Before enrolling in a college or university or committing any funds to one, it is critical to know whether it is “accredited.” This is especially true for non-traditional forms of education.
Accreditation is a quality assurance procedure that colleges, universities, and educational institutions or programmes go through to ensure they meet a set of strict and recognised service and operational standards. For fitness education institutions, accreditation of certification programmes is based on the program’s quality, validity, and dependability, as well as its competency-based examinations and capacity to distinguish between those who are qualified to practise in this industry and those who are not.
Because the health and fitness sector is highly unregulated, anyone can call themselves a fitness professional or a health coach. Hence, earning an authorised certification verifies that you have met the qualifications to work as a competent professional.
Types of accreditation
According to the Australian Qualifications Framework, qualifications in the vocational education and training sector in Australia are accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA), or the Western Australian Training Accreditation Council (TAC).
Generally, there are two types of accreditation: institutional and programme accreditation. Most accreditation is institutional meaning that an entire college is accredited, lending legitimacy to the college as a whole. This accreditation might be granted by a regional accreditation agency or a national accreditation agency.
On the other hand, program accreditation is specific to the programmes offered by a university or college. It is a review procedure conducted by an external team of experts from academia or industry to decide whether professional programmes, such as engineering, business, and law, fulfil defined quality standards.
Now that we know the types of accreditation let’s look at the benefits and importance of accreditation.Â
Benefits and importance of accreditation
Provides quality education
At its most fundamental, accreditation implies that a school provides high-quality education. Accreditation acts as a quality assurance system, ensuring that the institution’s curriculum, faculty, and resources meet the defined criteria. An accredited fitness education institution would provide comprehensive curricula covering a wide range of areas such as physiology, exercise science, nutrition, and others. These courses are designed to give you a well-rounded education, providing you with the knowledge and expertise you need to succeed in the fitness industry.Â
Career opportunities
The primary benefit of choosing accredited colleges or universities is the peace of mind of knowing that the degree or certification earned will be valid and recognised by current and future employers. A degree from an accredited college or university does more than enhance your resume: it is an invaluable tool for opening doors to better work offers. Employers frequently prefer fitness professionals with recognised certificates and qualifications. Completing an accredited course or any other fitness-related course indicates passion, knowledge, and a commitment to professional development. It opens doors to a variety of job paths, including personal training, group fitness instruction, sports coaching, and others.
Safety and ethics
Accredited programmes emphasise the need to adhere to ethical standards and safety measures when engaging in physical activities or dealing with customers. Accredited fitness education institutions always emphasise proper form, technique, and safety standards when participating in physical exercise. Understanding proper posture, breathing methods, and range of motion will help you avoid injuries and ensure an effective workout. Moreover, fitness professionals who have received the right training can also spot potential hazards and direct their clients towards routines suitable for their fitness level and health concerns. Hence, accredited college graduates are not only competent but also ethically responsible professionals.
Access to better instructors and resources
Enrolling at an approved institution ensures that you will be taught by highly competent professors who have met rigid accrediting body standards. These instructors frequently have advanced degrees, professional expertise, and a vital academic background. Their knowledge guarantees more than just a strong education; it also offers insightful advice and guidance that can help you advance your career and gain a significant edge in a cutthroat employment market.
Taking the next steps: Choosing the right fitness education institution
The Australian fitness market is expected to grow at an 11.09% annual rate (CAGR 2022-2027), translating into a projected market volume of USD 171.50 million by 2027. With this, getting your fitness certification from an accredited fitness education institution is crucial in this competitive industry.
Choosing a recognised fitness education institution ensures a more significant and impactful learning environment. Students who enrol in accredited fitness education institutions can expect to have access to top-notch resources, such as state-of-the-art facilities, up-to-date equipment, and experienced faculty. Along with having access to excellent resources, you’ll receive guidance from highly experienced instructors who adhere to strict standards. This guarantees that your education is of the best calibre and designed to match or surpass industry standards. These elements work together to create a well-rounded learning environment that supports students’ academic performance, personal development, and future professional success.
If you’re serious about making a long-term difference in the health and well-being of people while also boosting your career, then, a fitness certificate from an accredited institution is all you need. So, what are you waiting for? Read about our PT courses and embark on a road towards a successful career in the fitness business with the assurance of a recognised fitness education institution.
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