
Human Performance
Help Others Reach Their Full Potential
Whether you're advancing your career in fitness and wellness or preparing to enter the field, PennWest University's Human Performance Certificate equips you with the knowledge and practical skills to improve health and performance across diverse populations. You'll study exercise science, strength and conditioning, youth and senior fitness, and evidence-based wellness strategies while preparing to earn nationally recognized industry certifications that can help you stand out in a growing profession.
This program is for you if...
- You want to build or advance a career in fitness, wellness or human performance.
- You work in the health and fitness industry and want to expand your expertise.
- You aspire to develop evidence-based training programs for clients of all ages.
- You're interested in strength and conditioning, personal training or wellness coaching.
- You desire to earn nationally recognized fitness certifications while completing your certificate.
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Global Online
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XX Credits for AA
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XX Credits for BS
What You'll Study
You'll develop a strong foundation in human performance through coursework in strength and conditioning, personal fitness training, youth fitness, wellness for older adults and current industry trends. Along the way, you'll learn to design evidence-based fitness and wellness programs, apply exercise science principles to diverse populations and explore emerging topics such as wearable technology, data-driven training, recovery strategies and inclusive fitness. The curriculum also prepares you to pursue the NASM Certified Personal Trainer and NASE Certified Speed Specialist certifications.
Degrees, Certificates
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
Concentrations
There are no concentrations for this program.
How You'll Learn
Complete the Human Performance Certificate fully online, allowing you to balance your education with work and personal commitments. Coursework combines evidence-based instruction with practical program design, preparing you to develop fitness and wellness plans, analyze client needs and apply current industry best practices in professional settings.
What You'll Become
You'll be prepared to help individuals improve their health, fitness and overall performance through evidence-based training and wellness strategies. Whether you pursue opportunities in fitness centers, corporate wellness, community health, athletic performance or private coaching, this certificate provides practical skills and nationally recognized certification preparation to support your professional growth.
Career Paths
- Personal training
- Strength and conditioning
- Corporate wellness
- Health coaching
- Community wellness
- Youth fitness
- Senior fitness
- Athletic performance
- Wellness program coordination
- Fitness management
NASM partnership expands affordable degree pathways
PennWest and the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) have expanded their long-standing partnership to give fitness and wellness professionals an accelerated, affordable path to earning a college degree.

How We'll Help You Succeed
At PennWest Global Online, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
Certification Prep
Prepare for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer and NASE Certified Speed Specialist certifications.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.

