The NCEF Active Ageing for Older Adults specialist module will give you the skills, knowledge and competencies to:

• Design group exercise classes for dependent chair based and independent active older adults.

• Prescribe progressive exercise programmes suitable for independent older adults of varying levels of fitness in a gym, leisure centre or community environment.

• Functional fitness classes and programme design.

• Enhance the activity levels of our active ageing population in a fun and safe manner.

All NCEF courses and modules are accredited by the University of Limerick (UL).

• University of Limerick Accredited.

• 15 European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits towards the Higher Certificate/ Diploma/B.Sc. in Exercise & Health Fitness through a flexible learning pathway and also towards other University qualifications in Europe who follow ECTS credit value system.

• Europe Active Level 5 Exercise Specialist Module

• Successful students will receive an NCEF Certificate of Completion

1. Introduction to Active Ageing

• History and benefits of physical activity for older adults.

• Current research on physical activity and health in older populations.

2. Applied Anatomy & Physiology

• Understanding the effects of ageing on health and physiology.

• Understanding the increasing risk of developing non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimers disease, Parkinson’s disease etc.

3. Client Screening

• Health and lifestyle screening.

• Considerations for participation in physical activity and exercise.

• Guidelines for referral.

4. Programming

• Principles and considerations of programme design for individuals and groups.

• Contraindications for participants.

• Class planning and programme design.

5. Active Ageing Applications

• Work experience

• Preparation for assessments

6. Final Summative Assessments

• Summative Practical (Video Submissions)

• Summative Written (Work experience portfolio and online assessment)

The fee for the Active Ageing for Older Adults module is €1,495.

Payment Options

Option 1: Full Payment

• Pay the full fee of €1,495 on acceptance of your place.

• This includes a non-refundable deposit of €595.

Option 2: Split Payment

• A non-refundable deposit of €595 is due on acceptance of your place.

• The remaining balance of €900 must be paid 6 weeks before the module begins.

If you are completing this module as part of the Higher Certificate in Exercise & Health Fitness (Year 2), the cost is already included in your programme fees.

Learner Protection

In compliance with Section 65(4)(a) of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012, Learner Protection arrangements have been secured with Arachas Insurance. This ensures protection in the unlikely event that NCEF ceases to provide the programme before completion.

NCEF Certificate in Exercise & Health Fitness (CEHF) NFQ Level 6

OR

NCEF/PEAI Level 1 National Certificate in Fitness & Exercise Instruction - Current and Recertified

You must also hold a PHECC First Aid Response qualification.

If you hold another health/fitness qualification from other institution/s or bodies and relevant work experience in the fitness industry , we ask you to complete an RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) application form which is a common route of entry onto NCEF courses.

Online Delivery

All content, including classes, progress assessments, videos, and resource materials, is delivered via the University of Limerick’s virtual learning environment, Brightspace. This module is studied entirely online.

Brightspace provides a wide range of tools to support teaching, assessment, feedback, collaboration, and communication with both instructors and fellow students.

Flexible Learning

• Study from home, abroad, or anywhere with an internet connection.

• Online classes are pre-recorded with voiceover, allowing you to study at a time that suits you.

• No live class timetable: you can learn at your own pace.

Start Dates

Spring 2026: Monday, 26th January – Late-April 2026

Summer 2026: Monday 18th May 2026 – August 2026

Autumn 2026: Monday, 7th September 2026 – Mid-December 2026

Applications are now open. Click here to apply