HNC Sports Coaching and Development at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

The HNC Sports Coaching and Development gives a foundation in the theory and practice of sports coaching, with the flexibility to focus on indoor sports or outdoor adventurous activities. It offers a clear Adventure Sports Coaching pathway from Level 5 through to Level 10. It is delivered through face-to-face lectures, tutorials and practical sessions in college and in the community.

Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time (structured) | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Mandatory units are Human anatomy, physiology and biomechanics in sport, Sports coaching and development: developing professional practice, Sports coaching and development: graded unit 1, Sports coaching practitioner (knowing coaching, knowing others, knowing yourself) and Sports development 1. Options may include First aid for sport and fitness, Inclusive sport and physical activity for participants with disabilities, Outdoor activities provision and safe practice, Psychology of sport and exercise, and Strength and conditioning: an introduction.

Career pathways

Graduates can seek posts in sports centres, coaching and outdoor adventure, and can progress to HND Sports Coaching and Development or BSc (Hons) Sport and Fitness.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2 Scottish Highers at grade C or above, or 2 A levels at grade D or above, preferably including English plus a science subject or Mathematics; alternatively a relevant sports-related NC or NQ at SCQF level 6 or above. Applicants without the standard entry requirements are encouraged to apply. Candidates need a good performance background in a variety of sporting activities and a keen interest in sport; coaching experience is desirable but not essential. Category 1 PVG course. Access routes: Sports and Fitness NQ, Outdoor Adventure NQ, Certificate in Physical Activity and Adventure Leadership. Not open to international students who need a Student Route visa.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,285 a year (2026/27). Full-time per year. Scotland-domiciled students with a Scottish term-time address (includes EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status and EEA/Swiss nationals with settled status) Source

International applicants: GBP 9,460 a year (2026/27). Full-time per year, students not normally resident in the UK (including EU/EEA/Swiss nationals without settled or pre-settled status) with a term-time address in Scotland. Part-time study is not open to those needing a Student Route visa. The course canno Source

Intake: September

Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time (structured)

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