Sports and Exercise Science Level 3 - Sport

Why study Sport and Exercise Science Level 3 at Derby?

Access to industry-leading university facilities – You will learn using the high-standard facilities you’d see in industry, so upon completion of the qualification you’re ready for the workplace.
Learn from experts – You will learn from tutors with real industry knowledge and experience.
Real-world scenarios - Participate in practical team and individual sports, fitness testing, and coaching scenarios, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.
Varied learning - a mix of practical and theoretical learning to keep you engaged.
Create new opportunities - progress into higher education or careers in fitness, health promotion, coaching, or sports development.
Learn more – This programme delves into the psychological as well as the physiological, so you can gain a fuller understanding of the sporting industry.

In the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the key scientific principles that underpin physical activity, sports performance, and health.

What you will study

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology

Explore the structure and function of various body systems, including the skeletal, muscular, and cardiovascular systems, and understand how these systems respond to exercise.

Exercise, Health, and Lifestyle

Learn about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and assess the impact of factors such as diet, alcohol, and exercise on health.

Psychology for Sports Performance

Study the mental aspects of sports, including motivation, stress management, and the psychological factors that affect performance. Additionally, you can choose from optional units like Biomechanics, Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise, Sports Nutrition, and more to tailor the course to your interests.

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

How you will learn

The course is delivered through a combination of theory-based classroom learning and practical, hands-on sessions. You will:

Participate in practical team and individual sports, fitness testing, and coaching scenarios, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.
Complete assignments, such as producing health-related physical activity plans, conducting research projects, and preparing career portfolios.
Engage with a wide range of learning methods, including presentations, workshops, laboratory experiments, and group discussions.
Use equipment and resources under the guidance of experienced Lecturers who will help you develop both academic and practical skills in sport and exercise science.

Careers

With this qualification you could look forward to a future career as a Sports Scientist, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Health and Fitness Instructor or Personal Trainer, Sports Coach, Fitness and Health Promotion Specialist, Sports Development Officer, or with further study become a Sports Nutritionist, or Physical Education (PE) Teacher, Sports Psychologist, or Exercise Physiologist.

Entry requirements

You will need a minimum of four Grade 4 GCSEs (at least one must be Maths or English) OR achieved a Level 2 college course qualification along with Grade 4 GCSE English or Maths, or Level 1 Functional skills (if you don't achieve these please contact us so that we can discuss your options).

Fees and funding

If you are aged 16-18 on 31 August 2025, you will not usually pay tuition fees for your course. Most full-time college-level study programmes are fully funded for this age group.

However, you may still have additional costs, including: travel to and from college, uniforms, kits, and equipment, educational trips, meals while at college, childcare (if applicable).

This is where the college bursary can help support you.

How to apply

Ready to take the next step? Applying is quick and easy, just complete our online application form using the link below.

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Additional information about your studies

2 years

Course updates

The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.