Quick facts
| Qualification type | Level 3 Diploma |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Study times | You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:00 to 4:15. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements | A minimum of 5 GCSE passes at grade 5 or above, including maths and English at grade 4 or above. You will also be required to pass an interview. |
| Campus | West Suffolk College Sixth Form Campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes |
Is it for me?
The modules within this course are designed to provide you with a detailed insight into the vast array of careers and industries within the Sport and Exercise Science sector. Modules of study include Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, Sports Nutrition, Coaching for Performance, Research Methods, Sports Injuries, Sports Massage and Lab and Field-based Fitness Testing and more.
Students from this course regularly progress on to higher education, studying areas such as Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Physical Education, Sports Nutrition, and Sports Science. Others progress on to sector specific qualifications or directly into employment.
Throughout the course we work closely with local employers to develop specific experiences to enhance your vocational and industry relevant knowledge.
What you'll learn
- Anatomy
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Nutrition
- Coaching for Performance
- Research Methods
- Sports Injuries
- Sports Massage
- Lab and Field-based Fitness Testing
Any student who does not hold a GCSE at grade 9 to 4 or equivalent qualifications in maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.
Equipment required for the course
Practical sports clothing and a willingness to learn and engage.
Work experience placements
Work Experience remains a crucial part of your development. We have a wide range of partner employers for you to gain a valuable insight into the industry.
Assessment
You will be assessed in a variety of ways which are linked to industry standards and expectations.
Further study
- Sports Coaching and Development Level 3 Diploma
- Working in Sport and the Fitness Industries Level 3 Diploma
- Sport for Females Level 3 Diploma
- Advanced Personal Trainer Level 3 Diploma
- Bury Town Academy Football Performance and Excellence Level 3 Diploma
- Bury Town Academy Rugby Performance and Excellence Level 3 Diploma
Example careers
Personal Trainer
PE Teacher
Sports Coach
Sports Scout
Sports Massage Therapist
Physiotherapist
Umpire
Referee
Nutritionist
Sports Presenter
Sports Journalist
Sporting Event Co-ordinator
Athlete
Sports Development Officer
Leisure Centre Manager
Sports Promotion
Days & times
Starting September 2025
Tuesday
Thursday
Friday