Bachelor of Applied Science (Sport and Exercise Science)
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Develop the practical skills and expertise needed to work in a wide range of sports, health and exercise science fields. Gain hands-on experience with modern equipment and participate in practical sessions and industry placements.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 3 years


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Develop practical sport and exercise science skills
Gain hands-on expertise and experience in sport and exercise science through theoretical study and practical sessions.

Evaluate, facilitate and enhance sports performance
Learn to use current scientific principles and technologies to analyse and optimise athletic and exercise performance in a variety of contexts.

Apply scientific principles across sport science disciplines
Understand the interrelationships among exercise physiology, sports nutrition, biomechanics, and sports psychology.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Applied Science (Sport and Exercise Science) is a three-year degree where students study theory and practical aspects of sport and exercise science, including work placements in sports, health, and exercise contexts. The programme covers exercise physiology, sports nutrition, biomechanics, sports psychology, training for enhanced sports performance, applied sport science testing, and performance analysis. Students gain extensive lab and field-based experience, undertake industry placements, and develop capabilities in evaluating and enhancing sporting performance.
Course Content
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Professional Communication
- Health and Fitness Assessment
- People, Food and Environment
- Introduction to Nutrition
- Professional Development for Industry
- Preparation for Professional Practice
- Introduction to Sport and Exercise
- Sports Psychology 1
- Child and Adolescent Development and Health
- Business Functions
- Introduction to Marketing
- Introduction to Digital Marketing
- Maori Language Grammar
- Event Planning and Management
- Global Challenges; Sustainable Futures
- Health, Safety and Wellbeing Leadership
- Principles of Leadership
- Project Management
- Physical Activity and Rehabilitation
- Psychology of Development and Performance
- Advanced Training for Strength and Power
- Exercise and Health Psychology
- Nutrition Psychology
- Endurance Sports Performance
- Research Design and Statistics
- Sport and Performance Analysis
- Nutrition Management
- Industry Practicum 1
- Exercise Prescription and Programming
- Wanaka Hauora
- Clinical Skills in Nutrition
- Special Topics in Sports Performance and Conditioning
- Sports Evaluation and Performance
- The Psychology of Sports Excellence
- Industry Project in Applied Science
- Information and Policy in Sport Management
- Industry Practicum 2
What you need to know first
New Zealand University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) including 14 credits at Level 3 in Biology/Human Biology/Physical Education and another subject (preferably Health, Physics, Statistics, Maths, Chemistry, Geography, Psychology), one other approved subject, Literacy (10 credits at Level 2 or above), Numeracy/Maths (10 credits at Level 1 or above)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) - Ara Applied Science Pathway or equivalent
Provide evidence of good character and personal attributes (two referee reports)
Consent to Disclosure of Information (police check as required for placements)
Alternative entry may be considered based on equivalent skills demonstrated by work, study, or life experience

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Sport and Recreation
Health
Exercise Science

Future employment opportunities might be
Sport scientist
Performance analyst
Strength and conditioning specialist
Sports development officer
Sport and exercise consultant
Further study options


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