Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science


The Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Sport & Exercise Science is a vocational qualification designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in the sports and exercise industry. This program is typically completed over two years.

Coaching Science

The Higher Nationals in Sport & Exercise Science with the specialization in Coaching Science 

This program is typically completed over two years of full-time study or part-time over three to four years. Some of the issues associated with pursuing an HND in Coaching Science include the following:

Time commitment: Pursuing an HND in Coaching Science is a significant time commitment, with students typically studying full-time for two years. This may be a challenge for some individuals who have work or family commitments.

Academic rigor: The HND is a challenging academic program, and students will be expected to demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill across a range of topics related to coaching and athlete development.

Practical experience: The HND may require students to undertake a practical placement or work-based learning, which may be challenging to arrange.

Some of the benefits associated with pursuing an HND in Coaching Science include the following:

Career opportunities: Graduates of an HND in Coaching Science will have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, including roles in coaching, athlete development, and sport science support.

Advanced knowledge and skills: The HND provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in coaching and athlete development, including coaching assessment, planning, programming, and performance analysis.

Progression opportunities: The HND is a recognized qualification that can be used to progress onto further study, such as a related degree program or professional qualification.

Practical experience: The HND may provide students with opportunities to gain practical experience in coaching and athlete development through placements or work-based learning.

Networking opportunities: Students may have the opportunity to network with industry professionals, which can be beneficial for career development.

Overall, the HND in Coaching Science can be a valuable qualification for those seeking to pursue a career in coaching and athlete development

Exercise, Health & Lifestyle

The Higher Nationals in Sport & Exercise Science with the specialization in Exercise, Health & Lifestyle aims to provide specialization to the following areas: 

Anatomy and Physiology: Students will learn about the structure and function of the human body, including how the body responds to exercise.

Exercise Physiology: Students will learn about the physiological responses to exercise, including the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Nutrition: Students will learn about the role of nutrition in exercise and health, including the principles of healthy eating and the role of supplements.

Health and Lifestyle: Students will learn about the factors that influence health and lifestyle, including stress management, sleep, and physical activity.

Exercise Prescription: Students will learn about how to design and implement exercise programs for a variety of populations, including those with chronic health conditions.

Some of the benefits associated with pursuing an HND in Exercise, Health & Lifestyle include the following:

Career opportunities: Graduates of an HND in Exercise, Health & Lifestyle will have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, including roles in health and fitness, exercise referral, and health promotion.

Advanced knowledge and skills: The HND provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in exercise, health, and lifestyle, which can be applied in a range of settings.

Progression opportunities: The HND is a recognized qualification that can be used to progress onto further study, such as a related degree program or professional qualification.

Practical experience: The HND may provide students with opportunities to gain practical experience in exercise prescription and health promotion through placements or work-based learning.

Overall, the HND in Exercise, Health & Lifestyle can be a valuable qualification for those seeking to pursue a career in the health and fitness industry, providing advanced knowledge and skills that can be applied in a range of settings. However, it is important to consider the challenges associated with pursuing this qualification, including the time commitment and academic rigor.