BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Course in Loughborough. Classes run at Main Campus, full-time during the day. Fees may apply depending on your age and circumstances, though fee remission may be available. Contact the centre to find out what applies to you. The course takes one year and covers sports physiology, functional anatomy, applied psychology, nutrition, performance coaching, and research methods. You'll complete 13 units through a mix of coursework and four external examinations. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, Maths, and a science subject. Mature applicants are considered on the basis of previous qualifications or relevant experience.
Who this course is for
If you are enthusiastic about the development and analysis of physical activity and performance, a career in sport & exercise science could be perfect for you. This vocational course explores different areas of employment in the sports sector but focuses on sports science. It offers a solid foundation in the various aspects of sport, enabling you to develop the skills necessary for gaining employment in the sports sector or progressing into Higher Education.
Entry requirements
Five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English Language, Maths, and a
Science subject (Biology, Chemistry or Physics).
Mature students will be considered based on their previous qualifications
and/or relevant work experience.
What you will learn
You'll study the physiological systems that underpin physical performance and exercise.
You'll explore applied sport and exercise psychology and how it affects performance.
You'll develop knowledge of functional anatomy relevant to sport and movement.
You'll examine nutrition principles for sport and exercise performance.
You'll learn performance coaching methods for fitness and competitive sport.
You'll apply research methods to analyse sport and exercise science data.
You'll complete written reports, portfolios, presentations, and practical assessments across the course.
How you will learn
Teaching is classroom-based and delivered in a vocational style. Assessment methods include written reports, portfolios, posters, verbal assessments, presentations, and practical observations. You will also sit four external examinations as part of the course. There are trips and team-building activities included throughout the year, and you will have the opportunity to work toward additional awards alongside the main qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Main Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports coach, supporting athletes to develop skills and performance
Fitness instructor, planning and leading exercise sessions for clients
Personal trainer, designing individual training programmes
Sports development officer, promoting participation in local sport
Exercise referral specialist, supporting clients with health conditions
Sports analyst, collecting and interpreting performance data
Leisure centre supervisor, managing facilities and activity programmes
What you could study next
A degree in Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, or Physiology at university. The Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma is recognised for UCAS points and supports applications to relevant degree programmes, including at universities such as Loughborough, Durham, and Exeter.
A Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Sport, if you prefer a vocational higher education route before committing to a full degree.
