Undergraduate

Sports Coaching and Performance Science

A female sport student stands with one foot on a football in the middle of our 3G pitch
students using equipment in the Biomechanics lab
Students measuring for performance data collection
student taking a shot at Basketball

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Learn to apply theoretical knowledge to high-level coaching with this hands-on degree from the Official University Partner of Team GB.
With a strong scientific focus throughout, this course provides an ideal foundation for anyone wanting to begin a career in coaching or elite performance.
You'll be taught by academics who work with both top-tier athletes and NHS patients. As well as FIFA, the International Olympic Committee and the World Anti-Doping Agency.
You'll develop the skills to coach people from grassroots to elite level, and across all sports, giving you a foundation to kick-start the career that most interests you.
We've recently invested £16 million in our sports facilities to ensure you have the best spaces to study and socialise.
You'll split your time between learning on campus – in some of the finest facilities in the country – and practising your skills out on placement.
A female sport student stands with one foot on a football in the middle of our 3G pitch
students using equipment in the Biomechanics lab
Students measuring for performance data collection
student taking a shot at Basketball
Allam Sports Centre Sports Hall
Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Science - Sports Coaching and Performance Science

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Duration

Mode

  • Standard course
  • With a foundation year

Learn to apply theoretical knowledge to high-level coaching and open up a range of careers with this hands-on degree.

Based in fully-equipped facilities following a recent £16 million investment in our sports infrastructure, you’ll combine the science with real-world experience from multiple placements to develop the skills to work with players and teams of all abilities.

And thanks to career-boosting opportunities like our annual Student Thesis Conference – not to mention our exclusive partnership with Team GB – you’ll be able to set yourself apart from the competition when you graduate.

  • 100% of students

    in work or further study 15 months after graduating 1

  • 3rd in the UK

    for teaching 2

  • Direct links

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

  • Go for gold

    on our Talented Athlete Programme

  • Official University Partner

    of Team GB

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Course overview
Module options

About this course

This course provides an ideal foundation for anyone wanting to begin a career in coaching players and teams to maximise their training and performance, as well as those interested in teaching physical education.

With a strong scientific focus throughout the course, you’ll study the theory that underpins performance and practical application, and develop the skills to coach people of all abilities and ages, from grassroots to elite level, and across all sports.

You’ll be taught by experts in their field during your time on campus and our links with local authority sports development units (and other organisations) open up opportunities for work experience, coaching education courses, workshops and events as part of your degree.

Plus, thanks to career-boosting opportunities like our annual Student Thesis Conference, and as the Official University Partner of Team GB, you’ll have opportunities at Hull that you can’t get anywhere else.

As well as teaching you the fundamental skills to coach and oversee the development of others, we also invest in your own potential with our Talented Athlete Programme.

Scholarships are offered to selected high-performing athletes and include a tailored package of support, advice, mentoring and personal development.

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. On this course, all modules are compulsory to ensure you gain a comprehensive understanding.

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

On your foundation year, you take modules that are provided across the Faculty for the pre-certificate stage, gaining a solid grounding in readiness for further study on the BSc. 
8 Modules

Human Physiology

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

Compulsory• credits

Principles of Anatomy and Biomechanics

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

Compulsory•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.

Compulsory•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.

Compulsory•20 credits

Introduction to Coaching Pedagogy

This module will provide a critical introduction to a number of pedagogical theories relevant to the facilitation of athlete learning.

Compulsory•20 credits

Introduction to Community Coaching

Discover how to examine sport coaching practice in a community sport context. You’ll explore ways which you can design and deliver impactful coaching sessions targeted at underrepresented groups in the community. You’ll have the opportunity to work collaboratively with your peers to construct and deliver an appropriate coaching session for a target population group e.g., elderly, youth, women, disability, children.

Compulsory•20 credits

At Hull, we pride ourselves on giving you scope for autonomy and self-directed learning. You will discover the fundamental principles and theories that underpin key aspects of sporting performance, health, and exercise science. A number of modules enable you to apply your theoretical knowledge to real-life coaching situations.

The first year gives you an introduction to the physiological, biomechanical and psychological aspects of sports performance, in addition to learning how to conduct science and research in the field of sports coaching and performance science.
6 Modules

Introduction to Strength and Conditioning

Analyse the physical demands of a sport or activity and design scientifically informed training programmes. You'll also learn the basics of Strength and Conditioning coaching.

Compulsory• credits

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. 

Compulsory•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.

Compulsory•20 credits

Contemporary Issues in Coaching Pedagogy

What social factors influence sport? Where do they come from? You'll learn about sport's influence in society and consider taken-for-granted coaching practices for elite athletes.

Compulsory•20 credits

Introduction to Performance Analysis

We'll introduce you to the use and applications of time motion using GPS and Catapult Sports technology, as well as notational analysis techniques, including video analysis.

Compulsory•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.

Compulsory•40 credits

Here the emphasis shifts to the sociocultural, biophysical, psychological and pedagogical aspects of coaching, strength conditioning and performance analysis.
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.

Compulsory•40 credits

Socio-cultural Implications of Surveillance Technologies in Sports Coaching

Consider the implications of the increased application of surveillance technologies, such as self-tracking devices, video-analysis, GPS and heart rate devices, in sports coaching contexts. You will use social theory to analyse how monitoring athletes and physical activity participants influences these individuals' lives.

Compulsory•20 credits

Professional Practice in Coaching and Performance

This module provides you with an opportunity to engage in an approved work experience placement in coaching and related activities.

Compulsory•20 credits

Sport Psychology for Coaches

Gain a deeper understanding of the psychological principles of coaching practice. You'll apply your knowledge of psychological principles and assessment techniques in a safe environment.

Compulsory•20 credits

Long-term Athlete Development

This module encourages students to consider the complications associated to coaching young athletes as they navigate adolescence. One of the principal aims of the module is to introduce students to the issues related to child athlete development, participation and talent identification within sports coaching environments. Students are introduced to underpinning theory and consequences of maturity-selection biases in class, and then get an opportunity to put these theories into practice during practical sessions and the end of module assessment.

Compulsory•20 credits

In your third year you undertake a dissertation in an area of your own particular interest. You move on to more advanced specialist topics such as advanced sport and exercise psychology; performance analysis in practice; and professional practice in coaching and performance.
5 Modules

Playlist

Andy Ayre

Student story 2 mins

Sport Science facilities

Course highlight 3 mins

Why choose Hull for Sport

Student story 4 mins

More than a subject

Subject session 1 min

Entry requirements

What do I need?

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

FIFA, the International Olympic Committee and the World Anti-Doping Agency. They’re all on the list of sporting heavyweights our academics have worked with.

You’ll also be able to benefit from their experience in elite sport, coaching or performance roles, as well as their latest game-changing research.

See more academics for this subject
christopher-mclaren-towlson-profile
Featured academic

Dr Christopher McLaren-Towlson

Christopher is a lecturer in Sports Coaching and Performance Science and a module leader at both Level 5 and 6 aspects of the programme. His previous research has been funded by FIFA, UEFA, Hull City and Manchester City.
Laura Gale
Featured academic

Dr Laura Gale

Laura has been a Lecturer in Sport Coaching and Performance at the University of Hull since September 2023. Prior to joining Hull, Laura has worked as a Lecturer in Sport Coaching at other universities like Manchester Met and Leeds Trinity.

Take a look at our facilities

Performance Analysis Suite

Here, you’ll use industry-standard software to learn the skills required by professional clubs and athletes to track individual and team performances during training and competition.

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.

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
A group of students look at data in the sports performance analysis suite
A student looks at data on a computer screen in the Health and Human Performance Lab

Look around

Look around

A group of students look at data in the sports performance analysis suite
A student looks at data on a computer screen in the Health and Human Performance Lab
Physiology Teaching Laboratory
Allam Sports Centre Sports Hall
Allam Sports Centre

Future prospects

Our graduates have valuable transferable skills, sound theoretical knowledge and real-world practical experience.

Hull graduates have gone on to work in multiple roles within professional sport, including for Arsenal FC, plus positions within primary and secondary teaching, strength and conditioning, performance analysis and sports development.

Thanks to our annual Student Thesis Conference, you’ll have the chance to network with potential future employers throughout your degree, and our careers team will also be on-hand to help guide your next steps after you graduate.

Watch

Sports Science Careers
University of Hull Open Day

Your next steps

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. 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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