Our Level 4 Higher National Certificate and Level 5 Diploma empower you to understand performance, inspire athletes, and take the first step toward a future in sports coaching.
HNC is equivalent to the first year of a UK honours degree.
Sport & Healthcare Professionals
This course provides aspiring students with an appropriate mix of knowledge, understanding and practical skills to pursue a career in the field of sport and exercise science. Delivered at our Seevic Campus, Benfleet, this course has been developed with coaching, health, and community sector representatives to maximise student success. You will have access to specialist sports science facilities, including our state-of-the-art science laboratory.
The HNC and HND are awarded by Pearson Education Ltd, a globally recognised leader in education. This ensures your qualification meets rigorous quality standards, is respected by employers and universities, and provides clear progression routes into higher study or industry careers.
We incorporate active learning methodologies into our lessons for an engaging and interactive learning experience. This will include practical coaching sessions with our pathways department, practical laboratory sessions in our sports laboratory, in-class sports massage demonstrations, and in-class activities.
As part of our active learning approach, we enrich your experience by inviting industry specialists for guest talks and workshops on crucial topics within sport and exercise science.
These in the past academic year have included sessions on:
These insights from experts provide a real-world perspective and deepen your understanding of these essential subjects.
Your progress will be assessed through a comprehensive range of methods to ensure a holistic understanding of sport and exercise science and prepare you with the skills for the industry. This includes word reports, laboratory reports, group presentations, practical demonstrations of techniques, portfolios, academic poser displays, simulated activities and the creation of informative booklets for the local community. This varied assessment approach aims to promote a well-rounded educational experience.
Year 1
Core Modules
Optional Modules
Year 2
Core Modules
Optional Modules
I chose USP College because it’s close to home, has smaller classes, and is all coursework-based. The coaching element has been the most valuable - it’s given me a clear idea of how to become a sports coach and adapt my approach.
Stay local while earning a Higher Education qualification in a supportive environment where your tutors know your name. Benefit from smaller class sizes, personalised teaching, and hands-on experience with industry-standard technology. Plus, enjoy lower tuition fees and graduate ready for your career.
Based on the latest FE Learner Satisfaction Survey, our students rated us 100% for teaching quality, accessibility, and support well above national averages.
Course fees are £6,185.00 per year.
We understand that the costs of college may be daunting but we are here to support you.
View our financial support information
You can continue your studies within sport and exercise science with a Level 6 top-up degree course.
You might also enter employment directly in the following areas:
Find out more about the career pathways this course relates to.
