Bachelor of Applied Science (Sport and Exercise)
Develop the practical skills and expertise needed to work in a wide range of sports, health and exercise science fields.
During this three-year programme you’ll study theory, participate in practical sessions and undertake work placements in your chosen specialisation of sport and exercise science.
You’ll gain hands-on experience with a wide range of modern equipment in both lab and field-based environments and learn how to evaluate, facilitate and/or enhance sport and exercise performance in a wide range of contexts using current scientific principles and technologies.
Some of the areas covered within the degree include: the application of sport science in New Zealand; the relationship between sport science disciplines including exercise physiology, sports nutrition, biomechanics and sports psychology; applied sport science testing; training for enhanced sports performance; assessing and tracking changes in performance.
Your industry experience will be gained in a wide range of high-performance environments with organisations such as The Crusaders, Canterbury Rugby Football Union and High Performance Sport New Zealand.
Part-time up to 6 years.
Fees for 2026
University Entrance as defined by New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA), which must include:
- 14 credits at Level 3 in each of:
- Biology or Physical Education or Health Education
- another subject, preferably Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Geography or Psychology.
- (Human Nutrition specialisation applicants must have a minimum of 14 credits in Chemistry at Level 2 or alternative as approved by the specialisation coordinator.)
- one other subject from the list of approved subjects*
OR successful completion of NZ3563 New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) or New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) Pre Health Pathway or equivalent
* NZQA approved subjects: see https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/ncea/understanding-secondary-quals/university-entrance/
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
In addition you need to:
Consent to Disclosure of Information
- Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
- The form will be sent by Ara to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Faculty Dean or delegate. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
This may include Recognition of Prior Learning, please contact Ara for advice.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
What if I have achieved New Zealand University Entrance?
If you have achieved New Zealand University Entrance requirements, you are not required to provide evidence of English language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Applicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that completed applications are received.
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
Sport scientists work in a variety of laboratory and field settings to optimise human capability.
This specialisation opens up a wide range of possibilities in the health and sports science related fields. Opportunities range from working as a performance analyst, strength and conditioning specialist, sports development, a consultant working with the general population and athletes or going on to further studies.
Study pathways
You could also advance your knowledge of additional clinical practice by undertaking the Postgraduate Certificate in Health Science, Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science or Master of Health Science.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Physical Education
- Science
- Biology
Bachelor of Applied Science (Sport and Exercise)
Develop the practical skills and expertise needed to work in a wide range of sports, health and exercise science fields.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | CH3981 |
| Next starts | February 2026 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | Please enquire |
| Credits | 360 |
| Level | 7 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | $1,000 textbooks, travel to work placements |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| Reference | CH3981-SPEX |
Fees for 2026
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
Consent to Disclosure of Information
- Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
- The form will be sent by Ara to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Faculty Dean or delegate. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Credit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 425 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 357 KB
- Bach Applied Science Additional Requirements Form PDF, 114 KB
- Referee report 1 PDF, 239 KB
- Referee report 2 PDF, 239 KB
Area of Interest
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