New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Multi-sector)
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Duration and study methods
Full-time for 1 year (34 teaching weeks), part-time available.
The maximum time to complete this programme part-time is 5 years. -
Start dates
February, July
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Qualification
New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Multi-sector) (Level 6)Programme code: NZ3628 -
Credits
120 -
Locations
MIT Ōtara
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Entry requirements
Open entry
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Domestic fees
$7,200 (approx.)
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International fees
NZD $26,000 (approx.)
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Free* study
Explore the free options available for this programme, and check your eligibility:
Programme highlights
Take your career in sport to the next level.
This qualification builds on the New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Multi-sector) (Level 5). It's perfect if you’re wanting to extend yourself as a professional in sport, recreation, exercise science, sport coaching and sport/leisure management.
Upon successful completion of this programme, you can pathway directly into the third year of our degree.
Discover or create your dream job in this exciting industry.
Entry requirements
Open entry
There are no academic requirements that need to be met to enter this programme.
English language requirements
Applicants must have sufficient competence in the English language to undertake this programme, which is taught and assessed in English.
Any applicant whose first language is not English may be required to provide evidence of their English language competency.
International students: English language entry requirements
For the minimum English language requirements refer to the requirements set out in the NZQF Programme and Accreditation Rules https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/providers-partners/qa-system-for-teos/english-international-students/
International students will generally be required to provide evidence of English language proficiency, for this programme an IELTS Academic score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5 is required. Equivalent acceptable evidence can be seen at the following NZQA link: https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/about-us/our-role/legislation/nzqa-rules/nzqf-related-rules/the-table/
Give yourself credit with Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Did you know you can use the knowledge and experience you already have to your advantage?
Your previous work experience and on-the-job skills, volunteering, professional development, and other providers’ qualifications can be recognised as prior learning, matched against credits in our courses, and put towards your qualification – potentially saving you money and possibly helping you to complete your qualification faster Learn more.
Programme structure
You will need to complete five compulsory courses and three elective courses (120 credits):
Compulsory courses
781.618 Sport and exercise nutrition (15 credits)
This course aims to develop your appreciation and knowledge of sport and exercise nutrition and its application to sport performance.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Compare and contrast the nutritional recommendations and guidelines for healthy adults and athletes
- Describe the nutritional requirements that are specific to athletes in different sports
- Identify and correct common myths associated with sport nutrition
- Develop nutritional strategies and manage sport nutrition programmes for optimal sport performance as an entry-level practitioner.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Case study: 35%
- Lab report: 35%
- Practise based assessment: 30%
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.619 Research methods in sport and exercise (15 credits)
This course will introduce you to research concepts, design and methods in sport and exercise science. You will gain knowledge of the processes involved in research design, process and analysis.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of research concepts and evaluate project design and methodologies employed in sport science
- Identify available statistical analysis and graphics software and demonstrate ability to use the software in the treatment of results
- Prepare a research proposal for the study of an aspect of sport and sport performance.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Research proposal: 40%
- Written practise based assessment (statistics): 30%
- Written practise based assessment: 30%
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.620 Injury prevention and rehabilitation (15 credits)
Gain a basic understanding of the nature of injuries in sport and in the workplace, including causal factors, assessment, treatment, management and rehabilitation.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Demonstrate and discuss the ability to develop and implement a sport rehabilitation programme
- Apply knowledge of causes and treatment of common sports injuries, and the process of soft tissue healing
- Explain the theoretical basis of sport medicine, injury prevention, and scope of practice.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Written Injury Report 25%
- Practical Based Assessment 35%
- Practise Based Assessment 40%
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.621 Exercise programme design (15 credits)
Get professional skills in the planning, management and design of integrated physical training programmes. There is emphasis placed on the processes involved in analysing needs, and presenting, monitoring and evaluating programmes.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Assess, analyse and report on the basic health status of a client or athlete in a culturally safe and professional manner
- Conduct an evidence-based needs analysis for a client, athlete or sports team including any cultural considerations and integrate these results into the subsequent training programme
- Design specific training programmes that safely meet the cultural and physical needs and goals of the client, athlete or sports-team
- Implement resistance and cardiovascular training programmes.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Written assignment: 30%
- Practical labs: 30%
- Practical based learning assessment: 40%.
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.622 Sport management and administration skills (15 credits)
This course aims to introduce the student to management and administration knowledge that can be applied within the sport and recreation context.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Identify the function of Human Resource Management in a sports organisation
- Explain operations management in the context of ethical issues related to sport, risk and event management
- Explain marketing in a sports context from the perspective of the different stakeholders such as participants, volunteers, supporters and funders.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Report: 32%
- Presentation: 36%
- Discussion board/portfolio: 32%
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
Elective courses
781.623 Applied exercise physiology (15 credits)
Further your knowledge of human physiology and physiological assessment procedures relevant to the study of exercise and sport performance.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Perform basic physical and physiological assessments on an individual
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the physiological, responses and adaptations to exercise.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Practise-based assessment 1: 35%
- Practise-based assessment 2: 35%
- Lab report: 30%
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.624 Biochemistry (15 credits)
Gain an introduction to some of the key issues in sport and exercise psychology, whilst developing an analytical approach to the application of psychological theory to sport, exercise and population health.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of issues associated with exercise adherence from a psychological perspective
- Critically evaluate literature pertaining to the application of psychology to sport and exercise
- Explain the importance of motivation associated with sport performance and participation.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Presentation: 30%
- Reflective learning log: 40%
- Research report 30%.
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.625 Outdoor education (15 credits)
Explore the outdoor education principles and philosophies while relating them to the New Zealand Health and Physical Education (NZHPE) Curriculum. You will have the opportunity to develop an outdoor education plan relating to a school-based outdoor environment, as well as experiencing outdoor activities as both a learner and a leader.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Describe the principles and philosophies of education outside the classroom (EOTC)
- Understand outdoor education as it relates to the New Zealand Health and Physical Education (NZHPE) Curriculum
- Plan an outdoor education programme relating to a school-based outdoor environment
- Gain and apply skills and experiences for safe participation in outdoor education/adventure pursuits
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Written assignment 1: 30%
- Written assignment 2: 30%
- Experiential learning and skill attainment: 40%
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.626 Sport and therapeutic massage (15 credits)
Get a strong theoretical and practical basis in basic, therapeutic and sport massage practice.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Understand the theory of massage
- Describe the scope of massage
- Determine health considerations and contraindications for safe treatment planning
- Demonstrate massage techniques in a massage practice setting.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Presentation: 20%
- Practical based learning assessment: 40%
- Practise based written assessment: 40%
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.627 Issues in sport and exercise psychology (15 credits)
Gain an introduction to some of the key issues in sport and exercise psychology, whilst developing an analytical approach to the application of psychological theory to sport, exercise and population health.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of issues associated with exercise adherence from a psychological perspective
- Critically evaluate literature pertaining to the application of psychology to sport and exercise
- Explain the importance of motivation associated with sport performance and participation.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Presentation: 30%
- Reflective learning log: 40%
- Research report 30%.
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
781.628 Applied coaching pedagogy (15 credits)
You will learn about planning, implementation and evaluation of coaching practice, while applying knowledge of motor skill development, and reflecting on different approaches to coaching pedagogy.
Outcomes, hours and assessments
Learner outcomesOn successful completion of this course, it is expected that you will be able to:
- Discuss pedagogical approaches to coaching practice, including gender, ethnic and social considerations
- Discuss current motor learning theories that provide a basis for understanding how complex motor skills are developed
- Plan, implement and evaluate coaching sessions, focusing on development and performance.
- Face-to-face: 50 hours
- Online: 30 hours
- Study: 25 hours
- Work placement/practicum: 10 hours
- Assessment activity: 35 hours
- Total for this course: 150 hours
- Report: 30%
- Presentation: 25%
- Portfolio: 45%
An overall mark of 50% or greater is required to pass this course.
Do you want to study a single course, without enrolling into the full programme?
Courses within some of our programmes may be offered as an individual Certificate of Proficiency (COP). Programme entry requirements and course fees apply. For more information, please speak to our friendly Ask Me! team.
Further training or study
Bachelor of Applied Sport and Exercise Science (Level 7) followed by our Graduate Diploma in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Level 7).
Career opportunities
Graduates may be able to work in leadership roles such as:
Community sports manager, community health manager, event manager, facility manager, hauora or health exercise educator, outdoor educator, outdoor recreation manager, parks manager, recreation planner, recreation manager, or a sport director.
Graduates may also be able to work within organisations such as:
Community health providers, community sports providers, outdoor education centres, exercise facilities, Iwi organisations, local councils, cultural centres, outdoor pursuits centres, primary health organisations, regional sports trusts, or recreation, sport and leisure centres. For potential salaries visit careers.govt.nz.
The union was founded in 1955 and currently services a growing, diverse and youthful population in South Auckland. There are currently 7,897 registered players at all levels of the game in the province (2018 data).
Many of the greatest names in the game have started out with Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union and in 2019 MIT school of sports students were able to study at the Steelers home ground for a diploma-level qualification.
“New Zealand rugby expertise is in demand internationally. The partnership with Counties allowed us to provide a gateway to local players, coaches, volunteers and those who want a sports qualification based around rugby to access those opportunities without leaving the area to study” says MIT lecturer, Fran Serrano, who was also the union’s mental skills coach.
“I chose to study here because I feel more comfortable in this environment. You’re not just a number. Our lecturers know you, they know your name, and they know your lifestyle. It’s like a family here at MIT.
There is lots of variety and opportunities to apply our learning. We are learning in the books, we are learning with technology and we are learning hands-on.
I am also currently interning as a strength and conditioning assistant coach with the Auckland Dream basketball team and interning as a video analyst with Northern Stars. I’m learning heaps and it has been the best experience.”
Maryanne Moa
MIT student
“I want to become a police officer because I want to give back to my community. I've always wanted to go out there and serve my people.
My advice is just give it a go, you won't know what it's like unless you try. I didn't know what it was going to be like until I enrolled and I've come here and I've enjoyed it. I've learnt a lot and met a lot of new friends.”
Savah Gautusa
MIT student
“I love sports and I have wanted to do something related to sport since a young age.
I chose to study sport at MIT because everything was really easy to follow, everything was well organised, well structured, and the lecturers offered a huge amount of support. I got many types of support and was offered lots of advice and mental support. Everyone is patient and everything was adaptable to the person’s need.
My qualification has helped me improve specific skills that I needed to improve on.
I felt so independent, and I felt like I was able to be myself.
I loved it.”
Allan Phung
MIT graduate
“I choose to study sport because it’s always been a passion of mine. It’s been something I’ve done since I was young and it has continued to stick with me. Sports has always helped keep me busy. I’ve made lots of friends through sport and it’s allowed me to travel both in New Zealand and throughout the world.
Studying sport has also helped me with my part-time job as a health and fitness instructor. I’ve learnt how to teach people effectively whether that’s correcting techniques, setting up machines properly or avoiding injuries.”
Dan Maireroa
MIT student
“I want to set an example to my kids that studying and learning is important. It’s never too late to pursue a different career and do what makes you happy.
Crossing that stage to receive my first degree will be my highest achievement. In a million years, I didn't think I'd be graduating. This is more significant than any of my professional sporting milestones.
The skills I’ve learned here have put me at the front of the pack and I wouldn’t have picked them up anywhere else. It’s not just the technical knowledge but also learning the importance of connecting with people, and how crucial that is to get the best from them.”
John Cocker
MIT graduate
“I want to help my family and our help our community by educating them on healthy living and healthy lifestyles. I am excited about the future because now I have the knowledge and I can implement that in a way that’s going to help others.
People expect that they need to be going to the gym but it can be as simple as hanging the washing out or going for a walk. Get active whatever it takes and don’t take the shortcuts.”
Jane Cocker
MIT graduate
"It has been a real honour having the opportunity to work with the Steelers and experience various roles within their program. It is enjoyable being part of the Steelers game days and getting to see how the operational side of a professional sports organisation works. The fast-paced environment keeps me on my toes and allows me to learn in the field.
The course has given me many opportunities to engage with the community; building and strengthening relationships that will help me in the future. I also assist at various school rugby tournaments throughout the region, allowing me to enhance my coaching skills and giving me the chance to educate secondary school students as well.
The four-day schedule includes three days in-class, plus one day for work experience, and gives me the flexibility to work part-time which is a bonus.
I would highly recommend this course. It’s a hands-on course that’s designed to get you work-ready. There is a lot of flexibility so you can make the course work for you, regardless of your situation in life. The team at Counties Manukau Rugby and MIT are great to study with, you basically feel like a Counties Manukau Rugby staff member.
I will continue to utilise the knowledge and skills I have developed and apply them to my current role as Director of Rugby at Pukekohe High School. I also will look to continue with study and complete my bachelor's degree with MIT."
Shay Eva
MIT graduate
Ready to put your plans in place?
Fees Free scheme: Free study for the first or final year of your Level 3 or above qualification may be available under the Government’s Fees Free study scheme. Visit feesfree.govt.nz for eligibility criteria and more information. Students must meet New Zealand residency criteria. Note: The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free scheme will replace it, starting from January 2025. Learners who have already used Fees Free in their first year of study won’t be able to access Fees Free under the new final-year policy. However, from now until the end of 2025, first-year Fees Free will operate under ‘first-year transition rules’. For more information, visit feesfree.govt.nz. All free study is subject to availability and funding confirmation. Proof of residency status required. Entry criteria, and some costs, may also apply. Eligibility for student allowances or student loans may vary. Contact StudyLink for more information.
Information is correct as at 4 December 2024. Programme fees are based on a full-time student and may vary depending on your final selection of courses that make up your programme. Where the fees are indicative, the approximate fees quoted in this publication are based on the indicative 2025 fee structure. The indicative programme fees for 2025 do not include the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF). The CSSF is an additional levy to your 2025 programme or course fees. Further information about the CSSF can be found here www.manukau.ac.nz/cssf. Programmes stated as eligible for free study in 2025 are based on the 2024 fee structure and subject to funding confirmation for 2025. All fees are in New Zealand Dollars. You will be advised of the current fees at the time of enrolment. All courses and programmes will proceed subject to numbers and academic approval. Manukau Institute of Technology is part of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology. Te Pūkenga is accredited under the provisions of the Education and Training Act 2020. International students must study in class and will not be able to enrol for online study options.