Exercise & Sport Science

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I consider exercise and sport science as a career?
Yes, if you are interested in attaining the knowledge and skills to succeed as a fitness professional and personal trainer, and are committed to assist others in maintaining their health through diet and exercise.

How do I become an Exercise and Sport Science major?
It’s easy! Indicate your major as Exercise and Sport Science on your application for admission.

What degrees and certificates do you offer?
An Associate in Science degree and a Certificate of Achievement.

When can I enter the program?
You can enter in the fall and spring.

What should I take in my first semester at KCC?
Once we know your KCC math and English placement test results, we can suggest coursework for your first semester in Exercise and Sport Science. Students often begin their program by taking ESS 100: Introduction to Total Fitness, a math course and an English course. The first semester of Anatomy and Physiology (ZOOL 141L, ZOOL 141L) may also be recommended.

Do I need to maintain a certain grade and grade point average?
Yes. For the Associate in Science degree in ESS, you must earn:

• a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 ("C" average) in all required courses and
• a grade of "C" or better in all ESS courses

For the Certificate of Achievement in ESS, you must earn:

• a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 ("C" average) and
• a “C” or higher in all courses in the curriculum

Are there other requirements?
Yes. You must complete CPR/Basic Life Support for the Health Care Professional training before the completion of the second semester. You must also purchase liability insurance through KCC before beginning any fieldwork.

I work and cannot enroll as a full-time student. Is there a limit on how long I can work toward my degree?
Many ESS students work part- or full-time while attending KCC. As long as you are continuously enrolled, you may take your time completing your degree.

What is a national certification? Does the ESS curriculum prepare me for it?
The ESS program prepares you take national, standardized tests that lead to certification. Depending on your educational background and experience, you may be eligible to take several different certification exams. Many employers expect fitness professionals to have earned a certification from a nationally recognized fitness organization. Graduates are highly encouraged to pursue a certification from the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association, American Council on Exercise, National Academy of Sports Medicine, and Aerobics and Fitness Association of America.

Are there employment opportunities in this field?
Yes. Graduates of the Associate in Science degree in Exercise and Sport Science may find employment in fitness centers, health clubs, resorts, military-based fitness programs, community recreational programs and by providing private consulting.

What is the difference between the Associate in Science degree and the Certificate of Achievement?
The Certificate of Achievement provides the vocational instruction you need to work as a fitness professional. The Associate in Science degree includes the specialized instruction of the certificate and also the college-level general education and support courses for a well-rounded degree in the Exercise and Sport Science field. If you have already earned a college degree, then the Certificate of Achievement may be your preferred path. If you are interested in a college degree in the exercise science field, the Associate in Science degree may be your educational goal. After earning the Associate in Science degree, you will be eligible to sit for national certification examinations requiring a 2-year degree in the health/fitness field.

I plan to transfer to a four-year college. Will I be able to apply my Exercise and Sport Science credits to that degree?
Please check with the Coordinator or Counselor in the Exercise and Sport Science program for more information.

I already have a four-year degree. Can I use these credits toward my degree in Exercise and Sport Science?
It may be possible to use credits earned in obtaining other degrees toward the degree in Exercise and Sport Science. Many currently enrolled Exercise and Sport Science students already have degrees. Their credits are evaluated in the same way as other transfer students.

If you wish to use credits earned from another degree, Exercise and Sport Science will make a preliminary review of your transcript and guide you in course selection. An official transcript evaluation determines the credits which can be applied toward your degree in Exercise and Sport Science, and is completed by the Kekaulike Information and Service Center when all your academic materials have been received.