Practice and learn the fundamentals of exercise science and physical education through this transfer associate degree program at Harrisburg Area Community College. Designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the scientific principles underlying human movement, health, and wellness, this program prepares graduates for transfer to four-year institutions to pursue bachelor's degrees in related fields such as Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, or Health and Wellness. The curriculum includes coursework in Anatomy and Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Nutrition, biomechanics, motor learning, and health promotion, enabling students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the human body and its response to physical activity. In addition to classroom instruction, students have opportunities for internships, labs, and practical experiences that enhance their understanding of exercise techniques, injury prevention, and movement analysis. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, this program aims to develop students’ abilities to assess physical fitness, design exercise programs, and promote healthy lifestyles among diverse populations. Graduates of this associate degree are equipped with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to pursue careers in fitness training, sport coaching, community health programs, and allied health fields. They are also well-prepared to continue their education at four-year colleges and universities, where they can further specialize and advance their careers in exercise science, sports management, physical education, or related areas. With a focus on fostering a balanced understanding of physical health and academic excellence, the program encourages critical thinking, teamwork, and committed service to health and fitness industries. Whether students aim to work directly with clients or continue academic pursuits, this degree offers a solid stepping stone to a rewarding career in exercise science and physical education.
General Education
ENGL 101 English Composition I 3
ENGL 102 English Composition II 3
COMM 101 Effective Speaking (or) 3
COMM 203 Interpersonal Communication (3)
Core A Elective 3
Core B (Recommend: SOCI 201) (D) 3
Core B Elective 3
Core C MATH Elective 3
Core C Elective 3
*Core C Science Elective 3
General Education Transfer Elective 3
**Physical Education & Wellness 1
Major Requirements
BIOL 121 Anatomy and Physiology I 4
EXSC 102 Introduction to Exercise Science 3
EXSC 202 Functional Anatomy & Exercise Phys 3
EXSC 203 Exercise Testing & Measurement 3
EXSC 206 Exercise Prescription 3
EXSC 208 Methods of Instruction & Personal Training 3
HLTH 101 Healthful Living 3
PE 201 Living Fit and Well 3
NUTR 104 Nutrition or 3
EDUC 110 The Education Professional (3)
Program Specific Elective *** 2
This curriculum is designed to prepare students to:
Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities required by the national certification exams for personal training
Demonstrate skill in the identification of risk factors and in the description of health status
Conduct a variety of fitness assessments for all components of health related fitness
Effectively develop and implement exercise prescriptions to improve and enhance all components of health related fitness
Effectively educate and/or communicate with individuals regarding life style modifications to improve and enhance personal fitness, health, and well-being
Write and speak effectively
Appreciate accomplishments in the arts and sciences
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship
Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC?
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.
Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program.
Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.
What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?
The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year.
The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.
Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.
Are you eligible?
To be eligible, you must:
Apply to HACC
Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)
Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county
Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0
Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test
Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC
Participate in at least two HACC student organizations
The Exercise Science-Physical Education: Transfer Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in the fields of exercise science, physical education, and health sciences. This program aims to prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions where they can pursue bachelor's degrees in related fields such as exercise science, sports management, physical education, or health and wellness. The curriculum typically includes courses in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, fitness assessment, health education, and other related areas that build a solid base of understanding about human movement and health promotion.
Students enrolled in this associate transfer program are encouraged to develop a diverse skill set that combines theoretical learning with hands-on practical experiences. This may include participating in supervised internships, practicums, or campus fitness programs to gain real-world exposure in fitness training, coaching, and health education. The program also emphasizes the development of communication, leadership, and teamwork skills which are essential in careers involving sports, fitness, and health promotion.
Harrisburg Area Community College’s exercise science transfer pathways are designed to ensure a seamless transition for students pursuing a bachelor's degree. Strong articulation agreements with senior institutions often facilitate credit transfer, reducing the overall time and cost required for completing a bachelor's program. Upon completing the associate degree, students are typically prepared for entry-level positions in fitness centers, community health programs, or sports organizations, or they may choose to continue their education in a four-year program to deepen their expertise and expand their career opportunities.
The program also emphasizes the importance of staying current with emerging trends in health and fitness technology, injury prevention, and rehabilitative practices. Students can expect to engage with a faculty composed of experienced professionals in the exercise science and physical education fields who are committed to providing quality education and mentorship. Overall, the Exercise Science-Physical Education: Transfer Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College plays a vital role in supporting students’ academic and career aspirations in health, fitness, and sports industries.
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