What are the requirements and target groups for the dual study programme in Fitness Training and Management?

The dual study programme in Fitness Training and Management is aimed at sports enthusiasts looking for a combination of practical career entry and academic qualification. You are particularly suitable if you want to work later as a fitness trainer, studio manager, in corporate health management, or in sports therapy. The programme is aimed at those who see fitness not only as a hobby but as a career with future prospects and who want to gain practical experience in the health and fitness industry. The course is open to high school graduates, but also to professionals without a high school diploma with appropriate training or advanced vocational training.

What formal admission requirements must you meet?

Access to the dual Bachelor's programme in Fitness Training and Management is possible through several pathways:

• With general university entrance qualification (Abitur), subject-specific university entrance qualification, or technical college entrance qualification (Fachabitur), you have direct access.
• Without a high school diploma, you can enter with a specific advanced vocational training, for example as a specialist or business economist, business administrator, specialist clerk, technician, master craftsman, or accountant.
• With a completed, at least two-year vocational training and up to three years of professional experience in the relevant field, entry is possible through a trial study according to LHG §58 paragraph 3.
• You need a practical partner from the fitness and health sector, such as a gym or a similar facility, where you will complete your practical phases.

All necessary documents and proofs must be submitted. The selection and application process for a practical partner are supported.

Personally, you should bring motivation for movement and health, enjoyment of contact with people, and interest in economic and digital topics. Organizational skills, sense of responsibility, initiative, and teamwork are also advantageous for the professional part-time study routine in the dual system. First experience in sports clubs or fitness clubs, through part-time jobs or internships in the fitness sector, is helpful but not mandatory.

What content and skills does the dual Bachelor's degree programme in Fitness Training and Management convey?

In the dual Fitness Training and Management programme at EHiP, you will acquire in-depth knowledge in economics, management, fitness sciences, as well as sports pedagogy and sports medicine. The curriculum is practice-oriented and interdisciplinary, allowing you to combine fitness training, economic fundamentals, and didactic competencies. The main areas of knowledge are:

• Business Fundamentals: Business Administration, Marketing, Business Management, Law, Accounting, and Finance
• Management and Organization: Personnel Management, Project Management, Quality Management, and Digital Management in the fitness sector
• Sports Science Content: Training and Exercise Science, Basic Sports Medicine, Anatomy, and Physiology
• Education and Didactics: Fitness Pedagogy, Group Training, Communication, Motivation, and Consulting
• Specialization Options: You can focus on the following within elective modules:
  • Fitness Marketing in the Digital World
  • Health Management
  • Sports Therapy
  • Personal Training
• Sports Practice and Reflection: Practical phases in the gym, sports-related internships, ongoing practice reflection
• Digital Skills: Digital business models, Big Data in the fitness sector, Social Media and digital marketing
• Theses: Academic work and Bachelor's thesis with colloquium

During the course of the programme, you can also obtain industry-specific licenses and certificates, including the Fitness Trainer C and B Licenses, certificates in health management, or communication training for coaches.

What is the structure of the dual distance learning programme?

The dual Fitness programme at EHiP is consistently focused on flexibility and practice. The main structural features are:

• Start of Studies Anytime: No semester rhythm, daily start possible
• Combination of Theory and Practice: The theoretical part takes place entirely online on the digital campus "myFOCUS," supplemented by practical phases at the practice partner (e.g. gym, health facility, company)
• Proportion of Practice/Working Time: Working time flexible between 20 and 35 hours per week, individually coordinated with the practice partner and adaptable to examination phases
• Support: Personal Study Coaches accompany you throughout the entire programme; close exchange with instructors
• Learning Formats: Digital scripts, instructional videos, web-based training, live online seminars, online working spaces
• Examinations: 100% online, no attendance requirement – examinations at freely selectable times
• Licenses: Acquisition of industry-specific certificates and licenses possible during the programme

The study structure is modular. You start with basic modules and gradually unlock advanced, specialization, and final modules. The individual pace and chosen specializations ensure a flexible design of your learning content and practical components.

What career opportunities does the Fitness Training and Management degree open up?

Graduates of the dual Bachelor's programme in Fitness Training and Management are qualified for diverse roles in the sports, fitness, and health sectors. Typical fields of application are:

• Management of Fitness Studios: Management, organization, and strategic management of fitness and health centers
• Self-employment as a Fitness Instructor: Training and course instruction in studios, companies, with health insurance companies, or in wellness facilities
• Sports Therapy: Development and implementation of movement therapy concepts in hospitals, rehab and health facilities
• Corporate Health Management: Planning, implementation, and evaluation of measures for corporate health promotion in companies
• Teaching: Consultation, coaching, and workshop execution on movement and health for private or corporate clients
• Leadership and Consulting: Taking on project management roles, establishing business units in the fitness market, business development positions

After completing the programme, you have the opportunity to apply for course licenses for preventive courses (§20 SGB V). The internationally recognized Bachelor of Arts also provides access to advanced Master's programmes and further qualifications in the fitness and health sector.

What are the costs and what financing options are available?

For the dual Fitness programme, there are no direct tuition fees for you as a student. The key facts about financing are:

• Tuition Fees: The entire fee is covered by your practice partner or employer
• Salary: During the programme, you typically receive a monthly salary, individually agreed with the practice partner. The amount depends on the region, company size, and your previous experience
• Additional Costs: Additional fees for specific certificates or supplementary exams may apply but depend on the choice of certificate and provider

Coverage of tuition fees and an additional salary ensure that you are financially independent and do not need student loans.