As an Allied Health Science major from Graceland, you’ll develop skills in strength and conditioning to help others improve their fitness and athletic performance.
Graceland's strength training and conditioning program readies students to pursue careers like personal training with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to design safe and effective fitness programs with the primary goal of improving athletic performance.
Through our Allied Health Science major, students will learn how to conduct sport-specific testing sessions, design and implement safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs, and provide guidance regarding nutrition and injury prevention. After graduation, students will find themselves ready to excel in the fitness industry.
Strength and Conditioning is one of three tracks available under the Allied Health major. In order to complete this program, you must complete both the core requirements for the Allied Health major, and the Strength and Conditioning track requirements.
In addition to Graceland’s general education requirements(*), all majors in Allied Health must complete the core requirements listed below. Additionally, it is highly recommended that students choose from one of the three tracks: Pre-PT/OT, Pre-AT/DC, or Strength and Conditioning.
A self-study, programmed-based opportunity to learn and understand medical terminology.
Techniques of injury prevention and caring for athletic injuries. Prerequisites: PHED1500 or BIOL2300 or BIOL3420
The development of practical skills in the emergency treatment of the injured. Some attention will be given to the prevention of injuries. The content to be covered will include the Standard and Advanced levels of the First Aid program sponsored by the National Red Cross. Students holding current, equivalent certifications will receive an automatic waiver for the class. This is to be verified by the instructor of the class or the Health and Movement Science Division Chair. Additional fee required.
A study the principles of nutrition as it relates to health, exercise, sports and disease. Students will be presented with applied content that includes research-based guidelines meant to help students differentiate between nutrition recommendations that are backed by science and the overabundance of false and misleading information.
Presentation of introductory research and writing methods. Introduction to the application of evidence-based practice using various tools to evaluate the research as evidence. This class will result in a final critically appraised topic paper and poster presentation.
Data analysis and measures of central tendency, dispersion, and correlation. Introduction to probability. Estimation and hypothesis testing. Bivariate regression. ANOVA. Introduction to nonparametric techniques. Prerequisite: 1 year high school algebra. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.
This course is designed to introduce students to the musculoskeletal system and its relationship to anatomical movements in the body. Students will examine the skeletal system, muscular system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, endocrine system, and their relationships with exercise science.
A detailed view of the NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum with analysis of movement dysfunction and the principles applied to musculoskeletal function. The course examines the anatomy of full-body movement and function as it relates to activities of daily living, athletics, and exercise. Utilizing theory and practice-based approaches, the course details functional movement impairments and application of restorative theory. Prerequisite: PHED1500 Introduction to Kinesiology
Introduction to the principles involved in learning and teaching motor skills. Prerequisites: PHED1240 or PHED1500.
Theory and application of performance training to include flexibility, core, balance, plyometric, resistance, and power training. Using an integrated approach to performance students will explore programming and periodization for sport and human performance. Prerequisite: PHED1500. A grade of C or higher required to count toward the Allied Health major.
A systematic study of the bones, joints, and muscles of the human body as well as internal external forces initiating and modifying movement. Prerequisite: BIOL2300 or BIOL3420 with a grade of "C" or higher. A grade of C or higher required to count toward the Allied Health major.
The principles and practices of energizing the human body for physical exercise. Prerequisite: BIOL2300 or BIOL3440 with a grade of "C" or better. A grade of C or higher required to count toward the Allied Health major.
Practicum of Clinical Assessment is designed to allow students to apply appropriate dynamic and transitional movement assessments, strength and range of motion screening, and design and apply appropriate corrective exercises to various populations. Students will continue to incorporate and master skills learned in previous core coursework. Practical experience outside the scheduled classroom will be required. Pre- or Corequisite: PHED4500. Must pass with "C" or better.
Practicum of Human Performance is designed to allow students to design and apply appropriate corrective exercises, and initiate fitness and performance enhancement programming for various populations. In addition, students will continue to incorporate and master skills learned in previous and concurrent coursework. Pre- or Corequisite: PHED4500. Must pass with "C" or better.
The Allied Health Capstone is designed to enable students to continue to incorporate and master skills learned in previous core coursework in a practical setting(s). The clinical focus of the Allied Health Capstone will be the student’s chosen career field (ex: athletic training, occupational therapy, physical therapy, chiropractic, etc.). Class time will be spent focusing on the connection between coursework and practical application. Clinical sites will be arranged for each student prior to the beginning of the course.
An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.
A self-study, programmed-based opportunity to learn and understand medical terminology.
Techniques of injury prevention and caring for athletic injuries. Prerequisites: PHED1500 or BIOL2300 or BIOL3420
The development of practical skills in the emergency treatment of the injured. Some attention will be given to the prevention of injuries. The content to be covered will include the Standard and Advanced levels of the First Aid program sponsored by the National Red Cross. Students holding current, equivalent certifications will receive an automatic waiver for the class. This is to be verified by the instructor of the class or the Health and Movement Science Division Chair. Additional fee required.
A study the principles of nutrition as it relates to health, exercise, sports and disease. Students will be presented with applied content that includes research-based guidelines meant to help students differentiate between nutrition recommendations that are backed by science and the overabundance of false and misleading information.
Presentation of introductory research and writing methods. Introduction to the application of evidence-based practice using various tools to evaluate the research as evidence. This class will result in a final critically appraised topic paper and poster presentation.
Data analysis and measures of central tendency, dispersion, and correlation. Introduction to probability. Estimation and hypothesis testing. Bivariate regression. ANOVA. Introduction to nonparametric techniques. Prerequisite: 1 year high school algebra. ELO6 Math, GE2B Foundational Skills-Mathematics/Quantitative.
This course is designed to introduce students to the musculoskeletal system and its relationship to anatomical movements in the body. Students will examine the skeletal system, muscular system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, endocrine system, and their relationships with exercise science.
A detailed view of the NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum with analysis of movement dysfunction and the principles applied to musculoskeletal function. The course examines the anatomy of full-body movement and function as it relates to activities of daily living, athletics, and exercise. Utilizing theory and practice-based approaches, the course details functional movement impairments and application of restorative theory. Prerequisite: PHED1500 Introduction to Kinesiology
Introduction to the principles involved in learning and teaching motor skills. Prerequisites: PHED1240 or PHED1500.
Theory and application of performance training to include flexibility, core, balance, plyometric, resistance, and power training. Using an integrated approach to performance students will explore programming and periodization for sport and human performance. Prerequisite: PHED1500. A grade of C or higher required to count toward the Allied Health major.
A systematic study of the bones, joints, and muscles of the human body as well as internal external forces initiating and modifying movement. Prerequisite: BIOL2300 or BIOL3420 with a grade of "C" or higher. A grade of C or higher required to count toward the Allied Health major.
The principles and practices of energizing the human body for physical exercise. Prerequisite: BIOL2300 or BIOL3440 with a grade of "C" or better. A grade of C or higher required to count toward the Allied Health major.
Practicum of Clinical Assessment is designed to allow students to apply appropriate dynamic and transitional movement assessments, strength and range of motion screening, and design and apply appropriate corrective exercises to various populations. Students will continue to incorporate and master skills learned in previous core coursework. Practical experience outside the scheduled classroom will be required. Pre- or Corequisite: PHED4500. Must pass with "C" or better.
Practicum of Human Performance is designed to allow students to design and apply appropriate corrective exercises, and initiate fitness and performance enhancement programming for various populations. In addition, students will continue to incorporate and master skills learned in previous and concurrent coursework. Pre- or Corequisite: PHED4500. Must pass with "C" or better.
The Allied Health Capstone is designed to enable students to continue to incorporate and master skills learned in previous core coursework in a practical setting(s). The clinical focus of the Allied Health Capstone will be the student’s chosen career field (ex: athletic training, occupational therapy, physical therapy, chiropractic, etc.). Class time will be spent focusing on the connection between coursework and practical application. Clinical sites will be arranged for each student prior to the beginning of the course.
An introductory survey of psychological methods and thoughts as they relate to human experience and behavior. Topics include the role of the central nervous system in mediating behavior, learning and memory, states of awareness, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy. ELO5 Social Science – Innovation, GE3E Liberal Learning-Social Sciences.
The Allied Health track in Strength and Conditioning/Personal Training is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in strength and conditioning, personal training, corporate wellness, or a graduate degree in exercise physiology, etc. Students will gain the scientific background necessary to be quality practitioners.
Please contact Frankie Porter at frankie1@graceland.edu for more information.
Additional required courses for Allied Health Concentration in Strength and Conditioning/Personal Training
The study of structure and function of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, and organ-system level. All organ systems are discussed. Emphasis is on the anatomy of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. Laboratory includes both gross and microscopic structure and function. (One year each of high school biology and chemistry or the equivalent strongly recommended.) Additional fee required. GE3D Liberal Learning-Natural Sciences.
A study of gross human anatomy utilizing charts, three dimensional models, computer simulations, and dissection of mammalian animals. The course will discuss regional and surface anatomy to establish the relationships of the various organ systems of the body. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL2100 or PHED1500.
A systems oriented study of the function of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, and organ-system levels with an emphasis on medical physiology. Laboratory includes computer simulations and use of Biopac equipment. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL3420 (grade of C or better strongly recommended) and one semester of chemistry or BIOL2100.
This course will prepare the student to become an effective drug educator with emphasis on historical and current drug use and trends and its effects on society and human behavior. (Goal is for students to make positive decisions to protect their own health but also higher understanding of effects to social health/life when others use or abuse drugs.)
A foundational course designed for students to become informed about health as well as becoming responsible and active participants in the maintenance of their personal health and affecting the health of their community. The course is intended to provide coverage of health promotion, mental health, stress management, afflictions and diseases, aging, environmental health, consumerism and health care and promotion. ELO4 Global Learning - Sustainability.
The course is designed to evaluate the study of nutrition as it specifically relates to physical activity, fitness, and sport performance. This course evaluates the evidence-based nutritional needs and use of various fuel types for a variety of physical activity. From the review of energy balance, body composition, and roles of specific nutrients, to the evaluation of nutritional claims and performance enhancing products.
Theory and practical application of running, jumping, directional change, stability and other related mobility skills designed to enhance on and off-the-ground performance. Prerequisite: PHED2260.
An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.
Study of the variety of tools available to assess human performance. A broad range of instrumentation will be utilized. Prescriptive models will be studied and applied as a practical means of directing client performance training. Prerequisites: PHED1500 and PHED2260 with a "C" or better.
Theory and application of advanced principles in programming periodization with in depth analysis of physiological adaptations from performance training. Completion of the course will prepare students for the NSCA CSCS certification. Prerequisite: PHED4500.
An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.
The study of structure and function of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, and organ-system level. All organ systems are discussed. Emphasis is on the anatomy of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. Laboratory includes both gross and microscopic structure and function. (One year each of high school biology and chemistry or the equivalent strongly recommended.) Additional fee required. GE3D Liberal Learning-Natural Sciences.
A study of gross human anatomy utilizing charts, three dimensional models, computer simulations, and dissection of mammalian animals. The course will discuss regional and surface anatomy to establish the relationships of the various organ systems of the body. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL2100 or PHED1500.
A systems oriented study of the function of the human body on the cellular, tissue, organ, and organ-system levels with an emphasis on medical physiology. Laboratory includes computer simulations and use of Biopac equipment. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: BIOL3420 (grade of C or better strongly recommended) and one semester of chemistry or BIOL2100.
This course will prepare the student to become an effective drug educator with emphasis on historical and current drug use and trends and its effects on society and human behavior. (Goal is for students to make positive decisions to protect their own health but also higher understanding of effects to social health/life when others use or abuse drugs.)
A foundational course designed for students to become informed about health as well as becoming responsible and active participants in the maintenance of their personal health and affecting the health of their community. The course is intended to provide coverage of health promotion, mental health, stress management, afflictions and diseases, aging, environmental health, consumerism and health care and promotion. ELO4 Global Learning - Sustainability.
The course is designed to evaluate the study of nutrition as it specifically relates to physical activity, fitness, and sport performance. This course evaluates the evidence-based nutritional needs and use of various fuel types for a variety of physical activity. From the review of energy balance, body composition, and roles of specific nutrients, to the evaluation of nutritional claims and performance enhancing products.
Theory and practical application of running, jumping, directional change, stability and other related mobility skills designed to enhance on and off-the-ground performance. Prerequisite: PHED2260.
An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.
Study of the variety of tools available to assess human performance. A broad range of instrumentation will be utilized. Prescriptive models will be studied and applied as a practical means of directing client performance training. Prerequisites: PHED1500 and PHED2260 with a "C" or better.
Theory and application of advanced principles in programming periodization with in depth analysis of physiological adaptations from performance training. Completion of the course will prepare students for the NSCA CSCS certification. Prerequisite: PHED4500.
An application of the theories and principles in psychology to the athlete, the athletic environment, and to coaching practices.
If you’re passionate about health and physical fitness and you’re interested in assisting people with their wellness journeys in a number of different industries, this program is the right path for you — especially if you are interested in moving into further education. Graceland’s strength and conditioning requirements will give you the tools you need to turn your passion into a career. A Strength and Conditioning Allied Health Science major can help to prepare you for a career as a:
… and many other exciting fields.
99% of students on the Lamoni campus receive financial aid.
As you consider college, you want a simple, easy-to-understand formula designed to ensure that the one-of-a-kind Graceland Experience is within reach for your family. Undergraduate tuition includes our unique Transformational Leadership major, and we offer generous financial aid and scholarships to all of our students, making Graceland as affordable, if not moreso, than most public universities.
Exclusively for students majoring in Allied Health, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science and Information Technology, and Data Science, the Resch Scholars Program rewards high-performing science students through a combination of enhanced learning opportunities and the Resch Scholars Program scholarship. The scholarship is for a variable amount up to full tuition and is renewable for up to four years.
To be eligible, students must also hold a 3.0+ GPA (3.5+ GPA for full tuition) and Graceland must receive a completed FAFSA by January 1, 2024. Be sure to use Graceland’s FAFSA code 001866. Other eligibility and renewal requirements can be found on the Resch Scholars website at the link below.
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