Human Performance Science

The Human Performance Science major represents a distinctive approach to sport and exercise science. It is based on four pillars; strength and conditioning, exercise physiology, biomechanics and injury prevention, and psychology.
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Why study Human Performance Science?

The science of human performance extends beyond high performance sport and includes links to the general population, movement-related professions, exercise, nutrition and physical health.

This major provides an opportunity to develop an interdisciplinary understanding of sport and exercise science, with the scope to follow one of the pillars at a higher level.

In the Human Performance Science major you will also benefit from the established relationships the University has with professional sport franchises, such as Magic Netball and Chiefs Rugby. Extending beyond high performance sport, this major includes links to the general population, movement-related professions, exercise, nutrition and physical health, providing career opportunities across the breadth of sport, physical activity and physical health professions. This major is also supported by our core teaching, research and industry spaces in the Grassroots Trust Velodrome and the Adams Centre.

Career opportunities

  • Sport Nutritionist
  • Sports Coach

Study Human Performance Science in these qualifications

Study in Tauranga

A selection of papers in Human Performance Science (and other Health, Sport, and Human Performance subjects) are available in Tauranga. To complete a full BSHP, some study in Hamilton may be required.

Scholarships and prizes

Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships

Graduate study options

Students who major in Human Performance Science as part of the Bachelor of Sport and Human Performance often pursue further study at masters or doctorate level to enhance their understanding of a specialised area within the sport and leisure industry. Our researchers have strong links with the industry and other researchers nationally and internationally.

Human Performance Science papers

QS rankings

QS World University Rankings 2027

Waikato is ranked equal 293rd globally, placing us in the top 1.5% of universities worldwide, and 2nd in New Zealand by citations per faculty.

QS Ranking - Sports-related subjects

Waikato is ranked among the top 150 universities worldwide for Sports-related subjects in the QS World University Rankings.