Sport and Exercise Science BSc (Hons)

Key Facts

  • UCAS Code

    BSc: C600
    BSc with Foundation: C603

  • Level

    Undergraduate

  • Duration

    Full Time: 3 years
    Part Time: 4 - 6 years
    Full Time Foundation: 4 years

  • Starting

    September

  • CCC at A Level or,
    DMM at BTEC

  • Fees UK 24/25

    Full Time: £9,250
    Part Time: £1,540 (per 20 credits) Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250

  • Fees International 24/25

    Full Time: £15,200
    Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200

  • Location

Get in touch


For questions regarding study and admissions please contact us:

UK/EU Students enquiries

study@northampton.ac.uk
0300 303 2772

International Students enquiries

international@northampton.ac.uk
+44 (0)1604 893981

Overview


The Sport and Exercise Science degree at UON focuses on the scientific principles that underpin sport and exercise. Our course is practical-based, stimulating, well-structured and research-informed, covering a range of topic areas including biomechanics, physiology and psychology. The practical elements of our Sport and Exercise Science course make use of purpose-built laboratories to develop your knowledge and understanding of the key issues within sport and exercise science. We have a strong applied focus and we work consistently through the year with the big three sporting clubs in the area (Northampton Town Football Club, Northampton Saints Rugby and Northants County Cricket) to help you transition from your degree to a real world / working environment.

Evidence supporting the need for exercise for fitness and health is now widely accepted in industry, education, medicine and sport. This increasingly important role has led to a demand for scientific evidence to improve sport performance making sport and exercise science courses a rapidly advancing area of study. Our course aims to develop your critical skills, allowing you to investigate and analyse issues from a scientific perspective, as well as enhancing your personal and transferable skills. Finally, the course is endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) which is a well-established, respected and highly regarded commendation that indicates the high calibre of work, applied practice and academic standards that we espouse.

Watch what our students have to say about BSc Sport and Exercise Science in this video.

 

Updated 25/03/2024

Highlights


  • Our purpose-built laboratories and research facilities
  • This sports science course provides opportunities for you to gain additional coaching qualifications during the course
  • Internship opportunities with three local professional sports clubs
  • Guaranteed paid internship with the Northampton Employment Promise.
  • HP Laptop and software included with this course. Terms and Conditions apply

Course Content


  • Our purpose-built laboratories allow you to develop your physiological, biomechanical and psychological practical skills. The first year of this exercise science degree provides you with an introduction to the core disciplines which underpin the academic analysis of sport, allowing you to develop your knowledge, understanding and practical/laboratory skills. In years two and three you can choose from a range of modules, allowing you to tailor your studies towards a particular area of interest within Sport and Exercise Science.

    In year one you will gain a sound understanding of the fundamentals of Sport and Exercise Science studying topics such as biomechanics, physiology, fitness training methods and psychology. Once you’ve developed your theoretical knowledge you will explore more specialised areas of sport and exercise science, such as anthropometry and biomechanical analysis, along with further work in the main science-based subjects. In year two you will combine the compulsory core modules (Sport Research Methods) with selected modules from across the subject area. You will have the opportunity to contextualise theory in practical sessions and courses will be underpinned by research methods.

    The optional career and employability module in the first year gives you a head start when thinking about future careers or further academic study, allowing you to think about potential specialisms that you’d like to find employment in or study at master’s level.  The final year of study will enable you to develop a critical understanding of the scientific principles underpinning sport and exercise performance. Further specialisation within a specific sport and exercise discipline culminates in an individual piece of research work on a topic of your choice.

    Our Sport and Exercise Science course modules are delivered within the classroom, sports hall and laboratories in a structured manner. All sessions are supported by our online learning environment, NILE. You can expect two hours of online or face to face contact time each week for each module. Classes are delivered in a variety of methods including lectures, seminars and practical sessions. Our aim is to provide you with opportunities to become actively involved in your learning. For each two hours of contact time you have there will be an additional two – three hours of non-contact directed study. Personal tutorials, and meetings with a personal academic tutor are additional to the time spent in the class.

    Our academic staff are enthusiastic and experienced teachers that are actively involved in research in their specialist areas. Our careers and employability module ensures that you are well-prepared for employment.

    Placement Opportunities

    Our Sports and Exercise Science course offers you internship opportunities with three local professional sports clubs in the area.

    Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 23/24. The modules relating to the academic year 24/25 will be available from June 2024.

      • Module code: SLS1010
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to build a foundation of nutrition knowledge, introducing the nutrients and current recommendations for good health across the lifespan. It will explore the sources of the nutrients in the diet and how the body incorporates them. Students will learn how to investigate the consequences of nutrient intake gaining a fundamental understanding of Nutrition research and how diet relates to health.
      • Module code: SPO1003
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the fundamental aspects of pertinent areas of physiology. Recent years have seen a rapid rise in the application of scientific principles to sport performance and within this module links are made between these aspects and exercise performance.
      • Module code: SPO1008
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is provide an introduction to the anatomy of the musculo-skeletal, neurological and arthrological systems of the human body and how they relate to human movement. The broad knowledge base of this subject will be applied to underlying principles of human movement and the biomechanical analysis of this sporting, execsie and athletic demands. The module will help students to develop a hollistic understanding of anatomy and kinesiology in support of human movement, athletic performance and patient diagnosis/management/recovery.
      • Module code: SPO1012
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is provide an introduction to fitness training methods. It is specifically designed to provide an opportunity for students to gain knowledge and understanding of the components of health and fitness, the associated training principles and the methods used to train these components for a variety of populations (sedentary to athlete).
      • Module code: SPO1024
        Status: Compulsory
        Sport and exercise psychology is an exciting discipline area providing the opportunity to explore the psychological influences on human behaviour. The module offers an introduction to key psychological theories and concepts relevant to sport, exercise, physical activity and coaching contexts.
      • Module code: SPO1039
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to give students the essential academic and employability skills in order to improve their capabilities and excel at university, and then onto their chosen career.
      • Module code: SLS2021
        Status: Designate
        In order to understand nutritional factors influencing health, students will explore the role of nutrition in various states that affect individuals over a lifetime and continuing on through current epidemics of chronic diseases. This module expands students? nutritional perspective by in-depth investigation of key current and relevant topics relating to altered nutritional states, and the influence of exercise and disease on human performance.
      • Module code: SPO2003
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to build upon the basic introduction to the physiological function of an athlete or individual and the associated responses to exercise gained in level four. It will further develop the theories surrounding the acute response of physiological systems to exercise and then introduce the theories associated with chronic adaptations.
      • Module code: SPO2005
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to provide an understanding of the biomechanical factors that influence movement, performance and injury risk. It will provide a further understanding of the mechanical principles involved in sport and exercise activities, mechanical properties of the musculoskeletal system and the analyses used to understand movement, performance and injury in sport and exercise environments.
      • Module code: SPO2018
        Status: Compulsory
        The purpose of this module is to develop knowledge and understanding of a variety of research designs, methods and research skills within a subject-based context. It equips the student with a framework in which to conceptualise quantitative and qualitative traditions and applications. The emphasis will be upon understanding and experiencing the research process and developing critical skills necessary to collect, analyse and present data.
      • Module code: SPO2020
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is provide an opportunity for students to develop their knowledge and understanding of the role and application of the assessment of sport and exercise specific fitness components. It will further explore the complex issues surrounding overall design and monitoring of individual?s training programmes in the context of sports performance or special populations. It will also provide the student with the necessary theoretical knowledge and understanding of the different methods of training and how this information may be applied to enhance specific performance or life style characteristics. Finally, the module will introduce the student to the associated adaptation developed during training.
      • Module code: SPO2041
        Status: Compulsory
        This module will enable students to gain experience working within a programme relevant environment and to make an effective contribution to the operation of the host organisation. This module will also help prepare students for small business start up by developing entrepreneurship, business development and management skills through the application of vocationally relevant knowledge
      • Module code: SPO2045
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to develop an understanding of the physiological aetiology and epidemiology of "lifestyle" diseases and the role of physical activity in ameliorating morbidity associated with a sedentary lifestyle. It will explore the complex issues surrounding prescribing exercise as medicine, in the context of the potential role physical activity/exercise/physical fitness can have in reducing the risk of poor physical health.
      • Module code: SPO2057
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to develop students? knowledge of theory and research explaining performance-related emotions and psychological constructs important to the understanding of peak performance in sport. Further, this module aims to provide students with an awareness of key psychological skills utilised to inform applied practice with athletes.
      • Module code: SPO2058
        Status: Compulsory
        The aim is to provide students with an understanding of the contribution of pyschology to the academic study of sport and exercise and provide a basis for subsequent work at level 6.
      • Module code: SLS3008
        Status: Designate
        This module aims to develop professional skills needed to explore the relationship between nutritional content of food and its availability, utilisation, and impact in an active body. Upon completion of the prerequisites and Learning Objectives of this module, students should be able to autonomously investigate the scientific literature enabling the independent application of an understanding of the known nutrients to the attainment of performance goals.
      • Module code: SPO3007
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to build on knowledge and understanding of sport psychology from previous modules at levels four and five. There will be a focus on the role of the sport psychologist and an application of psychological skills theory in relation to enhancing sport performance and well-being.
      • Module code: SPO3009
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to build upon and further develop knowledge of previous modules (SPO1024, SPO2058) concerning the role of exercise in the development and maintenance of physical and mental health. With growing evidence that exercise participation can have psychological benefits on an individual's health and general wellbeing, the opportunities for careers in health promotion and exercise settings are greater than ever. This module will enable students to develop their understanding of the practical application of psychological theory for physical activity promotion in general and specific populations. It will also enable students to consider a variety of strategies and intervention designs appropriate to specific, targetted groups for the improvement of physical activity levels in relation to good health across the lifespan.
      • Module code: SPO3018
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to provide an understanding of the aetiology of various sport and exercise injuries. It will provide a further understanding common risk factors, preventative measures, rehabilitative techniques and diagnostic analyses for different types of sport and exercise injuries.
      • Module code: SPO3025
        Status: Designate
        The purpose of this module is to build upon the knowledge gained in the previous two years in Fitness Training Methods (SPO1012 and SPO2020) . The module will focus on the applied nature of training with a strong practical and work experience focus for students to gain valuable understanding of periodised training prescription. It specifically addresses the use of applied strength and conditioning training, techniques and develops student preparation for independent work in a sporting environment. The student will develop practical skills such as data collection, training and lifting techniques, periodised training prescription and applied practice with various teams. The module will have a strong work placement / experience focus which will help develop the student ready for the work place.
      • Module code: SPO3051
        Status: Designate
        The module will consider the analysis of sports performance, with particular emphasis on physiological and biomechanical tests. The underpinning rationale for the use of such tests in the analysis of sports performance is evaluated, and issues of validity and reliability are also considered prior to a focus on the procedures and methods underpinning these performance tests.
      • Module code: SPO3052
        Status: Designate
        This module explores the physiology of chronic diseases, as well as the utilisation of exercise to treat a variety of pathological conditions. Students will develop key practical skills in clinical exercise testing according to current guidelines. Students will also gain insights about chronic diseases and will develop core knowledge
      • Module code: SPO4001
        Status: Compulsory
        The dissertation provides an opportunity for sport students to apply knowledge, concepts, and research techniques to a question or problem in sport, exercise, or physical activity. The dissertation builds and expands on students' prior knowledge of research acquired at levels four and five. It aims to foster the development of expertise in methodology and skills in the planning, conducting, and writing up of research reports. This form of independent, experiential learning will require students to ask logical questions to diagnose and define problems, generate and implement solutions and evaluate the effectiveness of their action-outcomes. It therefore develops in the students the ability to work independently, and to reflect on the subject-specific research process.
  • A typical offer would be:

    • CCC at A Level or,
    • DMM at BTEC/Cambridge Technical or,
    • Pass (C and above) at T Level

    We welcome applications from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications.

    In addition, you will need to have studied a physical education, sports science or science related subject at A Level, BTEC level 3 diploma or equivalent qualification.

    For more information on how to make an application, please visit our How to Apply page.

    If you are an International student and would like information on making an application, please see our How to Apply page.

    Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) Entry Requirements

    Admission to this foundation course is normally:

    • DEE at A Level or,
    • MPP at BTEC/Cambridge Technical or,
    • Pass (D or E) at T Level

    We welcome applications from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications.

    However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course that you wish to study.

    English Language Requirements

    All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

    • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
      for study at undergraduate level.

    For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

  • 2024/25 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 24/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £9,250
    • UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
    • UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250
    • International – Full Time: £15,200
    • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £15,200
    Additional costs

    Additional costs will be incurred if you decide to participate in optional field trips/visits as part of your course. The exact cost will depend upon the location chosen for the trip.

    You will need to wear suitable sports kit for practical sessions as part of the course. We can purchase Sport and Exercise kit (polo shirts and hoodies) but these are not compulsory. The exact cost of kit will be provided at the start of the course.

    Costs associated with producing a poster for the final year conference.

    2023/24 Tuition Fees

    Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 23/24 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

    • UK – Full Time: £9,250
    • UK – Part Time: £1,540 per 20 credit module
    • UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250
    • International – Full Time: £14,750
    • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £14,750
    Additional costs

    Additional costs will be incurred if you decide to participate in optional field trips/visits as part of your course. The exact cost will depend upon the location chosen for the trip.

    You will need to wear suitable sports kit for practical sessions as part of the course. We can purchase Sport and Exercise kit (polo shirts and hoodies) but these are not compulsory. The exact cost of kit will be provided at the start of the course.

    Costs associated with producing a poster for the final year conference.

     

    For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

    For more information about possible funding options, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.

  • At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

    If you join this full time Sport and Exercise Science degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

    Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

    To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

    *UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).

  • The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

    If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

    Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

  • How will I be taught on Sport and Exercise Science course?

    The Sport and Exercise Science course is delivered through well-designed, coherent and up-to-date modules that cover a wide range of topics. Our teaching staff are all active researchers in their specialist areas and this feeds into the content of the modules. We aim to provide an environment that maximises your engagement, involvement and enjoyment. In addition, you will undertake a variety of activities and encounter new challenges that support your learning, such as your ability to undertake performance analysis and measurements. Throughout the course, you will be exposed to different project designs and will develop your ability to apply both quantitative and qualitative approaches to research questions.

    How will I be assessed?

    You will be assessed through coursework and examinations on the BSc Sports and Exercise Science course.

    Are there any specialist facilities and features?

    Sports Zone at Waterside is home to a multi-use sports dome suitable for a variety of sports, including football, badminton and netball. The facilities include two sports performance labs, a pair of teaching rooms and changing rooms. In addition, there also are three outdoor multi-use games areas and floodlit full-size all-weather sports pitch. The sports dome is used for teaching, research and recreational activities.

    Our purpose-built laboratories and research facilities enable you to undertake performance analysis within a supportive environment.

    You are encouraged throughout Sports and Exercise Science degree to become members of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES). There is also the opportunity for you to gain additional coaching qualifications during the course.

Careers and Employability


Sports and Exercise Science degree at UON provides you with the skills necessary to secure employment in a number of careers in a range of sectors including opportunities in sport science support, teaching, coaching, performance enhancement and the health and fitness industry.

You will develop excellent communication and analytical skills which will give you a great advantage when looking for employment. You also have the opportunity to continue your academic study, and have the option to progress onto our MSc Strength and Conditioning course, amongst other master’s programmes.