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Program Overview
Are you interested in a career in Fitness, Recreation, or Wellness? We at Madison College have certification courses, a technical diploma, and an associate degree to help you gain the skills to be successful in our industry and find your dream job!
The Fitness, Recreation and Wellness Management Associate Degree program at Madison College develops your skills, as they apply to the fitness recreation and wellness industry, in:
- Client-centered Coaching
- Marketing
- Leadership
- Programming and Industry Event Planning
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Equity & Inclusion
- Management
Looking to improve the health and wellbeing of yourself, your community, and your world? Students enrolled in this program also receive business development skills to be change-makers within our industry. Business-specific skills include efficient and effective marketing, facility development, budgeting, and trends and topics to jump-start your next idea. This program works closely with the Entrepreneurship Center at Madison College to help students develop an entrepreneurial mindset for success.
The design of Madison College's Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness Management program allows you to work within for-profit gyms and studios, public municipal recreation departments, nonprofit organizations, or small businesses. During the program, students will have the opportunity to gain 5 Nationally recognized industry certifications including Personal Training, Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coaching, Health Coaching, Group Fitness Instructor, Challenge Course Facilitator, and First Aid/AED Certified.
Looking to transfer to a 4 year college? Many of our University partners accept transfer credits from our Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness Management program. Schedule an appointment with an advisor to discuss your transfer credit options to UW-La Crosse, UW-Whitewater, and Carroll University.Program Details
Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness Management classes are offered at the Madison College Traux campus.
Careers
Prospective employers throughout Madison consider Madison College's Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness Management graduates top candidates. After completing the Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness Management program at Madison College, you will be able to search for employment in the following areas:
- Personal Training
- Group Fitness
- Health Coaching
- Nutrition Coach
- Fitness Business Owner
- Sports Performance Coach
- Youth Sports Director
- Recreation Specialist/Coordinator
- Sports Coach
- Outdoor Trips Facilitator
- Instruction and Inclusive Programming
- Experiential Outdoor Education
- Collegiate Recreation and Instruction
- Industry Sales
- Fitness Equipment Training & Sales
- Master Fitness Trainer
- Active Aging Fitness Coordinator
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester10-106-100Mindset for Success
Designed to foster the attitudes and skills that can inspire and empower you throughout your career regardless of your chosen path. Develop and improve skills in creativity, ambition, critical thinking, innovation, opportunistic thinking, and teamwork through experiential and problem-solving approaches. Become an engaged workplace contributor and develop a workforce-ready mindset.3 credits10-106-168Microsoft Office for Business Applications
Learn basic features of Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook using Microsoft Office 365. Explore Excel to create workbooks, write formulas & functions, manage data, and produce charts & graphs. Discover how Word can automatically generate footnotes, insert citations, and create a bibliography. Create presentations through PowerPoint focusing on layout and design elements. Manage email and calendar using Outlook. Students must have file management skills including saving, organizing, and retrieving files.3 credits10-109-121Introduction to Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness
This course is an introduction to the fitness, recreation, and wellness industry. Emphasis will be placed on career pathways, informational interviewing, professional organizations and certifications, scope of practice, future of the industry, and personal development. Students will investigate and implement personal branding through websites, social media, marketing, and personal business materials.3 credits10-109-173Group Fitness & Small Group Coaching
ACE PREP COURSE - This course is designed to give students the knowledge and understanding necessary to prepare for the exercise science portion of the ACE Certifications. We will cover human anatomy, exercise physiology, applied kinesiology, and nutrition. Students will begin to learn how to facilitate functional training assessments, programming, movement, core, balance, and flexibility.3 credits10-109-297Exercise Science for Fitness Professionals
This course is designed to give students the knowledge and understanding necessary to prepare for the exercise science portion of the ACE Certifications. We will cover human anatomy, exercise physiology, applied kinesiology, and nutrition. Students will begin to learn how to facilitate functional training assessments, programming, movement, core, balance, and flexibility.3 creditsSecond Semester10-109-106Programming & Community Events in Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness
This course provides practical knowledge and experiences on the essential elements and design concepts of program planning. Emphasis is placed on student involvement in planning and directing programs for diverse populations in a variety of physical settings.3 credits10-109-155Facility Management in Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness
Principles for planning, assessing and evaluating resources, areas and facilities. Topics include scheduling, planning and design, assessing resources, routine and preventative maintenance, care of outdoor and natural areas, and impact on the environment.3 credits10-109-159Health and Wellness Coaching
This course is designed to give students the knowledge and understanding necessary to prepare for the ACE Health Coaching Certification Exam and become effective health coaches. This course is designed to give you both the knowledge and skills needed to assess a client’s lifestyle behaviors and support them through behavior change.3 credits10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 creditsComplete one of the following:10-109-181Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness Internship
Students must complete a minimum of 192 hours of internship with an approved fitness/recreation/wellness agency. The on-site practitioner and internship coordinator supervise the student's progress. Recommended for students who have completed two full semesters of program coursework and have an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher.3 credits10-109-197Outdoor Experiential Facilitation
Learn basic facilitation and technical skills to lead outdoor experiential activities including expeditionary tripping and low/high challenge course programming. Topics include planning, logistics, menu prep, permits, equipment, facilitation skills and methods, and group development. Class includes at least one overnight trip and optional opportunity to receive ACCT Level 1 Certification.3 credits10-140-333Interdisciplinary Global Studies Abroad
This course cultivates a global mindset, enhances cross-cultural communication skills, and prepares students for international collaboration. Students explore international business practices, visit various business/cultural sites, and collaborate in multinational teams. The experience fosters an understanding of cultural intersections, socio-historical contexts, and global business practices through engagement at the host site (Northern Ireland, Germany, or Wisconsin).3 creditsThird Semester10-104-114Social Media Marketing
This course provides an overview of the impact of social media technologies on marketing strategies. Current social media tools/platforms and their business applications, strategy insights, creative, and ethics will be covered along with the development of a social media marketing plan.3 credits10-109-135Leadership Strategies in Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness
This course focuses on the development of foundational leadership knowledge and skills within the field. Students will learn and apply various leadership and communication styles, motivational theories, and group dynamics. Students will develop and practice skills for organizing and leading specific activities, including cooperative games and group initiatives.3 credits10-109-160Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion in Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness
This course serves as an introduction to inclusion and an understanding of needs and program adaptations relative to recreational pursuits. Topics covered include history, philosophy, purpose, programming, as well as characteristics and needs of individuals with disabilities.3 credits10-804-123Math with Business Applications
This course integrates algebraic concepts, proportions, percents, simple interest, compound interest, annuities, and basic statistics with business/consumer scenarios. It also applies math concepts to the purchasing/buying and selling processes.3 credits10-109-299Precision Nutrition Coaching
Apply evidence-based nutrition principles and behavior-change strategies to support client health outcomes. Analyze macronutrients, micronutrients, metabolism, digestion, and lifestyle factors such as stress and sleep. Develop coaching skills, create client-centered action plans, and implement sustainable nutrition strategies.3 creditsFourth Semester10-109-127Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness Practical Lab
In this capstone course, students will be assigned clients to expand their knowledge and skills in the industry. Students will develop, implement, and evaluate individualized and/or group programming for the Madison College community to improve overall health and well-being. Students will be supervised and evaluated on their practical skills by the instructor of this course.3 credits10-109-176Personal Training
ACE PREP COURSE - Students will gain knowledge and understanding necessary to prepare for the ACE Personal Trainer Certification Exam and become effective personal trainers. This course is designed to help students learn how to facilitate rapport, adherence, self-efficacy, and behavior change in clients, as well as designing programs to improve the five components of fitness.3 credits10-801-198Speech
Explores the fundamentals of effective oral presentation to small and large groups. Topic selection, audience analysis, methods of organization, research, supporting evidence, delivery techniques, active listening, and other essential elements of speaking successfully, form the basis of the course. Includes informative, persuasive, and occasion speech presentations. Audience requirements to be determined by individual colleges.3 credits10-809-196Introduction to Sociology
Introduces students to the fundamental sociological concepts, including sociological perspectives, research methods, the significance of culture in society, and the socialization process. Other topics include deviance, the impact of groups on behavior, societal inequities, global changes, the role of social institutions, and social stratification.3 creditsComplete one of the following: (Sport and Performance Psychology is the recommended course)10-809-198Introduction to Psychology
This science of psychology course is a survey of multiple aspects of behavior and mental processes. It provides an overview of topics such as research methods, theoretical perspectives, learning, cognitive processes, motivation, personality, psychological disorders and treatment approaches, physiological factors, social influences, and development.3 credits10-809-199Psychology of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 credits20-809-297Sport and Performance Psychology
Sport and Performance Psychology is the multi-disciplinary study of the important elements connected to the psychology of the human being ability to achieve peak performance. The course will address the components required for success on the ball field, in the classroom, on the stage or while at work in one's career.3 credits -
How to Apply
To Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Note: It is recommended to only apply for a semester that has already started if you are currently enrolled in classes, or you have verified that classes are still available for that semester.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is November 15, 2026
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is April 15, 2027
Summer 2027
- Application available on September 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is July 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Fitness, Recreation, and Wellness Management career.
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Transfer Opportunities
UW System Schools
This program-to-program articulation agreement between UW-Whitewater and Madison College allows students to receive guaranteed admission and be awarded at least 57 credits toward the Human Performance major, and the following minors if they meet the criteria outlined below: • Recreation and Leisure Studies • Strength and Conditioning • Sport Management • Health Promotion UW-W will admit students who: • Have applied to UW-W and submitted all appropriate documents and earned an applied associate degree in Fitness, Recreation & Wellness Management from Madison College with cumulative grade point average of 2.25 or better (on a 4.0 scale), including coursework from other institutions (if appropriate), and according to UW-W repeat policy. • Have applied to and are successfully admitted into UW-W (all UW-W application deadlines apply) beginning Fall 2024 and any subsequent terms. Students must declare the Human Performance Major, Recreation and Leisure Studies, Strength and Conditioning, Sport Management, or Health Promotion Minor at time of admission/upon transfer to UW-W. Students that transfer under this agreement with a minimum of 60 credits will be considered to have Junior standing at UW-W.Wisconsin Private Schools
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree. -
Career Outcomes
After completing the Fitness, Recreation, & Wellness Management program at Madison College, you will be able to:
- Relate foundations of play, recreation and leisure to stages of the human lifespan.
- Facilitate recreational activities to meet the needs of a variety of populations.
- Adhere to safety rules and regulations governing parks, recreation and fitness.
- Integrate leadership techniques to enhance recreational experiences for individuals and groups.
- Align recreational procedures to management, marketing and finance goals.
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 7 3 8 Number of Surveys Sent 7 3 8 Number of Surveys Returned 7 1 6 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 7 1 6 Percent Available for Employment 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 7 1 6 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Employed in Related Occupation 6 0 5 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 85.7% 0.0% 83.3% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 1 1 1 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 14.3% 100.0% 16.7% Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 0 0 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.4 3 3.7 Number of Satisfaction Responses 7 1 6 Very Satisfied (4) 4 0 4 Percent Very Satisfied 57.1% 0.0% 66.7% Satisfied (3) 2 1 2 Percent Satisfied 28.6% 100.0% 33.3% Unsatisfied (2) 1 0 0 Percent Unsatisfied 14.3% 0.0% 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 7 1 6 Preparation for Getting a Job 4 0 2 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 57.1% 0.0% 33.3% Career Change 2 0 1 Percent Career Change 28.6% 0.0% 16.7% Improvement of Existing Skills 0 0 0 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Preparation for Further Education 0 0 2 Percent Preparation for Further Education 0.0% 0.0% 33.3% Personal Interest 1 1 1 Percent Personal Interest 14.3% 100.0% 16.7% Other 0 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 7 1 6 Before Enrollment 0 1 1 Percent Before Enrollment 0.0% 100.0% 16.7% While Attending the College 3 0 3 Percent While Attending the College 42.9% 0.0% 50.0% After Training at the College 4 0 2 Percent After Training at the College 57.1% 0.0% 33.3% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 7 1 6 In College District 7 1 5 Percent In College District 100.0% 100.0% 83.3% In Wisconsin, Not in District 0 0 0 Percent of In Wisconsin 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Outside of Wisconsin 0 0 1 Percent Outside Wisconsin 0.0% 0.0% 16.7% Employer Location Unknown 0 0 0 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 1 2 Average Monthly Wage $3,440 $2,924 Average Hourly Wage $20.00 $17.00 Average Work Hours per Week 40.0 40.0 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count 4 3 Average Hourly Wage $17.75 $18.67 Average Work Hours per Week 29.0 19.7 -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions Hampton Inn and Suites Reservation Specialist Madison School & Community Recreation Outdoor Instructor Montage Palmetto Bluff Wellness Coordinator Bluffton SC MSCR Cares After School Inclusion Staff YMCA Wellness Coach Watertown * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu
