Sport and Exercise Science

Applied and Alternative Academic Qualifications

This course will see you explore the science behind sporting success. You’ll focus on physiology and nutrition, discovering more about the human anatomy and how it functions under the pressure of elite sport. On this course you will pair academic theory with practical skills, providing you with the knowledge and experience needed to pursue a range of roles within sport such as Teaching, Physiotherapy and Sports Nutrition.

This course is a Diploma (equivalent to 2 A Levels), however you can opt to study Applied Sport and Exercise Science in a number of other ways too. Please see the links below to find out more.

A Certificate (1 A Level equivalent)

An Extended Diploma (3 A Level equivalent)

Specific requirements

You’ll need to meet the entry criteria for your chosen pathway and a grade 4 within GCSE Science grades or a pass in a vocational Level 2 Science qualification.

For further information on the pathways, please click here.

HNC takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. This information is for guidance only. The College reserves the right to update and amend course information and entry criteria as and when necessary. Please note that from time to time we may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on applicant demand and other factors. Please check this website for the latest information and our current course offer.

Your learning experience

In this course you will study the subject in more depth, further developing your knowledge of Sport and Exercise Science. If you opt for this 2 A Level equivalent course your topics will include:

  • Functional anatomy
  • Applied psychology
  • Coaching for performance and fitness
  • Physical activity for individual and group-based exercise
  • Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise Science

An enriching experience

Studying Applied Sport at HNC is an enriching experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and interests, broadening your horizons and building your cultural capital. These experiences are integral to life at HNC and will help you to stand out from the crowd. Some of the experiences our Applied Sport students enjoy include:

  • Work placements, including to international destinations such as Lisbon and organisations such as Opta Sports
  • Visiting guest speakers who play sport at a national and international level
  • Visits to grow your physical skills such as to the English Institute of Sport and various outdoor challenge centres
  • Trips to universities and visiting guest lecturers
  • Taking part in lunchtime enrichments such as Sports Psychology, Tag Rugby and Match of the Day Analysis
  • Use of the indoor and outdoor gym facilities

Through your experience of practical activities and academic theory you will develop your self-confidence and communication skills. Inside the classroom you’ll enjoy a variety of learning methods, including group work, role play and presentations, which will develop your confidence, teamwork and communication skills – all of which are essential in the world of work.

Enlightening opportunities

We are proud of the unique experiences that are available to our students both inside and outside of the classroom. Our subject specialists will instil in you a love of learning, and challenge you to develop the required skills you’ll need to achieve the life-changing qualifications that will lead you to your dream career. Throughout your studies, your teachers will create an environment where you will be encouraged to discuss a wide-range of topics which will support you to develop an enlightened approach to the world around you. These discussions will be linked to your passions, study programme and your wider career ambitions.

How will you be assessed?

This course is assessed via presentations, group work and assignments, and externally assessed exams.

Where does it lead?

Students who gain this qualification progress on to a wide range of destinations, and the opportunities you can experience are vast, with students studying this qualification progressing to university, the world of work or degree level apprenticeships or successfully competing as professional athletes. There are naturally progression routes within the industry and our students secure careers in areas such as coaching, teaching and leisure centre management.

Popular degree pathways and jobs within the sector for students who complete this course include:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Sports Therapy
  • Teaching
  • Nutritionist
  • Sports Journalist
  • Sports Rehabilitation
Perfect pairings

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