Sport and Exercise Science BSc

University of Wales

This course is aimed at those who have an interest in sport, health and physical activity, and wish to deepen their understanding of the functioning of the human body.

Specialist pathways exist within the degree portfolio which allow students to specialise in particular areas.

• Ranked in top 10 UK Sport Science courses for student satisfaction
• Opportunity to become registered on Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)
• Use of dedicated fitness training facilities and exercise science laboratories.
• Opportunities to work with clients in real-life situations
• Range of module options across variety of subject areas

The first year of study is generic across the portfolio of Sport and Exercise Science degree pathways, and gives all students a grounding in the main principles of the subject area, along with the time to decide if they want to specialise in a particular pathway. The three core subjects of physiology, psychology and biomechanics form the foundations, with delivery comprising of a combination of theoretical lectures followed by an opportunity to apply that knowledge practically in our well-equipped sports science laboratories. Students will develop the hands-on skills required to use equipment such as: gas analysers, light gates, force platforms, motion analysis software, and body composition analysers.

Alongside the core subjects, the first year gives students the opportunity to study the principles of training and exercise, and to gain vocational awards as Gym Instructors and Personal Trainers alongside their studies, if they wish. A grounding in the basics of sports nutrition is also developed, as well as an understanding of the importance of physical activity in health and wellbeing.

In the second year, students continue to develop their knowledge in the foundational subjects of physiology, biomechanics and psychology, alongside developing their ability to understand and conduct research. Two optional modules allow students to pick from a wide range of modules across the school of Sport, Health and Outdoor Education. These modules could be from any one of a range of subjects such as: nutrition, exercise referral, coaching, outdoor lifestyles, and health promotion.

During the final year, students deepen their knowledge in their specialist area by conducting an independent experimental research study of their own, alongside an in-depth review of the literature. Building on the first two years, students develop knowledge in specific areas such as extreme physiology, advanced training methods and applied sport psychology, whilst also having options to choose modules from across the school.