Course Overview
Are you intrigued by the physiology behind sport and want to better understand of what happens to the human body during exercise? To work in Sport and Exercise Science you require a range of interdisciplinary skills. This two-year qualification comprises of a selection of mandatory and optional units to enable learners to experience a range of areas within the field of study. A combination of both practical and theory-based learning will ensure learners are adequately prepared for the next step towards their desired sports related career. Year 1 consists of a Foundation Diploma programme after which students will enrol onto Year 2 and complete a full BTEC Level 3 national Extended Diploma ensuring progression to university level courses, higher apprenticeships or employment. Students may have the opportunity to gain further qualifications such as coaching awards, first aid and fitness instructing.
What will I learn?
The course will require you to complete the following mandatory units:
Foundation Diploma – Year One of Study:
• Functional Anatomy (90 credits)
• Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology (120 credits)
• Applied Research Methods in Sport and Exercise Science (90 credits)
• Coaching for Performance and Fitness (90 credits)
Extended Diploma – Year Two of Study:
• Sport and Exercise Physiology (120 credits)
• Field and Laboratory-based Fitness Testing (90 credits)
• Nutrition for Sport and Exercise Performance (120 credits)
There are also a number of optional units, which may include some of the following:
• Sports Massage (60 credits)
• Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise Science (60 credits)
• Specialised Fitness Testing (60 credits)
• Physical Activity for Individual and Group-based Exercise (60 credits)
• Sports Injury and Assessment (60 credits)
Study, Assessment and Qualifications
Assessment is primarily by portfolio building but will include some practical assessments and presentations. There is a substantial amount of theory which is backed up by practical pathways. Throughout the two-year study programme there are four externally assessed units which are completed under exam style conditions.
The Learning Resources Centre is available to enhance research and studying and electronic resources are available online.
In each year of the programme, you will be required to complete a 50-day work placement with an employer in an industry related to your course of study. This is a compulsory part of your programme and you will be expected to complete your work placement on non-college days.
You will be provided with additional information and guidance at interview, enrolment and during induction. The College will assist you in finding suitable placement opportunities in the industry and will support you throughout.
Entry Requirements
• 5 GCSEs Grade 4/C or above, or a BTEC / NCFE Level 2 Diploma Merit grade or above and Grade 4/C or above in English and maths.
• A satisfactory interview and reference.
Additional Costs and Information
A charge of approximately £350 will be required for off-site visits, equipment and uniform if you are doing this course. Financial assistance may be available for students who qualify. Students should contact Customer Services at the College for further details and a bursary application form.
Students who leave the course after successfully completing Year 1 with a BTEC Foundation Diploma (which is equivalent to 1 ½ A levels) can use this qualification to support progression into employment or further training.
What Could I Do Next?
You could continue your education on Foundation and Honours Degrees in Sports Science, Leisure Management, Physiotherapy or Sports Therapy and Strength and Conditioning, or move into employment in roles in the sports and leisure industry, such as sports coaching, health and fitness coaching and personal training.
