Pitt Receives American College of Sports Medicine Endorsement

PITTSBURGH—The University of Pittsburgh Bachelor of Science in movement science major in Pitt's School of Education has received the American College of Sports Medicine's (ACSM) endorsement as part of the ACSM University Connection Endorsement Program.

The curriculum covers the knowledge, skills, and abilities expected of an ACSM health and fitness instructor. It also meets or exceeds the recommendations for undergraduate preparation by the National Strength and Conditioning Association to prepare students to take the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists exam.

Available to undergraduates through Pitt's health, physical, and recreation education department, the movement science major offers specializations in exercise science, wellness, or coaching. It prepares students for entry-level positions in health-fitness programs within business or industry or in clinical exercise settings, which provide health-fitness services to members of special populations.

The exercise science specialization provides a foundation for advanced study in the discipline of human performance, development of research skills, and a basis for future graduate study in an advanced exercise science/preallied health program. The wellness or coaching specializations prepare students for entry-level positions in health-fitness programs within education and industry or in performance settings, which provide coaching and training to those involved in sports and athletics.

This endorsement of a standardized curriculum will increase quality control and work to promote career development for students interested in becoming fitness and exercise professionals. The endorsement also will assist the department in developing and maintaining a timely curriculum in accordance with the ACSM standards.

###

5/28/03kwh