Personal Fitness Trainer

Diploma

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Are you passionate about fitness and dream of helping others achieve their wellness goals? NAIT's Personal Fitness Trainer Program is designed to turn your passion into a rewarding career that makes a real, lasting impact.

For over 25 years, NAIT’s Personal Fitness Trainer program has been at the forefront of fitness education – creating one of the most in-demand fitness programs in Alberta. Our program goes beyond basic certifications, providing a comprehensive curriculum that covers both the hands-on practice of physical training and safe exercise and the knowledge of exercise science, nutrition, lifestyle counselling, marketing, business management and much more.

Formal education plays a vital role in shaping your fitness career, and we understand its importance. Our instructors, who all hold PhDs and Master’s degrees in specialized areas like physiology and corrective exercise, bring unparalleled expertise and real-world experience to the classroom, ensuring you receive top-notch instruction that sets you apart in the industry. That’s why employers actively seek out NAIT graduates, recognizing their exceptional skills and training. In fact, our program proudly boasts a 96% employment rate.

Our program offers flexible learning options and the opportunity to obtain Canada’s top personal training certification (CSEP-CPT) by the time you graduate, enhancing your career prospects in the fitness industry. Plus, we have partnered with universities across Canada to allow our graduates to transfer into the third year of degree programs, including the Bachelor of Kinesiology in Human Kinetics program at the University of Regina.

Upcoming Intakes

Select your preferred intake to see relevant program information. Program details, including tuition and course information, may vary by intake.

Selection Start Date Delivery Mode Time Campus Length Domestic Status International Status
Sep. 02, 2025 (Fall) Your choice Weekdays - Daytime Main 2 Years (Full-time) Open Open
 
             
 

Swipe table to view more information for each intake.

Delivery Mode

  • In-person - All your class activity will be delivered in person, on campus.
  • Online - All your class activity will be delivered online.
  • Hybrid - Your classes will be a mixture of in person and online learning. You must be able to come to campus and participate remotely online.
  • Your choice - Your program offers a variety of class delivery options (in person, online, or a mixture of both) and you can select which type of classes to take. If you wish, you can complete your entire program either in-person or online.
  • HyFlex - All your classes are delivered for simultaneous participation in person and online. You can choose daily to attend your classes in person or join remotely online.

Time

  • Your choice - You can select class times and days that fit your schedule. There are a variety of class options for you to choose from including daytime, evening, weekdays or weekends.
  • No set time - No set class days or times, content is access on-demand. You can complete your studies on your own schedule within the scheduled class dates; may have set due dates and deadlines.
  • Evenings & Weekends - Classes are scheduled after 5 p.m. on weekdays or anytime on weekends.
  • Weekdays - Daytime - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start before 6 p.m.
  • Weekdays - Evening - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start after 6 p.m.
  • Weekends - Classes are scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays.

Campus

Any in-person components of your courses will be delivered at this campus location.

View Campus Map

Length

  • Full-Time - This is the standard length to complete the program, with a full course load per term.
  • Part-Time - Students follow a structured schedule of classes so they can progress in their studies part-time while balancing everyday life.

Domestic Status

The program availability status for domestic applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

International Status

The program availability status for international applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Limited - For international applicants, the program intake is now only available if you already have a valid study permit.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

Credit programs that accept international applicants also meet the eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, including programs with a Hybrid delivery mode. Each student is responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.

Hands-on, industry-relevant training

You’ll work with a variety of fitness and testing equipment including:

  • Treadmills
  •  Free weights
  • Metabolic carts
  • 12-lead ECGs

You’ll learn:

  • How to assess and monitor fitness levels using: stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, heart rate monitors, BIA body fat measuring devices, analyzers and pulse oximeters
  • Information about muscle oxygenation, EMG and portable slacklines
  • Techniques for online personal training
  • How to train clients out of their own home

You can expect to spend on average of 8 to 10 hours of online and individual study time per week per course.

If you choose to enrol in our online offering, you will require access to a digital camera or video camera. Some online courses will require the use of specialized equipment that you can access at any major gym facility.

Alumni Profile: Em Lamache

Em Lamache created a new exercise program to foster a more inclusive fitness environment for Edmonton’s LGBTQ community.

Kelsey Mitchell

NAIT grad Kelsey Mitchell receives honorary degree for unwavering dedication and determination.

NAIT grads are prepared

“The PFT program  developed me as a trainer, and coach and gave me the tools I needed to succeed in this profession. Even bigger than that however, was the amount of self development I received as well through foundations, leadership, and because of the amazing teachers. The biggest thing I gained from this program was the confidence to take what I've learned and create a sustainable income doing something that I absolutely love!"

Emilee McCloskey, Personal Fitness Training '20
Personal Fitness Trainer -  Em Conditioning

Only select courses are offered in-class each semester

Demand for this program is high and space for in-class courses is limited. To avoid disappointment apply and submit all required documents early. Qualified students will receive enrolment information through their student portal. If the preference is for in-class courses, students should enrol in classes immediately to ensure a choice of in-class deliveries. Please note for students starting the program in January or May, online courses are only available.

Online

All courses are available online in January, May, and September.

In-Class (Day)

These courses are offered in-class in September only

Level One

  • ANAT1120 Human Anatomy
  • PFTR1121 Foundations for Personal Trainers
  • PFTR1122 Applied Movement Mechanics
  • PFTR1123 Applied Physiology of Exercise
  • PFTR1224 Introduction to Assessment and Counselling

Level Two

  • PFTR2320 Advanced Movement Considerations
  • BUSN2421 Marketing for Exercise Professionals
  • PFTR2323 Performance Training Strategies
  • PFTR2324 Lifespan and Clinical Exercise Considerations I
  • PFTR2390 Practicum I

These courses are offered in-class in January only

Level One

  • PFTR1220 Functional Training and Assessment
  • LEAD1221 Leadership Studies
  • PFTR1222 Resistance Training and Assessment
  • PFTR1223 Aerobic Training and Assessment
  • NUTR1124 Applied Nutrition Strategies

Level Two

  • BUSN2321 Business Strategies for Exercise Professionals
  • PFTR2423 Applied Exercise Professional Strategies
  • PFTR2424 Lifespan and Clinical Exercise Considerations II
  • PFTR2491 Practicum II: Professional Experience

Only select courses are offered in-class each semester

Demand for this program is high and space for in-class courses is limited. To avoid disappointment apply and submit all required documents early. Qualified students will receive enrolment information through their student portal. If the preference is for in-class courses, students should enrol in classes immediately to ensure a choice of in-class deliveries. Please note for students starting the program in January or May, online courses are only available.

Online

All courses are available online in January, May, and September.

In-Class (Day)

These courses are offered in-class in September only

Level One

  • ANAT1120 Human Anatomy
  • PFTR1121 Foundations for Personal Trainers
  • PFTR1122 Applied Movement Mechanics
  • PFTR1123 Applied Physiology of Exercise
  • PFTR1224 Introduction to Assessment and Counselling

Level Two

  • PFTR2320 Advanced Movement Considerations
  • BUSN2421 Marketing for Exercise Professionals
  • PFTR2323 Performance Training Strategies
  • PFTR2324 Lifespan and Clinical Exercise Considerations I
  • PFTR2390 Practicum I

These courses are offered in-class in January only

Level One

  • PFTR1220 Functional Training and Assessment
  • LEAD1221 Leadership Studies
  • PFTR1222 Resistance Training and Assessment
  • PFTR1223 Aerobic Training and Assessment
  • NUTR1124 Applied Nutrition Strategies

Level Two

  • BUSN2321 Business Strategies for Exercise Professionals
  • PFTR2423 Applied Exercise Professional Strategies
  • PFTR2424 Lifespan and Clinical Exercise Considerations II
  • PFTR2491 Practicum II: Professional Experience

Career Outcomes

Our program includes a very strong entrepreneurial focus, which will give you the tools to open your own fitness business.

Hear from industry

“NAIT PFT grads are committed, career-minded full-time personal trainers.  The diligence they show to get their PFT diploma is evident in their efforts with us. Their ability to work with a wide range of clients assists us as our business draws members with many different fitness goals. Having two practicums as part of the [program] helps to prepare them for this." 

Employer - Jodie Boettger
Talent Acquisition Specialist, Personal Trainer - GYMVMT

Courses and Advanced Credit

Current and recently admitted students can find information and updates about their program on their My Program page in the MyNAIT Portal. To monitor your course progress and the courses still needed to graduate, visit your Academic Progress Report.

Advanced Credit

You may apply for advanced credit once you have been accepted into the program. Advanced credit can be Transfer Credit (for completed post-secondary courses) or PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition).

Transfer Credit

In addition to the common guidelines outlined on the Transfer and Credit Options section, your program has other advanced credit requirements that are applied to each request including:

  • You must have completed the course or program no more than 7 year(s) ago unless a formalized articulation agreement is in place
  • You must have a minimum mark of C- in the course(s) or program

Prior Learning and Assessment Recognition (PLAR)

Read more about advanced credit or contact us about applying for credit for this program.

Tuition & Fees

This content is specific to the selected Sep 02, 2025 intake.

The tuition and fee amounts are estimates based on current academic year's rates. For financial planning purposes, please use these totals as an approximate estimate of your costs. Actual fees may vary by term and enrolment activities. Please refer to the tuition and fees page for more detailed information.

Tuition

Cost Per Credit: $180.00

View international tuition for upcoming intakes

How much does first year cost?
Domestic cost estimate
International cost estimate

Mandatory Fees

View fee listing and breakdown

Pay Your Tuition & Fees

Books, Supplies & Program Fees (est.)

Level 1 Term 1: $1,000
Level 1 Term 2: $850
Level 2 Term 1: $500
Level 2 Term 2: $500


Scholarships & Awards

NAIT awards over $6 million in scholarships and bursaries to more than 4,000 students each year, with the support of donors and the government. A variety of awards are available, including ones for academics, community involvement, equity/diversity grants, bursaries for financial need, program-specific awards and more!

Learn how to apply for awards

Admission Requirements

This content is specific to the selected Sep 02, 2025 intake.

Minimum entrance requirements

 

The specific academic requirements you must meet to be considered for admission. Where applicable, the minimum accepted Alberta high school courses are listed in round brackets ( ). Equivalent or higher-level courses are also accepted.

  • Grade 12 Language Arts (English 30-2)
  • Grade 11 Mathematics (Math 20-2)
  • Grade 12 Science (Science 30) or Grade 12 Biology (Biology 30)
  • Proof of English Language Proficiency

Additional requirements & considerations

Alternative entrance pathways

 

If you are missing one or more of the minimum entrance requirements, you may be eligible for an alternative entrance pathway. For any pathway listed below, English language proficiency is also a requirement.

  • Successful completion of ANAT 1120, PFTR 1121, and PFTR 1122 with an overall minimum GPA of 2.0

Recommended courses

 

The following course(s) are recommended, as they provide important background for your program's content. Recommended courses are not required for admission and will not affect your application.

  • Grade 12 Biology (Biology 30) is strongly recommended due to the emphasis on anatomy and physiology throughout the program.

Post-admission requirements

 

Although not required for admission, you must meet the following requirement(s) in order to progress in your program.

  • First Aid – PRIOR TO CLINICAL

Students must provide evidence of current BLS certification before commencing clinical training. BLS certification must remain current throughout clinical training, therefore, it is recommended that certification is obtained just prior to clinical training commencement. The BLS certification course that meets this requirement must be designed for individuals who will be health care providers. The NAIT Continuing Education Course that meets this requirement is CPRS100 - Basic Life Support.

  • Computer Literacy - Strong

Applicants are required to possess strong computer skills to ensure a successful progression in this course. Necessary skills include, but are not limited to, fluency in Microsoft Office, proficiency in typing and keyboard entry, and email and web best practices.

  • Computer Requirement - General

Students are required to have laptop computers for the duration of their studies at NAIT. This is referred to as BYOD (bring your own device).

NAIT provides a wireless environment for all students to use. NAIT students can also utilize the virtual environment (VDI) to access coursework and program-related software both on and off campus.

  • International students and online courses

International students must be careful when enrolling in online courses. Enrolling in too many online courses can impact the ability to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Students are strongly encouraged to take all classes face-to-face, whenever possible. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure in-class course enrollment is sufficient to qualify for a PGWP. For more, please see here. To discuss this, please speak with an International Immigration Advisor at NAIT!

International Students can access academic and immigration advice from NAIT’s International Immigration Advisors.

Appointment: through the MyNAIT Portal

Email: submit an Immigration inquiry at NAIT.ca/help

For additional Immigration information, please explore Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website here.

Not sure if you meet the requirements?

Learn more about how NAIT evaluates applications, and find resources on how to satisfy admissions criteria.

How applications are evaluated Submitting required documents

Additional options

This program has courses that are available for Open Studies. Open Studies allows you to explore credit courses without applying to a program. It is an opportunity to get a feel for school and what program you want to be in.

Learn more about Open Studies

Dates & Deadlines

 
International
Applications Open:

Aug 01, 2024

 
International
Applications Deadline:

Once the program is full

 
Domestic
Applications Open:
Oct 01, 2024
 
Application Deadline:
Once the program is full
 
Term Start Date:
Sep 02, 2025

Seats are limited - Apply early! Applications will remain open for at least one month from the open date. If the program/waitlist fill after that date, applications will close.

International Applicants

This program accepts international students.

PGWP Eligibility

This program does not meet eligibility criteria for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), following Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) field of study requirement. Students who applied for a study permit before November 1, 2024, are not affected by the new field of study rule and may be eligible for a PGWP.

While graduates are currently ineligible to apply for a PGWP, NAIT still welcomes international students to this program to gain valuable knowledge and skills to pursue your career goals, whether in Canada under another type of permit or in your home country or other international markets.

Co-Op Work Permit

Mandatory Co-op: This program has a mandatory work-integrated learning component. International students must apply for a co-op work permit and have it approved before the start of their work placement.

Learn more about PGWP and explore eligible NAIT programs.

Want to learn more about this program?

Thank you for your interest! We want to get you in contact with the right person to answer your questions. If you are a current or recently admitted student you can find program and course information as well as contact details for your program on the My Program page on the MyNAIT Portal.








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