This Level 6 diploma is designed for students who want to advance their knowledge of human performance, sports science, exercise physiology, coaching, and athlete development. The programme serves as a pathway to degree-level study and leadership roles within the sport and recreation sector. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through industry placements, athlete coaching, and community engagement projects.

Key Benefits

• Specialisation in Human Performance
• Strong practical and workplace learning opportunities
• Industry-relevant coaching and performance analysis training
• Pathway to bachelor's degree study
• Internationally recognized qualification
• Exposure to real athletes, clients, and community projects
• Small class sizes and personalized support
• Opportunity to develop leadership and management skills within sport and recreation industries.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students study advanced topics in sport science, human performance, coaching, and athlete development.

Exercise Physiology

• Performance evaluation
• Functional anatomy
• Exercise science research
• Sports performance enhancement

Coaching and Performance Analysis

• Advanced coaching methods
• Athlete development
• Performance monitoring
• Coaching programme management

Performance Nutrition

• Athlete nutrition planning
• Nutritional interventions
• Performance optimization

Community Events

• Community sport development
• Event planning and management
• Leadership in community programmes

Strength and Conditioning

• Programme design
• Resistance training
• Athletic conditioning
• Applied sport science

Evidence-Based Practice and Research

• Research methodologies
• Data analysis
• Applied exercise science research

Athlete Preparation

• Athlete mentoring
• Holistic coaching
• Skill development
• Reflective practice

Professional Practice

• Industry placement
• Business fundamentals
• Professional development
• Sport and recreation leadership

Disciplines / Specialisations

The programme focuses primarily on:

Human Performance

Areas include:

• Exercise Physiology
• Athlete Development
• Coaching Science
• Strength & Conditioning
• Sports Nutrition
• Performance Analysis
• Exercise Science Research
• Sport Leadership

Career Outcomes

Graduates can pursue careers across sport, recreation, health, and community sectors.

Potential Career Paths

• Human Performance Coach
• Exercise Educator
• Sport Development Officer
• Community Sport Coordinator
• Recreation Leader
• Strength and Conditioning Assistant
• Health Promotion Facilitator
• Athlete Development Coach
• Sport Performance Analyst
• Wellness Programme Coordinator

Employment Sectors

• Health providers
• Recreation centres
• Fitness facilities
• Outdoor education organisations
• Sports trusts
• Local councils
• Cultural organisations
• Primary health organisations
• Community wellbeing programmes

Latest Updates for International Students

• NZIS continues to promote this Level 6 Diploma as an internationally available programme.
• Qualifications are recognized through REPs and ICREPs pathways, supporting international employability.
• Practical learning, community engagement, and workplace experience remain core features of the programme.
• NZIS is part of the NZMA and UP Education network, one of New Zealand's largest vocational education groups.

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students typically require a New Zealand Student Visa.

Common requirements include:

• Offer of Place from NZIS
• Evidence of tuition fee payment
• Proof of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical and/or chest X-ray (if required)
• Health insurance
• English language evidence
• Genuine temporary entrant documentation

Programme Highlights

• NZQF Level 6 Qualification
  
• 120 Credits
  
• 40 Weeks Full-Time Study
  
• Human Performance Specialisation
  
• Industry Placement Opportunities
  
• Blended Learning Delivery
  
• Internationally Recognized Qualification
  
• Pathway to Bachelor's Degree Study
  
• Leadership and Coaching Focus
  
• Strong Industry Connections Across New Zealand Sport and Recreation Sectors.