The Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise is designed for students who already hold a degree in another discipline or have relevant professional experience and want to gain specialist knowledge in sport, exercise, recreation, health, and performance-related areas. The programme provides a pathway into the sport and recreation industry or further postgraduate study.

Why Study Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise at AUT?

Key Reasons to Choose This Programme

• Complete the qualification in just one year full-time
• Excellent pathway into the sport and recreation sector
• Learn from AUT’s internationally recognised sport experts
• Access to world-class sport science facilities and AUT Millennium
• Wide flexibility in course selection
• Industry-focused and practical learning approach
• Suitable for career changers and professionals
• Strong focus on applied sport and exercise knowledge
• Opportunities for networking and workplace exposure

AUT is especially respected in:

• Coaching
• Exercise science
• Nutrition
• Sport leadership
• Health and physical education
• Outdoor education

Programme Structure

Students must:

• Complete at least eight courses from the Bachelor of Sport, Exercise and Health
• Include at least five Level 7 courses

The exact study pathway depends on:

• Previous academic background
• Career goals
• Chosen specialisation areas
• Prerequisite requirements

Subjects / Topics Offered

Students can select from a broad range of sport and exercise-related topics, including:

• Exercise Science
• Sport Coaching
• Nutrition
• Human Movement
• Recreation Studies
• Sport Management
• Physical Activity
• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Psychology
• Outdoor Education
• Human Structure and Function
• Fitness Assessment and Programming
• Leadership and Management
• Legal Issues in Sport
• Massage and Personal Training
• Communication and Research Skills
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Disciplines / Specialisations

Students may focus on areas such as:

• Sport and Exercise Science
• Health and Physical Education
• Sport Leadership and Management
• Coaching and Performance
• Recreation and Outdoor Education
• Wellness and Fitness
• Nutrition and Human Performance

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• Sport and Recreation Management
• Fitness and Wellness Industry
• Coaching and Athlete Support
• Community Sport Development
• Exercise and Health Services
• Recreation Coordination
• Performance Support Roles
• Health Promotion
• Outdoor Education
• Personal Training
• Sport Administration

The qualification can also support progression into:

• Postgraduate sport qualifications
• Research pathways
• Advanced exercise science study

Highlights of the Programme

Major Strengths

• Fast-track one-year qualification
• Flexible course selection
• Strong industry engagement
• Practical and applied learning
• Globally recognised sport education reputation
• Access to AUT Millennium high-performance facilities
• Pathway into postgraduate study
• Suitable for students from diverse academic backgrounds

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Important Updates

• AUT’s sport subjects are ranked among the world’s top 30 by QS rankings.
• Students may need prerequisite knowledge for certain advanced sport science subjects.
• Course availability may vary between semesters.
• Individual study plans are often customised based on prior qualifications and interests.

Student Insights & Industry Exposure

AUT sport students frequently mention the value of:

• Practical learning
• Work-integrated opportunities
• Industry networking
• Access to AUT Millennium
• Connections with lecturers and sport organisations

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students planning to study in New Zealand generally require:

• Valid passport
• AUT offer letter
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• English language proficiency proof
• Medical insurance
• Medical and character documents