HND Applied Sport Science

The HND in Applied Sport Science provides candidates with an appropriate mix of knowledge, understanding and practical skills to pursue a career in the field of applied sport science in a variety of settings or to progress to Higher Education.

The first year of study follows an industry tried and tested programme, HNC Fitness, Health and Exercise.

The second year of study builds upon these foundations to specialise more on Sport Science skills such as Analysis of Performance and Skill Acquisition Techniques, investigates funding streams to support talented athletes and introduces advanced techniques such as Strength training and Motion Analysis.

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Entry

As with all SQA qualifications, access to the award will be at the discretion of the centre.

To achieve the HND Applied Sport Science you must gain 30 SQA credits. The first year of this HND is based on the HNC Fitness, Health and Exercise award. Ideally you should be encouraged to achieve 15 credits in each year of the award.

You should have an active interest in sport and/or exercise in terms of participation, coaching or teaching.  You will be informed that a Scottish Criminal Records Office (SCRO) check will take place before starting your study as it will involve working with young children or at-risk adults.

Examples of formal entry requirements include:

You may be accepted for entry if you have suitable relevant work experience, if the centre believes that you are likely to benefit from undertaking the award.

  • SQA National Units and courses in relevant areas at Intermediate 2 and Higher level
  • SQA Project Based National Courses at Intermediate 2 or Higher level in Fitness, Coaching, Leading Sport or Sports Organisation or other relevant awards
  • GCE 'A' level in relevant subjects and other relevant GCE awards

Progression and employment

The award of HND Applied Sport Science has been designed to enable you to meet the demands and requirements of a modern sports science working environment. You will develop the skills and knowledge required to gain employment in the areas of exercise and athlete support, and health promotion.  Employment opportunities may be available with national sporting organisations, local councils, commercial sporting or fitness organisations or you may consider self-employment options.

Within the award candidates may be given the opportunity to complete national governing body awards for example SVQ level 2 Gym Instructor Award, First Aid qualification and Pool Lifeguard qualification (although this will be centre-specific).

After completing the NHD there is scope to progress Years 1-3 of various degree programmes. You should liaise directly with the HE establishments prior to each year's intake, as the optional Unit credits that count towards entry vary.

What you'll learn?

The HND in Applied Sport Science provides candidates with an appropriate mix of knowledge, understanding and practical skills to pursue a career in the field of applied sports science in a variety of settings or to progress to Higher Education.

The first year of study follows an industry tried and tested programme, HNC Fitness, Health and Exercise.

The second year of study builds upon these foundations to specialise more on Sports Science skills such as Analysis of Performance and Skill Acquisition Techniques, investigates funding streams to support talented athletes and introduces advanced techniques such as Strength training and Motion Analysis.