Overview
*Subject to NZQA approval.
This programme provides students with an academic pathway into the sport science industry
Learn about both the theory and practical aspects of coaching, discover how to prescribe and deliver exercise programmes and gain outdoor recreation and leadership skills. You’ll learn about human anatomy and physiology, event planning, skill development, introduction to sport and exercise science, sociology and leadership. It’s the start of your pathway into the sport science industry.
We have great facilities, including a high performance lab at McKay Stadium, which gives the opportunity to learn advanced physical testing techniques using the latest technology. We also have a well-equipped gym on our Raumanga campus.
About this programme
This programme provides students with an academic pathway into the sport science industry. More than 1700 Northlanders are employed in the sport and recreation sector, making it Northland’s 7th biggest industry by employment.
NorthTec offers qualifications up to degree level in Sport, Recreation and Exercise:
- New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Level 5) (NorthTec qualification)
- New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Level 6) (NorthTec qualification)
- Bachelor of Sport and Recreation (AUT qualification - offered by NorthTec)
All credits gained in this programme can be used towards the Bachelor of Sport and Recreation.
What will you learn?
Gain the knowledge and skills needed to operate independently across the sport, recreation and exercise sector. Apply concepts and theories of exercise science to develop health and wellness solutions to meet the needs of individuals, groups and/or communities. Graduates will contribute to the cultural, social and economic wellbeing of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Graduates of this qualification will be able to:
- Integrate knowledge, concepts and trends from across the sport, recreation and exercise industries to inform professional practice.
- Plan, monitor and role model safe, ethical and professional practices and procedures for self, others and organisation while operating within sport, recreation and/or exercise environments.
- Lead and manage a range of tasks and activities within own scope of practice to achieve sport, recreation and exercise outcomes for individuals, groups and/or communities.
- Supervise others to ensure safe, ethical and professional practice and procedures in sport, recreation and/or exercise settings.
- Apply concepts and theories of exercise science to develop health and wellness solutions to meet the needs of individuals, groups and/or communities.
- Develop, coordinate and evaluate the delivery of a range of sport, recreation and/or exercise activities, programmes and/or events to meet the needs of individuals, groups and/or communities.
Entry Requirements
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to understand follow, and respond to instructions given in English.
- be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
Applicants under 20 years of age:
- 48 credits NCEA level 2 across 4 subjects or equivalent.
Applicants aged 20 years or above:
- No academic qualifications are required. Evidence to support an applicant’s ability to undertake the Programme with a reasonable likelihood of success may be requested.
English Language Requirements:
- All applicants must have a level of English sufficient to be able to study at this level. Those students whose first language is not English must have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall academic score of at least 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5; accepted international equivalence issued within the last two years, or a qualification considered to be equivalent to the above.
Special Entry:
- In exceptional circumstances, an applicant who does not meet the entry requirements may be granted entry to the Programme where they supply evidence to satisfy the programme’s Academic Leader or delegate of their ability to succeed on the Programme.
Police check:
- All applicants are required to authorise a Police Check for criminal convictions and disclose any pending charges.
Intakes & Applications
Dates & Bookings
How you will learn
Lectures, tutorials, workshops with independent study and flexible learning strategies - Face to Face, Distance (Online), and Blended.
Self-directed learning activities may include, but are not limited to: completion of video and assessments, group work, research, and current issues awareness.
Additional Costs
All students are expected to bring their own Internet capable device. (B.Y.O.D.). This can be any type of hardware that is able to connect to the Internet. Devices include iPads, laptops, Mac’s, PC’s tablets, or smartphones. Although any device can be used we recommend the purchase of a non-cellular iPad Air (32GB) with a Griffin Survivor protective case (minimum specifications, you can buy a newer model). Please contact us for further information.
Learn online with Open Polytechnic, with regional support by NorthTec:
- Access to a NorthTec facilities – computer/meeting room access, library and student support.
- Local workshops – optional workshops where you can be supported in your online learning with others studying the same programme as you. Located in Whangārei, Ngāwhā, Kerikeri, Kaitaia, & other campuses as demand requires.
Youth Guarantee Fund*
If you are aged 16 to 24, you could study for FREE as part of the government's Youth Guarantee fund. To qualify for the Youth Guarantee fund, you must meet the following criteria:
- Complete an application for a course that is covered by the Youth Guarantee fund.
- Be a NZ citizen or permanent resident.
- Be 16 to 24 years old at the time the course starts. Learners who are 15 years old and hold Ministry approved early leaving exemption from their school may also be eligible. This exemption must be in place before the course starts.
Priority places will be given to students who:
- have not yet achieved NCEA Level 1 or NCEA Level 2; or
- have completed a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification through a Youth Guarantee provision programme.
All free study is subject to funding confirmation. Proof of residency status is required. Programme entry criteria may apply. Eligibility for student allowances or student loans may vary. Contact Studylink for more information.
* All fees and study costs found on this website are indicative course fees only and exclude the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy and any course-related costs. The 2025 CSSF levy is $300 per full-time equivalent student (120 credits) for programmes level 3 and above.
Unless otherwise stated, prices are in New Zealand Dollars including GST. Prices that are not explicitly indicated as International are the domestic price and may differ for International students. For programmes longer than one academic year in duration, the fees quoted are for the first year. Final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. All fees and study costs are subject to confirmation, including zero fees courses.
Courses and programmes may be cancelled, postponed or have their content or configuration changed from time to time (including during the academic year) at the discretion of NorthTec. See our full Terms and conditions.
Additional Information
Career opportunities
This qualification could lead to employment (paid or volunteer) in a variety of roles such as: event supervisor; exercise consultant; hauora or health educator; Kaiarahi; OSCAR leader; recreation supervisor; recreation programme coordinator; sport development officer; sport coordinator; Whānau Ora leader.
Our Tutors
Our tutors love their work and what it means for community and individual health and wellness. From nutrition and skill acquisition to coaching and leadership, they all enjoy working in education and lifelong learning with a strong sense of “working all together”. NorthTec’s Sport and Recreation tutors hold qualifications in their fields at a Bachelor and Masters’ degree with some staff working on completing a Masters’ degree or PhD. With an emphasis on fun and fitness, the tutors feel the area of study has grown further into overall wellbeing rather than limiting learner activities to sport and exercise and they are passionate about sharing this with Northland.
Employment Pathways
About Te Pūkenga
Following the Government’s announcement of its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, please be assured that your programme of study or training will continue as planned while we work through the details of how this change will be implemented.
We are committed to ensuring that organisational changes that need to be made to meet the Government’s expectations do not impact the delivery of our programmes and training for our learners and employers.
If you need access to learner support services or have any concerns, please contact us.
