Sport and Exercise Science - BSc (Hons)
Currently viewing course to start in 2022/23 Entry. Switch to 2023/24 Entry
Our Sport and Exercise Science course will equip you with the skills to become a practitioner in the sport and exercise industry; either helping leading athletes to achieve their potential, or working with members of the public to achieve their goals. You will be taught in our recently extended £71 million City South Campus based in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time
- Location City South
- Award BSc (Hons)
- Start date September 2022
- Fees View course fees
- School School of Health Sciences
- Faculty Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences
Overview
Our Sport and Exercise Science course will equip you with the skills to become a practitioner in the sport and exercise industry; either helping leading athletes to achieve their potential, or working with members of the public to achieve their goals. You will be taught in our recently extended £71 million City South Campus based in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
What's covered in this course?
The course explores the science of sport and exercise, considering how disciplines such as physiology, psychology and biomechanics can be applied in the context of sports performance, physical activity, health and wellbeing.
You will study a range of discipline-specific and multi-disciplinary modules, equipping you with a diverse range of perspectives that will enrich your learning and enhance your career opportunities.
It won’t just be about sport - you'll be looking at different aspects of health and people at opposite ends of the health spectrum. Sport and exercise is a large and expanding global industry and levels of fitness and participation in physical activity are significant issues on the political agenda. Therefore, you’ll be trained to respond to the challenges facing society today, by exploring the profession and it's disciplines in encouraging and supporting greater physical activity.
Endorsed by the British Association for Sport and Exercise Science, the professional body for sport and exercise science, our practice-led course is full of relevant, fresh information and insight that you can take into the work environment and make a positive contribution to modern society.
Accredited By
Accreditation for Sport and Exercise Science
This course is accredited by the British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES), the professional body for such subjects. This will ensure our course is fresh and relevant, as well as creating valuable industry links and knowledge.
Why Choose Us?
- Professional accreditation - this course is accredited by the British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) to ensure content is relevant and up-to-date with industry standards
- Gain relevant work experience - There will be live projects to work on with professional sports teams, as well as optional work-based learning experience, enabling you to gain first-hand experience and build your knowledge. See what some of our students have been up to
- Study at our £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 nutrition kitchen, environmental chamber,
- Physiology and Bio-mechanics laboratory
- Expert knowledge - you'll receive talks from guest lecturers who work within the sector and can provide relevant, up-to-date advice.
- Get work experience abroad - you can apply for a travel scholarship and take part in exchange programmes, as part of our Go Abroad scheme to carry out exciting work placements overseas
- Partnerships - our Sport and Exercise department works in partnership with professional sports clubs such as Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Kidderminster Harriers Football Club
- Flexible course structure - work will be both practical and lab-based, giving you the best of both experiences; supporting your development to work out in the sporting environment, in fitness settings, or conducting lab-based research
Similar Courses
Studying with us during the Covid-19 pandemic
The University has put in place measures in response to Covid-19 to allow us to safely deliver our courses. Should the impact of the pandemic continue in future years, any additional or alternative arrangements put in place by the University will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
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 |
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| Irish Leaving Certificate (Ordinary Level) |
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| Scottish Intermediate 2 |
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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 | ||
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| 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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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. |
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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 with no element below 5.5. |
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Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2022
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £9,250 in 2022/23
- Apply via UCAS
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2022
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £13,500 in 2022/23
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.
Guidance for 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
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.
20 credits
This module aims to explore the wide-ranging activities of practitioners working in the sport and exercise science industry to enable you to appreciate the inter-disciplinary nature of professional practice. You will be introduced to the skills and knowledge required to work within the disciplines of physiology, nutrition, psychology and biomechanics, and how practitioners from these areas can work collaboratively to solve a variety of problems related to sports performance, exercise and health.
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’.
20 credits
This module aims to provide you with an introduction to the core practical competencies required in sport and exercise nutrition. You will consider a vast array of nutrition-related measurements including: energy balance (intake and expenditure); anthropometrical assessments; body composition, methods of assessing dietary intake; and both physiological and biochemical markers of nutritional status.
20 credits
This module provides an introduction to human anatomy, relating to structures, properties and functions of bones, joints, tendons, ligaments and muscle, in relation to the mechanical principles, which govern human movement.
20 credits
The primary purpose of this module is to introduce the mechanical principles that govern human movement and thus equip students not only with the ability to observe and measure human movement (i.e. to describe movement), but also to begin to understand the mechanisms by which human movement is controlled and effected (i.e. to explore why we move the way that we do).
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 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. Specific focus is placed upon the process of conducting a comprehensive needs analysis of a sport including tactics, techniques, and bioenergetics.
20 credits
In this module, you will learn how manipulation of both physiology and nutrition can impact aspects of health, exercise and sports performance. You will gain extensive knowledge on how the human body tolerates and adapts to a physiological stressor both acutely and chronically.
20 credits
This module is a key part of the BSc Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Therapy, Sport and Exercise Nutrition, and PE and School Sport Programmes in that it is studied in preparation for your Level 6 Final Year Project. Information and activities on more complex inferential statistics will be presented building on from your level 4 research module.
20 credits
This module aims to develop your knowledge of the most common psychological processes in sport and exercise and will help you recognise situations where psychological frameworks may be useful in sport and exercise.
20 credits
Within this module students will learn about a range of pedagogical practices which bring about high quality PE lessons where students are physically active for sustained periods of time. Students will identify the key principles of high quality teaching practice and relate these to practical experiences of teaching PE and sport.
Year Three
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 80 credits).
20 credits
This module aims to develop the skills required to coach and evaluate training methods in strength and conditioning. You will examine contemporary training theories and successfully apply the principles when coaching athletes.
20 credits
This module aims to develop your understanding of exercise referral. It aims to specifically develop your understanding of assessing, monitoring and managing risk to clients arising from exercise participation throughout the referral period.
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.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules for SEMESTER A.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
20 credits
In this module you will build upon your knowledge acquired in level 5 Sport and Exercise Physiology and Nutrition. This will include applying both theoretical and practical knowledge on how different environments affect human physiology in reference to both sports performance and health. In particular, this module considers the human capability to exercise in, tolerate, and adapt to, the conditions encountered in various environments. There will be a special focus on how hypoxic training methods can be used to enhance training adaptations. Some of the environments covered include hypoxic, hot, cold, and humid conditions.
20 credits
Within this module students will learn about a range of psychological and theoretical frameworks which support physical activity behaviours. Key principles promoting a healthy and physically active lifestyle from a psychological and practical perspective will be taught. This module is underpinned by the need, as a developing PE and school sport practitioner, to be aware of the wide range of psychological influences present when working within a PE and school sport environment. The range of teaching theories will be applied in practice so that students are able to experience and apply theory in real-life situations. This will provide the opportunity to reflect on best practice when completing work placement modules.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete a further 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules for SEMESTER B.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
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.
20 credits
This optional applied module will enhance your interdisciplinary knowledge and understanding of sport science or exercise science. The module aims to develop some of the skills you will require to work in a sport and exercise setting. You will undertake a 12 week ‘case-study’ where you will provide advice and support to an athlete, team or health-based client. The case study aims to allow you to critically analyse a sport or individual, and interpret and synthesize data so it can be communicated in a way that is understandable to a coach, client or practitioner. You will also have the opportunity to develop essential communication skills.
Download course specification
Download nowCourse structure
You can choose from a range of discipline-specific and multi-disciplinary modules, equipping you with a diverse range of perspectives that will enrich your learning and enhance your career development.
The sport and exercise science degree course has been co-designed with employers, ensuring you receive up-to-date and useful information, and you’ll also have the opportunity to engage in work-based placements, applying theory to practice and enhancing your employability prospects. There will also be live industry case studies as part of the core assessment diet.
All of our sport courses will provide additional, employability based qualifications at the same time as your course, building your knowledge and improving your prospects. For this course, you could gain REPS fitness qualifications, providing you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a personal trainer.
The modules involved will cover the core disciplinary areas required – physiology, psychology, biomechanics and nutrition.
You'll have the option of taking a sandwich year between Year 2 and Year 3 of study.
The British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences
This course is accredited by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences.
Employability
Enhance your employability skills
Sport and Exercise Science covers a wide range of roles, sectors and challenges, giving you a wide range of career options upon graduating. Placements and live case studies, provided by existing sports teams and organisations, will increase your job prospects.
Placements
Our partnerships with Warwickshire Cricket Club and Sport Birmingham will provide you with the opportunity to undertake valuable work placements. You'll be able to gain first-hand experience, assisting with fitness testing, lab-based research and exercise regimes.
Sport Birmingham works with sports coaches and staff, so you’ll be working alongside trained professionals who can impart advice and guidance. You could also undertake placements with professional sports teams, organisations and education facilities.
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
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.
Facilities & 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
Richard Clarke
Senior Lecturer and Course Leader BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
Rich is an Accredited Strength and Conditioning Coach and is one of seven people on the board of directors for the UKSCA. Rich has professional coaching experience working for Gloucester Rugby, Athlete Academy, Women's FA and University of Gloucestershire.
More about RichardRichard 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 RichardLaura Hodgson
Assistant Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science
Laura joined Birmingham City University in 2019 and currently teaches on the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science undergraduate degree programme, primarily in sport and exercise psychology. Laura obtained her PhD in 2018 which explored the role of emotional abilities in elite sports coaching. Her main interests lie in the psychological factors...
More about LauraDr Adam L. Kelly
Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for Sports Coaching and Physical Education
Adam L. Kelly, PhD, CSci, is a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for Sports Coaching and Physical Education. Alongside attaining his PhD from the University of Exeter, Adam is a BASES Sport and Exercise Scientist, UEFA A and FA AYA Licenced Coach, and Fellow of the HEA. Broadly, his research interests explore organisational structures in youth...
More about Adam L.Dr Adam Herbert
Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science
Adam has extensive applied experience having worked in both the elite sporting environment and private healthcare for clubs including Port Vale FC and Spire Healthcare based at the National Football Centre, St Georges Park. Adam completed his PhD at Manchester Metropolitan University, and has published in internationally renowned journal articles...
More about Adam