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NRC Logo

Course Code
PFFC02084
Level
Level 3
Course Type
Further Education
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
2 Years
Start & End
1 September 2026 - 2 June 2028
Location
Coleraine
Information Session Required
Yes

All units are assessed, and graded and an overall grade for the qualification.

The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science is a practical and work-related course where you will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you will develop the skills you need to pursue a career in sports science.  This course is equivalent to three A Levels which means when you will have the opportunity to enter employment in the sports and leisure sector or progress to university or College to study a related higher education programme. 

What will you study?

Units include:

  • Anatomy for Sport and Exercise
  • Sport and Exercise Physiology
  • Sport and Exercise Psychology
  • Sports Biomechanics in Action

You will also have the opportunity to gain supplementary support and coaching to enhance your football ability and athletic development to pursue a career in football such as:

  • Up to 10 hours additional training per week delivered by UEFA License coaches
  • 20+ College football games per year
  • Scholarship opportunities in America
  • Fitness testing every 8 weeks (STATSports, Veo camera analysis)

If you are accepted onto this course without a Grade C or above in Maths and/or English you will be required to complete the relevant Essential Skills qualification. This will be a compulsory part of your timetable.

Level 3 BTEC Extended Diplomas are valued by employers and higher education (universities and colleges). The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport & Exercise Sciences provides a very good preparation for going onto a BTEC Higher National or a degree in Sports Science and related subjects.

If you want to get a job straight away depending on your specialist units you could work in:

  • Sports psychology
  • The health and fitness industry
  • Sports development
  • Sports injuries clinics
  • Coaching

If you decide to go to university or college you could take a degree or a BTEC Higher National in subjects such as:

  • Sport and exercise sciences
  • Sports science
  • Sports studies
  • Physical education
  • Coaching science
  • B Ed (to go into teaching)

Applicants must be at least 16 years of age on or before 1 July in the year of proposed entry to the course and have at least 4 GCSEs at Grade C or above, or other relevant qualifications, or appropriate work experience.

Course Fees

No fees.

For most students, full-time Further Education courses at Level 1-3, including Apprenticeships, have no course fees.  


Level 1-3 Further Education (full-time)

  • Aged 16-18: no tuition fees apply.  
  • Aged 19:24: If you have already achieved a full Level 3 qualification, fees will apply.  
  • Aged 25 or over: Tuition fees will apply unless you are in receipt of a Further Education (FE) grant. Admission to full-time Further Education courses for applicants aged 25+ will be considered on an individual basis at the College’s discretion.

Level 3 Access Courses (full-time)

  • If you are in receipt of a Further Education (FE) grant, no fees apply.
  • If you are aged 19 or over and have already achieved a Level 3 qualification (equivalent to 3 A-Levels), fees will apply.

Fee information is available from any campus reception.

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