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Sports Studies Advanced

Join the dynamic world of sports science, gaining skills in anatomy, physiology, sports massage, and coaching for a rewarding career.

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Start Date: 15 Sep 2025

Mode of Study: Full-Time

Location: COURTSIDE – Bletchley Campus

Days: Mon to Fri

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Course overview

What will I do?

What’s next?

Is it for me?

Apply now

Course overview

Sport is arguably the most dominant industry in the world today. The Olympics, the FIFA World Cup, Wimbledon and the Masters Tournament are just some of the sporting events that grip the attention of the globe, boosting the economy through tourism, merchandise, advertising and TV rights. Along with a growing awareness of personal health and fitness, there has never been a better time to join the industry.

Highlights of our Sport Science Courses

Studying on Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science Course will give you the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills to start your journey into the world of sports performance
Continue education through applied learning, and ultimately progression to employment often via University.
The course aims to include elements of theoretical and practical work to apply the gained knowledge
Sports science courses comprise a combination of several different disciplines and focuses primarily on the scientific principles behind exercise performance

What will I do?

Whilst studying the Sports Studies Advanced course, you will cover a wide range of topics relating to the sporting industry, from anatomy and physiology, to sports massage and sports injuries. You will conduct research projects, learn about how to coach group and individual exercise sessions in the gym and find out how to apply your skills to different career pathways. You will understand the industry first-hand through work experience and relevant trips. We currently support the charity ‘Child Bereavement UK’ where each year we take students down to the London Marathon to do post event sports massage on the charities runners. In addition, we have lots of guest speakers, from physiotherapists to sports coaches to academics from university institutions inspiring our students about their next step options.

During the first year on the Foundation Diploma you will study the following units:

Unit 2_Functional Anatomy
Unit 3_Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology
Unit 5_Applied Research Methods in Sport and Exercise Science
Unit 6_Coaching for Performance and Fitness
Unit 7_Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise Science
Unit 8_Specialised Fitness Training
Unit 10_Physical Activity for Individual and Group-based Exercise

During the second year on the Extended Diploma you will study the following units:

Unit 1_Sport and Exercise Physiology
Unit 4_Field and Laboratory – based Fitness Testing
Unit 9_Research Project in Sport and Exercise Science
Unit 11_Sports Massage
Unit 13_Nutrition for Sport and Exercise Performance
Unit 15_Sports Injury and Assessment

What’s next?

On successful completion of the Foundation Diploma in the 1st year, students will have the opportunity to progress into the 2nd year and complete the Extended Diploma. The Extended Diploma is equivalent to 3 A-levels and accepted by over 150 UK Universities. The students who complete this course often progress on to University to study degrees: Sports science, Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Sports Psychology, Sports Nutrition, Strength and Condition.

Is it for me?

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science is aimed at post-16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning, and ultimately progress to employment often via University.

If you’re looking for a sports college in Milton Keynes, our sports studies advanced course could be for you. You must be passionate about pursuing a career within sport and be open to learning a range of topics and new skills in a professional manner. Be excited about learning the how and why our bodies respond in certain ways, and how we can use this to improve sports performance. We expect you to be committed to your studies on the course and show the drive for personal excellence.

Entry requirements

To undertake Sports Studies Advanced you require four GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including Maths and English.

Frequently asked questions

What trips and opportunities are there?

You will have two external examinations based on the core content, an externally-set (in conjunction with employers) project and synoptic assignments for your occupational specialism.

How much will i need to study?

To complete your Sports Studies Advanced course you will be required to commit to 10hrs timetable at college a week contact time with tutors. Alongside this you will be expected to complete 10hrs of directed study outside the classroom. This directed study includes working towards assignments, research for further topics and revision for external exams.

How will i be assessed?

Assessment takes place through a range of internal assessed units via written assignments, presentations, videos, practical’s and external assessed units via exams and case studies. Over the two years on the course 42% of the assessment grade is externally assessed.

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How to apply

Sports Studies Advanced
(0013P-1/2)
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Start Date
15 Sep 2025
Days
Mon to Fri
Location
COURTSIDE – Bletchley Campus

Our College, your future…

Introduction to Sports
Sport is arguably the most dominant industry in the world today. The Olympics, The FIFA World Cup, Wimbledon and The Masters Tournament are just a handful of examples of sporting events that grip the attention of the globe, boosting the economy through tourism, merchandise, advertising and TV rights. Studying sport will give you the skills you need to flourish in this exciting industry.
Courses Available

Football Studies – Intermediate

Football Studies – Advanced

Leadership Academy – Intermediate

Leadership Academy – Advanced
How to get into the industry
Sports therapy and physiotherapy are graduate careers, but for sports coaches and school PE teaching assistants, there are apprenticeships available. Getting volunteer experience with a local sports club is an excellent way to demonstrate commitment to the career while you get more experience.
Courses Available

Sport Studies – Intermediate

Sport Studies – Advanced

Personal Training- Advanced

Esports – Advanced
Why study at Milton Keynes College?

Milton Keynes College offers fantastic facilities, dedicated support, and a wide range of qualifications. Our courses are designed with industry partners, ensuring you gain relevant skills for better employability. Located near some of the country’s largest businesses, the college provides excellent networking and professional opportunities, giving you an advantage when starting your career.
Why choose College?

There’s so much more to college than just your study programme. You’ll have the chance to make new friends and meet like-minded people, gaining more free time and independence in a less formal environment than at school. Milton Keynes College provides financial support and real working environments, giving you practical experience. You can also benefit from work experience opportunities with local and national businesses. By joining the student community, you’ll be part of a supportive network that enhances your personal and professional growth.
Application Journey

The application journey starts with researching your options to find the best course for you. From September, you can apply online. College interviews begin in November, giving you a chance to present yourself and learn more about our college. Discovery Days in July allow you to come on campus and get a real taste of college life. In August, you will receive your GCSE results, which are key for finalising your college placement. Enrolment then happens in August and September with your course beginning in September.

Ready to get started?

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