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HND Fitness, Health and Exercise (Uniformed and Emergency Services) (1)

  • Qualifications Higher National Qualifications
  • SCQF Level SCQF Level 8
  • Study mode August 2026 Courses
  • Campus Kilmarnock
  • Start date August 2026
  • Duration 36 weeks
More information

Attendance/Duration

Full-Time

Overview

This advanced programme is designed to prepare you for a wide range of careers within the uniformed and emergency services. The course focuses on developing the physical, psychological, and operational skills required to work in challenging, high-pressure environments.

You will build a deeper understanding of exercise science, human performance, and applied health and wellbeing while also exploring the organisational structures, leadership expectations, and professional standards within emergency service roles. The course examines the physical and cognitive demands of working in situations that require rapid decision-making, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to perform consistently under stress.

Key areas of development include cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, tactical conditioning, flexibility, and stress tolerance — essential qualities for tasks such as casualty handling, equipment transport, emergency response, and maintaining performance throughout demanding shifts.

Entry Requirements

To join this course, you’ll need:

  • HNC Fitness, Health and Exercise.
  • A successful interview with us.
  • Membership of the PVG Scheme (the College will arrange this).

Course Content

Discover a range of subjects including exercise programming, health screening, nutrition, and more:

  • Exercise Physiology and Anatomy
  • Exercise Principles and Programming
  • First Aid for Sport and Fitness
  • Health Screening
  • Nutrition for Fitness, Health and Exercise
  • Working Safely and Effectively with Clients
  • Plan, Teach and Evaluate a Gym-based Exercise Session
  • Flexibility Training
  • An Introduction to Strength and Conditioning

Next steps and career opportunities

Upon completion, you may have the opportunity to:

  • Progress onto HND Fitness, Health and Exercise
  • Pursue employment in private health and fitness organisations and sports clubs
  • Self-employed as a freelance instructor or personal trainer

Skills

  • Problem solving
  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Confidence
  • Digital skills

Employer and Industry Links

British Army, Scottish Fire & Rescue Service, Police Scotland, Royal Navy, HM Coastguard, Scottish Ambulance Service.

Articulation Routes

Progression to Sports degrees.