Degree overview

The Associate of Science in Exercise Science degree program grounds you in the fundamentals of personal training by exposing you to both the theories and practices of this dynamic field. The program features courses on trainer-relevant topics, including anatomy and physiology, assessment, program design, special populations, entrepreneurship, management, interpersonal relations, and communication.

Graduates with an AS in Exercise Science work as Master Trainers in health clubs and fitness centers, run their own training businesses, or pursue bachelor's or other advanced degrees in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Health and Wellness, Physical Education, Athletic Training, Nutritional Science, or Sports Management. 

Book a 1 on 1 session with an enrollment advisor

Sessions are no more than 15 minutes and are a fast, easy way to get all of your questions answered about the College of Exercise Science (soon to be Lionel University!) There is no obligation and no pressure!

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DEAC Accredited

Our institution is proud to be accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). DEAC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Skills and knowledge you will acquire

  • Analytical, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills applicable to real-world situations.
  • The competence to implement and apply current exercise and nutrition strategies to allow clients to effectively meet their goals.
  • The aptitude to apply sound scientific and communication principles to the functions of assessment, program design, motivation, and coaching.
  • The foundation of exercise science knowledge and technical skills to support and facilitate lifelong professional development.
  • The ability to use critical thinking, creativity, logic, and analysis to meet client needs.
  • An academic foundation to pursue a Bachelor's or other Advanced Degree.

Success stories

Paul Joseph

The College of Exercise Science has been a life-changing experience. I recommend it to all my co-workers, friends, and family members who have a passion for fitness and want to continue their educational journey. 

Paul Joseph
Hayden Jolly

I currently serve on active duty in the United States Marine Corps. I originally began my journey with CES pursuing the Master Trainer certificate. Upon completion, I decided to continue my education and earned my associates in exercise science through CES. Now I instruct at the Force Fitness Readiness Center where we train new Force Fitness Instructors for the Marine Corps. I couldn’t have done it without the College of Exercise Science.

Hayden Jolly
Crystal Branco

My experience with ISSA has been life changing in the best way. Not only have I learned so many new skills, but my resume is quite long due to all of the Special Certifications I have received. I was recently contacted by another “women-only” trainer with her own business who was looking to expand. She almost immediately offered me a job as her first hire, almost sight-unseen! Now, I work at two gyms and can offer training to different types of populations. I have no doubt my educational qualifications had something to do with the ease of which I have been able to stay successful in this rapidly emerging profession. 

Crystal Branco

Earn fitness certifications* as you progress

Your coursework includes a minimum of 6 individual personal training certification* courses supported by industry-relevant general education and elective classes. After successfully completing the coursework for your first personal training course, you'll be qualified to begin training. As you progress in the degree program, your fitness qualifications grow, positioning you for pay raises and increased clientele.

*Certification is issued by ISSA LLC. ISSA LLC is a separate professional certifying organization and is not owned or operated by the ISSA College of Exercise Science / Lionel University.

 

Choose from:

  • Personal Training
  • Nutrition
  • Strength and Conditioning
  • Corrective Exercise
  • Group Fitness
  • Bodybuilding
  • Youth Fitness
  • Senior Fitness
  • Exercise Therapy
  • Transformation Specialist

Curious about financial aid?

The ISSA College of Exercise Science is a Title IV school, and our bachelor’s degree program, associate degree program, and Master Trainer certificate program are all eligible for federal student aid. As we transition to Lionel, the only thing that will change about financial aid will be our new name!

Learn More →

Did you know that students pay $0 for textbooks?

A digital copy of each book is inCluded with every course!

Frequently asked questions

How do I apply?
There is no cost to apply and no test scores are required for admission. If you would like to apply, click here to start the application.
Is the ISSA College of Exercise Science accredited?
Yes! Our institution is proud to be accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). DEAC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Will I have support during my education?
Each student is assigned a program advisor who is available to answer questions, provide support, and guide your progress through the program. Instructors engage from day one, hold regular office hours via the online classroom, and provide individual in-depth feedback.
What types of financial aid do you accept?

Our bachelor’s degree, associate degree, and Master Trainer certificate programs are eligible for federal student aid. Federal student aid eligibility for our master’s degree program is awaiting approval by the US Department of Education.

Learn more about financial aid →

Active duty military, military spouses, and veterans can use their TA, MyCAA, and GI Bill® benefits for program tuition. Program eligibility varies by benefit.

Learn more about military and veteran benefits →

When do your courses start?
The College of Exercise Science empowers you to complete your education on your timeline, which is why we have classes starting almost every month. For a list of start dates, click here.
How many hours of study time should I expect per week?

A good rule of thumb is 10-15 hours of study time per course, per week. Full-time students  spend about 40 hours studying each week when taking a full course load.

Do I need to pay for textbooks?
No! A digital version of the textbook is embedded in each course at no additional cost. Unrestricted access is available seven days prior to the start of class and throughout the quarter. 
How do I transfer my prior college credits?

The College of Exercise Science completes transfer credit evaluations free of charge. Once you complete your application, simply request that your past schools send your official transcripts to our Registrar. The application will provide information on what to request and where to have it sent, and an assigned admissions advisor will be standing by to assist you with any questions you have along the way.

Do I have to take a minimum number of credits each quarter?

No, there is no required credit minimum. A full-time course load is 12-15 credits per quarter, but many of our students work as well as attend school. Our program is flexible to meet your needs.

What is the difference between the ISSA College of Exercise Science and ISSA LLC?

ISSA College of Exercise Science and ISSA LLC are two separate organizations. ISSA College of Exercise Science is an institution of higher learning and an education provider. ISSA LLC is a professional certifying organization. ISSA LLC is neither owned nor operated by the ISSA College of Exercise Science.

Upon successful completion of College of Exercise Science coursework and submission of Basic Adult CPR/AED/First Aid card, ISSA LLC awards, monitors, and renews professional certification. 

Professional certification earned as part of ISSA College of Exercise Science curriculum and awarded by ISSA, LLC is not accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). DEAC accredits institutions, including its academic programs, and does not accredit certifications. 

How does certification work?

Currently through Dec 2021:

Upon successful completion of College of Exercise Science undergraduate certification coursework and submission of Basic Adult CPR/AED/First Aid card, professional certification is awarded by ISSA LLC. ISSA LLC is a separate professional certifying body that awards, monitors, and renews professional certification. ISSA LLC is neither owned nor operated by the ISSA College of Exercise Science.

ISSA LLC verifies and awards professional certification approximately 6-8 weeks following the end of the course. The terms of professional certification -- including duration, required continuing education, and renewal -- are determined by ISSA LLC.

2022:

In 2022, the certification process will be a 2-step process by which students register for and complete the certification exam separately through ISSA LLC. The ISSA LLC certification exam will be included at no additional cost. Assignments will guide the process, and time will be built into the final week of class to accommodate the exam. Proof of basic adult CPR/AED/First Aid certification will be required at the time of the exam -- uploaded to the ISSA LLC portal. 

The terms of professional certification -- including award, duration, required continuing education, and renewal -- are determined by ISSA LLC.

Note: certification coursework is a part of undergraduate coursework only.

I hear you are transforming into Lionel University in 2022! What’s changing?

We are so excited to transform the ISSA College of Exercise Science into Lionel University.

While our name is changing, the core of who we are will remain the same:

  • Our faculty and staff will continue to serve you as they always have
  • The classroom will look and feel the same
  • The coursework of current programs will not change
  • Existing funding sources will remain the same
  • Our accreditation will remain the same
  • Our commitment to creating a stronger, healthier world will be enhanced

Learn more about our transformation and access the Lionel University FAQs here.

BENEFITS FOR MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS

We appreciate your service and are committed to helping you achieve your goals

Designated as a Military Friendly School, the ISSA College of Exercise Science — soon to be Lionel University — works hard to help both active duty service members and veterans achieve their education goals. Our programs are specifically designed to be flexible so you can easily manage your coursework during your service.

Learn More →

Program curriculum

Typical students divide their studies into 9 quarters. For the most part, each quarter focuses on one certification course and a supporting gen ed or elective. You can accelerate your studies and complete the program in as few as 6 quarters (18 months) or progress at a slower pace to fit your schedule. For a full list of course descriptions, click here.

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Credit Requirement Breakdown

  • 30 General Education
  • 30 Core
  • 30 Electives

Up to 60 credits can be transferred from other accredited institutions. 

Credit transfer applications are $0

LEARN MORE →

Fill out the form to gain access to the $0 online application

Students starting in our Winter quarter will be students of our school under our new name — Lionel University!

The application is designed as an investment in you—to help you name what you truly want, evaluate all that you juggle, and design your future. 

Stop and start the application as needed. Your work is saved as you go. Once you submit your application, a dedicated advisor will be in touch to speak with you about next steps. 

Here’s what you’ll need to complete the application:

  • A copy of your high school/GED transcript or diploma
  • Photo identification such as a driver's license, state-issued identification card, or passport
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Apply Now →

Academic Programs

Program Overview

Master's Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Associate Degree

Master Trainer Certificate

 

Financial Aid

Financial Aid Overview

Hatfield Memorial Scholarship

 

Military Benefits

Military Benefits Overview

 

Admissions & Resources

Class Start Dates

Admissions Policy

Alumni Resources

Transferring Credit

International Students

Tuition

Cost of Attendance

CA BPPE

Textbooks

Enrollment Agreement

Net Price Calculator

School Performance Fact Sheet

Technology Requirements

 

Current Students

Classroom Login

Populi Login

Academic Calendar

Policies

Transcripts

Tools

Graduation

Connect

Return to program

 

About Us

About the College of Exercise Science

Accreditation

Founders

Mission Statement

State Authorization

Blog

 

Catalog


Consumer Info

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International Sports Sciences Association | 1015 Mark Avenue, Suite 1013 | Carpinteria CA 93013 | USA | 1-800-650-4772 ces-support@issaonline.edu