Foundation Degree in Sport, Coaching and Fitness (Validated by the Ulster University)

The Foundation Degree in Sport, Coaching and Fitness provides learners with an opportunity to develop a diverse range of related skills through a breadth of core sporting modules. The course is a balance of theoretical and practical aspects allowing for the underpinning of established knowledge in an environment that promotes understanding in application.  

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

A minimum of 64 UCAS Tariff points including:

• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile CC

OR

• Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma / Diploma in Sport (or subject in a related area) with overall award profile MPP / MM

OR

• Access to HE Diploma (NI): 65%+ overall with one science module 60%+

OR

• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English-speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk 

Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignment and practical work / observations. Each module is assessed using a predefined grading rubric validated by the Ulster University. 

Student are assessed using a range of methods. These may include:

• Coursework / Case Studies: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report.
• Presentations: Students will present their findings using a range of potential presentation methods.
• Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities.

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. 

Oral, written and online feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.

Students that successfully complete the Foundation Degree programme traditionally progress to one of the following areas:

Related Degree Programmes

Articulation agreements are currently supported by Ulster University:

SERC students who achieve an average of 65% or more in Year 2 of the Foundation Degree may apply for and gain entry into the second year of BSc (Hons) Sports Studies / Sport and Exercise Sciences programmes..

SERC students who achieve an average of 50% or more in Year 2 of the Foundation Degree may apply for and gain entry into the final year of the BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching and Performance programme.

Progression to other institutions is also available.

This course will grant you the status of Ulster University Associate Student.

Employment

The Foundation Degree programme has been designed to equip students with the knowledge required to seek and gain employment within a number of potential employment fields within the industry. Roles may include but are not limited to:

• Fitness Instruction and Personal Training*
• Leisure Management
• Sports Development
• Sports Coaching
• Sports Analysis
• Teaching*

*Please note further professional or academic qualifications may be needed.

SERC is committed through its Ulster University validated programme to delivering learning that provides students with real-world experience, developing the necessary knowledge and intellectual skills sets that will allow for progression onwards into related degree programmes or future employment.

The programme will help learners develop a wide range of skills including, but not limited to:

Technical Skills

• Understanding the structure and function of the human body and its response to physical activity.
• Knowledge of dietary needs and how they affect performance and recovery.
• Performance testing and its evaluation for athletic performance.
• Development and implementation of strength training programmes to enhance athletic performance.
• Athlete monitoring processes.
• Design and implementation of coaching sessions.
• Collection methods and analysis of sporting data.

Employability Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Reflective Practice
• Decision Making
• Team Working

You will learn transferable skills on the course, which will help you to apply for relevant jobs within the Sport, Coaching and Fitness Industry.

A range of coaching awards may be completed by each student during the programme in addition to an extended period of work placement.  Qualifications may include:

• Sport NI Safeguarding Children - £15
• First Aid - £45
• Governing Body Coaching Awards (tailored to individual student need)  
• Level 3 Active IQ Personal Training - £550

 Students will be expected to purchase Course Sports Kit at an estimated cost of £25. In addition students will be required to pay for their own Access NI check (approx. £32).