The New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation & Exercise (Level 6) is a higher-level vocational qualification that prepares students to become leaders and specialists in human performance, sport science and exercise delivery. It builds on Level 5 study with a stronger focus on performance analysis, advanced coaching, exercise physiology, nutrition, and research-led practice.

 

This qualification gives you the skills to work with athletes, community groups and organisations in high-functioning sport and wellness environments — as well as progress to degree-level study at universities with sport and human performance programmes.

 

Why Study This Course?

Studying this diploma prepares you for advanced roles in the sport, exercise and recreation industry while developing high-level technical, leadership and practical skills.

Key benefits:

• Specialisation in Human Performance and Sport Science.

• Practical experience with real clients and community projects.

• Preparation for degree-level study at institutions such as University of Canterbury, University of Waikato, Ara Institute and MIT.

• Strengthened career prospects in leadership and applied performance roles.

 

Subjects / Programme Structure

The Level 6 Diploma includes coursework and practical learning in the following key areas:

Core Subjects

• Exercise Physiology: Evaluate performance, apply functional anatomy, research exercise physiology concepts.

• Coaching & Performance Analysis: Develop advanced coaching sessions and performance critiques.

• Performance Nutrition: Design, implement and evaluate athlete-based nutrition programmes.

• Strength & Conditioning: Industry-aligned training programme delivery and performance methodology.

• Community Events & Professional Practice: Plan and manage large-scale sport events; understand business fundamentals in the sport industry.

• Evidence-Based Practice & Research: Research design and application in sport, recreation and exercise settings.

• Athlete Preparation: Holistic coaching with mentorship and skill evaluation.

Applied Learning

• Practical work placements with partnered organisations

• Hands-on client engagement and community health initiatives

 

Disciplines & Specialisations

While the NZIS Level 6 Diploma does not list formal academic majors, it emphasises advanced specialisations in:

• Human Performance & Coaching

• Strength & Conditioning

• Exercise Physiology & Nutrition

• Performance Analysis

• Community Health & Leadership

 

Highlights

• Focus on advanced performance skills — ideal for students aiming to work with athletes and high-performance environments.
• Practical work placements and industry engagement deepen your applied skill set.
• Pathway to degree programs at New Zealand universities or partner institutions internationally.
• Globally recognised qualification — NZ education is respected, especially in sport and exercise science.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates of this diploma are prepared for advanced roles in sport, performance and wellbeing sectors, such as:

• Human Performance Specialist

• Sport Coach / High Performance Coach

• Exercise & Conditioning Consultant

• Community Health Programme Leader

• Sport & Recreation Development Officer

• Team or Facility Supervisor

• Applied Performance Analyst

 

Visa Requirements (International Students)

To study this Level 6 qualification in New Zealand you will need:

NZ Student Visa

• A formal Offer Letter from NZIS
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living costs
• A recognised English proficiency test (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL)
• Health insurance for the duration of stay
• Valid passport and supporting educational documents

 

Latest Updates

• The Level 6 Diploma is listed as open to international students by NZIS (subject to enrolment availability).
• NZIS emphasizes blended, practical learning and pathways to degree-level study with universities in NZ and overseas.
• Qualification recognized by international bodies (e.g., NZ Register of Exercise Professionals with global agreements) — reinforces portability of skills.