The Diploma in Recreation and Sport is a one year full-time, or equivalent part-time, programme which offers you stimulating studies and provides a pathway to a career in the wide field of recreation, sport and leisure. This programme has close links with the Bachelor of Recreation and Sport.

In particular, the programme is designed to enable a student to:

• Understand human body structure and function with emphasis on the musculo-skeletal system.
• Develop knowledge and skills related to professional practice in the recreation and sport industry.
• Understand the relationship between nutrition, physical activity, and other personal health behaviours
  and health.
• Develop knowledge of a range of sporting and recreational activities through practical experience and
  active participation.
• Understand the sport and recreation industry in New Zealand.
• Design and apply group exercise programmes.
• Assess physical performance, apply exercise techniques and design exercise for people with special needs.

You are welcome to make an appointment to discuss your study options with our staff and to view our facilities.

There are two entry points per year: 

• February
• July

One year full-time or equivalent part-time.

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: 

Standard Entry 

• A minimum of 60 credits at NCEA Level 2 or higher in one year in best four subjects or
• Successful completion of the EIT Certificate in Sport and Health Massage, or the EIT Certificate in Foundation Studies for Nursing, Recreation and Sport Science, or another programme which demonstrates an applicant’s ability to achieve at this level or
• Completion of a local or overseas qualification which is considered by the Admissions Committee to be the equivalent of one of the above qualifications. 

Provisional Entry

• Applicants who do not meet the criteria above, but present evidence of ability to succeed (eg. maturity, life experience, work experience, other study) or
• Is enthusiastic and motivated to achieve or
• Provides evidence of relevant prior learning and experience. 

English Language Entry Requirement

Students are required to have attained an acceptable level of English language fluency.  This may be demonstrated in a variety of ways, including successful study in English, approved scores on IELTS (6.0 Academic) tests, completion of accepted international equivalents, or completion of an EIT Hawke’s Bay assessment.

Possible jobs and career opportunities can include: 

• Fitness Trainer
• Community Recreation Assistant
• Group Exercise Instructor
• Sports Co-ordinator
• Gym worker