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Why study personal fitness training?
Inspire others to move with confidence, live healthier lives and achieve their personal fitness goals.
Help people of all abilities achieve their health and fitness goals safely and effectively. MRU’s Personal Fitness Trainer Diploma program in Calgary teaches you how to conduct physical and lifestyle assessments and use training principles to create personalized fitness programs. Gain new skills in the health sciences, injury prevention and care, exercise prescription and program design, and strength training. Learn through a blend of classroom instruction and supervised personal fitness practicum experiences in the community. This personal fitness training education in Alberta meets the academic requirements for the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology — Certified Personal Trainer (CSEP).
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We have many resources for you to ensure you are ready to get started once you've been accepted.
Plan your studies
Program highlights
- Learn to assess, coach and train clients using evidence-based fitness and strength techniques
- The program meets academic requirements for certification with the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP)
- Complete practicums in gyms, clinics and local community fitness settings
- Study biomechanics, nutrition, business and training methods through classroom, lab and applied gym experiences
Career possibilities
Where can I work with a diploma in personal fitness training?
Graduates of the Personal Fitness Training Diploma work in fitness, wellness and performance-focused roles in a wide variety of settings, including:
My time in this program provided me with hands-on knowledge of anatomy, exercise science and injury prevention. I have developed stronger coaching and communication skills, which have boosted my confidence in building better connections with clients and delivering improved services. Overall, this program has helped me find a career I'm passionate about, and it is immensely rewarding.
— MRU alum, Ace Rodriguez
Personal Fitness Trainer Diploma, 2023
Curriculum and courses
What courses will I take in personal fitness training?
Develop the knowledge and hands-on skills to coach clients confidently and create personalized, results-driven fitness programs.
Explore full curriculum and coursesCurriculum snapshot
Experiential learning
Gain experience and confidence through immersive, hands-on learning built into every stage of the program.
- Complete your practicums in gyms, clinics or community settings
- Work directly with clients to assess fitness levels and deliver tailored programs
- Apply classroom learning in skill development labs and performance testing sessions
- Build coaching, communication, and professional skills in real-time training environments
Admission requirements
Requirements can vary, so it’s important to review what’s needed for your area of interest.
What are the requirements for the Personal Fitness Trainer Diploma?
Applicants are not required to meet the General Admission Requirements for Mount Royal University programs. Applicants are not required to provide transcripts from any high school or post-secondary institutions unless they intend to use them to meet English Language Proficiency.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to meet two separate English requirements to be admitted to Mount Royal:
- You’ll need to successfully complete an English course if it’s part of your program’s admission requirements
- Show that you meet Mount Royal’s English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements
Admission deadlines
Fall 2026 intake
Early admission
Oct. 1, 2025 - Feb. 1, 2026
Ongoing admission based on program space and availability
Feb. 2, 2026 - programs closed
What is early admission?
During the early admission period, all applications are treated as though they were received at the exact same time. This means all competitively qualified applicants will be accommodated. At MRU, we actually receive most of our applications and fill many of our programs from applications submitted during early admission. It is an ideal time to apply and helps expedite the process so you hear back earlier too.
Early admission deadlines
Fall Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Feb 1.
Winter Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Nov. 1.
Costs
We know your investment in post-secondary education is a big deal. Make sure you’re on the right financial track by reviewing the costs, scholarships and financial support available.
How much does the Personal Fitness Trainer Diploma cost?
The cost of your studies depends on a few things, like the program you choose and whether you’ll live at home or in Residence.
Vew the full tuition and fee schedule to get a detailed breakdown of estimated costs.
Does MRU offer scholarships or financial aid?
At Mount Royal, we want you to focus on your education, not worry about how to pay for it. There are many ways to help cover the cost of your studies.
Scholarships and bursaries
Mount Royal gives out over $5 million each year in scholarships and bursaries! These awards look at things like your grades, financial need and your involvement in school or the community.
Financial aid
There are financial aid options from the provincial and federal governments for both full-time and part-time students. These include student loans, grants and bursaries.
Other resources
You can also explore other ways to pay, like using RESPs (Registered Education Savings Plans) or CPP (Canada Pension Plan) benefits.
How do I apply for scholarships and bursaries?
To be eligible for scholarships and bursaries, you must apply for Early Admission from Oct. 1 to Feb. 1. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries from Nov. 1 to March 1.
Have questions?
Our info sessions are a great way to explore MRU programs, learn how to apply and connect with people who are here to help.
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Why MRU
At MRU, learning is about more than lectures and textbooks. It’s about evolving through experience. With small class sizes, supportive faculty and hands-on opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, push boundaries and uncover what they’re capable of. MRU helps students build the skills, confidence and curiosity to shape meaningful futures in Calgary and beyond.
Discover why MRULearn about the additional supports and services we have available specifically for:
International students Indigenous studentsContinuing Education
Mount Royal is pleased to offer five direct-entry diplomas and certificates and a multitude of continuing education courses and programs. View the full program listing to start your professional development.