HNCPearson BTEC Higher National Certificate
Sport and Exercise Science
You'll study performance analysis, exercise physiology, sports coaching and nutrition and health. A Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate: Level 4, 120 credits. It is also the first year of the HND.
Full title: Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Sport and Exercise Science
- Level
- Level 4Higher National Certificate
- Size
- 120credits
- Units
- 7 mandatoryplus 1 optional listed
- For
- School leavers and adults
01What you'll study
Four areas of study.
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Performance Analysis
Utilize advanced data and video analysis techniques to evaluate and enhance athletic performance.
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Exercise Physiology
Gain an in-depth understanding of the human body's response to physical activity and exercise stress.
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Sports Coaching
Develop effective coaching strategies, leadership skills, and an understanding of diverse athlete needs.
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Nutrition & Health
Explore the role of nutrition in performance and the impact of physical activity on community health.
Where you learn
In Lisbon, or wherever you are.
The same Pearson qualification, whichever way you study.
02The units
What's on the course.
Mandatory units, plus optional units. Your final set of optional units is confirmed with your academic team.
- Mandatory
- 7
- Optional listed
- 1
- PSA units
- 1
- Unit 1 Nutrition 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 2 Fundamentals of Sport & Exercise Psychology 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 3 Anatomy & Physiology 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 4 Professional SkillsPSA 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 5 Coaching Practice & Skill Development 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 6 Training, Fitness, Testing 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 7 Physical Activity, Lifestyle & Health 15 Credits Mandatory
- Unit 8 Lifestyle Coaching 15 Credits Optional
PSA Pearson Set Assignment: a unit assessed through an assignment that Pearson sets.
03How you're assessed
Assessed through assignments.
Assignment-based, with a Pearson-set assignment unit.
Assessment at a glance
- PSA units use Pearson briefs with external verification standards.
Skills you build
- Exercise physiology, biomechanics, and performance analysis
- Sports coaching, leadership, and athlete development
- Nutritional planning and health promotion strategies
- Research methodology and evidence-based practice in sport
04Where it leads
Every level opens the next.
The HNC is the first year of the HND (Level 5).
- L3 Sports Coaching and Development Level 3
- HNC Sport and Exercise Science This course
- HND Sport and Exercise Science HND (Level 5)
- Degree top-up On application
What is the difference between an HNC and an HND?
An HNC is a Level 4 qualification worth 120 credits. An HND is a Level 5 qualification worth 240 credits: the HNC year plus 120 credits at Level 5.
How is it assessed?
Through assignments (coursework). Higher Nationals include a Pearson-set assignment unit at each level.
Can an HND lead to a degree?
HND graduates can apply to top up to a bachelor's degree, usually entering the final year, at universities that accept HNDs. Entry is subject to each university's own requirements.
What does it cost?
Fees are set by level, with and without boarding. The HNC (Level 4) figures are on the fees page. See the fees.
How do I apply?
Send us an enquiry with the subject and level you are interested in. We'll get back to you to talk through your options and the next steps.
06Start here
Where will you start?
Tell us about yourself, what you'd like to study and whether you'd rather join us in Lisbon or online. We'll suggest a starting level and talk you through your options.