate Program page
Personal Trainer Certificate Program Information Session page
Personal Trainer Certificate Program FAQs
How is the Professional Fitness Trainer Certificate Program recognized?
The University of Texas at Austin and the World Instructor Training School (W.I.T.S.) have partnered to bring this exciting program to Austin! W.I.T.S. is recognized as an educational provider by the American Council on Education (ACE) and the International Association of Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
What is the job outlook for this profession?
Fitness workers should have good opportunities due to rapid job growth in health clubs, fitness facilities and other settings where fitness workers are concentrated. According to EMSI, the average hourly earnings in Texas is $15.00 – $17.00. The U.S. Department of Labor projects that fitness trainers and aerobics instructors will be among the fastest growing careers through 2016, with a projected need for 298,000 new jobs over the next eight years. (U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2007).
Do I need to fulfill any prerequisites prior to registering for any of these classes?
Students must be at least 18 years of age and have earned a High School Diploma or GED. Students must obtain Adult CPR certification (CPR and AED) before receiving the Personal Training Certification.
How is UT Austin’s Professional Fitness Trainer Certificate Program different from other Personal Fitness Trainer Certificate Programs?
Our program’s distinctive feature lies in the partnership we have with W.I.T.S., an industry leader in providing job training for high-demand fitness positions. The curriculum designed by W.I.T.S., along with the internship requirement for the program provides a fast paced, comprehensive program. We attract students who want to be on the fast track to employment and who are looking for a program that is comprehensive and convenient.
What is considered successful completion of the training program?
In order to complete the training program, you cannot miss more than one class session and you will also take both a written and practical exam. A score of 70% is required on both portions of the exam to pass the class.
How long will it take to complete the Professional Fitness Trainer Certificate Program?
The training is a 6 week program that includes 15 hours of lecture and 15 hours of practical training. After you successfully complete the training program, you will need to complete a 30 hour internship in order to receive certification.
Is placement provided for the internship?
After completing the class and passing the exam, you will be mailed a list of potential internship sites and guidelines. You can choose to contact one of the sites provided or arrange an internship with a company of your own choosing.
Will I need to purchase any books for this program?
Yes. Students are required to purchase the Fitness Professional’s Handbook which is available to students at the following toll free number 888-330-9487 or online here.
How much will it cost to obtain the Professional Fitness Trainer Certificate?
The cost for the required class is $1100.00 plus the cost of the textbook.
Is job placement available?
The Professional Development Center and W.I.T.S. does not provide job placement.
How do I sign up for this program?
1. Register online at thePersonal Trainer Certificate Program page
2. Bring in the registration form with payment to 2405 Robert Dedman Dr., Austin, TX 78712, Room 1.116
3. Fax the registration form with credit card payment to: The Professional Development Center, UT Austin at 512-232-6126
4. Call the registrar to register by phone at 512-471-4633
Who can I contact to find out more about this program?
Contact the Professional Development Center at (512) 471-4633. For detailed program information please visit the Personal Trainer Certificate Program page, or register for an information session.
