The legacy of the Olympic and Paralympic Games has increased sports participation and enthusiasm at all levels, creating a demand in the sports science and sports therapy fields. If you're looking to pursue a career in sports science or sports therapy, then this two-year course is an ideal starting point.

The course will will provide you with a balance of academic and practical learning, however, it is important to note that there is a significant amount of research involved in studying for this qualification. At our state-of-the-art sport facilities, we will ensure you have access to the best training and teaching resources.

Complete work experience in your first year to be part of a real-life sports environment and grow your network of contacts. Your modules could include Functional Anatomy, Applied Psychology, Sport and Exercise Physiology, Research Methods, and Sports Massage.

Modules will include:

• Sport and Exercise Physiology
• Functional Anatomy
• Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology
• Nutrition
• Field and Lab Based Fitness Testing

You will be able to utilise the extensive range of facilities that are available here including sports laboratories, the Sports Academy Centre and the therapy suite.

Diploma courses combine classroom-based theory with extensive hands-on learning in real-world environments. Lessons are delivered in our modern College Learning Centre and specialist teaching spaces, using contemporary classrooms with smart boards, well-equipped libraries, and dedicated course facilities.

You’ll take part in practical sessions in our professional sports environment with access to the latest facilities, developing the technical skills and industry knowledge employers are looking for.

Learning is varied and interactive, with individual projects, group activities, and practical assessments alongside written work. You’ll complete regular assignments and coursework tasks.

Diploma timetables are designed to support participation in sport, clubs, and a full enrichment programme to enhance employability skills and personal development.

You’ll be supported by a pastoral tutor, as well as our academic and wellbeing teams, who provide workshops, one-to-one guidance, and online resources. All students also have access to medical professionals on campus.

During this course you will be assessed through both written and practical assessments. You will sit two exams with internal coursework assessments for the remaining modules. Internal coursework assessments will have a variety of assessment methods such as written reports, practical assessments and presentations.

To help prepare you for your exams throughout the course, you’ll complete regular end-of-topic assessments, homework tasks and mock exams. These will help track your progress and highlight areas to improve.

This course prepares students for careers in sport, health and education, including roles such as youth sports coach, personal trainer, nutritionist, sports analyst, teacher or sport-specific coach. Many go on to become personal trainers, earn scholarships to study in America or progress into higher education.

Further study options include degrees such as BSc (Hons) Sports Business Management, BSc (Hons) Physical Education and School Sport, BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching or BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy.

These progression routes support national skills priorities around health, physical activity, STEM, teaching support and mental health. At a local level, the course helps develop skills for youth employment, meets employer needs and supports progression into regional careers that contribute to Gloucestershire’s economic growth and wellbeing.