Level 3
Sport & Exercise Science, BTEC Extended Diploma
Level 3
Sport & Exercise Science, BTEC Extended Diploma
Turn your passion for sport into a dynamic career with the BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science. This advanced programme allows you to explore human performance in depth, covering anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology, nutrition, and applied sports training. You’ll combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience to understand how the body moves, adapts, and recovers, preparing you for a career in sport, fitness, health, or higher education.
Course Overview
Delivered at Loxton Campus, this full-time, two-year course offers immersive, career-focused training in the science of human performance. You will study in our purpose-built Health & Active Living Skills Centre, featuring sports laboratories, fully equipped fitness suites, and specialist practical spaces. The course combines classroom learning, interactive workshops, and practical sessions that allow you to apply theory directly to performance analysis, coaching, and exercise programme design.
Throughout the programme, you will develop professional skills and behaviours by participating in a fully functioning sports science and therapy clinic, analysing performance, designing training programmes, and engaging in applied projects. Your learning will be supported by expert tutors with industry experience and access to the Career Excellence Hub, giving you opportunities for guest lectures, work placements, and projects that build employability and professional networks.
You will also gain hands-on experience through work placements in sports-related settings such as fitness centres, sports clubs, or rehabilitation. The course provides the knowledge, practical skills, and professional insight required to progress to higher education or enter employment in the sport, health, and fitness sectors.
What will I study?
You will study a blend of foundational and applied topics that develop your expertise across all aspects of sport and exercise science:
Foundations of Sport and Exercise Science:
- Anatomy and physiology of the human body
- Principles of training and fitness
- Biomechanics and movement analysis
- Nutrition and health for performance
- Psychology and motivation in sport
Applied Topics and Advanced Skills:
- Fitness testing and programme design
- Performance analysis in sport
- Sports massage and therapy techniques
- Working in the sports industry
- Specialist units in Year Two such as sports psychology, research methods, or applied sports performance
Skills Development:
- Analysing and evaluating performance data
- Designing and implementing effective training programmes
- Problem-solving in applied sporting contexts
- Independent research, reporting, and presenting findings
How will I be assessed?
Assessment combines exams, coursework, presentations, and practical activities to ensure you demonstrate both theoretical understanding and applied competence. Across the two years, you will complete four formal exams, alongside project work and practical assignments. Assessments focus on real-world application and allow you to showcase your skills in sports performance, coaching, and analysis.
Additional Information
You will benefit from a wide range of experiences and opportunities to complement your studies, including:
- Work placements in sports clubs, gyms, and health organisations
- Practical workshops in coaching, fitness testing, and performance analysis
- Guest lectures from sports scientists, coaches, and industry professionals
- Participation in applied projects and research activities
- Access to the Career Excellence Hub, offering career guidance, networking opportunities, and support for university applications
Entry Requirements
- Five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including English, maths, and science
- A strong interest in sport, exercise, and human performance
- Commitment to practical and theoretical study over two years
What can I do after this course?
This diploma prepares you for higher education or employment in sport, health, and fitness-related careers. Career paths include:
- Sports Scientist or Performance Analyst
- PE Teacher or Coaching Professional
- Physiotherapist or Exercise Rehabilitation Specialist
- Personal Trainer or Fitness Instructor
- Sports Policy Adviser or Health Promotion Officer
- Nutritionist or Dietician
You can also progress to university degrees such as:
- Sports Studies BA (Hons)
- Sport and Exercise Science Foundation or Honours courses
- Sports Therapy or Physiotherapy
- Health and Fitness Management
- Coaching and Development Studies
At University Centre Weston, graduates may continue onto courses including:
- Sports Studies BA (Hons)
- Sport and Exercise Science degrees
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you’ll be taken through to our application portal.
What to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.