BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

Key information

Typical offer:
Entry requirements
Fees: See below
Full details
UCAS code: C600
Institute code: H36
Study abroad option
Work placement option
Find out more

This course is up for review
To ensure this course continues to be cutting-edge and enables you to be ready for the modern workplace, it is due to be reviewed by December 2024.

Our website will typically be updated within a month of the review confirming any enhancements, including:
- module titles (and whether they are core or optional)
- expected contact hours
- assessment methods
- staff teaching on the course

The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.

UCAS points	A Level	BTEC	Accepted T Levels	Access Course Tariff	IB requirement
112 - 120	BBC - BBB Points to include at least one Science A level preferably Biology and/or PE (acceptable A levels: Human Biology, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Sports Science)	DMM-DDM BTEC Sport and Exercise Science or Applied Science Extended Diploma at DMM BTEC Sport and Exercise Science or Applied Science Extended Diploma at DMM. BTEC Sport Extended Diploma (RQF 2016) at DMM (With merits achieved in the following modules: Anatomy and Physiology and Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Well-Being) BTEC Sport Extended Diploma (QCF) at DMM (With merits achieved in the following modules: Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport, The Physiology of Fitness and Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise) Level 3 OCR CTEC (Cambridge Technical in Sport and Physical Activity) Extended Diploma DMM (With merits achieved in the following modules: Body Systems and the Effects, Nutrition and Diet for Sport and Exercise, Sports Injuries and Rehabilitation).	112 - 120 UCAS points Please see additional requirements for accepted T Level subjects.	Science, applied science or sports & exercise science with 45 credits at level 3 at minimum of merit	112-120 points from a minimum of two HL subjects at H4 or above

UCAS points

A Level

BTEC

Accepted T Levels

Access Course Tariff

IB requirement

112 - 120

BBC - BBB

Points to include at least one Science A level preferably Biology and/or PE (acceptable A levels: Human Biology, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Sports Science)

DMM-DDM

BTEC Sport and Exercise Science or Applied Science Extended Diploma at DMM

BTEC Sport and Exercise Science or Applied Science Extended Diploma at DMM.

BTEC Sport Extended Diploma (RQF 2016) at DMM

(With merits achieved in the following modules: Anatomy and Physiology and Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Well-Being)

BTEC Sport Extended Diploma (QCF) at DMM

(With merits achieved in the following modules: Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport, The Physiology of Fitness and Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise)

Level 3 OCR CTEC (Cambridge Technical in Sport and Physical Activity) Extended Diploma DMM

(With merits achieved in the following modules: Body Systems and the Effects, Nutrition and Diet for Sport and Exercise, Sports Injuries and Rehabilitation).

112 - 120 UCAS points

Please see additional requirements for accepted T Level subjects.

Science, applied science or sports & exercise science with 45 credits at level 3 at minimum of merit

112-120 points from a minimum of two HL subjects at H4 or above

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English Language and Mathematics and grade 3 or 4 in Double Science.

Accepted T Levels: Science.

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.

For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

Professional accreditations

All our sport and exercise science courses are endorsed by the governing body, the British Association of Sports Science (BASES). You'll learn the core principles underpinning sport and exercise science and graduate with the professional requirements of being a sport and exercise scientist. You'll also have the opportunity to undertake a range of optional modules and extra-curricular activities which have been highlighted by BASES as they provide you with better employability prospects after graduation.

Find out more about the British Association of Sports Science (BASES)

The BSc(Hons) Sports and Exercise Science is also a pre-approved degree for eligibility to the ACSM - Certified Exercise Physiologist qualification (*specific module options required) and is also recognised by the NSCA Educational Recognition Programme.

Why choose this course?

2nd in the East of England for Sports Science (2023 Complete University Guide)
Experiment in human performance labs, including altitude chambers
Learn physiology and biomechanics in specialised labs

You’ll study on a National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) recognised programme which will allow you to complete the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist qualification near graduation. During your time with us, you’ll cover the three main disciplines of sport science: physiology (including nutrition), biomechanics and psychology. You’ll learn about human anatomy, sports performance, and strength and conditioning. You’ll use the performance labs to learn how to assess and improve sporting performance. What’s more, you’ll gain invaluable knowledge on the role exercise plays in improving health and wellbeing.

Many of your lecturers are accredited or chartered with professional bodies. These include the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) and the British Psychological Society (BPS). This means you’ll learn from lecturers who are recognised for their high standards of knowledge and skills. They’ll be there to ensure those standards are transferred to you. You’ll spend around eight hours in lectures per week, and eight hours in practical sessions. Some of these will take place in our labs, others are interactive workshops and seminars. The course recieved a 91% satisfaction rate for teaching in the 2022 National Student Survey (NSS).

Herts is one of the few Universities with an Active Students and Staff programme. This means we offer free sports and exercise sessions to all our students and staff. This gives you an excellent opportunity to do research on the effects of sport and exercise on wellbeing. You could even get a part time job working for them as an Activator – leading your own exercise sessions or assisting with qualified instructors. Maybe even play some new sports yourself.

We are thrilled to announce our official partnership with Watford FC for the 2024-25 season. As a Herts student, you will have exclusive access to a variety of unique career and educational opportunities with this prestigious football club. Find out how you can get involved.

Benefit from specialist labs and facilities

You’ll have access to two dedicated sports science and therapy laboratories on campus. They are equipped with a state-of-the-art grail treadmill, force plates, a bod pod and a climate chamber. You'll be able to use specialist physiology, biomechanical and biochemistry equipment, for example, online gas analysers. You’ll even be able to do blood analysis to test for blood lactate and cholesterol. Or use the running treadmills, cycling and rowing ergometers to measure physiological processes. You’ll use specialist arthrometric equipment, dynamometers and weight-lifting equipment. There is even an indoor putting green for psychological and biomechanical analysis.

You’ll be able to get a membership with the University’s £15 million Hertfordshire Sports Village (HSV) on the de Havilland campus. It has a 25-metre swimming pool, a 12m climbing wall and a gym. The gym has both strength and cardio equipment, such as rowing machines, cable stations and a free weights area. There is a smaller 24-hour gym on the College Lane campus.

More than just a degree

During your time with us, you’ll be able to access many additional resources and opportunities. Here are just a few of them:

- Guest lectures from renowned companies and individuals. Past speakers include GSK, the Hertfordshire Sports Village, and Felicity Aston – the first woman to walk the Antarctic solo.

-Work Experience: including local, national, and international employers taking students for their work experience module in final year (e.g. football, rugby clubs, hospitals, other universities).

Guest lecturers: e.g. GSK, HSV, Felicity Aston (first woman to walk the Antarctic solo)
Work Experience: including local, national and international employers taking students for their work experience module in final year (e.g. football, rugby clubs, hospitals, other universities)
Opportunities for students to support applied testing and research in the labs
Opportunities to gain internationally recognised qualifications:
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA)
- ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist
Level 2 Fitness Instructor certification

Turn your dreams into your dream job

Because you’ll study various aspects of sport and exercise, there is a wide range of career opportunities waiting for you. Interested in becoming an exercise physiologist? A sports therapist? Maybe a health promotion specialist? This course will give you a solid foundation to do exactly that. If you prefer going into sports coaching or even manage a fitness centre of your own, we’ve got you covered. Some of our graduates have gone on to work and study in education, business, and nutrition. The opportunities are endless.

Hertfordshire Sports Village

What's the course about?

In your first year, you’ll learn the foundations of human physiology and nutrition, as well as musculoskeletal anatomy, psychology and the principles of biomechanics. You’ll gain the analytical and problem-solving skills needed to excel. There is a special module to teach you how to perform and analyse fitness testing and exercise prescription. You’ll study the acquisition of skills and motor control. To help you settle into university life, you’ll take a module focused on developing the academic skills you need to be a successful student.

Your second year builds on what you learnt in first year. You’ll study the applied biomechanics of performance, applied sport and exercise psychology and exercise physiology. The module on research design helps you understand the principles and methods that underpin scientific research. You’ll be able to use this to critique and understand research done in this field. It’ll also come in handy for your final year project in third year. There are also a few optional modules for you to choose from. Learn about exercise for a health population, sports conditioning or functional anatomy and clinical biomechanics.

Work placement/study abroad option: Between your second and final year, you’ll have the option to study abroad or do a work placement for up to a year. Not only will this give you an amazing experience to talk about but will also give your CV a boost. If you’d rather go straight to your final year, that’s fine too. You’ll decide in your second year with us, so there is still plenty of time to think about this.

In your third year, there is only one compulsory module: your final year project. You’ll get a personal supervisor and together you will produce an independent sports research project. This means you’ll design and undertake you own project on a topic relevant to your area of study. You’ll present this in the form of a poster presentation and journal-style report. All other modules are optional and allow you to specialise in the areas you like best. Learn about technology in sport, advanced biomechanics or strength and conditioning. There is one module that allows you to gain 70 hours of work experience*

For a full list of modules, see the section under ‘What will I study?’

Your main campus is de Havilland

You’ll share this campus with students from business, law, sport, and education subjects. The student housing is close to our Sports Village which includes a gym, swimming pool and climbing wall. You can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner in our on-campus restaurant or bar (in the newly built Enterprise Hub) on days you don’t feel like cooking. You can also use the common room to play pool, video games or just to hang out with friends.  Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.  

What will I study?

Degree programmes are structured into levels, 4, 5 and 6.  These correspond to your first, second and third/final year of study.  Below you can see what modules you’ll be studying in each.  

Modules are assessed in a variety of ways via coursework, practicals and exams. The type of coursework is varied, depending on the module and includes essays, reports, practical write-ups, posters and seminar presentations.

Our laboratories boast an enviable range of performance testing equipment (e.g. Metalaysers for VO2 max testing; blood-taking facilities and blood analysers to measure blood lactate and cholesterol; running treadmills; cycling and rowing ergometers; Dynamometers, Anthropometric equipment; weight-lifting equipment, and even an indoor putting green for psychological and biomechanical analysis).

Throughout your time at the University, you work closely with a personal tutor in order to help develop academic, personal, and vocational skills. This work is supported by the University intranet (Studynet) which provides a location for lecture notes, study guides, assessment details, example exam papers, and discussion forums amongst other things.

You also have 24-hour access (during term time) to two outstanding learning resource centres.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Developing an Academic Approach	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module is focused on introducing and developing skills required to develop a successful academic approach to be a successful student in Higher Education, while also considering the professional/transferable skills for a successful career. With regards to academic approach, this module primarily provides an introduction to the academic, IT and communication skills that students will require to become effective autonomous learners in Higher Education.
Human Physiology and Nutrition	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will provide students with an introduction to human physiology and nutrition applied to sport and exercise. In particular, focus will be on learning fundamentals of structure, function and biochemistry from cellular, to tissue, organ, and organism levels, including a basic understanding of muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive, endocrine and nervous systems. There is also an introduction to essential themes underlying dietary macro" and micronutrients, and exploration of basic applications of nutrition pertinent to dietary assessment and problem- based learning scenarios. Practical work will be used to provide additional insight into specific physiological systems, this may include instruction in the use of physiological interfaces, and recording and analytical software, including basic studies on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and dietary analysis.
Exercise Prescription and Fitness Testing	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will develop the key theoretical and practical skills essential to assess fitness and design training programmes. Specifically, the module aims to introduce a number of fitness tests to assess different components of fitness, with particular attention to tests that measure or estimate cardiorespiratory fitness and strength. Furthermore, this module will introduce basic data analyses and will provide tools to contextualise the data obtained from fitness testing. In addition, the module will introduce the principles of training as a basic theoretical framework underpinning a training programme, with a specific focus on improving cardiorespiratory fitness and strength in the general population.
Skill Acquisition and Motor Control	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module is designed to develop understanding of skill acquisition and motor control in sport and exercise. Students will be taught the classification of motor skills and abilities. Moreover, students will be introduced to theories of sensorimotor control and the underlying principles of information processing. The principles of motor skill learning, practice conditions and different modes of feedback and instruction will also be covered. Finally, students will have the opportunity to measure motor performance and apply different theories and principles of skill acquisition and motor control to various population groups. It is still the case that students read for a degree and this means that in addition to scheduled contact hours students are required to engage in independent study.
Introduction to Sport & Exercise Psychology	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module will cover some of the core topics and underlying theory relevant to contemporary cognitive science, as well as sport and exercise psychology. For example, students may explore topics such as introduction to neural science, perception, mental toughness and resilience, the psychology of sports injury, motivation, exercise and mental health.
Musculoskeletal Anatomy	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides an introduction to human anatomy, relating to the structure and function of bones, joints, tendons, ligaments and muscles. The axial and appendicular skeleton will be studied in regard to joint type and the associated movements available. Movements of selected joints will be identified and classified based on planes and axes of movement. The musculoskeletal system will be investigated in terms of origins and insertions of selected muscles and the movements they produce.
Principles of Biomechanics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module is focused on introducing key biomechanical principles and the skills required to implement this knowledge to answer problems in a sport and exercise environment. This module will develop students problem solving and data within a biomechanics setting, teaching students how to model and measure performances of athletes.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Process and Practice in High-Performance Sport	15 Credits	Optional
This module introduces students to the essential processes and practices that contribute to successful high-performance sport systems. Students will identify and analyse the factors that influence the success/failure of nations at the Olympic and/or Paralympic Games. The challenges of creating and delivering a successful high-performance sport system will be assessed.
Exercise Physiology and Metabolism	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will explore the physiological responses to exercise, including the cardiovascular, neuromuscular, respiratory, immune, and endocrine systems. The module will also address physiological thresholds, and their role in sport and exercise performance and the mechanisms of fatigue leading to task-failure. The module will consider different metabolic pathways during exercise in response to acute and chronic interventions, and how these may be affected by nutritional interventions. Further areas of consideration will be the effect of extreme environments on physiological systems and exercise performance and the physiological adaptations of the above systems following chronic exercise, including the concept of over-training and de-training after a training programme. Practical classes will develop skills to successfully collect and interpret physiological data in response to exercise.
Applied Biomechanics of Performance	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module is focused on introducing the skills required to increase understanding of biomechanical principles to answer problems in a sport and exercise environment. This module will enhance students problem solving and data analysis skills within a biomechanics setting, teaching students how to analyse performance using a variety of techniques to measure kinetics or kinematic data.
Applied Sport & Exercise Psychology	30 Credits	Compulsory
In the sport psychology component of the module students will be taught the underlying principles of professional practice in sport psychology. More specifically, students will be educated in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of sport psychology practice. Students will gain in"depth understanding of psychological theory, modes of psychological assessment and appropriate interventions to manage training and competition. The exercise and health component of the module will focus on exercise adherence and the different theoretical models and research that promote exercise adherence in different population groups. Throughout the module students will be presented with examples of real world case studies to explore these topic areas.
Research Design	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module students will explore the principles and methods that underpin scientific research in sport and exercise science and sports therapy. The module will enable students to comprehend, critique, and effectively utilise existing scientific research in their studies and professional practice, either as sport and exercise scientists or sport therapists. The knowledge gained will also provide a foundation upon which to design and develop an appropriate research proposal in order to successfully complete the final year project.
Exercise for a Healthy Population	15 Credits	Optional
This module will engage students with the role of activity and exercise in promotion of health in different population groups. Consideration of epidemiological data relevant to this area will be reviewed and by the end of this module, students should confidently be able to analyse the impact of health initiatives on the population.
Sports Conditioning and Testing	15 Credits	Optional
This module is designed to introduce students to a range of relevant themes that can inform the exercise professional when working with an athlete/client. This module builds on previous study within the course and involves examination of physiological assessment processes and conditioning practices, with reference to relevant supporting theory and literature. Applied knowledge and experience of testing will be developed in different environments which will improve the students theoretical understanding and practical application of testing and training the performer.
Functional Anatomy and Clinical Biomechanics	15 Credits	Optional
This module builds on the anatomy taught at level 4 and introduces students to the inter"relationship between structure and function of the joints of the human body. Lectures will consider joint structure and function in relation to common injuries that occur within the sport and exercise environment. Students will also be introduced to the neurovascular anatomy of the upper and lower limbs, as well as biomechanical theory. Practical classes will develop biomechanical analysis skills during sport and exercise movements using techniques combining both kinematic and kinetic data. Human gait will be studied, and abnormal biomechanics will be discussed in relation to predisposition to injury.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Enterprise and Entrepreneurship in Sports Business Management	15 Credits	Optional
The module will encourage students to develop an understanding of business planning for sports organisations at national and global level. It covers the business planning process and the individual components required to prepare a business plan. Student will prepare, present and justify a business plan for a fledgling sports organisation. As they adopt the key principles of entrepreneurship.
Applied Independent Sports Research Project	30 Credits	Compulsory
The Applied Independent Sports Research Project module builds on the Research Design module at Level 5. With the support of an allocated supervisor, students will design and undertake an individual research project relevant to their programme of study. This may be in the form of an investigation or a literature review. Students will review current literature in order to develop research aims and objectives or research questions, and to inform and justify their research methodology. Students will assess the ethical considerations for their research, and apply for appropriate ethical approval, if appropriate. Once granted, students will recruit subjects if applicable, and organise and manage data collection or undertake an appropriate review of current literature accessing all current data bases. Appropriate methods of analysis will then be selected and applied. Students will critically evaluate the research findings in relation to current literature, and will address the limitations and make proposals for future research. The independent research will be communicated and defended in the form of a poster presentation and journal"style report.
Performance Physiology	15 Credits	Optional
The module will explore the physiological mechanisms and adaptations that affect exercise performance in different population groups and sports. This will involve critical evaluation and discussion of the research literature as well as development of advanced understanding of practical techniques for monitoring and improving athlete performance.
Exercise Referral & Health Promotion	15 Credits	Optional
By the end of this module students will understand the role and benefits/limitations of an exercise referral scheme. Methods of disseminating information to the general population will be considered and exploration of exercise clinical trials for various disease populations.
Work Experience in SES	15 Credits	Optional
The module content focuses upon students completion of 70 hours of work experience within a sport, health, or exercise context to utilise knowledge and skills acquired and developed during academic modules. Alongside this, students will explore reflective practice and experiential learning theory and develop good evidence based working practices, and enhance associated knowledge and skills, with a view to improving employability.
Technology in sport	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to develop knowledge on selected areas of performance technology/analysis within an applied sports science setting. There will be a focus on analytical, evaluatory and synthesis skills required to conduct research in selected areas of performance analysis. The validity and reliability of contemporary performance technology will be investigated in order to critically evaluate appropriate research and published literature, debate and articulate ideas, protocols and actions. Learners will devise and evaluate sport"specific analyses of performance and demonstrate mastery of performance analysis techniques using a variety of practical methods.
Contemporary issues in Sport Psychology	15 Credits	Optional
The module will include some of the core topics and underlying theory relevant to contemporary sport psychology. For example, students may explore areas such as experiences of retirement from elite sport, motivations underpinning doping behaviour, and the changing roles of the sport psychologist. Students will also be expected to explain and evaluate a variety of contemporary psychological intervention modes for different population groups in sport.
Contemporary Issues in Exercise Psychology	15 Credits	Optional
This module is designed to facilitate students in developing an advanced critical understanding of contemporary issues within exercise psychology, building upon the exercise psychology concepts introduced at levels 4 and 5. Students will address a range of topics and focus upon mental health and links with physical activity. The module helps educate students in relevant theory, assessments and interventions for a range of contemporary health and exercise issues. Additionally, implications for effective professional practice will be covered.
Advanced Biomechanics	15 Credits	Optional
The module is focused on introducing advanced biomechanical principles and developing skills required to address problems in a sport and exercise environment. Students will learn advanced problem solving and data analysis skills within a biomechanics setting, including modelling performance using combined kinetic and kinematic data.
Sport & Performance Nutrition	15 Credits	Optional
Sport and Performance Nutrition integrates the fields of applied biochemistry, exercise physiology, nutrition for performance and ergogenic aids. This module covers specific nutritional issues relevant to sport including dietary strategies for training, competition (both for the elite and recreational athlete) as well as the importance of nutrition and ergogenic aids specific to enhancing sport and exercise performance.
Strength and Conditioning	15 Credits	Optional
This module provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to work with a variety of athletes/ populations within the field of strength and conditioning. The module is centred around guidelines issued by the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) and National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and a selection of advanced training topics will be explored in depth. This module will incorporate a high practical element, with students developing competence in practical strength and conditioning disciplines as well as theoretical understanding of the practical competencies.
Sandwich Placement - Sport	0 Credits	Compulsory
The Sandwich placement will provide students with the opportunity to expand, develop and apply the knowledge, understanding, skills and attributes acquired during levels 4 and 5 of the relevant degree programme, in a professional work-based environment. Prior to the commencement of the sandwich placement, students will seek and apply for a position suitable for their programme of study, in the UK or overseas. Students will be allocated a workplace, and a University supervisor. The student will agree an appropriate working pattern with the workplace supervisor and will establish relevant aims to work towards during the sandwich placement. Students completing a UK-based sandwich placement will normally attend a one-day placement symposium at the university, part way through the year. They will present a poster relating to their placement experience. Students completing an overseas sandwich placement will normally submit a poster electronically. Throughout the Sandwich placement, students will evaluate and reflect on their experiences, with consideration of current literature and evidence-based practice. The Sandwich placement will culminate in a work-based evaluation, and the production of a reflective placement report.

Study abroad

An opportunity for an amazing experience, which will help make you stand out from the crowd. With more and more companies working internationally, experience of living in another country can make a great impression on future employers.

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a sandwich year abroad. The University has partnerships with over 150 universities around the world, including the USA, Canada, Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and closer to home in Europe.

If you study abroad between your second and third year of study, you’ll pay no tuition fee to the partner university and no tuition fee to us either. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it.

Find out more about Study abroad opportunities

Please note Erasmus+ funding is only available until May 2023. For students starting their course in September 2022 and wishing to study abroad in 2023-24 or 2024-25, please refer to the Turing Scheme.
Work placement

Graduate with invaluable work experience alongside your degree and stand out from the crowd.

This course offers you the opportunity to enhance your study and CV with a work placement sandwich year. It’s a chance to explore career possibilities, make valuable contacts and gain sought after professional skills.

Our dedicated Careers and Employment team are here to help guide you through the process.

If you take up a work placement between your second and third year of study, at the University of Hertfordshire you’ll pay no tuition fee for this year. We’ll ask you to make your decision in your second year, so there is plenty of time to think about it.

Find out more about work placements
What if I need support?

You’ll get a personal tutor to guide you through your course, all the way to graduation. You might also want or need extra support during your time with us. Rest assured, no matter what you study, we’ve got you covered. For help with study skills, including referencing, essay writing and presentations, you’ll have access to our academic support services. You can attend workshops, 1-to-1 sessions, and online tutorials. Both our Learning Resources Centres (LRCs) run drop-in study skills sessions. And the best thing is, it’s all free.

'My undergraduate degree in Sport & Exercise Science at the University of Hertfordshire gave me a broad understanding of sport and exercise physiology and psychology needed to enter the working world. I benefited from learning about nutrition, biomechanics, strength and conditioning from an applied sense, which made the degree current and interesting. This multi-disciplinary course also offered a balanced range of assessments including, presentations, coursework and exams. Having the opportunity to take a placement year in my third year became the foundation I built my career and specialism in cardiac physiology within the NHS. I would definitely recommend this course, as the staff, resources and opportunities are top class.'

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science graduate

Currently working as a Cardiographer at Barts Health NHS Trust

Check out our student blogs

Alumni Stories

Gavin Beard

Meet Gavin Beard who has taken his love for sports into industry. Since graduating he has worked his way up the career ladder and is now the Head of Marketing for Norwich Football Club.

Current job role	Head of Marketing
Year of graduation	2013
Course of study	BSc (Hons) Sports Studies

More than a degree

Gavin graduated from the University of Hertfordshire with more than a degree; his university experience helped him to gain valuable insight to several disciplines and allowed him to narrow down his career choices.

He says, 'My degree allowed me to study various disciplines, including coaching, science and business. Having exposure to these different areas helped me understand what I favoured, and it was clear that business (and in particular, marketing) was an area I felt I could forge a career in.'

After successfully completing his degree Gavin began moving up the career ladder, working at many well respected companies such as Coral, BT Sport and currently Norwich City Football Club. Gavin puts a lot of his success down to the degree he studied and the support provided by the university.

He comments, 'The variety of modules and the exposure to different disciplines within my course were extremely useful. This was crucial in helping me determine my path. After year one, I knew I liked marketing, so I worked with the ERASMUS team to find a pathway to help me study this abroad. I then studied business in Valencia for a year and it was an experience I’ll never forget.'

Aspirations for the future

Gavin is still really enjoying his career in leading the Marketing team at Norwich City Football Club. He says, 'It’s an incredibly varied role; one day I could be leading the campaign to promote the new kit, the next it’ll be marketing the Take That gig at Carrow Road!'

Gavin is hopeful for the future and says 'Given my experience, my future roles will continue to be in marketing, hopefully I will help Norwich to become an established Premier League team. Then who knows!'

Alumni Stories

Annabelle Bullock

Meet Annabelle Bullock, a BUCS gold medallist, who studied Sports Studies alongside her athletic pursuits. As an athlete she competed in target shooting and as a member of the women's Lacrosse team.

Read more stories BSc (Hons) Sports Studies MA Education

Current job role	Education Liaison Coordinator
Year of graduation	2018 / 2019
Course of study	BSc (Hons) Sports Studies
Course of study	MA Education

University experience and support

The University supported Annabelle by making her one of its sponsored athletes providing her with greater flexibility and access to sporting facilities and opportunities. This helped her develop a broad and transferable set of skills and experience.

Annabelle says, 'Being an athlete and studying was challenging, but the University and my lecturers were so supportive. Being made a sponsored athlete also came with a bunch of perks. All this support and the opportunities that the University provided helped me to build the skills and confidence I needed to be truly successful in my job today.'

Annabelle currently works as one of the Education Liaison Coordinators at Herts. Having established fantastic contacts within the University, her student activities meant she could seamlessly progress into a professional role that complimented many of her skills and interests.

'I always assumed that I would do something within sport, but when it came to my final year in BSc Sport Studies, I had found my passion for Coach Education. During my MA in Education at the University, I discovered another passion for helping others and working with student athletes.'

Opportunities to explore

The University is committed to recognising talent in its students and offering any exciting opportunities that can enrich their studies and further their careers. Annabelle's lecturers' encouraged her to explore her passion for research which inspired her to continue with postgraduate study. Most impressively, the University helped her win its first BUCS gold medal in target shooting, which she says 'felt amazing as I was the only one in the team!'

Annabelle's advice for new and current students is to 'Do things that are out of your comfort zone because the skills and experiences you develop may just be the thing that your employer is looking for. Take all of the opportunities you can. I thought I was going to be an athlete forever, then I discovered coaching. I am very lucky that my first "proper" job is something that I absolutely love but I am still able to continue coaching. This summer I am helping coach a target shooting national team in the biggest junior, under 21, competition in the country.'

What's next for my career?

Our graduates progress to a wide range of careers which reflects the multidisciplinary nature of the degree programme.

Our graduates have gained employment with elite athletes, professional sports teams, health clubs and within the National Health Service. Also, in the leisure industry, military, fire service and as coaches. They have progressed to study for a Master’s degree, PhD or teacher training qualification.

Job titles of recent graduates include:

Community Rugby Coach, Sports Lecturer, Police Officer, NHS Trainee Cardiac Physiologist, Special Needs Coach, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Fire Brigade Fitness Advisor, Health and Fitness Coach, IT Support Officer, Learning Support Assistant, PE Technician, Personal Trainer/Gym Instructor, Pharmaceutical Production Technician, Sport Science Support Officer, Lecturer in Sport Science in Further Education, Physiotherapy Assistant, Fitness Instructor, Recreation Assistant, Swimming Coach, Lifestyle Consultant, and Mental Health Physical Activity and Nutrition Advisor.

Examples of recent employers are the NHS, the English Institute of Sport, Lucozade Sport, and Mind.

Our graduates work with elite athletes, professional sports teams, health clubs and in the NHS. Recent jobs for our graduates include community rugby coach, police officer, trainee cardiac physiologist, fire brigade fitness advisor, health and fitness coach, personal trainer/gym instructor, pharmaceutical production technician and nutrition advisor.
View our Alumni profiles

Gavin Beard Annabelle Bullock

Course fact sheets
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science	Download

Programme specifications
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	Optional
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes
Course length	Full Time, 3 Years Part Time, 5 Years Sandwich, 4 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Apply using the links below:

2025

Start Date	End Date	Year	Location	Link
28/09/2025	20/05/2026	3	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2025	20/05/2026	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Part Time)
28/09/2025	20/05/2026	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
28/09/2025	20/05/2026	2	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

2026

Start Date	End Date	Year	Location	Link
28/09/2026	20/05/2027	3	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2026	20/05/2027	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Part Time)
28/09/2026	20/05/2027	1	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
28/09/2026	20/05/2027	2	UH Hatfield Campus	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

Fees and funding
Fees 2024
UK Students
Full time
- £9250 for the 2024/2025 academic year
Part time
- £1155 per 15 credits for the 2024/2025 academic year
EU Students
Full time
- £15500 for the 2024/2025 academic year
Part time
- £1940 per 15 credits for the 2024/2025 academic year
International Students
Full time
- £15500 for the 2024/2025 academic year
Part time
- £1940 per 15 credits for the 2024/2025 academic year
Fees 2025
UK Students
Full time
- £9535 for the 2025/2026 academic year
Part time
- £1190 per 15 credits for the 2025/2026 academic year
EU Students
Full time
- £15965 for the 2025/2026 academic year
Part time
- £1995 per 15 credits for the 2025/2026 academic year
International Students
Full time
- £15965 for the 2025/2026 academic year
Part time
- £1995 per 15 credits for the 2025/2026 academic year
You will be expected to purchase navy tracksuit bottoms, a white polo shirt and navy shorts before starting the course. These can be University of Hertfordshire branded, bought from us before induction, but do not have to be.

*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Book your Online Open Day

Undergraduate Online Open Day

Get info and updates

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

Key information

Typical offer:

Fees: See below

UCAS code: C600

Institute code: H36

Study abroad option

Work placement option

Additional requirements

Why choose this course?

Benefit from specialist labs and facilities

More than just a degree

Turn your dreams into your dream job

What's the course about?

Your main campus is de Havilland

What will I study?

Check out our student blogs

Student Blogs

My week at a glance

Student Blogs

Things you need to know before studying Sport & Exercise Science

Assumptions

Reading

Assessments

Organisation

Wellbeing

Support

Student Blogs

Guide to Sport & Exercise Facilities

Labs

Learning Resource Centres (LRCs)

Lectures & Staff

Support

Student Blogs

Alumni Stories

Meet Gavin Beard who has taken his love for sports into industry. Since graduating he has worked his way up the career ladder and is now the Head of Marketing for Norwich Football Club.

More than a degree

Aspirations for the future

Alumni Stories

Meet Annabelle Bullock, a BUCS gold medallist, who studied Sports Studies alongside her athletic pursuits. As an athlete she competed in target shooting and as a member of the women's Lacrosse team.

University experience and support

Opportunities to explore

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2025

2026

Fees 2024

UK Students

Full time

Part time

EU Students

Full time

Part time

International Students

Full time

Part time

Fees 2025

UK Students

Full time

Part time

EU Students

Full time

Part time

International Students

Full time

Part time

Other financial support

Living costs / accommodation