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A anatomical model of a hand in a Msci Sport and Exercise Science class

Study a highly-practical sport science course with masters-level specialism options

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C605
4 years full time
Bishop Otter Campus (Chichester)

Top 20

in the UK for Sport Science

Guardian University Guide 2025

Top 15

in the UK for graduate prospects in Sports Science

National Student Survey 2024

Top 20

in the UK for teaching on my course

National Student Survey 2024

Top 20

in the UK for Sport Science

Guardian University Guide 2025

Top 15

in the UK for graduate prospects in Sports Science

National Student Survey 2024

Top 20

in the UK for teaching on my course

National Student Survey 2024

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Overview

Explore the scientific foundations of sporting performance

Our four-year integrated Masters programme in Sport and Exercise Science provides sports science graduates with the scientific theory and practical skills required to work as sport scientists.

In Year One you will experience a breadth of disciplines underpinning sport and exercise science, tailoring your degree to either a Sport Performance or Physical Activity for Health route in Year Two.

In Year Three, you choose your MSci route which is continued into Masters-level study in Year Four.

By the end of the course you will have become highly competent in the skills required by a sport and exercise scientist, having spent a large proportion of your time in practical sessions using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

Overall average positivity
Top 20
in the UK for Sport and Exercise Sciences
'Teaching on my course'
12th
in the UK for Sport and Exercise Sciences
Learning opportunities
Top 10
in the UK for Sport and Exercise Sciences

Choose your pathway

You will learn how to support individuals and teams towards peak performance, or to work as a health and exercise professional.

Whether it’s the exploration of the body, injury recovery or the mind and how it copes with pressure, our MSci Sport and Exercise Science gives you the chance to work with experts in state-of-the-art facilities to develop your specialism of choice.

This British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) endorsed course develops your scientific knowledge and practical competency within an area of your choice from one of five areas:

  • Biomechanics
  • Physical activity for health
  • Physiology
  • Psychology
  • Strength and conditioning.

BASES-endorsed course

BASES logo

Qualification Approved Centre for Level 4 Award in Nutrition

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The Course

Build your final course around your interests and passions

The first two years are built around the core disciplines of sport and exercise science, as you move into one of two distinct pathways:

  • Physical Activity for Health
  • Sport Performance.

 

These pathways allow you to build the course around your interests as you begin to consider your final specialism in your final two years.

In your third and fourth year, you will choose from one of the five potential specialisms:

  • Biomechanics
  • Physical Activity for Health
  • Physiology
  • Psychology
  • Strength and Conditioning.

 

Each specialism has its own set of modules and assessments as you study them both at undergraduate and postgraduate level across your final two years.

Sport Performance

Our Sport Performance themed pathway provides you with the skills and knowledge required to assess critically the physiological, biomechanical and psychological characteristics of the athlete and to apply these skills to performance enhancement.

We have a strong tradition of applied sports science delivery and this transfers to our hands-on, laboratory-based course.

Physical Activity for Health

This route gives you the opportunity to work with diverse populations in the physical activity, exercise and health sectors.

Career opportunities within these sectors are rapidly on the increase as a result of the Government’s drive to help people live longer by reducing unhealthy lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, poor diet and obesity.

MSci Routes

In Year Three, you choose your MSci route which is continued into Masters-level study in Year Four.

  • MSci Sport and Exercise Science (Biomechanics)
  • MSci Sport and Exercise Science (Physical Activity for Health)
  • MSci Sport and Exercise Science (Physiology)
  • MSci Sport and Exercise Science (Psychology)
  • MSci Sport and Exercise Science (Strength and Conditioning).

Modules

This module list is indicative and subject to change.

Select a year

Evaluating Sport, Exercise and Health

This module will use a sport, exercise and health science context to develop study and research skills through practical application.

You will be introduced to simple methods of quantitative research and data analysis together with the rationale for those methods. You will experience a wide range of learning modalities to develop your study skills including:

  • Practical data collection
  • Computer laboratories
  • Group seminars
  • Group and individual tutorials.

Fundamentals of Human Physiology

This module will allow you to examine how key systems such as the musculoskeletal system, the cardio-vascular system and the respiratory system affect human performance. Specific attention is paid to energy metabolism in the context of the exercising human across the breadth of the energy spectrum.

Introduction to Applied Exercise Physiology

This module aims to develop an understanding of the application of scientific principles and techniques to evaluate human performance. Consideration will be given to the selection of an appropriate data collection environment (i.e. laboratory versus field) and the applicability across a range of activities that spans energy provision.

Introduction to Skill Acquisition

This module explores the psychological factors that affect the learning and performance of skills in sport. You are introduced to selected theories of performance and learning and the strengths and weaknesses of these theories are examined. Research findings will be used to help you make the connections to your responsibilities as sports coaches.

Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology

Sport and exercise contexts provide a fascinating and complex opportunity to investigate the psychology of human affect, cognition and behaviour. This module aims to introduce you to diverse areas of psychology in the context of sport performance, exercise and wellbeing.

Muscles and Movement – Anatomy in Motion

This module serves as an introduction to the basic concepts of anatomy and biomechanics as they relate to human movement and performance in sport and exercise. You will be shown how such concepts can be practically investigated and will illustrate the integrative nature of anatomy and biomechanics.

Muscles and Movement – Causes of Motion

This module introduces you to the basic concepts of biomechanics as they relate to human movement and performance in sport and exercise. You are shown how the basic physical principles underpin performance in sport, and how such principles can be practically investigated. Practical work considers the general principles of biomechanics and related them to experimental methodology, data analysis and statistical analysis for practical investigations into the evaluation of sport and exercise.

Researching Sport, Exercise & Health

You will further develop your skills in research methods and data analysis, with a broad focus on analysis procedures including the qualitative method of interviewing and quantitative methods of analysis of variance, correlation and linear regression. These methods are commonly used procedures in the sport, exercise and health sciences, and understanding of these will also provide a solid foundation for understanding more advanced research methods that you may learn in your future work including research projects or postgraduate study.

Developing and Monitoring Physical Performance

This module aims to provide you with the skills and knowledge to design interventions for improving both health and skills-related physical fitness. You will develop the ability to complete a health screening and needs analysis on clients and athletes, establish goals, select appropriate methods of individual physical performance assessments and design interventions to improve physical performance.

Psychology of Physical Activity and Health

The course will examine contemporary theories relating to the adoption and maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. It will also examine the relationship between activity involvement and individual affective responses, cognitions of self and health-related behaviour. Specifically, theories of behaviour change and self-concept will be explored alongside an emphasis on the positive and negative consequences of exercise involvement.

Clinical Biomechanics

This module aims to build upon the core biomechanical principles underpinning the practical analysis of human movement. It will also consider the role of biomechanical analysis in sports therapy and the assessment of patients. It will serve to widen your knowledge base and show the integrative nature of the separate disciplines of therapy and biomechanics.

Project Management

This module aims to equip you with the tools and skills necessary to manage sports projects effectively and to demonstrate the importance of following a prescribed project management methodology. You will explore the concepts of project management in a practical way including effective scoping, planning, resource allocation, risk and issue management, project monitoring, reporting and review.

Nutrition for the Prevention and Treatment of Illness and Disease

This module will examine the combined effects of nutrition and physical activity on health with particular focus on prevalent diseases associated with these factors. Topics covered will include: dietary guidelines, dietary analysis, measurement of energy, macro- and micro-nutrient intake, digestion, absorption and metabolism; the role of micro-nutrients; nutrition and prevalent diseases; obesity; eating disorders; food allergies; under-nutrition and special populations e.g. diabetics.

Stress, Coping and Emotions

This module aims to examine the demands (i.e. stressors) of sport and how these are experienced by athletes, the appraisals and coping strategies employed by athletes when experiencing these stressors, and the subsequent emotional responses.

Critical Issues in Health Promotion, Lifestyle and Exercise

The module aims to provide you with a critical appreciation of the principles, theory and practice of health promotion in the UK. This will involve the application of the knowledge of sport, health and physical activity in the context of the wider social, cultural and environmental issues facing agents of health promotion.

Sports Injury and Prevention

In this module, you will study basic musculo-skeletal anatomy, including features particularly prone to injury in sport e.g. ligaments; incidence of sport injury. You will explore common injuries to the body and their methods of occurrence, as well as first aid procedures and injury assessment. You will also study the role of biomechanics in predisposing factors, psychology and prevention of injury, as you consider treatment methods, rehabilitation and real-world case studies.

The Outdoor Experience: Emotions and Wellbeing

The aim of the module is for you to explore the experience of being in the outdoors from an emotional and wellbeing perspective.

The restorative and therapeutic benefits of immersive experience will be examined and these will include creative activities, understanding of place and connectedness to the environment and others.

Reflection: Developing Your Teaching and Coaching

This module aims to provide an opportunity to select and develop specialist areas of interest.

You will be required to develop skills in introspection, reflection and reflective practice, drawing upon theoretical concepts relating to pedagogy of sport and education.

You will agree a suitable programme of work within a professional context of your choice, which will involve you immersing yourselves in the culture and practices of this working environment.

Researching Sport, Exercise & Health

You will further develop your skills in research methods and data analysis, with a broad focus on analysis procedures including the qualitative method of interviewing and quantitative methods of analysis of variance, correlation and linear regression. These methods are commonly used procedures in the sport, exercise and health sciences, and understanding of these will also provide a solid foundation for understanding more advanced research methods that you may learn in your future work including research projects or postgraduate study.

Sports Injury and Prevention

In this module, you will study basic musculo-skeletal anatomy, including features particularly prone to injury in sport e.g. ligaments; incidence of sport injury. You will explore common injuries to the body and their methods of occurrence, as well as first aid procedures and injury assessment. You will also study the role of biomechanics in predisposing factors, psychology and prevention of injury, as you consider treatment methods, rehabilitation and real-world case studies.

Sport and Exercise in Extreme Environments

This module aims to examine the physiological challenge of performing in extreme and hostile environments and to examine how the human can exercise, maintain homeostasis and survive.

It will explore the theoretical limits of human performance, looking to identify mechanisms of physiological acclimatisation and adaptation.

You will consider how this may be used to increase sporting performance and maximise safety e.g. competitions such as the Everest Marathon and Marathon Des Sables.

Cognitive Psychology for Sports Performance

Within the sporting domain, knowledge of cognitive psychology can promote efficient acquisition and effective performance of skill among athletes at all stages of skill development. This module critically examines the strengths and weaknesses of theory and research concerning the cognitive processes that underpin the acquisition and performance of skill.

Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise

The biomechanical principles underpinning performance in a range of sports will be considered in relation to practical performance of sport. The module content will include analysis methodologies and research, which has enhanced biomechanics knowledge of sports performance.

The biomechanics analysis and evaluation of selected sport and exercise activities will be considered e.g. golf, football, tennis, high jump, long jump, javelin, discus, gymnastics, cycling, swimming.

Physiological Limitations to Performance

This module examines the metabolic, neuromuscular, neuroendocrine and cardiovascular systems of the human body to develop knowledge on the nature of limitations to performance across this intensity spectrum.

Performance Psychology

This module will introduce you to the key theories and concepts in performance psychology, examining theory and research into a range of factors (e.g., confidence, motivation, emotional regulation) that have been proposed to contribute to performance in sport and other achievement domains. The module content will seek to develop understanding of the importance of these concepts for performance, their determinants and how to change them.

Stress, Coping and Emotions

This module aims to examine the demands (i.e. stressors) of sport and how these are experienced by athletes, the appraisals and coping strategies employed by athletes when experiencing these stressors, and the subsequent emotional responses.

Developing and Monitoring Physical Performance

This module aims to provide you with the skills and knowledge to design interventions for improving both health and skills-related physical fitness. You will develop the ability to complete a health screening and needs analysis on clients and athletes, establish goals, select appropriate methods of individual physical performance assessments and design interventions to improve physical performance.

Performance Analysis in Sport

The analysis undertaken could relate to technical, tactical and/or physical aspects of performance. The use of sports performance analysis is paramount in light of the limitations of human memory, such as the volume of event recall and subjectivity. The module aims to introduce you to the key concepts, skills and techniques associated to performance analysis, and outline its place in the scientific support of individuals and teams.

Nutrition for the Prevention and Treatment of Illness and Disease

This module will examine the combined effects of nutrition and physical activity on health with particular focus on prevalent diseases associated with these factors. Topics covered will include: dietary guidelines, dietary analysis, measurement of energy, macro- and micro-nutrient intake, digestion, absorption and metabolism; the role of micro-nutrients; nutrition and prevalent diseases; obesity; eating disorders; food allergies; under-nutrition and special populations e.g. diabetics.

Research Project

The research project provides an opportunity to apply appropriate knowledge, concepts, and techniques to an in-depth study of a particular question or problem relating to sport,  exercise or healthcare.

This module aims to foster a greater understanding of the processes to undertake a small-scale research project and marks the culmination of the student’s learning experience over their undergraduate programme of study.

Exercise Referral Clinic

This module aims to provide you with an opportunity to complete a unit of directed study incorporating experience in a practical-based setting, relevant to working with clinical populations. You will develop new knowledge and skills whilst in a practice-based setting, in addition to applying, consolidating and reflecting on the learning gained in their prior modules. You will gain experience that enables them to develop, apply and reflect on the clinical practice of exercise within the health service including, but not limited to GP/exercise referral, cardiovascular rehabilitation, the Obesity 4 Tier approach, and to draw on and review the profession’s evidence-base for lifestyle modification.

Cardiovascular Rehabilitation

This module critically examines the process of rehabilitation as it pertains to cardiovascular disease. It includes detailed exploration of the aetiology of coronary heart disease (CHD), lifestyle management and psychology of behaviour change in relation to lifestyle.

The evidence-base for exercise and nutritional interventions will be critiqued within the framework of primary, secondary and tertiary care, alongside the skills required to compile multi-disciplinary interventions for secondary prevention.

Contemporary Issues in Sport, Exercise and Health

This module will explore a selection of contemporary issues that may have ethical and moral considerations, in relation to sport, exercise and health.

Exercise and Physical Activity Interventions

This module applies health-behaviour-change theory and research to the promotion of physical activity in specialised populations, such as those with chronic health conditions or physical disabilities. It looks at different types of interventions, such as those targeting individuals, groups and national campaigns.

Advanced Research in Sport and Exercise

This module accesses sections of the provision for MSc students and so begins to move you towards postgraduate level thinking. You will work alongside MSc students to access sections of work at the appropriate level. Assignments will reflect that the module is in Year Three but will take an applied approach to promote independent use and evaluation of research methods and statistics.

Work Placement in Sport and Exercise

This module offers an opportunity to complete a unit of directed study incorporating a work placement of 105 hours (three weeks) in a sport and exercise environment. This placement can take place in a wide range of environments including sports clubs, schools, colleges, private companies, clinical settings or within the community. The focus of the work placement should be relevant to your needs, the programme of study you are taking and career aspirations.

Psychology of Injury and Rehabilitation

This module enables you to critically evaluate the psychological, social and cultural factors in injury risk, theories of psychological responses to injury, recovery and adherence to rehabilitation programmes. It will critically evaluate theory and research, and consider practical approaches to working with injured athletes to assist them with their response to and rehabilitation from injury experiences.

Biomechanical Techniques

This module aims to enable you to develop experimental skills that may be of relevance, not only in biomechanics, but also in other scientific fields where accuracy of measurement is important.

Advanced Biomechanics

This module aims to allow you to develop your conceptual biomechanics knowledge, knowledge of current practice and independent practical skills. It gives the opportunity to follow interests within the field that may have been stimulated by either the third year biomechanics techniques module, or by areas you have come across in the course of your independent project work and which you would like to investigate further. It aims to develop your independence in the laboratory.

Occupational Health and Performance

The module aims to provide you with an understanding of how evidenced-based practice can be used to improve health and performance in occupational settings such as the military, emergency services and industry.

Applied Sport Psychology: Delivering Mental Strategies

Traditionally, sport psychologists have advocated the use of numerous mental training strategies that are purported to enhance the cognitive, affective and behavioural states of the performers that they work with. This module provides you with an understanding of the efficacy of these strategies, to provide opportunities to deliver these mental strategies and to reflect on the delivery of these strategies.

Research Project

The research project provides an opportunity to apply appropriate knowledge, concepts, and techniques to an in-depth study of a particular question or problem relating to sport,  exercise or healthcare.

This module aims to foster a greater understanding of the processes to undertake a small-scale research project and marks the culmination of the student’s learning experience over their undergraduate programme of study.

Advanced Research in Sport and Exercise

This module accesses sections of the provision for MSc students and so begins to move you towards postgraduate level thinking. You will work alongside MSc students to access sections of work at the appropriate level. Assignments will reflect that the module is in Year Three but will take an applied approach to promote independent use and evaluation of research methods and statistics.

Biomechanical Techniques

This module aims to enable you to develop experimental skills that may be of relevance, not only in biomechanics, but also in other scientific fields where accuracy of measurement is important.

Advanced Biomechanics

This module aims to allow you to develop your conceptual biomechanics knowledge, knowledge of current practice and independent practical skills. It gives the opportunity to follow interests within the field that may have been stimulated by either the third year biomechanics techniques module, or by areas you have come across in the course of your independent project work and which you would like to investigate further. It aims to develop your independence in the laboratory.

Planning and Monitoring of Training and Performance

A focus on planning and monitoring training of athletes and how a programme of physiological support can be used to enhance performance.

You will engage in current literature identifying the physiological demands of the athletes chosen sport, key measures of physical fitness and how we can enhance them.

An athlete’s ability to focus on training to gain maximal physiological adaptations, and relax in competition, can represent the difference in making the podium or winning major tournaments.

Contemporary Issues in Sport, Exercise and Health

This module will explore a selection of contemporary issues that may have ethical and moral considerations, in relation to sport, exercise and health.

Entrepreneurial (Business Setup)

This module focuses on the environmental factors that are directly relevant to a small business context, to allow you to develop a critical understanding of the entrepreneurial process. You will concentrate upon the planning that needs to be undertaken prior to the start-up of a small business.

Nutrition for Sports Performance, Physical Development and Health

Sports performance and the development of athletic ability relies on the individual being in peak health and having the correct nutrition support to fuel training adaptation and exercise performance. This module aims to examine the ways in which dietary intake influences energy metabolism, recovery of skeletal muscle after exercise, exercise performance, training adaptation, injury risk and immunity.

Work Placement in Sport and Exercise

This module offers an opportunity to complete a unit of directed study incorporating a work placement of 105 hours (three weeks) in a sport and exercise environment. This placement can take place in a wide range of environments including sports clubs, schools, colleges, private companies, clinical settings or within the community. The focus of the work placement should be relevant to your needs, the programme of study you are taking and career aspirations.

Occupational Health and Performance

The module aims to provide you with an understanding of how evidenced-based practice can be used to improve health and performance in occupational settings such as the military, emergency services and industry.

Applied Sport Psychology: Delivering Mental Strategies

Traditionally, sport psychologists have advocated the use of numerous mental training strategies that are purported to enhance the cognitive, affective and behavioural states of the performers that they work with. This module provides you with an understanding of the efficacy of these strategies, to provide opportunities to deliver these mental strategies and to reflect on the delivery of these strategies.

Applied Sport Psychology: Professional Practice

The soft skills required by a sport and exercise psychologist are imperative to effectiveness as a practitioner. The aim of the module is to examine the nature of applied sport psychology practice and discuss and critique how sport psychologists work with clients in relation to initial assessment, case formulation, intervention planning and delivery, monitoring and evaluation.

Group Dynamics in Sport

This module aims to examine and evaluate current knowledge of sport group productivity and functioning and evaluates current practice in developing and increasing the effectiveness of group functioning. It is important to have an understanding of group dynamics due to the potential impact that groups can have on an individual’s performance, life satisfaction and psychological wellbeing.

Biomechanical Instrumentation & Measurement

In this module, you will gain an understanding of data collection, signal processing, hardware and software provision and use for the main methods of biomechanical data collection.

Tissues, Modelling, and Assistive Devices

This module covers wide-ranging applications of biomechanics research findings on areas such as muscle, tendon, ligament tissues, one/two joint muscles, muscle and joint energetics, prosthetic design, orthotic design and function, vibration training, in-silico modelling, and neuromuscular modelling.

Dissertation

The research project represents the culmination of the whole master’s route and is the final stage in assessment. It is designed to enable you to conduct and communicate independent research in an area of your choosing.

Ergonomics in Sport & Exercise

You will understand areas of ergonomics research and practice where your skills as a biomechanist can be applied.

Developing As An Applied Practitioner in Biomechanics

This is an opportunity to develop your skills in delivering applied consultancy in the biomechanics of sport and exercise.

Measurement in Physical Activity and Public Health

This module develops your knowledge base and practical skills associated with the physical activity and public health environment. An ability to select the most valid and reliable technique, protocol, piece of equipment or software is critical when assessing physical activity and sedentary time in the public health arena. This module will adopt an evidence-based approach to identifying ‘best practice’ in terms of protocols and procedures when undertaking work in the area of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and public health.

Physical Activity in Public Health Interventions: Conceptualisation and Design

This module provides students with knowledge of the process of developing and designing an intervention to increase physical activity for public health. You will explore aspects of the development and design of public health interventions, such as needs assessment, intervention mapping and theoretical underpinning. You will also consider the range of data collection methods and experimental designs available to evaluate public health interventions, and how to select the most appropriate approach for a particular intervention.

Principles and Practice of Physical Activity and Public Health

This module offers a broad introduction to the subject matter of public health and physical activity. You will develop your understanding of epidemiological measures and explore a selection of contemporary areas of physical activity research such as data modelling, physical activity in green/blue space and health economics.

Project Planning and Management for Public Health

The discipline of project management will be critically surveyed and you will apply project management techniques and concepts to plan a project in the area of public health.

The Research Dissertation

This module is the culmination of previous learning and is the major element of your independent enquiry on your programme.  The module requires that you reflect on, and utilise the knowledge base, context, and application of taught modules, as well as placement experiences. It is designed to encourage you to generate and explore your own ‘problem’ assisted by supervision from a tutor.

The Research Dissertation

This module is the culmination of previous learning and is the major element of your independent enquiry on your programme.  The module requires that you reflect on, and utilise the knowledge base, context, and application of taught modules, as well as placement experiences. It is designed to encourage you to generate and explore your own ‘problem’ assisted by supervision from a tutor.

Applied Techniques in Exercise Physiology and Nutrition

This is a hands-on module that advances the skills required to undertake physiological assessments linked to client population requirements.

Professional Skills in Sport and Exercise Physiology & Nutrition

This module develops your knowledge base associated with applied physiological and nutritional support in a range of different environments including exercise testing, physiological and dietary measurement, food safety and hygiene and UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) considerations.

Specifically, the module will address the interplay between external physical challenges associated with different environments; internal physiological and metabolic challenges associated with gender, training status and various states of disease-impaired or compromised function such as musculoskeletal injuries.

Whilst the module gives due consideration to elite sports performance and recreational exercise participation, the module also discusses exercise and physical performance in occupational settings such as the military and emergency services.

A focus of the module is to critically discuss how sport and exercise scientists working in interdisciplinary teams can enhance performance, protection and promote safety and wellbeing.

Muscle Physiology for Sport Exercise and Nutrition

An understanding of the role of skeletal muscles for whole-body physiological functioning exercise is essential when examining the impact of nutrition and physical training for sports for performance.

This module develops critical knowledge of muscle function and energy demands, the use of carbohydrate, lipids and proteins as energy sources, the metabolic pathways, the nature of metabolic limitations in skeletal muscles during exercise, the role of nutrition and ergogenic aids (e.g. polyphenols, carbohydrates, beta-alanine, creatine) for optimal function of skeletal muscles during exercise, the role of proteins for muscle mass and the relationships between nutritional interventions, signalling pathways and training adaptations in skeletal muscle.

The application of this knowledge to athletic training and sport with divergent exercise intensity and exercise demands will be discussed within both theoretical and practical contexts.

Whole Body Metabolism: Measurement and Application in Exercise Physiology

This module examines the application of whole-body metabolism to a variety of contexts within sport and exercise physiology ranging from elite sporting performance to clinical settings. Existing knowledge will be challenged through critical evaluation of relevant peer reviewed publications. Additionally, through a theoretical and practical evaluation of measurement techniques available in the area of whole-body metabolism, an appreciation will be given to validity and reliability of methodological approaches.

The Research Dissertation

This module is the culmination of previous learning and is the major element of your independent enquiry on your programme.  The module requires that you reflect on, and utilise the knowledge base, context, and application of taught modules, as well as placement experiences. It is designed to encourage you to generate and explore your own ‘problem’ assisted by supervision from a tutor.

Enhancing Physical Activity Participation and Wellbeing

This module deepens your knowledge of health behaviour change in the context of exercise and physical activity.

You will explore aspects of physical activity behaviour change that enables positive psychological and physical wellbeing outcomes for individuals.

You will also explore key concepts of self-concept, motivation and behaviour change, whilst appreciating the range of psychosocial barriers and facilitators that can result in positive or maladaptive affective responses, cognitions and behaviours.

The Research Dissertation

This module is the culmination of previous learning and is the major element of your independent enquiry on your programme.  The module requires that you reflect on, and utilise the knowledge base, context, and application of taught modules, as well as placement experiences. It is designed to encourage you to generate and explore your own ‘problem’ assisted by supervision from a tutor.

Social Processes in Sport

With a focus on qualitative methods and narrative analysis, students explore current issues in sport that are impacted by social processes (for example group environment, athlete/leader interactions) and psychosocial phenomena that may threaten the performance narrative (such as injury, career transition).

Cognitive Processes in Sport

This module attempts to identify the key cognitive factors responsible for the development and demonstration of expertise, and to explore the scope for the coach and the learner to enhance learning and performance through a better understanding of such processes.

Professional Practice in Sport & Exercise Psychology

Effective practice in sport and exercise psychology relies on the appropriate application of psychological knowledge to assess and understand human behaviour, and intervene to change behaviour. However, it also is contingent on the creation of a good working relationship between practitioner and client. Foremost in this is that the practitioner possesses key skills and qualities, and has an awareness of a range of ethical and practical issues related to the practitioner-client relationship, and the context in which practice takes place.

This module, therefore, aims to develop the your understanding of the practice process and ‘effective practice’, and of a range of ethical and practice issues that might impact on this. It also aims to begin to develop some of the requisite practice skills and competencies for working as an applied sport and exercise psychologist.

The Research Dissertation

This module is the culmination of previous learning and is the major element of your independent enquiry on your programme.  The module requires that you reflect on, and utilise the knowledge base, context, and application of taught modules, as well as placement experiences. It is designed to encourage you to generate and explore your own ‘problem’ assisted by supervision from a tutor.

Strength & Conditioning Theory & Practice

The strength and conditioning process is underpinned by the fundamentals of Sport and Exercise Science. The ability of a system to adapt to training-based stimulus relies on a physiological response to biomechanical demand. The effectiveness of this demand is often dependent on efficient transference of correct and safe movement technique, whether strength or conditioning. Therefore, strength and conditioning practitioners should have sound and applied insight into applied human physiology and biomechanics and the aim of this module is to provide this.

Planning, Programming & Application

Successful strength and conditioning relies on a sound comprehension of the principles governing program design, planning and application. Therefore, the emphasis of this module is to develop a robust theoretical understanding, practical skills and competencies that will make you an effective strength and conditioning practitioner.

Applied Measurement Techniques

You will learn how to develop and implement an effective performance testing battery to athletes from a range of sports.

Experience

Discover a wide range of excellent sporting facilities that support your learning

Teaching and Assessment

Innovative teaching methods that focus on practice

Teaching

Our team of principal lecturers ensure innovation, enthusiasm and expertise combine to deliver the excellent standards that give our institution its high reputation.

When you come to Chichester, you will join a community of students and lecturers working in partnership to ensure that your learning experience reflects best practice and embraces the opportunities presented by new, interactive technologies.

Each module is delivered differently depending on its content and focus of study.

In most modules you can expect lead lectures to introduce core content, but the majority of your time will be spent working in small groups with tutor support in seminars, workshops or laboratory sessions.

Many sessions will require you to have completed some preparatory work and you will also be given structured follow-up work after a session to further progress your learning, often reading or an individual/group task. As you progress through your degree you will be expected to take more and more ownership over your learning and development, directing your study into areas of most interest to you.

Assessment

You will be assessed by a variety of methods, including essays, examinations, portfolios, practical assessments, lab reports and oral presentations.

Our course includes a mix of assessments so that you may develop a wide range of transferable skills. Modules are assessed at every stage of the course, offering cumulative assessment of your progress.

You can monitor your own progress, allowing you the opportunity to discuss and plan your development with your lecturers throughout the course. Where appropriate, special arrangements can be made for students with an identified need.

Placement Opportunities

Utilise our extensive professional networks to support your learning

You will have the option to complete a placement which will allow you to apply theory and knowledge in a sport, exercise or health setting of your choice.

This placement will give you the opportunity to further develop transferable skills which will make you more employable.

You will also have the opportunity to pursue your own placement option. Students are ultimately responsible for finding their own placement, however we have a dedicated placement coordinator who is available to assist students and has a network of contacts within the sector.

Study Abroad

Explore the opportunity to study part of your course abroad

As a student at the University of Chichester, you can explore opportunities to study abroad during your studies as you enrich and broaden your educational experiences.

Students who have done this in the past have found it to be an amazing experience to broaden their horizons, a great opportunity to meet new people, undertake further travelling and to immerse themselves within a new culture.

You will be fully supported throughout the process to help find the right destination institution for you and your course. We can take you through everything that you will need to consider, from visas to financial support, to ensure that you get the best out of your time studying abroad.

Careers

Acquire the skills and knowledge required to gain employment with the sports industry

We understand the importance of ensuring that you have the knowledge, skills and experience to compete successfully in today’s challenging jobs market.

With a practical-based modular approach, you have the choice and flexibility to tailor your course to your interests, learning from internationally renowned researchers and practitioners.

This will help you stand out in the competitive employment market, with the potential of pursuing a career with the English Institute of Sport, national governing bodies and professional clubs.

Typical careers include:

  • Fitness consultant
  • Athletic trainer
  • Sports psychologist
  • Sports science support personnel
  • Sports equipment consultant
  • Health promotion
  • Exercise prescription on GP referral schemes.

Student View

"I love the community feel of the University and how much support there is"

Andy

MSci Sport and Exercise Science (Physiology)
I love the community feel of the University and how much support there is. My tutors go above and beyond to give the support they do. The Sports and Exercise Science degree not only provided me with a good underpinning knowledge of human anatomy and physiology in relation to both health and disease, it also enabled me to gain valuable experience and confidence with handling scientific data; and further promoted my interpersonal skills such as being organised, proactive and my managing time effectively.

Mark

Sport and Exercise Science (Physical Activity for Health) graduate and now a Senior Cardiac Physiologist
The Sports and Exercise Science degree not only provided me with a good underpinning knowledge of human anatomy and physiology in relation to both health and disease, it also enabled me to gain valuable experience and confidence with handling scientific data; and further promoted my interpersonal skills such as being organised, proactive and my managing time effectively.

Megan

Sport and Exercise Science (Physical Activity for Health) graduate and PGCE PE graduate, now working a teacher
My degree has helped me massively to share the knowledge I have gained throughout my degree in a simpler form to the younger generations inspiring them to participate and love sports and physical activity and the benefits they reap from it. I’m thankful for my undergraduate degree as it has set me up tremendously to be able to share the complex knowledge I learnt in a simpler form for young people.

Dev

Sport and Exercise Science (Sport Performance) graduate and now Performance Analyst for the Lawn Tennis Association
My work placement on the degree was invaluable and helped me with my job. I'm responsible for the Analysis for GB Wheelchair Tennis, be that during training or matches, singles or doubles. The course gave me exposure to the foundations and implementation of Performance Analysis. I liked that it combined statistics and sport. You get to help with athlete/coach development and watch sport every day.

Amy

Sport and Exercise Science (Sport Performance) graduate and Help for Heroes Performance Pathway Scientist
My degree gave me an insight into the multi-disciplinary approach needed to support high-performance sport and gave me a good breadth of understanding across a range of fields that directly influence sports performance. The degree has supported my role with the necessary skills required to effectively manage multiple high-profile projects at once, stay up to date with current share practices and research and develop strong working relationships across a broad range of individuals from different knowledge and experience background to achieve a common end goal. It is so rewarding using what my degree taught me, either directly or indirectly, help me positively impact so many people on their journey either in high-performance sport or within their recovery journey from being in military service.

Course Costs

Course Fees 2025/26

UK fee
£9,250
You will receive a 15% discount in your final year.
International fee
£16,344

For further details about fees, please see our Tuition Fees page.

For further details about international scholarships, please see our Scholarships page.

To find out about any additional costs on this course, please see our Additional Costs page.

Entry Requirements

UCAS
112-128
tariff points.
A Levels
ABB - BBC
to include a Science at grade B or above - PE accepted
BTEC
DDD - DDM
including Sports Science or Health and Social Care.
GCSEs
C/4
or better in both English Language, Science and Maths.
IELTS
6.0 overall
with no element lower than 5.5
IB
30 points
Access to HE Diploma
Pass
with at least 12 credits worth of science units at Merit.

Contextual offers

We believe everyone deserves an equal opportunity to pursue higher education, regardless of their background.

When we receive your application we consider your personal circumstances and the factors surrounding your achievements to see if you are eligible for a contextual offer. This is an offer with a reduced entry tariff – typically the equivalent of 16 fewer UCAS points (two A-level grades).

Find out more about our contextual offers.

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