About the programme
The Bachelor of Sport and Recreation is an NZQF Level 7 degree from Auckland University of Technology (AUT) whose final year can be completed at the Nelson campus of Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT). The degree totals 360 credits, and the full pathway takes about 3 years.
The route works in stages. Students first complete the New Zealand Diplomas in Sport, Recreation and Exercise at Levels 5 and 6 at NMIT, then move into the final year of the AUT degree, taught in Nelson. Graduates of the Diploma in Applied Fitness can also enter. To start the pathway, applicants apply for the New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Multi-Sector) Level 5. AUT awards the degree, and further details are on its website.
In the final year each student carries out a large-scale project in an area of sport and recreation that interests them. Building on the Level 5 and 6 study, they deepen their understanding of human physiology and learn how to work with people to improve their lives through health, fitness, sport and recreation.
At NMIT students use an exercise science and physiology lab with up-to-date equipment and have their own on-site gym. Off-campus facilities include the Saxton running track, the TRU High Performance Gym, as well as nearby swimming pools and squash courts. The surrounding region is used for outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, rafting, mountain biking and adventure racing. The pathway suits people planning a career in fitness and sport.
Entry requirements
- Successful completion of the New Zealand Diplomas in Sport, Recreation and Exercise at Levels 5 and 6
- To enter the pathway, apply for the New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise (Multi-Sector) Level 5
- NMIT follows University Entrance requirements for degree entry; specific school subjects may be required
What you study
- New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise, Level 5 — first stage at NMIT
- New Zealand Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Exercise, Level 6 — second stage at NMIT
- Final year of the AUT Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Nelson — a large-scale project in a chosen area of sport and recreation
Careers after graduation
- Personal trainer, gym instructor or aerobics instructor
- Coach, athletic trainer or team trainer
- Exercise advisor for special conditions or exercise rehabilitation provider
- Community recreation advisor or outdoor educator
- PE teacher or lifestyle educator
- Team or facility manager, sports coordinator
- Sports marketer, video analyst or sports science technician
- Health project manager or rest home coordinator
Post-study work visa
Equal to the length of the programme, 3 years maximum
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 19/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the NMIT website