Bachelor of Sport and Recreation

Programme Overview

This degree is designed for those passionate about physical activity, health, and community wellbeing. It combines scientific principles with practical leadership skills to prepare graduates for a wide range of roles in the sport and recreation industry.

Students explore how the human body responds to exercise, how to manage sporting organizations, and how to design inclusive recreation programmes. The programme features a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, utilizing Nelson’s unique natural environment and local sporting facilities for practical sessions and research.

What You'll Study

The curriculum builds from foundational human science to advanced professional application.

Year 1 (Level 5 Foundations):

• Human Science: Anatomy, Physiology, and Biomechanics basics.
• Industry Foundations: Introduction to Sport and Recreation in NZ, and Sociology of Sport.
• Practical Skills: Exercise Prescription and Coaching Fundamentals.

Year 2 (Level 6 Intermediate):

• Advanced Science: Exercise Physiology and Sport Psychology.
• Management: Sport Marketing, Event Management, and Research Methods.
• Nutrition: Sport and Exercise Nutrition.

Year 3 (Level 7 Mastery):

• Cooperative Project (Internship): A 30-credit placement where students work with a local sport or recreation provider to complete a significant project.
• Leadership: Strategic Management and Professional Practice in Sport.
• Specialized Topics: Advanced Coaching or Exercise for Special Populations (e.g., elderly or clinical rehabilitation).

Why Choose This Programme?

• Industry Placement: Gain 100+ hours of work experience through a major third-year cooperative project.
• Outdoor Lifestyle: Nelson offers world-class access to mountain biking, tramping, and water sports, which are integrated into the learning experience.
• Small Class Sizes: Benefit from a personalized learning environment and direct access to tutors who are active in the sports sector.
• Holistic Approach: Focuses on both the elite performance side of sport and the community-based "active for life" philosophy.

Entry Requirements

• Academic: NCEA Level 3 (with UE) or a relevant Level 4 Sport/Fitness qualification.
• Alternative Entry: Applicants over 20 without formal qualifications may be admitted via "Special Admission" based on relevant work or life experience in the sport sector.
• Health & Safety: Applicants must be physically capable of participating in practical exercise sessions. A First Aid certificate is often required prior to starting the third-year placement.
• Technology: A laptop is required for data analysis (e.g., performance tracking) and accessing the Moodle learning platform.
• English: IELTS Academic 6.0 (all bands 5.5+) or equivalent for non-native speakers.