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SPORT AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
Level 3
BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science
Course Level
Level 3
Duration
2 years full-time
Placement
Included in course
Entry
September
Fees
View fees
Gain a recognised Level 3 qualification equivalent to three A-levels
Access to a state-of-the-art pitch and more facilities at Avery Fields
Understanding the science behind sport and exercise helps address a range of challenges we face, from tackling obesity, physical inactivity and unhealthy ageing to enhancing the performance of elite athletes. Our Sport and Exercise Science college course combines theoretical knowledge with a range of practical applications to help prepare you for working in the sports industry.
This nationally-recognised BTEC course explores how a range of disciplines – including physiology, psychology, field and lab-based fitness testing and biomechanics in sport and exercise science – can be applied to boost sports performance, physical activity, health and wellbeing. You will have the chance to complete laboratory testing in state-of-the-art facilities to support your knowledge, and you will gain the essential skills and understanding of the sports sector to progress onto a variety of rewarding careers or university courses, from sports therapy or physiotherapy to sports psychology and sports nutrition.
To further enhance your industry knowledge, our Level 3 sports science course features a range of enrichment opportunities, including a visit to St George's Park to experience professional sport science procedures. You will also have the chance to put your training into practice on work placement, as well as gaining a range of additional sports qualifications including gym instruction and emergency first aid.
Avery Fields features an all-weather pitch situated alongside two grass pitches and an impressive clubhouse
The clubhouse at Avery Fields includes a function room, modern changing facilities and a physiotherapy suite
Open to the public, our sports injury clinics at Summer Row give students the opportunity to develop their massage skills
You will have use of the FE gym at Summer Row, dedicated for use by our college students
You will also have access to the sports facilities at The Maltings, including the gym and sports hall
Key information
Teaching and assessment
You will be required to prepare work independently and as part of a team. You will be assessed through coursework, assignments, projects, practical observations and presentations, some of which will involve industry-related visits.
To pass this course, you will carry out a wide range of assessment activities and coursework (e.g. written reports, formal presentations, poster design and presentation, leading practical sessions etc.)
Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Learning and Teaching Strategy 2025-2030.
Additional qualifications and training
Our course offers opportunities to gain additional qualifications alongside your studies, such as:
- Level 2 Gym Instructor
- Emergency First Aid
- Safeguarding
Uniform and kit costs
This course requires a uniform and kit costing approximately £50, depending on the items you purchase. (Prices are subject to change each year – exact costs and information on how to order required items will be provided to you prior to enrolment.)
Latest updates
Join the conversation and check out the latest updates from the department of Sport and Nutrition.
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UCB Sports |
"Sport and exercise is an ever-growing global industry with fitness and participation levels constantly bringing about societal challenges. This course will give students the ability to respond to these challenges by exploring the profession and supporting greater physical activity and elite performance. The students will benefit from a range of modules giving them greater career opportunities within the sector."
Career opportunities
The example roles and salaries below are intended as a guide only.
Sports therapist (privately/with a professional team)
£17,000 - £35,000
Exercise physiology lecturer
Average Salary: £24,000
Sports nutritionist
Average Salary: £25,000
Sports scientist
Average Salary: £26,500
Megan's Story
After a decade competing as a track and field athlete, lecturer Megan went on to develop her own sports therapy business as well as working with top sports clubs.
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