Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyNew Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Certificate
Duration
19 weeks
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
Our New Zealand Certificate in Exercise programme will give you a sound theoretical and practical base for working in the fitness industry.
The programme covers exercise professional practice, performance training, nutrition, anatomy and physiology. Class sizes are small, so you receive close attention and support from your tutors.
As part of your studies, you’ll connect with a variety of people representing the fitness industry. And because many of the courses within the programme are highly practical, you’ll spend considerable time in the gym.
The academic skills you acquire during the programme are transferrable into degrees such as the Bachelor of Applied Science in health promotion or sport and exercise science. Upon completion of this certificate you’ll be eligible to register for REPS registration (which is required to work as a personal trainer in gyms).
Part-time up to three years.
Entry criteria
Academic Requirements40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy credits and 10 numeracy credits
OR New Zealand Certificate in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Multi-Sector) (Level 3) OR a relevant qualification at NZQF Level2; OR a recognised equivalent
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Alternative RequirementsStill want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
English RequirementsOverall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
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