The focus of the programme is on fitness techniques, health, nutrition, anatomy and physiology, training, coaching and motivating people. It is not just about playing sports, there is a strong scientific element to the programme where you are expected to learn theory before applying it in a practical setting.  

There are a range of opportunities available to help you into employment and future study.  

The exercise science and physiology lab feature the most up-to-date equipment in Te Tauihu. As a fitness student, you have your own gym onsite as well.  

Offsite facilities available include the Saxton running track, TRU High Performance Gym, local pools and squash courts. 

During the programme, you will also make the most of our region’s excellent outdoor activities, including paddle boarding, kayaking, mountain biking, white water rafting and adventure racing.  

This one year Level 5 programme leads into the one year Level 6 programme. Following these two diplomas it is also possible with another year of study to complete the AUT Bachelor of Sport and Recreation on the Nelson campus or go onto teacher training.

Job opportunities in sport, recreation, exercise, health and fitness include:

• Community sports manager
• Community health manager
• Sport Kaiako
• Outdoor educator
• Event manager
• Parks manager
• Recreation planner or supervisor
• Exercise consultant
• Personal trainer
• Sports director
• Health educator
• Sports marketer
• Strength and conditioning coach
• Motivator - lifestyle educator
• Video analyst
• Sports coordinator
• Sports trust worker
• Athletic trainer
• Gym instructor
• Sports science technician

Academic requirements

Applicants under 20 years of age

• 48 credits NCEA level 2 across 4 subjects

OR

• Equivalent

Applicants 20 years and over

• No academic qualifications needed. Evidence to support an applicant's ability to successfully undertake the programme with a reasonable likelihood of success may be requested.

English Language requirements

All applicants must have a level of English sufficient to be able to study at this level.  Those students whose first language is not English will have:

• An International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall Academic score of at least 6 issued within the last two years

OR

An equivalent qualification

If you do not have an IELTS test score, you may send us other evidence of your English language level. Please visit here(external link) for more information.

Other requirements

All applicants must sign a Risk Management Contract, relating to risk and their health, prior to commencing study on the programme

Applicants must also complete an NMIT Application/Enrolment form and submit the following documents:

• Police Vetting Request and Consent Form
• External Referee Check

Download forms

Applicants are required to sign a declaration as to whether they have any convictions against the law (apart from minor traffic convictions). In order to support applicants and answer questions applicants are required to attend a selection interview.

In order to comply with the provisions of the Vulnerable Children’s Act, 2014 and Child Protection Policies for all ‘specified organisations’ providing a ‘regulated service’, all candidates/students will be subjected to safety checks.

Criminal charges

Once enrolled, students are required to inform the Programme Area Leader of any criminal charges that may be laid during the year.

Selection

All applicants are encouraged to either request an interview or provide referee reports in order to ascertain their suitability for the programme.  Qualities considered important for success on the programme are listed below. 

• A commitment to study
• Average level of fitness
• Key beliefs in the benefits of exercise
• An ability to communicate
• Willingness to work in a group.

Special entry

In exceptional circumstances an applicant who does not meet the entry requirements may be granted entry to the Programme where they supply evidence to satisfy the Head of Department or delegate of their ability to succeed on the programme.

So we may best understand your personal application we ask you to complete a questionnaire to provide further details. 

Supporting document requirements(external link)

This programme replaces the Diploma in Applied Fitness. If you have partially completed the Diploma in Applied Fitness, you will be able to transition onto this new qualification. Talk to us about how that can work for you.