DURATION
Two years full-time

INTRODUCTION

In recent years, sport and exercise scientists have been a growing presence in the world of sport. The core elements of anatomy, physiology, psychology and biomechanics are seen in almost every aspect of, and activity within, the sport and leisure industry. 

The BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND) gives great depth and specialisation into the various areas in the Sport and leisure Industry.

The HND is a two year fulltime course, with 8 modules in year 1 and a further 8 covered in year 2. The course is assignment based with no written exams, and while it is CSNs highest academic sports course it contains little or no practical element in most of the 16 modules. The course allows for progression into honour degree programmes in the UK, progression into Higher Education in Ireland or direct employment in leisure or sport industry, either directly on achieving the award or following further study to degree level. Learners who gain a HND in Sport & Exercise Science may apply for membership of the British Association of Sport & Exercise Science (BASES).

Main areas of study may include:

Year 1

• Anatomy & Physiology for Sport & Exercise
• Research Methods for Sport & Exercise Science
• Biomechanics for Sport
• Biochemistry of Exercise
• Research Project
• Training & Fitness for Sport & Exercise
• Work Based Experience
• Physical Activity, Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Year 2

• Sport & Exercise Psychology
• Sports Coaching
• Personal & Professional Development
• Nutrition for Sport & Exercise
• Prevention & Treatment of Injuries
• Field based Testing for Sport & Exercise
• Analysis of Sports Performance
• Physical Education

Career Prospects

Sport and Exercise Sciences is a rapidly growing discipline offering a wide range of employment opportunities in areas such as sport, exercise, leisure, health and education. Employers include National sports associations, national governing bodies, private leisure companies, leisure services, local authorities and educational and research establishments.

Entry Requirements

Places are limited and will be allocated on the basis of suitability at the interview.  The majority of successful applicants will have completed a FETAC 5 in Sport & Recreation award.

Students from the following categories can apply for interview:

• FETAC Level 5 (NCVA ) Sport& Recreation Award DSRXX with 4 Merits
• Leaving Cert  - with Higher level Biology
• Mature applicants (over 21 years) or applicants who hold a number of practical qualifications in the leisure industry and are highly motivated and focused will be considered on the basis of experience and overall ability.

All applicants must provide their Leaving Cert results or Pre Leaving Cert results along with any practical qualification certs attained.

FEES Year 1
Exam Fees – FETAC Level 5: €60
Exam Fees – BTEC: €220
Department of Education and Skills Fee: €200
Student Services: €220
Total:700

NCEF Conversion Course is expected to be offered to students who obtain the following criteria at a cost of €815 (May 2011 price).

CRITERIA: Successful completion of all three modules: Occupational First Aid 2) Exercise and Fitness 3) Anatomy and Physiology
PRIORITY will go to second year students.

FEES Year2
Exam Fees – FETAC Level 6: €60
Department of Education and Skills Fee: €200
Student Services: €220
Total: €480

NCEF Conversion Course is expected to be offered to students who obtain the following criteria at a cost of €815 (May 2011 price).

CRITERIA: Successful completion of all three modules: 1) Occupational First Aid 2) Exercise and Fitness 3) Anatomy and Physiology
PRIORITY will go to second year students.

FURTHER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Students who successfully complete the HND in Sport & Exercise Science may apply to a number of UK colleges (direct link with University of Sunderland) to study for one additional year to gain a BSc (Hons) in Sport & Exercise Sciences.  Graduates may also apply to transfer into a number of Third level colleges in Ireland also to the latter stage of various degree programmes.

CERTIFICATION

• BTEC Higher National Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science
• FETAC Level 5
• FETAC Level 6

COURSE DIRECTOR

- Patrick Gleeson
Email – p.gleeson@csn.ie