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

Programme overview

The HND Sports Coaching and Development builds on existing knowledge by combining in-depth theory with hands-on practice across indoor sports and outdoor adventurous activities. Students explore real-world issues facing coaches and develop practical expertise and leadership skills. It sits within a dedicated Adventure Sports Coaching pathway from Level 5 to Level 10.

Duration: 2 years full-time (HNC plus HND); 4 years part-time | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 is the HNC Sports Coaching and Development. Year 2 mandatory units are Physical preparation for sports performance, Sports coaching and development: graded unit 2, Sports coaching practitioner (knowing coaching 2, knowing others 2, knowing yourself 2) and Sports development 2, plus options such as Coaching children, Outdoor activities: application of management and organisational skills and Psychology of sport and exercise.

Career pathways

Graduates can seek employment in sports centres, coaching and outdoor adventure, or as freelance fitness instructors, and can progress to BA (Hons) Sports Management.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Entry to year 1 (HNC): 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. Advanced entry to year 2 with HNC Sports Coaching and Development (15 SCQF credits). Category 1 PVG course. 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: 2 years full-time (HNC plus HND); 4 years part-time

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