Sports Coaching and Physical Education - BSc (Hons)
The course content is designed to ensure graduates develop the pedagogical practice required to coach athletes across a range of ages and abilities, as well as the delivery of all areas of the Physical Education curriculum at both Primary and Secondary school level....
Studying with us in 2021/22
It is possible that the 2021/22 academic year may be affected by the ongoing disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Any arrangements put in place by the University for the 2021/22 academic year will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, pandemic-related/health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time
- Location City South
- Award BSc (Hons)
- Start date September 2021
- Fees View course fees
- School School of Health Sciences
- Faculty Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences
Course overview
The course content is designed to ensure graduates develop the pedagogical practice required to coach athletes across a range of ages and abilities, as well as the delivery of all areas of the Physical Education curriculum at both Primary and Secondary school level. Following graduation, you will be in a position to gain employment within a sports coaching or school sport setting, or embark on postgraduate studies, such as a PGCE in Physical Education.
What's covered in this course?
We will help you develop a keen understanding of your own coaching and teaching philosophy, along with providing you with industry and cultural factors that influence the wider context of sport. You will gain practical application of the theoretical underpinnings of coaching and PE teaching and have access to hands-on experiences.
Physical education continues to be an important part of Government agendas, so with this in mind, you will also learn relevant and up-to-date information that is linked and mapped to the National Curriculum for Physical Education (NCPE). You will be taught the contemporary information that educators within this sector require. It won’t just be about sport either; you'll be looking at different aspects of health and people at opposite ends of the health spectrum. It's a chance for you to gain the knowledge and skills needed to negotiate different challenges in your future profession.
To help build these skills, you'll go on placements, working face-to-face and gaining first-hand experience in a coaching and/or school environment, something which will enhance your future employability.
By studying this course, you’ll be studying at our recently extended £71 million campus in Edgbaston, Birmingham, which contains a state-of-the-art sport and exercise laboratory, sports therapy rooms, cutting-edge resources and a designated sports area.
Why Choose Us?
- Placement experience - you'll gain vital, first-hand experience of coaching and physical education by undertaking placements, where you can build up your knowledge and enhance your attributes
- Job opportunities - benefit from our staff expertise and networks to help support you to find work experience and opportunities. We have students who have gained employment within organisations such as the Football Association and in schools since starting their course with us
- Inspiring children - there will be a host of practical-based teamwork and activities, ensuring you learn by doing. We regularly hold sports festivals for students from all year groups to host with local school children, to provide you with hands-on experience right from the start of the course
- £71 million campus - we have recently invested an additional £41 million into our £30 million City South campus complete with new, state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge resources and equipment – including a Sports Hall and fitness suite
- Get work experience abroad - you can apply for a travel scholarship as part of our Go Abroad scheme to carry out exciting work placements overseas
- Partnerships - The Department of Sport and Exercise have developed excellent partnerships with sports organisations such as Warwickshire County Cricket (BCU sponsor of Birmingham Bears T20 team), Kidderminster Harriers FC, Worcester Warriors RFU, City of Birmingham Swimming Club and UK athletics. We are continuing to develop valuable partnerships to offer unique opportunities and experiences for our students that will be invaluable for building a CV and securing the ultimate career
Similar Courses
Entry Requirements
We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
Essential Requirements
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112 UCAS tariff points from A/AS Level |
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| Level 2 Qualifications | ||
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| UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
| GCSE |
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| Irish Leaving Certificate (Ordinary Level) |
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| Scottish Intermediate 2 |
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| Scottish Credit Standard Grade |
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| Scottish National 5 |
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| IELTS |
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| Plus one of the following Level 3 (and above) Qualifications | ||
| UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
| A level and Advanced VCE |
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| Access to HE Diploma |
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| British bachelor's degree |
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International Baccalaureate Diploma |
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Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers) |
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OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma |
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OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma |
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| Open University courses |
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Scottish Advanced Higher |
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T-Levels |
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| Other qualifications | ||
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If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS. Recent relevant study to GCE A-level standard or above must have been completed within five years of the course intake date the applicant is applying for. Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website. In addition, successful candidates will be required to obtain an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance via the Faculty prior to enrolling onto this course. |
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| International qualifications | ||
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International Baccalaureate: Obtain a minimum of 28 points overall with grade 4 or above in at least one Higher Level subject from Group 4. |
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Applicants who have not received their secondary school education in English will require an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with no element below 6.0. |
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Fees & How to Apply
- UK students
- International students
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £9,250 per year
- Apply via UCAS
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £13,200 per year
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead.
Guidance for UK students
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
Register with UCAS
Login to UCAS
Complete your details
Select your course
Write a personal statement
Get a reference
Pay your application fee
Send UCAS your application
Our advice for applying to a health care course
Applying for a course and preparing for an interview can be a daunting process, so we have created a series of films to help you through the process, including what to put in your personal statement.
International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
Your personal statement is a highly important part of your application. It gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
Course choice
Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
Career plans
If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
Work experience
Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
School or college experience
Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
Non-accredited skills or achievement
eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Get more information on writing personal statements.
Course in Depth
Year One
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
20 credits
The aim of this module is to introduce the theories and methods of coaching. This will include topics such as athlete development, coaching models, coach education, interpersonal relationships, and contextual influences on coaching. The module will focus on delivering a blend of lectures, seminars, and practicals. This will provide you with the knowledge and understanding of relevant concepts integrated within the coaching process to underpin the planning, delivery, and reflection of applied practice. Therefore, the key purpose of this module is to encourage you to reflect upon how they may apply the module content into real-life situations. As a developing coach and member of the sport community, this module will encourage you to reflect in their own life experiences which will be a valuable tool to facilitate knowledge translation.
20 credits
This module aims to provide an insight into the strategies that can be used to analyse and quantify sports performance in a valid and consistent manner to help inform training and match-play decisions. Objective analysis of performance is achieved through the collection of real-time data, which will be analysed and reported to coaches in a useable manner. The means by which performance analysis data can be used to enhance training interventions, augment learning and improve decision-making in competitive situations will be the focus of discussion in sessions.
20 credits
This module will provide you with a core foundation of knowledge in Physical Education (PE) and School Sport. It is intended that you will be aware of how PE differs to School Sport, but also how they can be interlinked.
20 credits
This module will provide an understanding of how children develop through a physical, emotional, health and well-being perspective. Students will learn about how skill and ability levels can differ between children, and factors which influence development of these. Further studies will focus on how children process information in order to make decisions, and this can be compared and contrasted as children grow through different maturational stages.
20 credits
This module covers the process of research and enquiry in the discipline of sports and exercise science, nutrition, sports therapy, and PE and School Sport. It provides guidance on how to interpret scientific literature, so that you can find relevant sources of information for a study or an assessment, gain an understanding of different sources of information and consider how knowledge is generated. This module is important for underpinning your developing knowledge in other modules, including physiology and planning and conducting research for example.
20 credits
This module aims to provide you with the underpinning knowledge of various physiological systems in the human body, and key training principles, which relate to sport and exercise. You will be introduced to the concept of the body working as multiple interrelated physiological ‘systems’. Whilst each system has its own independent function, the function of one will have a direct impact on the function of another and will subsequently impact upon sports performance or health.
Year Two
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
40 credits
This module aims to develop and utilise pedagogical skills in a real-world setting, whilst providing an opportunity to critically develop learning and experience, and work on a live piece of investigation with the placement provider. Application of subject knowledge and the National Curriculum for PE/ National Governing Body syllabus will be key to the successful completion of this work. This module will also provide an opportunity to develop essential employability attributes (e.g. interpersonal skills) which will also offer ideal preparation for the Level 6 Sports Coaching and PE work placement module.
20 credits
Within this module you will learn about a range of issues surrounding PE and sports coaching. You will identify the key principles of what helps students engage in PE and sport, and what local, national and international initiatives are available to help promote a physical active and healthy lifestyle.
20 credits
Within this module students will learn about the reasons for physical activity promotion and the barriers to physical activity participation. Students will identify the recommended daily guidelines for physical activity, whilst exploring health and social strategies to improve lifestyle through facilitating physical activity behaviours.
20 credits
Within this module you will learn about a range of pedagogical practices which bring about high quality PE lessons where school children are physically active for sustainable periods of time. You will identify the key principles of high quality teaching practice and relate these to practical experiences of teaching PE and sport.
20 credits
The module aims to assist you in gaining a more critical understanding of the research of others and to act as a complement to other second year modules you will be studying. It will also directly prepare you for undertaking your own research at Level 6.
Year Three
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits):
40 credits
This aims to be a problem-based module where you will develop, utilise, and further apply pedagogical skills in a real world setting. The module will provide an opportunity to critically develop learning and experience, and work on a live piece of investigation by agreement with the placement provider. Application of subject knowledge and the national curriculum for PE/ National Governing Body syllabus will be key to the successful completion of this work. This module will also provide an opportunity to develop essential employability attributes (e.g., interpersonal skills) which you will develop further from the Sports Coaching and Physical Education – Professional Practice 1.
20 credits
The aim of this module is to provide students with the understanding and key concepts of working in a high performance sporting environment from a coaching perspective. The primary objectives are to ensure students recognise the holistic nature of high performance sport (i.e., how the coach connects with staff in other disciplines such as Sport Science, Strength and Conditioning, Performance Analysis, Psychology, and Nutrition), and are capable of delivering progressive coaching sessions in relation to a sport-specific performance plan. This is an advanced module into high performance sports coaching, which further develops knowledge and practical skills gained through The Coaching Process and Applied Pedagogy in Sports Coaching and Physical Education.
40 credits
This module provides you with the opportunity to design and carry out a substantive piece of independent research which is focused on an area of interest related to your programme of study. This in-depth, self-managed study will encourage you to examine a critical issue from your sector or discipline.
20 credits
This module aims to further develop your understanding of the psychological aspects of development and progress in sport. The module also explores the various ways this topic is researched. The underlying aim of the module is to contribute to your development as a more thoughtful and effective sport scientist. It will equip you with a range of strategies and tools for investigating the psychological aspects of athletic development.
The Sports Coaching and Physical Education course will include a mix of practical, seminar and lecture sessions. It will also include work-based placements, enabling you to build your knowledge and gain first-hand experience, and assessments.
Overseas opportunities
You can gain international insight and experience a new culture with our Erasmus exchange programme. Students have spent a term at a number of major institutions, including the University of San Diego in the USA, as well as destinations in Cyprus and Denmark.
Within the course, there will also be the opportunity for international exchanges, as well as trips to sporting locations across Europe.
Employability
Enhancing your employability skills
Physical activity and health continue to be a global concern, so this course ensures you are given the relevant, up-to-date information you require to enter employment in related disciplines. Upon graduating, the ultimate goal is likely to be to either enter the PE and school sport environment or the Sports Coaching environment promoting lifelong physical activity and healthy active lifestyles. You can also progress on to a PGCE or a Master’s degree, furthering your skills.
Placements
Placements play a significant role in this course, as it is important you build up your experience and knowledge of working within the sector. You'll work in sports clubs and/or schools on placements, gaining first-hand exposure.
OpportUNIty
OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.
International Students
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Explore some of the good reasons why you should study here.
- Find out how to improve your language skills before starting your studies.
- Find all the information relevant to applicants from your country.
- Learn where to find financial support for your studies.
The UK remains one of the world's leading study destinations
The UK remains one of the world's leading study destinations for international students.
The first-class experience offered by universities are reflected in the world’s largest survey of international students. International students are more likely to recommend the UK than any other leading English-language study destination.
Facilities and Staff
Our facilities
Our sports facilities include a fitness suite, sports hall, biomechanics lab, nutrition kitchen, research lab and sports therapy clinic. Over £750,00 has been spent on our sports facilities making them industry-standard to expose students to systems and equipment that they will be expected to use in the work place after graduating.
These facilities mean that our students are able to host and work with professional sports teams, schools and clients which provides students with real-life experience right here on campus.
Mary Seacole Library
The Seacole library, based at City South Campus, is one of the UK's largest specialist health education libraries. The facility offers an extensive range of range of information and reference materials set out in a relaxing environment, conducive to studying. There are comfortable seating areas, group study areas, a silent study area and private study rooms.
Computer Facilities
The Seacole building houses a large open access IT Suite which comprises of 96 PCs, printers, photocopiers and scanners. Our PCs utilise the latest Intel i5 core technology, all with:
- Fast (unrestricted) internet connectivity
- Ability to save files to USB, DVD & CD
- Microsoft Office software
- Research and statistical software
- Storage space which can be accessed from any PC across the University and from home
Our PCs are also designed to support students who may have difficulties with reading and writing, featuring specialised software with zooming/magnification and screen reading capabilities, which may also be customised for individual student needs.
The IT Suite offers extended opening hours and is supported by a specialist Open Access Assistant during term time. In addition to the open access PCs within the IT Suite, there are 12 networked student PCs available within Seacole library.
Doug Ellis Sports Centre
Our £8.5 million Doug Ellis Sports Centre boasts an 80-station fitness suite, an eight-court sports hall, and workout and spinning studios. The centre offers state-of-the-art fitness training equipment and plenty of room for team sports including five-a-side football and cricket. An all-weather pitch adds the finishing touches to the centre, which is located close to our City North Campus.
Visitors to the gym can choose a personalised fitness programme, instructed by qualified fitness trainers, and take advantage of a selection of classes, such as yoga, salsa or body combat.
Our staff
Dr Adam Kelly
Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching and Physical Education
Adam is a Senior Lecturer and the Course Leader for Sports Coaching and Physical Education at Birmingham City University. Following seven years in an applied environment at Exeter City Football Club working as the Head of Academy Sport Science, Adam moved into the academic realm to facilitate his desire of becoming a world-leading expert in sports psychology and coaching; more specifically investigating athlete development and youth sport.
More about AdamIrfan Khawaja
Senior Lecturer/Course Leader for Physical Education and School Sport
Irfan has worked in a range of primary and secondary schools across the region, and was a curriculum coordinator for P.E. at key stage 5. In addition to this, Irfan has also worked within Pupil Referral Units and supported a range of disability workshops including invasion games, and dance festivals.
More about IrfanRachel Black
Senior Lecturer Physical Education and School Sport
Rachel gained qualified teacher status in Physical Education in 1999, and has a wealth of experience teaching, leading and advising in a range of both primary and secondary schools in Sussex and Shropshire. Rachel has gained considerable experience teaching in Higher Education, and prior to joining the team at Birmingham City University, taught on the Physical Education degree course at The University of Worcester. Rachel is in the final stage of her Doctorate in Education.
More about RachelCraig Newton
Lecturer
Craig has 10 years teaching physical education at both primary and secondary level. Craig has experience as a head of department, educational visit coordinator and led a whole school initiative of mentoring SEN pupils from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Whilst teaching he studied part time to gain a Masters in Teaching and Learning and has since delivered a range of INSET teacher training sessions from his studies.
More about CraigRichard Handyside
Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science
Richard has provided Performance Analysis support to The English Institute of Sport, England Netball, Arsenal Football Club and Leeds United Football Club. Richard won a Gold Medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in Australia, and subsequent BBC SPOTY Team of the Year and Moment of the Year award with England Netball.
More about Richard