Undergraduate

Sport and Exercise Science

Student on a treadmill during a VO2 Max test at the University of Hull.
two students using Biomechanics lab equipment
Student using weights
Student using weights

Look around

You'll be taught by academics who work with both elite-level sports performers and NHS patients. As well as FIFA, the International Olympic Committee and the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Student using weights in our Strength and Conditioning room facilities
Student using weights in our Strength and Conditioning facilities
We've recently invested £16 million in our facilities to ensure you'll use some of the latest technology in the sector during your studies.
Gain theoretical knowledge and real-world skills for this growing industry with careers in professional sport, personal training, the NHS and more.
Student on a treadmill during a VO2 Max test at the University of Hull.
two students using Biomechanics lab equipment
Student using weights
Student using weights
Allam Sports Centre Performance Zone
Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Science - Sport and Exercise Science

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Code

Duration

Mode

  • Standard course
  • With a foundation year

Typical offer

What does this mean?

Open up a range of careers by learning how to help athletes improve their performance and how to protect the general public's health and wellbeing through exercise.

You’ll start by developing a thorough understanding of the different scientific principles involved – such as physiology, psychology and biomechanics – to give you the foundation to work as a qualified professional in either a health or sports and performance setting.

And you’ll take your employability prospects to the next level with a series of hands-on and sometimes exclusive placement opportunities, CV-boosting volunteering and career-inspiring experiences to help you stand out from the competition.

  • 100% of students

    in work or further study 15 months after graduating 1

  • Ranked 3rd in the UK

    for teaching 2

  • Direct links

    to local sports teams, the NHS, and nutritional health providers

  • Official University Partner

    of Team GB

  • Go for gold

    with our Talented Athlete Programme

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Course overview
Module options

About this course

Why choose Hull for Sport and Exercise Science? Well for starters, where else can you get opportunities to learn from Team GB? Nowhere else. Because Hull is the only Official University Partner of Team GB. And that means you could get access to elite athletes, industry experts, possible internships and more.

We’re well connected locally too. You can tap into our close links with Hull City, Hull KR and Hull FC (all three clubs have former Hull students working for them) or with the NHS, nutritional health providers and schools.

They’re all part of our extensive work-based placement programme that gives you the chance to put your theory to the test in real-world scenarios.

You’ll be learning that theory in some of the best facilities in the industry right here on campus and you’ll be able to decide what you want to study in your final year. You can follow your passions and interests in psychology, biomechanics, physiology or nutrition and choose whether you want to focus on health and exercise, or sports and performance.

Add it all up, and you’ll leave here a well-rounded science graduate with standout industry experience. Just what you need to pursue a truly rewarding career.

Scheduled study hours and how you’re assessed

Throughout your degree, you’re expected to study for 1,200 hours per year. That’s based on 200 hours per 20 credit module. And it includes scheduled hours, time spent on placement and independent study. How this time is divided across the year varies and depends on the module you are studying.

How you'll be assessed depends on the course you study, and the modules you choose. You may be assessed through a mix of examinations, coursework, presentations and group projects.

Choose your modules

Each year, you’ll study modules worth a certain number of credits, and you need 120 credits per year. Most modules are 20 credits – so you’ll study six modules each year. Some longer modules, such as a dissertation, are worth more. In these cases, you’ll study fewer modules - but the number of credits will always add up to 120. Some modules are compulsory, some are optional, so you can build a course that’s right for you.

Preparing for Learning in Higher Education

This module is designed to give you the best possible start to your university studies, making sure you have all the essential skills you need to succeed. Through lectures and workshops we will teach you how to write in an academic style, how to find quality sources, how to reference work, culminating in writing up a mini-research project.

Core•20 credits

Group Challenge (Sciences)

In a group, you'll formulate questions that can be tested by scientific investigations and take part in weekly workshops with academics.

Core•20 credits

Foundation in Data Analysis

Develop a strong foundation in data collection and analysis. This module will introduce you to qualitative and quantitative data and how to analyse it; the collection of primary and secondary data; the production of high quality graphics; and report writing.

Core•20 credits

Introduction to Biological Sciences 1

This module covers basic knowledge on cells and biological molecules and how they are connected to the function of major organ systems in animals, plants and humans. The main topics are cell structure, exchange and transport, the genetic code, microbiology and energy processes.

Compulsory•20 credits

Introduction to Sport, Health and Exercise Science

Module information coming soon. 

Compulsory•20 credits

Foundation Maths Skills

This module delivers core mathematics skills at level two and three to give a solid basis for future studies. You will study the following topics: manipulation of numerical data and converting between different units of measurement; exponentials and logarithms; and standard form and problems involving ratio, proportion and percentages.

Optional•20 credits

Foundation Mathematics 1

This module delivers core mathematics skills to build a solid basis for future studies. You will study the following topics: factors, multiples, indices, fractions and standard form; algebra, linear and quadratic equations; averages and spread; functions, exponentials and logarithms; and right angled triangles and trigonometry.

Optional•20 credits

Foundation Mathematics A

You will study pure mathematics topics, including proof, algebra, trigonometry, differentiation, integration, exponentials, logarithms, sequences and series. The applied topic is probability and statistics.

Optional•20 credits
8 Modules

Human Physiology

In lectures and lab sessions, you'll cover the structure and function of the body's major organ systems. 

Core• credits

Principles of Anatomy and Biomechanics

Explore anatomical structures of the musculoskeletal system and how they relate to functional human movement.

Core•20 credits

Introduction to Practice in Sport and Exercise Science

This module is designed to show students how each sub-discipline of sport science can work with the rest to create an interdisciplinary group, working towards a common goal. In doing so, students will gain an understanding and appreciation for how modules throughout the rest of their programme will be linked together, and how they might be able to work with other disciplines upon graduation. 

Core•20 credits

Sport, Health and Exercise Psychology

This module provides you with knowledge of various psychological assessment tools and techniques, such as anxiety inventories, imagery, relaxation and goal setting.

Core•20 credits

Conducting Science in Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation

A solid grounding in to the scientific practice underlying the subject. It explores and critiques how data is collected and analysed.

Core•20 credits

Introduction to Exercise and Training

Through a mix of both theoretical and practical sessions, you'll develop your knowledge and experience of a number of different exercise and training modalities that a strength and conditioning coach could utilise in an effort to affect and improve performance. This module will also help you to develop as a coach, explaining the principles of good coaching, communication and delivery to a diverse range of athletes and non-athletes alike.

Core•20 credits
6 Modules

Social Psychology of Sport, Health and Exercise

Examine the effects of psychosocial dynamics in performance sport, health and exercise. You'll explore issues like muscle dysmorphia, drug use in sport and barriers to exercise. 

Core•20 credits

Sport Physiology

Examine the fundamentals of physiology in the context of sports performance. This module introduces methods of measuring performance and and physiological responses during sport.

Core•20 credits

Analysis of Human Movement

Explore the biomechanical methods to analyse human movement - including kinematics and kinetics using motion capture and force plates.

Core•20 credits

Professional Standards within Sport, Health and Exercise Science

This module exposes you to the multiple disciplines within sport, health and exercise science, exploring how specific career pathways can be formed in accordance with relevant governing bodies.

Core•20 credits

Applied Issues in Strength and Conditioning

​This module introduces you to fitness assessment and testing and how to use information to design training programmes. It also advances your strength and conditioning coaching experience.

Core•20 credits

Research Methods

Prepare and complete a small action research project to develop skills that will help you across your studies. It's hands-on learning about research methodology, ethical approval, data analysis and formulating research questions.

Core•20 credits
6 Modules

Dissertation

Choose a topic you are passionate about and make an original contribution to research by designing, carrying out, and delivering a 10,000-word thesis. Over the course of your final year you will conduct independent research, supported by an academic supervisor.

Core•40 credits

Professional Practice in Sport, Health and Exercise Science

This module provides you with an opportunity to engage in an approved work experience placement in a range of sport, health and exercise science activities.

Core•20 credits

Interdisciplinary Considerations in Sport, Exercise, and Rehabilitation Science

This module is part of a shared curriculum across multiple Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Science programmes, bringing together students with a range of knowledge and skills in their distinct discipline areas and teaching them to apply this in an interdisciplinary context.

You'll work collaboratively to problem  solve in real-world scenarios and learn to recognise where individuals with other experiences and skills may be better suited to deal with specific issues. This module mirrors the professional environment outside of academia, where professionals in the field of athletic care operate both independently (as autonomous practitioners) and collaboratively (within interdisciplinary teams) in accordance with relevant governing bodies such as BASES, BASRaT and the SENR.

Core•20 credits

Exercise Prescription for Health in Special Populations

Study the underlying pathophysiological basis of various disease states including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis and sarcopenia. 

Optional• credits

Biomechanics of Sports Performance and Injury Prevention

You'll explore key themes that impact sporting performance and injury prevention, as well as developing key practical and personal skills by conducting a mini research study.

Optional• credits

Nutrition in Sport and Exercise

Gain an understanding of nutrition relating to health. You'll focus on the role of macronutrients, fluid balance and supplements, and their importance in sport and exercise.

Optional•20 credits

Applied Psychology in Sport Science

Here you'll learn about the role of a sport psychologist, including qualification routes, code of conduct and ethics.

Optional•20 credits

Human Performance in Extreme Environments

Gain an understanding of working and exercising in environmental conditions under which the human body is severely stressed. 

Optional• credits

Nutrition in a Specialist Sporting Population

Investigate the changing nutritional considerations that influence the performance of specialist sporting populations, as well as those exercising in extreme environments.

Optional•20 credits

Biomechanics in Health and Clinical Practice

On this module, you'll cover topics such as lower-limb amputation, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, normal development, ageing and barefoot running.

Optional•20 credits
10 Modules

Playlist

More than a subject

Subject session 1 min

Sport Science facilities

Course highlight 3 mins

Dr Stephen Hayes

Course Overview 1 min

Your personal supervisor

Course highlight 1 min

Entry requirements

What do I need?

When it comes to applying to university, you'll need a certain number of UCAS points. Different qualifications and grades are worth a different amount of points. For this course, you'll need…

Use UCAS's calculator to work out your estimated points

We consider experience and qualifications from the UK and worldwide which may not exactly match the combinations above.

But it's not just about the grades - we'll look at your whole application. We want to know what makes you tick, and about your previous experience, so make sure that you complete your personal statement.

Have questions? Our admissions team will be happy to help.

What do I need?

If you require a student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level.

See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by the University of Hull.

If your English currently does not reach the University’s required standard for this programme, you may be interested in one of our English language courses.

Visit your country page to find out more about our entry requirements.

Fees & funding

How much is it?

Additional costs you may have to pay

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make:

  • Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (incl. travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and computers on campus, but you may want your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

How much is it?

Additional costs you may have to pay

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make:

  • Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
  • Optional field trips
  • Study abroad (incl. travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
  • Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
  • Student visas (international students)
  • Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and computers on campus, but you may want your own)
  • Printing and photocopying
  • Professional-body membership
  • Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

Our academics

Our experts are committed to the development of sporting excellence; promoting health and wellbeing; and advancements in recovery from injury or illness.

As well as a thriving education portfolio encompassing a range of courses, they are at the cutting edge of research, with five specific areas of strength.

See more academics for this subject
Dr Stephen Hayes
Featured academic

Dr Stephen Hayes

Stephen is a Lecturer in Biomechanics and Strength and Conditioning who has held numerous roles within higher education. Outside academia, he also worked in occupational healthcare helping to bring a variety of experience to his teaching.
Dr Kate Donnan
Featured academic

Dr Kate Donnan

Kate is a lecturer in sport and exercise psychology. Her research focuses mainly on the impact of stressors such as sleep deprivation or extreme environments on human performance and the use of psychological or nutritional strategies to improve this.

Take a look at our facilities

Health and Human Performance Lab

This £1.5 million laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility for teaching, research and sport science support in the field of biomechanics.

Exercise Physiology Teaching Laboratory

Our teaching lab is where students learn the fundamental practical skills of exercise physiology using the latest equipment.

Environmental Chamber

We’re one of the few universities in the country to have one of these big enough to fit an entire sports team. It’s used to simulate different temperatures, humidity and altitude.

Allam Sport Centre

We've invested £16 million in new sports facilities, including a state-of-the-art gym and new pitches. So you'll be learning with the sector's most innovative technology.

See more in our virtual tour
Health and Human Performance Lab

Look around

people using the exercise bikes in the Environment Chamber

Look around

Health and Human Performance Lab
Physiology Teaching Laboratory
people using the exercise bikes in the Environment Chamber
Allam Sports Centre Sports Hall
A student on a football pitch

Future prospects

On these degrees, you’ll gain theoretical knowledge and real-world skills that are relevant to this growing market. So, when you graduate, you’ll be ready to work in specialist areas like professional sport, personal training and a range of NHS roles, or enter the NHS Scientist Training Programme.

Our careers team will be on-hand to give you expert advice and training, and you’ll have the chance to network with a wide range of employers throughout your degree as part of our annual Student Thesis Conference.

Watch

Sport Science Careers
University of Hull Open Day

Your next steps

Like what you’ve seen? Then it’s time to apply.

The standard way to apply for this course is through UCAS. This will give you the chance to showcase your skill, qualities and passion for the subject, as well as providing your academic qualifications.

How to apply

Not ready to apply?

Visit our next Open Day, and see all that Hull has to offer for yourself. Talk to our lecturers about your subject, find out what university is really like from our current students, and take a tour of our beautiful campus and amazing facilities.

Book your place now

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1. 100% employability (Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences) UK domicile full-time first degree leavers; Higher Education Graduate Outcomes statistics, for the academic year 2021/22, published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency June 2024.

2. Ranked 3rd in the UK for teaching. National Students Survey 2024

 All modules presented on this course page are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

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