When Sarsh Watkins decided she wanted a change of career, she never expected that enrolling in UCOL's Certificate in Exercise and Sports Performance would be so life-changing.
A couple of years ago, Ms Watkins was overweight, out of shape and "fed up" with her job as a care-giver.
"I wanted a change of career, but I still wanted to do something that helped people."
So she enrolled in the one-year course on a whim, and spent 2016 learning about anatomy and physiology, sports massage, nutrition and doing regular work-outs.
"I lost 22kg in the process. And I discovered, through doing the course, that I loved working with children - something I'd never known before. It was definitely a life-changing experience for me," Ms Watkins said.
She is now a dedicated runner, and plans to carry on to further training as a physical education teacher.
Another 2016 graduate, Liam Goodhall, enrolled because he enjoyed sports, especially hockey and judo, and had enjoyed biology at school.
"The part of the course I liked the most was sports massage, so I'm keen to get into that more," Mr Goodhall said.
Lecturer Jon Bailey said the Certificate was taught at both Whanganui and Palmerston North campuses, and was well-established.
"But not many people know about the course," he said.
It's a full-time course that runs from the end of February to early November. Students study eight modules in a diverse range of subjects relating to sport and exercise.
Mr Bailey said the students also train for a sports event as part of the course.
"It's a very practical course. Our students are people who want to work in a gym, or want to go on to study sports science, or become a PE teacher.
"We also have people who are just looking to improve their own health and well-being, or people who play sport," Mr Bailey said.
For more information visit the UCOL website or drop into the UCOL enrolment office on campus.