Tactical Strength & Conditioning, Undergraduate Certificate

Online and On-Campus w/Online Courses

Program Available

Undergraduate Certificate

Program Type

Total Credits

15

Affordability

Private School Education At State School Prices

Why Study Tactical Strength & Conditioning?

The Tactical Strength and Conditioning (TSAC) undergraduate certificate program equips students to design and lead fitness testing and training programs for tactical and first-responder professions, such as military, law enforcement, fire, and search and rescue. Students apply key principles from nutrition, exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, and biomechanics to enhance performance, reduce the risk of injury, and promote long-term physical fitness. Completing the Tactical Strength & Conditioning Undergraduate Certificate program prepares graduates to sit for various certification exams, including the Tactical Strength & Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F) Certification Exam through the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA), the NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) or the ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C) exam.

What You’ll Learn

  • The Tactical Strength and Conditioning Certificate prepares you to design and implement evidence-based physical conditioning programs for tactical professionals by exploring training methods, coaching techniques, and strategies to maintain high fitness, endurance, and longevity levels while minimizing injury and burnout.
  • You will examine legal, political, and organizational challenges, address psychological and workplace-specific needs, and analyze case studies and current research to develop effective, real-world fitness interventions.
  • The tactical strength and conditioning program explores the scientific principles of exercise physiology as they apply to first responder professions, including police, fire, military, and emergency services.
  • You will learn about topics such as neuromuscular and cardiovascular physiology, bioenergetics, endocrinology, and training adaptations, with a focus on applying these concepts to job-specific demands, including load carriage, environmental stressors, and task-based needs analysis.
  • Park’s Tactical Strength and Conditioning Certificate allows you to tailor your program to your professional interests by choosing between a handful of electives: Human Nutrition, Medical Terminology, First Aid/CPR, Stress & Wellness: Current Approaches, Fitness Management, or Applied Health Behavior.

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Rebecca Kudrna

Dr. Rebecca Kudrna


Associate Professor, Parkville Campus
rebecca.kudrna@park.edu

Mike Swoboda

Dr. Mike Swoboda


Program Coordinator, Gilbert Campus
mswoboda@park.edu

Ashley Bloodgood

Ashley Bloodgood


Assistant Teaching Professor, Gilbert Campus
ashley.bloodgood@park.edu

Park University logo placeholder image

Gini Fite


Adjunct Instructor and Program Coordinator, Parkville Campus
gfite@park.edu

Tuition & Fees

Park University offers a transparent and student-focused approach to tuition and financial aid. Our tuition structure is designed to be competitive and manageable, and our financial aid counselors are available to guide you through every step of the process. From understanding your cost breakdown to exploring funding options, we ensure that financial planning is clear, personalized, and aligned with your educational journey.

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Admission Requirements

Park University’s undergraduate certificate programs are designed to help you build targeted skills without committing to a full degree. To apply, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent and meet standard undergraduate admission requirements. Each certificate includes a set of specialized courses, and to earn the certificate, you’ll need to maintain a 2.0 GPA and complete at least 50% of the program coursework at Park to meet the residency requirements. Whether you’re enhancing your resume or exploring a new field, we’re here to support your journey.

Visit Admissions Policies and Procedures to learn more about admission requirements at Park University.

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Tactical Strength & Conditioning Career & Future Opportunities

Municipal Police

Police officers work to protect lives and property by responding to calls, patrolling areas, and enforcing laws. They gather evidence, observe suspects, make arrests, and prepare detailed reports to support legal proceedings and testify in court when needed.

Fire Fighters

Firefighters respond to emergencies to extinguish fires, rescue individuals, and protect life, property, and the environment. They also provide medical aid, maintain equipment, participate in training drills, and document emergency incidents through detailed reports.

EMS Responders

EMS responders, also known as EMTs or paramedics, respond to emergency calls, assess patients’ conditions, and provide critical medical care, including first aid and life support. They transport patients to healthcare facilities, report their findings to medical staff, and maintain medical equipment and supplies.

Fitness Trainers & Instructors

Fitness trainers and instructors lead, instruct, and motivate individuals or groups of all ages and skill levels in various exercise activities, including cardiovascular workouts (for the heart and blood circulation), strength training, and stretching exercises.

Coaches

Coaches teach amateur and professional athletes the skills they need to succeed at their sport. Many coaches are also involved in scouting potential athletes for their team.

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*General salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education and opportunities for employment that are outside of Park University’s Control. The labor market and average salary range can be explored further at the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

FAQs: Tactical Strength & Conditioning, A.S.

Earning an undergraduate certificate in tactical strength and conditioning is a significant first step toward this career. Park University’s program equips you with the specialized knowledge necessary to train military personnel, first responders, and law enforcement. It also helps prepare you for industry-recognized certifications, which many employers look for in this field.

Yes, Park University’s certificate program is aligned with the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) standards and helps prepare students for the Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F) certification exam. The curriculum emphasizes physical conditioning, program design, and tactical performance strategies essential for military, law enforcement, and first responder roles.

Absolutely. The program is offered in a flexible online format, making it ideal for active-duty military, first responders, and working professionals. You’ll gain foundational knowledge in strength training, human performance, and tactical wellness without needing to attend in-person classes.

This certificate enhances qualifications for roles such as tactical strength coach, firefighter fitness coordinator, military performance specialist, or law enforcement wellness trainer. It’s also a valuable credential for those pursuing careers in physical therapy, athletic training, or human performance optimization.

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Class Start Dates: Term Dates

Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Park University is a private, non-profit, institution of higher learning since 1875.