The Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science at EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tair?whiti is a practical and industry-focused degree designed for students who are passionate about sport, fitness, exercise performance, health promotion, coaching, and sports management. The programme prepares students for careers across the sport, recreation, health, fitness, and exercise science industries.

Students gain a strong foundation in:

• Exercise science
• Human performance
• Sports coaching
• Health and wellbeing
• Nutrition
• Sports management
• Research and professional practice

The Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science (BSES) is a Level 7 undergraduate degree that develops students into highly skilled sport and exercise professionals. The programme focuses on:

• Human movement science
• Exercise prescription
• Sports performance
• Athlete conditioning
• Coaching and leadership
• Health and wellness promotion
• Community sport development

Students learn in practical environments including:

• Sports science labs
• Fitness and training facilities
• Community recreation settings
• Industry placements

Why Study Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science at EIT?

Practical Industry-Focused Learning

EIT’s programme includes:

• Hands-on sport science learning
• Industry projects
• Community engagement
• Applied coaching experience
• Research-based practical learning

Wide Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers in:

• Fitness and conditioning
• Community sport
• Exercise prescription
• Sports coaching
• Wellness and health promotion
• Recreation management
• Sport science support

Modern Sport and Exercise Education

Students study:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Sport psychology
• Exercise science
• Nutrition
• Research methods
• Coaching and leadership

Strong Community and Industry Connections

EIT maintains strong partnerships with:

• Schools
• Sports organisations
• Recreation centres
• Community health initiatives
• Regional sporting bodies

Supportive Learning Environment

International students receive:

• Academic learning support
• International student advisors
• Wellbeing services
• Career guidance
• Practical learning support

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

The programme combines sport science theory with practical application.

Main Study Areas

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Exercise Science
• Sport and Exercise Physiology
• Nutrition and Health
• Sport Coaching
• Sport Psychology
• Health Promotion
• Research Methods
• Professional Practice
• Industry Projects
• Exercise Prescription
• Community Recreation
• Leadership and Communication Skills

Students also complete:

• Applied industry projects
• Practical coaching experiences
• Community engagement activities

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The degree supports career development in:

• Exercise Science
• Sports Coaching
• Recreation Management
• Athlete Conditioning
• Community Health Promotion
• Fitness Training
• Sports Development
• Sport Leadership
• Health and Wellness

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work across:

• Fitness industry
• Sport organisations
• Recreation services
• Community health programmes
• Athlete support services
• Corporate wellness programmes

Possible Career Roles

• Personal Trainer
• Strength and Conditioning Coach
• Sports Coach
• Community Recreation Officer
• Wellness Consultant
• Sport Development Officer
• Exercise Specialist
• Team Trainer
• Health Promotion Advisor
• Recreation Manager

Programme Highlights

Key Advantages

• Strong practical learning focus
• Industry-connected curriculum
• Modern sport science education
• Community-based projects
• Wide career flexibility
• Supportive lecturers and smaller class sizes
• Real-world coaching and fitness experience
• Pathways into postgraduate study

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Latest Updates

• EIT continues expanding practical sport science learning opportunities
• Students recently supported major Hawke’s Bay sporting events and youth programmes
• Current student research includes health and wellbeing topics such as youth vaping behaviour and community wellness initiatives

Special Requirements

Students may require:

• Sports clothing and training gear
• Laptop/computer access
• Participation in practical physical activities
• Community placement participation
• Physical capability for exercise-based learning

Some practical sessions may involve:

• Gym-based activities
• Coaching sessions
• Outdoor sport activities

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) / Cross Credit

Students may apply for:

• Cross Credit (CC)
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

This may apply to:

• Previous tertiary study
• Workplace learning
• Industry certifications
• Volunteer or coaching experience

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students studying in New Zealand generally require:

• Valid student visa
• Offer of Place from EIT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Valid passport
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Health and travel insurance
• Medical certificates if required

International Student Experience

International students often appreciate:

• Smaller class sizes
• Practical hands-on learning
• Supportive staff and lecturers
• Community-focused learning environment
• Strong industry engagement