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Where will this course lead?

The Level 4 Higher National Certificate provides a solid grounding in Sport & Exercise

Science and Coaching, which students can build on should they decide to continue their studies beyond the Certificate stage.

The Level 5 Higher National Diploma allows students to specialise by committing to specific career paths and progression routes to degree level study.

On successful completion of the Level 5 Higher National Diploma, students can develop their careers in the Sport & Exercise Science and Coaching sector through:

  • Entering employment such as: Sport Coach, Community Sports Leader, Performance Developer.
  • Continuing existing employment.
  • Linking with the appropriate Professional Body.
  • Linking with the appropriate certificates.
  • Committing to Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
  • Progressing to university.

What will I study?

Are you passionate about sports and fascinated by the science behind athletic excellence? Our Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Sport & Exercise Science (Coaching Science) is the perfect launchpad for your ambitions!

This comprehensive programme offers a robust introduction to the fundamental pillars of sport science:

  • Nutrition: Understand the fuel that powers athletes.
  • Fundamentals of Sport & Exercise Psychology: Dive into the mindset of champions.
  • Anatomy & Physiology: Explore the human body's capabilities.
  • Professional Skills (Pearson-set unit): Sharpen your expertise with industry-relevant skills.

Our curriculum is designed to equip you with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for a successful career in the sport sector. You'll engage with a variety of units including:

  • Coaching Practice & Skill Development: Master the art of coaching.
  • Training, Fitness Testing: Measure athletic performance.
  • Physical Activity, Lifestyle & Health: Promote wellness through sports.
  • Lifestyle Coaching: Guide others to achieve their fitness goals.

These units not only reinforce your core knowledge but also provide transferrable skills that are invaluable in the industry. As you progress, you'll be perfectly positioned for subject specialisation at Level 5.

Aspiring sports professionals, take your expertise to the next level with our Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science (Coaching Science). This programme is designed to challenge your abilities and expand your knowledge in the world of sports.

Here's what our Level 5 HND offers:

  • Community Coaching: Engage with the heart of sports in the community.
  • Sports Massage: Learn techniques for athlete recovery and injury prevention.
  • Biomechanics: Delve into the mechanics of human movement.
  • Injury Prevention: Equip yourself with strategies to safeguard athletes.
  • Technology in Sport: Harness cutting-edge tools to enhance coaching practices.

Our course is more than just a qualification; it's a journey into the core of sports science. You'll explore:

  • Advanced Coaching Practices: Stay ahead with the latest methodologies.
  • Fundamental Skills Application: Boost performance with foundational knowledge.
  • Human Physiology: Gain a deeper understanding of the body's potential.
  • Nutrition: Tailor dietary strategies for peak athletic performance.
  • Performance Analysis: Refine tactics with precise data.
  • Talent Identification: Discover the stars of tomorrow.
  • Strength & Conditioning: Build the power behind the performance.

Our HND programme will enhance your opportunities of becoming a leader in sports science and coaching. With a focus on practical application and theoretical understanding, you'll be well-equipped to enhance not just athletes' performance, but also their lives.

Take the leap and join our Level 5 HND in Sport and Exercise Science.

How will this course be delivered?

Our comprehensive sport course is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in various aspects of sports science and management. Led by highly qualified sport lecturers who specialise in their respective fields, this course offers a dynamic learning experience.

Key Features:

  • Expert Faculty: Our sport lecturers bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the classroom. They are passionate about fostering a deep understanding of sports-related topics.
  • Twice-Weekly Sessions: Throughout the academic year, students will engage in two weekly sessions. These sessions include a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, and practical lessons.
  • Tailored Activities: We recognise that each student has unique needs and interests. Therefore, our course activities are customised to meet the diverse requirements of our group members.
  • One-on-One Support: During tutorial lessons, students will have the opportunity for personalised one-on-one support. Whether it's clarifying concepts or addressing specific challenges, our lecturers are committed to helping students succeed.

What qualifications will I get?

Higher National Certificate in Sports and Exercise Science (Year one).

Higher National Diploma in Sports and Exercise Science (Year two).

How will I be assessed?

The units will be assessed by the combination of multiple assessment methods such as:

  • Reports
  • Essays
  • Practical assessment
  • Case study
  • Research project
  • Presentations
  • Logbooks.

How do I get a place on the course?

All applications are to be completed and submitted through UCAS using the following codes:

UCAS Course Code: 006F

Institution Code: S26 (Solihull College & University Centre)

Campus: Blossomfield Campus

Applicants must meet the entry requirements and attend a formal interview at Solihull & University Centre.

If you have a learning difficulty or disability, please let us know when you apply for the for the course. You will be offered support in your interview. If you need help completing your application, we can help you. Please contact us at: https://www.solihull.ac.uk/uni-level-learner/student-services.

What are the entry requirements?

The students should have a minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points which may arise from any or a combination of the following:

  • BTEC Level 3 qualification in Sport, Fitness, Coaching, or Sport & Exercise Science at a minimum grade of PM or PPP.?
  • GCSE grades at A* to C (or equivalent) and/or 9 to 4 (or equivalent) in subjects such as maths and English.?
  • An Access to Higher Education Diploma from an approved further education institution.?
  • T-Level Pass (with C or above on the core)

We will consider non-standard entrants who have relevant work experience plus other relevant Level 3 qualifications, international qualifications, or Pearson's Recognition of Prior Learning.

In addition to the entry requirements mentioned above, students who are non-native English speakers, and who have not carried out their final two years of schooling in English must be able to demonstrate ability at a standard equivalent to:??

  • Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2.
  • PTE Academic 51; or
  • IELTS 5.5 (reading and writing must be at 5.5).

Students who have completed a Pearson BTEC Higher National qualification delivered partly or completely in another language but assessed in English will need to demonstrate ability in English to the standard above but at the end of the programme.?

What else do I need to know?

This course is a full-time programme, which requires attendance for timetabled sessions at college for 2 days per week, plus at least 1 day of directed personal study. Timetables will be issued to successful applicants at induction and enrolment in September of the current Academic year.

If you are applying for financial help from Student Finance England, then you should do this as soon as possible to ensure your funding is in place for the start of your course. https://www.gov.uk/student-finance

Please note that when you enrol you are accepting that the course content and module descriptions are accurate at the time of publishing and that the course content as described is based on what is possible to deliver under the government advice and social distancing rules at that particular time. In the event of changes made to those rules, by national or local government, the University Centre may need to make further alterations to the published course content. By enrolling with the University Centre, you will be confirming that you are content to proceed with the course as detailed at that time and on the basis that the programme may be subject to reasonable change.

Additional costs: It is recommended that you budget for your own laptop. If this is not possible, there are IT resources available for your use during your studies at the University Centre.

Whilst the College provides access to physical and e-books, students may wish to budget for their own books, and printing costs, as well as any mandatory trips that take place throughout the year (we suggest a budget up to £200 per academic year will be sufficient).

What can I do after this course?

The Level 5 Higher National Diploma is recognised by Higher Education providers as meeting admission requirements to many relevant Sport & Exercise Science-related courses, for example:

  • BA (Hons) Sport & Fitness Studies
  • BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
  • BSc (Hons) Sports Studies.
  • Community coaching employment.
  • S&C interim position at local clubs.
  • Sport science interim position at local clubs.
  • Fitness training related jobs.

Students should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes at specific Higher Education providers. After completing a BTEC Higher National Certificate or Diploma, students can also progress directly into employment.

Location

Blossomfield Campus

Start Date

Sept-2025

Day

Tuesday, Wednesday

Time

09:00-13:00

Course Fee(PA)

£6500

Course Code

SPCBF081BCF0

Study Mode

Part Time

HNC/HND Sport & Exercise Science (Coaching Science)

What’s Involved?

Predicted Employment

How much can I earn?

£17,680
NATIONAL AVERAGE

Employment by Region

The career paths provided are to give you an idea of the careers that you could progress onto in the future. However, for some, you may need to complete higher level qualifications and gain experience before your dream job becomes a reality. The information provided is to support further research and to generate some initial career ideas when choosing a course. Please check entry requirements to degree courses, apprenticeships, and jobs as this may vary from year to year and across providers. For further advice and guidance, please contact: careers@solihull.ac.uk.