Sport and Exercise Science
SS34Launch your career in the fast-evolving field of Sport and Exercise Science with our dynamic BSc (Hons) programme. Whether your goal is to enhance elite athlete performance, create cutting-edge rehabilitation programmes, or promote healthier lifestyles, this degree equips you with the practical skills and scientific expertise to make a real difference. By the time you graduate, you’ll be ready to lead in laboratory-based performance evaluation, helping individuals, teams, and communities thrive in both sport and health settings.
Course overview
At the heart of our state-of-the-art sport and exercise facilities on the King Alfred Campus, this innovative, science-based programme immerses you in the core disciplines of sport and exercise science: psychology, physiology, biomechanics, and research methods. Expert teaching, paired with cutting-edge laboratories in biomechanics, physiology, and psychology, ensures you gain a deep understanding of how to critically evaluate contemporary research and apply your knowledge in real-world contexts.
You will also develop the essential skills to conduct scientific projects with athletes, teams, and agencies from across the wider spectrum of sport and exercise. This hands-on experience ensures you graduate with the practical skills needed to excel in a variety of careers—from elite performance support to clinical rehabilitation.
The course is built around four core strands that provide a well-rounded understanding of the scientific principles behind sport and exercise:
Sport and Exercise Psychology
Explore the psychological factors that drive performance and participation in sport and exercise. You’ll study how elite athletes manage pressure, how motivation shapes performance at all levels, and how mental skills can boost well-being in athletes and everyday exercisers.
Sport and Exercise Physiology
Delve into the physiological processes that shape athletic performance and general fitness. From metabolism and nutrition to hormonal and cardiovascular responses, you’ll learn how the body adapts to training and how to optimize performance through evidence-based methods.
Sports and Exercise Biomechanics
Focus on the mechanics of human movement to reduce injury risk and enhance performance. You’ll explore kinematics and kinetics, develop anatomical insights, and gain hands-on experience with biomechanical testing to apply your knowledge in both sport and exercise settings.
Research Methods in Sport and Exercise
Gain a solid foundation in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, enabling you to investigate a wide range of sport and exercise phenomena. Your final dissertation will allow you to explore a specific area of interest in depth, preparing you for postgraduate study or research-based roles.
University of Winchester Pathways to Sport Programme - Open for applicants from September 2024
Unlock Your Future in Sport – Reduced UCAS Entry!
The Pathways to Sport programme is a one-day immersive experience designed to give you a hands-on introduction to university life and sport-related degrees at the University of Winchester. Complete the programme and gain exclusive access to reduced entry requirements—96 UCAS points*.
- BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science
- BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching and Physical Education
- BSc (Hons) Sports Management
Join us on December 7th for a day packed with hands-on learning, expert guidance, and insight into your future career—while experiencing life at Winchester.
Why Attend?
- Reduced Entry Requirements: Fast-track your path to university with lower UCAS points.
- Hands-On Experience: Participate in interactive workshops and practical lab sessions using industry-standard equipment.
- Career Insights: Receive personalised advice from academics and current students, exploring where your degree could take you.
- Explore Your Campus: Tour our state-of-the-art facilities and get to know the vibrant student community.
How It Works:
- If you're focused on a specific degree, select it as your first choice for a full day of tailored workshops.
- Not sure yet? Choose a second programme to explore in the afternoon, and we’ll split your day between both.
Spaces are limited to 25 students—secure your spot today!
For more information and to apply
*Offer based on firm acceptance.
What you need to know
Course start date
September
Location
Winchester campus
Course length
- 3 years full-time
- 6 years sandwich
Apply
SS34
Typical offer
104-120 points
Fees
From £9,535 pa
Course features
- Benefit from high-quality teaching in a supportive and inclusive learning environment
- Access state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories designed for sport and exercise science
- Enhance your global perspective with study abroad opportunities at partner institutions in the U.S.
- Gain hands-on experience through professional practice opportunities in sport and healthcare
- Study a course endorsed by The British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), ensuring it meets professional standards
Course details
Our aim is to shape 'confident learners' by enabling you to develop the skills needed to excel in your studies here and as well as onto further studies or the employment market.
You are taught primarily through a combination of lectures and seminars, allowing opportunities to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups.
In addition to the formally scheduled contact time such as lectures and seminars, you are encouraged to access academic support from staff within the course team and the wide range of services available to you within the University.
Independent learning
Over the duration of your course, you will be expected to develop independent and critical learning, progressively building confidence and expertise through independent and collaborative research, problem-solving and analysis with the support of staff. You take responsibility for your own learning and are encouraged to make use of the wide range of available learning resources available.
Overall workload
Your overall workload consists of class contact hours, independent learning and assessment activity.
While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.
Year 1 (Level 4): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 288 hours
- Independent learning: 912 hours
Year 2 (Level 5): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 288 hours
- Independent learning: 912 hours
Year 3 (Level 6): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 264 hours
- Independent learning: 936 hours
- Placement: 0 hours
*Please note these are indicative hours for the course.
Location
Taught elements of the course take place on campus in Winchester.
Work Placements
You have the opportunity to undertake a professional practice experience as part of our optional module in the third year of your study. This module provides students with the opportunity to gain vocationally relevant experience in a sport and/or exercise-related organisation that aligns with the student’s specific career interests. Students will be expected to critically reflect on the individual skills, knowledge and ability required to fulfil specific professional roles within the context of their chosen experience.
Assessment
Our validated courses may adopt a range of means of assessing your learning. An indicative, and not necessarily comprehensive, list of assessment types you might encounter includes essays, portfolios, supervised independent work, presentations, written exams, or practical performances.
We ensure all students have an equal opportunity to achieve module learning outcomes. As such, where appropriate and necessary, students with recognised disabilities may have alternative assignments set that continue to test how successfully they have met the module's learning outcomes. Further details on assessment types used on the course you are interested in can be found on the course page, by attending an Open Day or Open Evening, or contacting our teaching staff.
Percentage of the course assessed by coursework
Year 1 (Level 4)*:
- 25% coursework
- 37% written exams
- 38% practical assessment
Year 2 (Level 5)*:
- 66% coursework
- 0% written exams
- 34% practical assessment
Year 3 (Level 6)*:
- 62% coursework
- 0% written exams
- 38% practical assessment
*Please note these are indicative percentages and modes for the programme.
Feedback
We are committed to providing timely and appropriate feedback to you on your academic progress and achievement in order to enable you to reflect on your progress and plan your academic and skills development effectively. You are also encouraged to seek additional feedback from your course tutors.
Further information
For more information about our regulations for this course, please see our Academic Regulations, Policies and Procedures.
Modules
Please note the modules listed are correct at the time of publishing. The University cannot guarantee the availability of all modules listed and modules may be subject to change. The University will notify applicants of any changes made to the core modules listed. For further information please refer to winchester.ac.uk/termsandconditions
Modules
This module introduces academic, employability, and research skills that underpin studying at university and pursuing various graduate careers in sport and exercise.
This module aims to introduce the basic concepts of biomechanics and relate these to human movement and sport performance. A particular emphasis will be placed on practical skills and the awareness of the importance of valid and reliable measurement techniques. Students undertaking this module will extend and add to their knowledge of biomechanics and will gain the foundation of knowledge required for sport and exercise biomechanics modules at levels five and six.
This module provides a foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology, emphasising the structure and function of major body systems, including the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Students will explore these systems individually and as integrated units, gaining essential knowledge to support further study in exercise science. Practical sessions will focus on developing a detailed understanding of anatomical and physiological concepts, preparing students for more applied exploration in Level 5.
This module considers key topics in sport psychology (e.g., mental skills) and exercise psychology (e.g., how physical activity can improve mental health).
Modules
This module examines both qualitative and quantitative research methods and prepares students for the dissertation module in Year 3.
This module aims to extend students’ knowledge into the application of biomechanical assessment in sport and exercise activities. There will be an emphasis on the evaluation of technique through the practical assessment of movement. Allied to this, students will develop additional proficiencies related to the use of biomechanical laboratory equipment and the collection, collation, analysis and presentation of data. The biomechanical principles underpinning performance in a range of sport and exercise settings will also be considered, compared, contrasted and evaluated and particular attention will be paid to the academic skills needed to succeed within an applied biomechanics research setting.
This module explores physiological responses to exercise and the principles of physiological assessment, integrating theory with practical application throughout. Students will investigate how key physiological systems, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and musculoskeletal systems, respond acutely to exercise and adapt to long-term training. Practical sessions in this area focus on conducting experiments to analyse these responses in depth. Students will develop the skills required to assess physiological attributes critical for performance. Activities include conducting and interpreting assessments such as VO2max, body composition analysis, and anaerobic fitness. By linking experimental analysis and performance-based assessments, students will gain hands-on experience, apply evidence-based techniques, and develop critical thinking and communication skills necessary for advanced study in sport and exercise physiology.
In semester one, students can choose one of the following.
Control and Co-ordination - 15 credits
This module will aim to give students an understanding of a number of theoretical models concerned with the development and control of human movement patterns. Students will explore quantitative approaches to analysing these movements with a particular focus on the student’s ability to accurately analyse the data collected and provide scientifically underpinned reasons for their findings. There will be a range of topics covered from single joint skill performance to whole body co-ordination tasks as well as the role of movement variability in skilled performance.
Psychological Skills - 15 credits
This module examines psychological skills techniques (e.g., emotional regulation, focus and concentration, confidence) that sport psychologists might use to enhance performance.
In semester two, students can choose one of the following.
Clinical Physiology - 15 credits
This module provides a comprehensive understanding of how clinical conditions such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, neurological disorders, obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome impact human physiology. Through practical sessions, students will develop skills in clinical assessment techniques, including 12-lead ECG and arterial stiffness measurements, to analyse physiological changes associated with these conditions. Emphasising evidence-based approaches, the module integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice to prepare students for roles requiring critical analysis, practical expertise, and the ability to identify exercise interventions. Students will also cultivate professional competencies and clinical knowledge aligned with the responsibilities of clinical physiologists in healthcare settings.
Designing Exercise Interventions - 15 credits
This module considers how an exercise psychologist might help individuals and groups to adopt and maintain a physically active lifestyle.
Modules
This module provides students with the opportunity to plan and execute an independent research project that critically addresses a specific issue within sport and exercise contexts.
This module aims to use and combine the knowledge gained at levels 4 and 5 to critically examine current research and approaches used in sport and exercise science. In particular, there will be a focus on inter- and intra-disciplinary perspectives and hence, how subject areas might combine to investigate or provide support in a given situation. This will allow flexibility in content but there will be consistent themes around areas such as technology, peak performance, and injuries. The “current” nature of the module also offers the opportunity for invited guest speakers where appropriate.
Students can choose one of the following 30 credit modules.
Advanced Biomechanics - 30 credits
This module will critically evaluate contemporary methods of biomechanical assessment used with specific populations. Students will be encouraged to investigate the unique challenges that come with working within applied settings, and be critical of the role that biomechanics can play in supporting people in each environment.
Students will also consider experimental and theoretical approaches in biomechanics, comparing and contrasting the approaches, and how to make the most of each.
Advanced Physiology - 30 credits
This module explores advanced assessment and exercise prescription for both athletes and clinical populations. In Semester 1, students focus on physiological assessment and prescription for optimising athletic performance, with practical activities such as VO2 max testing, lactate threshold analysis, and critical power. Semester 2 shifts to exercise prescription for clinical populations, emphasising safety, individualisation, and evidence-based recommendations for managing chronic conditions. By separating these focus areas while linking common principles, the module equips students with versatile skills applicable to both high-performance and healthcare settings.
In semester one, students can choose one of the following.
Rehabilitation Biomechanics - 15 credits
This module will aim to encourage students to draw on their understanding of the concepts learnt at levels four and five to critically evaluate literature and raise an awareness of the contemporary biomechanical and professional techniques used in the rehabilitation of injuries and disabilities. Students will be encouraged to use practical knowledge and their understanding of the ethical implications of working with injured individuals to evaluate current practice and be critical of the role that biomechanics can play in the treatment and support of injured individuals.
Professional Placement - 15 credits
This module gives the opportunity to apply subject specific knowledge in a professional practice environment such as an applied placement or research assistant scenario.
In semester two, students can choose one of the following.
Nutrition in Sport and Exercise - 15 credits
This module aims to critically evaluate the physiological and biochemical principles of sport and exercise within a nutritional context. Detailed consideration will be focused towards macronutrients and their role for individuals within a range of sport and exercise contexts. The module will provide students with skills surrounding the assessment and analysis of nutritional intake. The use of nutritional and supplement strategies will be critically evaluated in terms of performance enhancement and health.
Psychology of Injury - 15 credits
This module critically examines the challenges associated with short-term and career-ending injury in sport from a psychological, cultural, and social perspective.
Optional
Entry requirements
Our offers are typically made using UCAS tariff points to allow you to include a range of level 3 qualifications and as a guide, the requirements for this course are equivalent to:
- A-Levels: BCC-BBB from 3 A Levels or equivalent grade combinations (e.g. BBB is comparable to ABC in terms of tariff points)
- BTEC/CTEC: DMM from BTEC or Cambridge Technical (CTEC) qualifications
- International Baccalaureate: To include a minimum of 2 Higher Level certificates at grade H4
- T Level: Merit in a T Level
Additionally, we accept tariff points achieved for many other qualifications, such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma and WJEC Applied Certificate/Diploma, to name a few. We also accept tariff points from smaller level 3 qualifications, up to a maximum of 32, from qualifications like the Extended Project (EP/EPQ), music or dance qualifications. To find out more about UCAS tariff points, including what your qualifications are worth, please visit UCAS.
In addition to level 3 study, the following GCSE’s are required:
GCSEs in Mathematics and English Language at grade 4 or C, or higher. Functional Skills at level 2 is accepted as an alternative, however Key Skills qualifications are not. If you hold another qualification, please get in touch and we will advise further
If you will be over the age of 21 years of age at the beginning of your undergraduate study, you will be considered as a mature student. This means our offer may be different and any work or life experiences you have will be considered together with any qualifications you hold. UCAS have further information about studying as a mature student on their website which may be of interest.
If English is not your first language, a formal English language test will most likely be required and you will need to achieve the following:
- IELTS Academic at 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all four components (for year 1 entry)
- We also accept other English language qualifications, such as IELTS Indicator, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and TOEFL iBT
If you are living outside of the UK or Europe, you can find out more about how to join this course by contacting our International Recruitment Team via our International Apply Pages.
2025/6 Course Tuition Fees
| UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland |
International |
|
|---|---|---|
| Year 1* | £9,535 | £16,700 |
Additional tuition fee information
*(UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland) £9,535 for the 25/26 academic year. Fees for future academic years will be determined in line with our Terms and Conditions. The fee is currently subject to a governmental fee cap for each academic year. It is our policy to charge tuition fees at the level of the cap set by the Government. If the cap set by the Government changes, then we may increase our Fees in line with governmental policy.
*(International) £16,700 for the 25/26 academic year. Fees for future academic years will be determined in line with our Terms and Conditions. We decide the annual level of increase of our Tuition Fees by taking into account a range of factors including the cost of delivering the course and change in governmental funding.
Remember, you don’t have to pay any of this upfront if you are able to get a tuition fee loan from the UK Government to cover the full cost of your fees each year.
UK Part-Time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £79.45 and a 15 credit module is £1,191. Part-time students can take up to a maximum 90 credits per year, so the maximum fee in a given year will be the government permitted maximum fee of £7,145
International part-time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £139.14 and a 15 credit module is £2,087.
Additional costs
As one of our students all of your teaching and assessments are included in your tuition fees, including, lectures/guest lectures and tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions and specialist teaching facilities. You will also have access to a wide range of student support and IT services.
There might be additional costs you may encounter whilst studying. The following highlights the mandatory and optional costs for this course:
Optional
Kit
Students are expected to wear appropriate attire for practical sessions. Students can buy branded kit from us or wear their own. Students can buy as little or as much they like. Indicative cost is £15-£50 per item.
Core Texts
These are available from the University Library; however, some students prefer to purchase their own copies. Some Core Texts can be bought second hand, or as an eBook which can often reduce this cost. Indicative cost is £50-£200 per academic year.
Professional Courses
We deliver several professional courses (e.g., coaching courses, Combined Level 3 Gym Instructor and Personal Training, etc.) either as part of or alongside the taught curriculum. However, any course that is mandatory is delivered free of charge, with optional courses often heavily subsidised. Indicative cost is £10-£600 per course.
Volunteering or Placement
Students may incur travel costs on volunteering and/or placement modules. However, we will consider each individual students’ circumstances when undertaking these experiences and seek to minimise any such costs as appropriate. Indicative cost is £10-£30 per day for travel.
SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES AND AWARDS
We have a variety of scholarship and bursaries available to support you financially with the cost of your course. To see if you’re eligible, please see our Scholarships and Awards.
CAREER PROSPECTS
Graduates work in sport and exercise science support or performance sport support. Others enter careers in teaching, leisure, tourism, education, research and health.
Over the duration of the course, students develop a wide range of transferable employability skills including the ability to communicate effectively and work both independently and collaboratively.
These skills are valued in a range of graduate careers, including those not directly related to sport and exercise.
Many students also continue on to study for postgraduate qualifications to further enhance their employability. A number of our students will undertake the MRes Sport and Exercise and MSc Applied Sport Psychology at the University.
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment or further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021, HESA.
Pre-approved for a Masters
If you study a Bachelor Honours degree with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester. To be eligible, you will need to apply by the end of March in the final year of your degree and meet the entry requirements of your chosen Masters degree.
Accreditation
The programme is accredited by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) through the BASES Undergraduate Endorsement Scheme (BUES).
OUR CAREERS SERVICE
“Here at Winchester we believe in providing opportunities for every student to have hands-on practical experience and hence we ensure small class sizes for every lab.”
