Adrian College adds new Bachelor of Science major, minor in Tactical Strength and Conditioning

Posted Friday, November 08, 2024
Author: Mickey Alvarado

Adrian College recently announced Michigan’s first Bachelor of Science major and minor in Tactical Strength and Conditioning, according to Tina Claiborne, Adrian College’s Athletic Training Program Director, who said the innovative program will equip students with specialized knowledge and skills to support the unique physical demands of tactical athletes.

Claiborne said there are many emerging opportunities in the fields of athletic training and exercise science, including work with tactical populations such as military, fire and rescue, law enforcement, protective services and other emergency personnel. Tactical strength and conditioning specialists increase the performance, readiness, and longevity of tactical athletes while decreasing the likelihood of fitness-related injuries.

Students in the new major program will complete general exercise science courses with the added instruction of the specialized needs of tactical personnel. At the end of the program, Claiborne said, students will be prepared for well-renowned national certifications including Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F) as well as Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS).

“In response to the growing need for professionals who understand the distinct challenges faced by tactical athletes, the program combines foundational exercise science courses with targeted education in tactical strength and conditioning,” Claiborne said.

Claiborne added that this interdisciplinary approach not only prepares graduates for careers in fitness and health promotion but also fosters partnerships with key industry stakeholders. Additionally, she said the minor provides graduates with complimentary cross-disciplinary education to support careers related to health, military and paramilitary.

“The academic minor option is perfect for students who are not exercise science majors, but want to be trained in human performance,” Claiborne said. “This minor pairs very well with criminal justice, business, psychology, and more. It will equip students with a fundamental understanding of tactical athletes’ unique physical demands and challenges.”

Claiborne said graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Tactical Strength and Conditioning will have diverse career opportunities in various sectors. Potential career paths include strength and conditioning coaches for military or law enforcement agencies, fitness program directors, exercise physiologists, and wellness coordinators for emergency services.

The program’s emphasis on community engagement and partnerships will also facilitate networking opportunities and job placements, Claiborne said.

Claiborne has been working closely with top specialists in the Army and Marines for years to develop a high-quality curriculum. This Spring, she is collaborating with Dr. Christopher Anderson, DAT, XPS, CSCS to deliver a course called “The Tactical Athlete.”

With advanced degrees in exercise science and athletic training, Anderson served in the Marines and is now the Director of Human Performance for the Marines in Quantico, VA.

The Tactical Strength and Conditioning program offers a dedicated core curriculum focused on tactical strength and conditioning principles. Examples of key courses include:

• The Tactical Athlete
• Principles of Strength and Conditioning
• Strength and Conditioning Program Design
• Human Nutrition
• Exercise Physiology and Lab
• Kinesiology
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Strength and Conditioning Exam Prep

“With the increasing emphasis on health and performance within tactical professions, Adrian College is proud to position our graduates to make a significant impact in their communities and get noticed,” Claiborne said. “We have received a fantastic initial response from students, and I only expect the opportunities for specialized coursework and practical experiences to grow.”

For more information about the Bachelor of Science or minor in Tactical Strength and Conditioning, email Claiborne at tclaiborne@adrian.edu or visit adrian.edu.