Admission Requirements
Program Specific Requirements
General Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Grade 12 (C or U) Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Exercise Science)
- Grade 12 English, Minimum 70%
Or equivalent
Academic prerequisites for this program may be obtained free of charge through Academic Upgrading.
Applicants who do not have a high school diploma or equivalent and will have reached the age of 19 years on or before the start of the program must undergo academic testing and may be required to complete Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) process to demonstrate equivalency of admission requirements prior to admission into a program.
For more details, please contact the Admissions Office at 705-235-7222 or admissions@northern.on.ca.
Additional Requirements for International Students
In addition to the general admission requirements, international students must have proof of English Proficiency and meet the requirements below.
- IELTS (academic) overall 6.0 with one band could be 5.5
- Grade 12 High school diploma or equivalent
- Either grade 12 biology or physics or chemistry at least 70%
What you learn
Semester 1 | 56 hours (2 hours lecture/2 hours lab)
In this course, students will examine the musculoskeletal system in depth. Bones, joints, ligaments, cartilage, tendons, connective tissue and muscles of the body will be studied. Group and individual work will be performed using anatomical models and diagrams to facilitate comprehension. Students will study the muscular attachments, actions, and innervation of selected muscles. Determining active muscle contraction and joint actions during various basic exercises for trunk, upper extremities, and lower extremities will be explored
Semester 1 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students will gain foundational knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. Principle concepts of homeostasis, levels of organization within the body, and energy metabolism will be examined. Students will study the following specific systems, skeletal muscle physiology, cardiovascular system, endocrine system, nervous system and respiratory system.
Semester 1 | 42 hours (1.5-hour lecture/1.5-hour lab)
In this course, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of health screening and fitness assessment methodologies. With a focus on safety and accuracy fitness assessment theory and hands on practical techniques will be used to obtain the fitness status and evaluate general health. The goal is for students to gain skills and confidence to perform necessary assessments and interpretation of the results in order to provide safe exercise prescription and progression to achieve health or performance goals. The fitness assessment components covered include, preliminary health screening, body composition, muscular strength and endurance, and cardiorespiratory capacity.
Semester 1 | 42 hours (1.5-hour lecture/1.5-hour lab)
In this course, students will be introduced to the key components of developing and instructing group exercise classes. Topics such as music, cueing, integrating applied anatomy, effective instructional techniques and coaching will be used to improve skills of students as group exercise leaders. In this active class, students will participate in exercise sessions as well as instruct classmates in group warm up exercises, flexibility and mobility training, cardiovascular and strength training.
Semester 1 | 42 hours (3 hrs lecture)
In this course, students will gain the mathematical skills and knowledge necessary for a career in Fitness and Health Promotion. The mathematical calculations and skills introduced will be used in assessing fitness and for developing exercise programs in future courses. Real life examples in the fitness industry and business will be used to solidify the mathematical skills. Basic statistics and research principles will be reviewed to enhance students’ ability to understand current research in the health field.
Semester 1 | 45 hours (3 hrs lecture)
Communications 1 is designed to enhance students’ writing, speaking and critical thinking skills as required in academic and workplace settings. Students reinforce correct grammar and mechanics usage, develop specialized vocabulary, and apply effective writing techniques to produce a variety of documents. Topics covered include the communications process; the writing process (planning, composing, editing); paragraph development; email; research and documentation (A.P.A. format); essay/research paper structure; cover letter, resume, and portfolio development.
Semester 1 | 42 hours (3 hrs lecture)
Semester 2 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students are encouraged to explore their personal health a wellness journeys while studying a wide variety of topics, issues and information. The determinants of health will be studied with group discussion and self-reflection. Students will use research methods to study the emotional, social, physical, environmental, and occupations factors that contribute to health and wellness. Specific topics related to health and wellness will include, mental health, aging, substance abuse, chronic disease, illness, gender identity, healthy environment, poverty, culture and race will be examined.
Semester 2 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students will learn the importance of proper nutrition for overall health and wellness. Students acquired knowledge of basic nutrition theory will begin with studying the six classes of nutrients, which include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, and water. The role of the fitness professional versus regulated health professional scope of practice for providing nutritional advice will be covered. The details of the Canada’s food guide will be studied in depth. Mindful eating, implications of alcohol, considerations for Indigenous Peoples, proper digestion and absorption, and food labelling will also be explored.
Semester 2 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students will examine the responses and adaptations of several body systems and processes during and after various types of exercise. The topics studied will include adaptations to energy metabolism, respiratory system, neuromuscular system, cardiovascular system, and hormonal responses. Students will contrast the physiological variations between sedentary individuals and a variety of trained individuals.
Semester 2 | 42 hours (1 hour lab/2-hour lecture)
In this course, students will gain knowledge and practical skills on effective exercise program design, monitoring and evaluation. This practical class will cover proper selection of exercises and equipment corresponding to client goals. Correct execution of exercises and correct spotting techniques along with proper use of equipment will be taught and evaluated. Program design will include all components from information gathered from client in consultation to execution of warm-up/cool down, overload, resistance training, aerobic and anerobic training, flexibility training and mobility training
Semester 2 | 42 hours (1.5-hour lecture/1.5-hour lab)
In this course, students will expand on their knowledge and skills gained in Group Exercise I. Further exercise styles and formats that will be explored include, yoga, Pilates, circuit training, athletic performance training, indoor cycling, BOSU, kick boxing, step, and outdoor training.
Semester 2 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students examine business skills, marketing methods, and effective communication strategies necessary for a successful career in fitness and health promotion. Topics for class discussion include internship preparation, career opportunities, entrepreneurship, professionalism, interview skills, and general workplace legalities.
Semester 2 | 56 hours (2-hour lecture/2-hour lab)
In this course, students will review health screening and fitness assessment protocols. A systematic approach to fitness and lifestyle appraisal will be followed in this hands-on practical course. Students will use knowledge and skills gained in semester 1 and will continue to build on these skills. A variety of assessments will be used to gain additional useful information to develop an effective client-centered fitness and life-style action plan. An emphasize will be placed on the health benefits of physical activity and communicating those benefits to healthy individuals. Assessment components covered include, pre-appraisal screening, health-related questionnaires, body composition, aerobic fitness, musculoskeletal fitness, balance, functional movement screen and occupational fitness. Modifications for individual with disabilities will be explored
Semester 3 | 56 hours (2-hour lecture/2-hour lab)
In this course, students will study common musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Injury prevention and management and how it relates to exercise prescription will be examined. Students will gain knowledge and skills on various types of rehabilitative exercises and equipment that can be integrated into an exercise program. Basic biomechanical principles will be introduced. Healthy individuals and special population considerations will be addressed.
Semester 3 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students will be introduced to theories of behavioural change and effective communication skills that are essential in the field of fitness and health promotion. Students will have a practical opportunity to apply their gained knowledge and skills of counselling and communication with a client during the semester. Some of the topics covered include discussions on behaviour change and exercise adherence, stages of change, personality and physical activity, habits, building rapport, empathy, emotional intelligence, and active listening.
Semester 3 | 42 (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students will be introduced to basic knowledge and techniques essential for exercise prescription for specific populations. Modifications, special considerations, and appropriate adaptations necessary for the selected populations will be studied. Practical opportunities and theoretical knowledge will be used to evaluate the benefits of exercise and physical activity in the treatment of various populations and conditions. The anatomical and physiological changes or differences will also be considered when preforming assessment and exercise prescription. Some of the specific populations studied will include: pre/post-natal, seniors, children, obesity, specific cognitive and physical needs, and diabetes
Semester 3 | 42 (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students will gain planning and leadership skills necessary to run a successful community event promoting fitness and health. Working as a team, students will develop an event concept or build on an existing one, create the proposal and plan, in order to execute an event for their local community. This practical class will involve many components such as, event promotion, operations, safety, staffing, and finances.
Semester 3 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students will have the opportunity to train clients in this on-campus internship. Students will meet weekly as a class to review client training progress and continue with preparation for full fourth semester internship. Students will use their skills in communication, counselling, fitness assessment and fitness program prescription to attain client’s fitness/wellness goals.
Semester 3 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
Semester 4 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students will begin with a review of general nutrition and exercise physiology building on their knowledge gained from their Nutrition course in semester one. They will spend time critically evaluating popular dietary methods, including the role of hydration. Identification of disordered eating patterns, ergogenic aids, and nutrient timing will also be reviewed. An understanding of nutrition strategies for exercise and sport training will be attained.
Semester 4 | 42 hours (1.5-hour lecture/1.5-hour lab)
In this course, students will continue to build on their skills of prescribing safe and effective training programs for a variety of individuals. More advanced training techniques will be studied in order to prepare clients for a specific sport or event. In this practical course students will continue to build on student competencies with communication, coaching, and execution of safe and effective exercise techniques.
Semester 4 | 42 hours (3 hour lecture)
In this course, students are introduced to the important role managers and supervisors play in the success of a fitness and wellness club or organization. The main topics covered are financial management, risk management, customer service, and human resources. Promoting professionalism and leadership while managing the operations of a fitness/wellness facility or club is the primary objective of the course.
Semester 4 | 42 hours (1.5 hours lecture/1.5 hours lab)
In this course, students will focus on the mental and physical health benefits of outdoor recreation. Students will be introduced to a variety of outdoor recreational activities such as skiing, trail running, snowshoeing, cycling, canoeing, hiking, stand up paddle boarding, and orienteering. Identifying local, provincial, and national recreational organizations for many of the outdoor recreational activities will increase knowledge of general fitness and health promotion opportunities within their community and beyond. Safety and adhering to risk management will be applied to all outdoor recreational activities.
Semester 4 | 100 hours
In this course, students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a work environment. Placement settings and locations will vary providing a range of opportunities for students. All placements will provide students with experience in a community-based setting within the field of Fitness and Health Promotion. Students will have the opportunity to gain additional skills in the field of fitness and health promotion through performing activities such as fitness assessments, counselling clients, providing fitness and health promotion activities/events within the community, instructing fitness classes and helping clients meet their fitness and health goals
This general education course will provide students with an introduction to Canadian Indigenous Nations’ history, sovereignty, land titles, cultural history and current critical issues. Topics addressed include the content of Indigenous rights, economic and social development, community and political processes, and business law and policies, justice & social services. Canadian Indigenous History and Relations is a general education course that has been incorporated into all programs at Northern College.