Springfield College is pleased to announce that both its undergraduate and graduate strength and conditioning programs have earned accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE). Of note, the graduate program is the first in the nation to achieve this accreditation status, and for undergraduate programs, one of only four programs nationwide.
Accreditation from CASCE, the only accrediting body for strength and conditioning programs, signifies a commitment to the highest standards of excellence, credibility, professionalism, and safety for strength and conditioning students, educational institutions, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) professionals, and their athletes.
Springfield College has a long history of excellence in strength and conditioning and the master’s degree program has received years of recognition of excellence.
“We are honored to be the first graduate program accredited by CASCE. This would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication to excellence from the faculty, staff, and students at Springfield College,” said Brian A. Thompson, PhD, CSCS*D, RSCC*E, PN1, AT-Ret, director of strength and conditioning and graduate strength and conditioning program director.
As one of the first to obtain the CASCE accreditation, it further cements the Springfield College Applied Exercise Science Program as a leader in the strength and conditioning industry.
“Obtaining this credential speaks volumes to the rigor and preparation our program provides undergraduate students,” said Elizabeth O’Neill, DPE, ACSM-EP, NSCA-CSCS, professor of exercise science and director of applied exercise science.
CASCE ensures that academic program standards and assessment of degree programs help establish a workforce equipped with the professional knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to meet industry standards and be successful in the strength and conditioning industry.
Susan Guyer, dean of the School of Physical Education, Performance, and Sport Leadership, remarked, “This recognition solidifies Springfield College continued presence as a national leader in the industry. Our faculty, facilities, and students we accept into the program are the best in the nation and I am proud of their work.”
The Springfield College Strength and Conditioning Program prepares students to work with athletes as strength and conditioning coaches in secondary school, collegiate, professional, and private settings. Students develop the skills and knowledge needed to design physiologically sound programs that enhance athletic performance, as well as the coaching skills needed to implement the programs.
