Strength and Conditioning for Human Performance
The Strength and Conditioning for Human Performance (SCHP) program helps students build strong theoretical and practical skills in strength and conditioning. Students are introduced to key concepts and through reinforcement achieve mastery of the knowledge needed to create evidence-based human performance practices.
This rigorous program combines classroom learning with hands-on experience to foster critical thinking, excellent communication and problem-solving skills. Students are prepared to earn top industry certifications (e.g., CSCS, CPT, CSPS) from organizations like the National Strength and Conditioning Association, American College of Sports Medicine and National Academy of Sports Medicine. After completing the SCHP program, students can pursue careers as strength coaches, personal trainers, sport scientists, exercise physiologists and injury prevention specialists. Students will gain expertise in key areas, including exercise science theory, strength and conditioning theory, program design, flexibility training, resistance training, speed and agility training, plyometric training, exercise technique and coaching.
Career potential
SUNY Cortland-trained strength and conditioning professionals can work in various settings, including schools, colleges, professional and Olympic teams, fitness centers, recreation facilities, corporate wellness programs, hospitals, military bases and public safety departments. Possible job titles include:
- Strength and condition coach
- Personal trainer
- Sport/human performance coach
- Sport scientist
- Human movement scientist
- Exercise/Performance physiologist
- Biomechanist
- Injury prevention specialist
- Fitness/health/wellness/exercise specialist
Scores of students attend a powerlifting meet in the Student Life Center.
What will I learn?
- Exercise science principles: human anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports nutrition and sport psychology
- Applied knowledge: health and fitness consultation and assessments, coaching exercise technique and aerobic and resistance training program design
- Field experience: two field experiences are required during your final year in the program
Special features
- Learn from Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists in the classroom and in the field
- Earn over 400 hours of practical experience through field experience and internships before graduating
- Work on research studies with faculty and colleagues
- Gains hands-on experience in the Woods Weight Room, used by SUNY Cortland athletes and the Student Life Center, the university’s state-of-the-art recreation building
- Study abroad in England, Germany and Australia
- Recognized program by the National Strength and Conditioning Association for education development in personal training and strength and conditioning careers
- Seeking program accreditation with the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education. Application is currently under review.
Get involved
College is more than a classroom. Enhance your experience with extracurricular opportunities:
- Healthy Now Teen Program
- Practicum experiences
- Research projects with faculty
- Participation in service-learning opportunities in the community