The purpose of this learning programme is to meet the specific competency outcomes of the National Diploma in Coaching Science by providing theoretical and practical education plus in-the-field training.  The programme prepares students for work in the sport industry regionally, nationally and internationally. The programme meets the assessment criteria of the national qualification.  A qualifying student will be able to:

• Coach at least one chosen sport specialisation to performers at intermediate to advanced level.
• Provide advice on advanced fitness conditioning, sports specific testing, sports nutrition and the use of ergogenic aids, sport psychology and advanced programmes that support sport performance at elite levels.
• Display appropriate coaching, communication and mentoring skills to assist participants with their planning and motivation towards their sport goals.
• Assist athletes to develop the mental skills required for the competition of their chosen sport.
• Create support structures within the environment and the community relative to the sport.
• Participate in the growth and development of sport for individuals and for the community.

Year One:

Cluster 1 (Life skills, professional coaching principles):  Teamwork, Personal organisation in the workplace, Operate as a coach, Values and ethics, Social issues, diversity & equity, Plan & conduct research, Operate a PC.

Cluster 2 (Applied exercise science and programme design):  Anatomy & biomechanics, Sport & exercise physiology, Training methods, Nutrition, special needs and disabilities.

Cluster 3 (Sport skills and Coaching sport):  Growth & development, sport psychology, plan practice sessions, teach sport skills, sport codes 1, 2, 3, 4, coach disabilities in sport.

Cluster 4 (Risk management and sport administration): Organise & administer sport, Workplace communication, HIV & AIDS, Safety and risk management, tam ethics, team management and logistics.

Year Two:

Cluster 1 (Mentoring, inter personal skills, risk screening) Mentoring, personal growth & development, sport injuries and health management, risk screening.

Cluster 2 (Sport science, motor skills & tactics, mental skills)  Anatomical and biomechanical analysis for sport, Advanced sport and exercise physiology, Sport nutrition & ergogenic aids, motor skills and tactical learning, mental skills.

Cluster 3 (Sport testing, programme planning & Periodisation):  Testing for sport, Talent identification & development, Sport fitness conditioning, Periodisation of training, advanced coaching.

Cluster 4 (Business management, sport organisations):  Organisation of sport in SA, Analyse & communicate workplace data, Entrepreneurship & business management