Beginning in fall 2010, College of the Canyons will partner with UCLA Extension to offer a certificate program in Fitness Instruction at the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center.

Blending theory and practice, UCLA Extension’s one-year Fitness Instruction program will provide students with the body of knowledge needed to excel in the field of fitness instruction. The program is ideal for personal trainers and coaches who want to achieve elite status in their profession, as well as fitness enthusiasts and professionals looking to change careers.

Earning a certificate in Fitness Instruction is also a great way for dietitians, nurses, psychologists and other health professionals to expand their skill set and use this new knowledge to help improve their clients’ health.

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In addition, a number of courses included in the program can be used to satisfy pre-requisite requirements for the Master of Science in Kinesiology program at California State University, Northridge (CSUN).

“Fitness instruction is a field that offers great opportunities for people interested in a new career,” said Barry Gribbons, COC assistant superintendent, vice president institutional development, technology and online services. “UCLA Extension’s program is one of the best in the state, and another great fit for the University Center and our community.”

The UCLA Extension Fitness Instruction course offerings are designed to allow completion of the program in one academic year (four quarters). However, students are allowed up to three years to earn the certificate, if necessary.

UCLA Extension Fitness Instruction courses to be offered this fall include:

• Physiological Science X449 — The Human Body: How It Functions

• Physiological Science X451 — Introduction to Human Nutrition

Class meeting days and times will be finalized approximately eight weeks prior to the start of the quarter. Additional classes are scheduled to be offered during the 2011 winter, spring and summer quarters.

Cited as the college’s solution to the lack of upper division, graduate school and continuing education programs in the area, the University Center was established with a goal to increase student access to advanced degrees by forging partnerships with surrounding four-year colleges and universities. Those institutions then make their academic programs available to students through courses offered at College of the Canyons.

With the University Center building now entering its second year, college officials expect to be continually adding new courses and programs to the lineup of available educational opportunities.

Community members are invited to attend a Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center open house from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 19. The event will provide prospective students with information about the various programs and degree options offered by the college’s partner institutions.

For more information about the Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook University Center or to view a lineup of university partners and degree and certificate programs please visit www.COCUniversityCenter.com or call (661) 362-5474.

To learn more about the UCLA Extension Fitness Instruction certificate program please contact Regina Marinas at (310) 206-8456 or rmarinas@uclaextension.edu, or visit www.uclaextension.edu.