Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Southern Institute of TechnologyBachelor of Sport and Exercise
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Duration
3 years
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Invercargill Campus
Summary
You will begin by studying foundation papers in exercise conditioning, nutrition, sport science, sports performance, personal training and management, before choosing a specialisation that aligns with your career goals. Combining scientific knowledge with practical, hands-on experience in small classes, the programme is designed to develop the skills, confidence, and industry experience needed to succeed in the sport, exercise, health, and recreation sectors.This quality degree offers the opportunity to major in:Exercise Science and Health PromotionTeaching and CoachingSport and Recreation ManagementStudy areas include anatomy, physiology, exercise prescription, strength and conditioning, nutrition, sports performance, coaching, rehabilitation, sports medicine, psychology, exercise physiology, outdoor projects, planning outdoor education, research, industry placements and advanced marketing, event management, sport science, teaching/coaching, applied exercise and nutrition/exercise as medicine.A strong emphasis on Sport and Exercise Science allows students to explore how the body responds and adapts to exercise, performance, training, recovery, and rehabilitation. Students gain practical experience conducting fitness and performance assessments, analysing data, and applying evidence-based approaches to improve health, wellness, and athletic performance.Students work with industry-leading equipment in SIT's Human Performance Centre, including a VO₂ metabolic cart, EMG and ECG system, an antigravity treadmill, 3D body composition analyser, watt-bikes, an eccentric bike, and a range of specialist testing and exercise equipment.Regular opportunities to work with clients (including local high-performance athletes) provide valuable real-world experience and help students apply classroom learning in practical settings. Graduates leave with a strong foundation in sport and exercise science, supported by practical skills and industry experience that are highly valued by employers and further study providers alike.
Entry criteria
School Leavers
University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 - Three subjects at Level 3 or above made up of the following:
14 credits each, in three approved subjects- Literacy - 10 credits at Level 2 or above made up of five credits in reading and five credits in writing
- Numeracy - 10 credits at Level 1 or above made up of specified achievement standards available through a range of subjects or unit standards - package of three numeracy unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627 - all three required
Notwithstanding the stated criteria, applicants will be considered where they can demonstrate a likelihood of success in the programme. This includes commitment to a sporting code and/or recent experience working in a sport and exercise related capacity in a sports related business or gym.
Mature Applicants
Applicants over the age of 20 years will be considered where they can demonstrate the ability to succeed in a programme. This includes successful completion of a programme of study at Level 4 or above and/or commitment to a sporting code and/or recent experience working in a sport and exercise related capacity in a sports related business or gym.
All applicants will be required to undergo police vetting for criminal convictions. This information will be shared as required with any placement agency as the majority of agencies working with children and young person’s now require this information to assist them in determining whether to accept students on placement. It is the agency’s right not to accept students and therefore some criminal convictions may seriously impede the student ability to complete the qualification.
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