Overview
Endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences, this practical, multidisciplinary degree will help you to develop as a complete sport and exercise scientist. You will gain an evidence-based appreciation of biomechanics, nutrition, physiology and psychology and their applications within sport and exercise environments.
Based in our Carnegie School of Sport, you will have access to nationally and internationally recognised staff with a wealth of research and applied experience, a supportive academic advisory programme, specialist laboratories and facilities, and a progressive learning environment.
RESIDENTIALS
As part of your first year, you will have the opportunity to experience activities in a setting associated with your studies. This may include a residential or field trips, which will support your on-campus learning and enhance your future career prospects.
Research Excellence Framework 2014
Research Excellence Framework 2014: 59% of our research submitted was assessed as world leading or internationally excellent.
Endorsed by:
You will have access to an environmental chamber which simulates the effects of diverse climatic conditions on physical performance, a full biomechanics laboratory and a DXA bone scanner, measuring the density and mineral composition of the skeletal structure.
On top of this, you can boost your CV by gaining nationally recognised sporting qualifications such as UK Coaching Certificates and gym and personal trainer awards, which are both available at the University.
Through work placement opportunities, you could find yourself working for professional sports clubs, such as Leeds Rhinos or Yorkshire County Cricket, local schools or health clubs. Many of our students have also taken advantage of our sport volunteering opportunities which have included national and global events such as the Student and Commonwealth Games.
The British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) is based at the University and offers a wealth of advantages including an annual student conference and membership, along with networking and employment opportunities. This course also meets the standards set by BASES and as a student here, you will be able to apply for personal accreditation.
We are ranked third in the country for Sport and Exercise Science research and education with our staff producing leading cutting edge research into the most current and topical issues in this subject, which will inevitably benefit and feed into your learning.
SPORT AND ACTIVE LIFESTYLES
We're passionate about sport and at Leeds Beckett University there's a huge range of sports and activities for you to get involved in, including more than 40 sports clubs. If you'd like to find out more about what we have to offer - including our Carnegie Sports Scholarship Scheme - take a look at the Sport & Active Lifestyles website.
We understand that full-time study does not suit everyone. That’s why we offer courses which give you the opportunity to decide where, when and how you can get involved in learning. Studying a distance learning course offers the convenience and flexibility to make education work for you. Whether you’d like to fit your studies around childcare, develop your skills while working or, quite simply, want to learn from the comfort of your own home, we can help you gain a qualification at a time and pace that suits your lifestyle.
Like our students on campus, you will have the same excellent teaching and learning resources, however you’ll find these online instead of in a lecture theatre. Not only are all the modules taught online, but you will also have access to an online community and more than 140,000 books and journals in our online library.
This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘sandwich’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree, typically making your course four years in total.
Students who choose the sandwich route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.
Course Features
- Professional accreditations
- Placements
- Specialist facilities
- Study abroad option
- Expert careers service
- 24/7 Library
- University accommodation
- TEF Silver Award
Carnegie Teaching & Research building
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science - Yona Knight Wisdom, student
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science seminar - Applied Psychology
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science seminar - Nutrition & Biochemistry
Life in Leeds
Entry Requirements
Additional Requirements
UCAS Tariff Points:
120 points required. (Minimum 80 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies). At least one of these should normally be from a science subject, which can include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Education, Psychology or Sociology. If you are studying Biology, Chemistry or Physics to meet this requirement you must also achieve a 'Pass' in the practical assessment, where that practical assessment is separated (from 2017).Or
112 UCAS points from three A levels (excluding General Studies) or equivalent BTEC National qualifications.At least one A Level should normally be from a science subject, which can include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Education, Psychology or Sociology. If you are studying Biology, Chemistry or Physics to meet this requirement you must also achieve a `Pass' in the practical assessment, where that practical assessment is separated (from 2017).
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
Additional Requirements:
GCSEs:
GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade C or above (Grade 4 for those sitting their GCSE from 2017 onwards) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy/Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma:
In a relevant subject, Pass overall with a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points.Scottish Awards:
Minimum of 5 subjects at Grade B at Higher Level. At least one science subject normally required which can include Psychology or PEIrish Leaving Certificate:
Minimum of 5 subjects at Grade C1 or above at Higher Level of which at least 3 must be at B2. One science subject normally required which can include Psychology or PESelection Criteria:
Due to the popularity of this course, we may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.An enhanced criminal history (DBS) check maybe required for certain modules which involve working with children and/or vulnerable others. The DBS in the UK is currently not able to conduct overseas criminal record checks, therefore international applicants, those without British Citizenship and British Citizens with a significant period of overseas residency will therefore require a criminal records check or certificate of good conduct from their home/overseas country before undertaking work with children and/or vulnerable others.
International Baccalaureate
26 PointsIELTS:
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.Mature Applicants
Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website.
Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.
Additional Requirements
UCAS Tariff Points:
120 points required. (Minimum 80 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies). At least one of these should normally be from a science subject, which can include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Education, Psychology or Sociology. If you are studying Biology, Chemistry or Physics to meet this requirement you must also achieve a 'Pass' in the practical assessment, where that practical assessment is separated (from 2017).Or
112 UCAS points from three A levels (excluding General Studies) or equivalent BTEC National qualifications.At least one A Level should normally be from a science subject, which can include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Education, Psychology or Sociology. If you are studying Biology, Chemistry or Physics to meet this requirement you must also achieve a `Pass' in the practical assessment, where that practical assessment is separated (from 2017).
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
Additional Requirements:
GCSEs:
GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade C or above (Grade 4 for those sitting their GCSE from 2017 onwards) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy/Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma:
In a relevant subject, Pass overall with a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points.Scottish Awards:
Minimum of 5 subjects at Grade B at Higher Level. At least one science subject normally required which can include Psychology or PEIrish Leaving Certificate:
Minimum of 5 subjects at Grade C1 or above at Higher Level of which at least 3 must be at B2. One science subject normally required which can include Psychology or PESelection Criteria:
Due to the popularity of this course, we may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.An enhanced criminal history (DBS) check maybe required for certain modules which involve working with children and/or vulnerable others. The DBS in the UK is currently not able to conduct overseas criminal record checks, therefore international applicants, those without British Citizenship and British Citizens with a significant period of overseas residency will therefore require a criminal records check or certificate of good conduct from their home/overseas country before undertaking work with children and/or vulnerable others.
International Baccalaureate
26 PointsIELTS:
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Careers
Careers
MSc Sport & Exercise Science & BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science
“I got my position through an internship which was available from one of the links between the University and Leeds United.
Teaching and learning
Through the study of study Biomechanics, Nutrition, Physiology and Psychology in the contexts of sport and exercise, you will learn how people function in sport and exercise settings. The course is designed to meet the requirements of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences' criteria for endorsement.
The tabs below detail what and how you will study in each year of your course. The balance of assessments and overall workload will be informed by your core modules and the option modules you choose to study – the information provided is an indication of what you can expect and may be subject to change. The option modules listed are also an indication of what will be available to you. Their availability is subject to demand and you will be advised which option modules you can choose at the beginning of each year of study.
Core Modules
- Physiology of the Human Body
Gain the knowledge and comprehension of sport and exercise physiology. It will equip you with relevant skills to apply knowledge and understanding during measurement of physiological function.
- Human Behaviour in Sport & Exercise
Gain an introduction to the origins and foundations of Sport and Exercise Psychology, otherwise defined as the scientific study of human behaviour within the contexts of sport and exercise. This will be achieved by you drawing on a range of psychological perspectives and domains that have informed the development of this discipline.
- Personal Professional & Academic Development
Gain the support and early engagement in and development of self-regulatory, study, academic, and employability skills. Specifically, the module will provide you with opportunities to develop a range of personal, professional, and research-related skills that will be useful throughout the degree.
- Nutrition & Biochemistry for Sport & Exercise
Explore the fundamentals of nutrition for health and performance by developing an understanding of nutritional biochemistry and energy metabolism. On completion of the module you should be able to understand the concept of energy and how the body utilises energy. By understanding metabolism and the process of energy utilisation, you will develop an understanding of food as energy along with the importance of adequate nutrition in maintaining body functions during rest and activity.
- Biomechanical Principles of Human Movement
Explore the qualitative and quantitative methods used in biomechanics research and practice which describe the structures, functions, and mechanical bases of human motion.
- The Sport & Exercise Scientist in Action
Undertake an interactive learning experience that is primarily practical in focus. You will appreciate the distinctions and overlaps between the four Sport and Exercise Science disciplines. You will also consider methods employed by Sport and Exercise Scientists to measure aspects of performance.
Core Modules
- Research Methods for Sport & Exercise Science
Build upon your research and study skills acquired at Year One to enable you to be consumers of research for use across your degree. By the end of the module, you will be able to search for and apply relevant literature and/or theory; choose research designs to address research enquiries; analyse and interpret empirical data (qualitative and quantitative); and present research findings in your specific field.
- Employability in Sport & Exercise Science
Develop your awareness of the industry profile and employment landscape in Sport and Exercise Science. It will provide you with a range of opportunities to enhance your employability through the development of transferable and specific skills. You will be encouraged to broaden your network of contacts and audit, manage and reflect upon the advancement of your individual employability skills, expectations and requirements to support your development as a professional graduate.
Option modules may include:
- Psychology of Sport & Exercise
Evaluate peer-reviewed research relating to psychological constructs, concepts, and theories applicable to sport and exercise settings.
- Food & Nutrition for Health, Sport & Exercise
Investigate the role of food and nutrition in health, sport and exercise throughout the life span. You will apply your knowledge of nutrition to specific populations whilst developing the skills required for the assessment and interpretation of nutritional intake and status.
- Real-World Applications in Sport & Exercise Science
- Physiological Responses to Exercise
Identify and evaluate research, assessment techniques and exercise practices in a range of specific situations, including; maximal, intermittent and prolonged exercise. You will also develop an understanding of exercise prescription for health and sports performance.
- Biomechanical Determinants of Sports Performance
This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘sandwich’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree, typically making your course four years in total.
Students who choose the sandwich route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.
Core Modules
- Final Year Project
Be challenged to undertake an extended and largely independent piece of work that demonstrates your research skills, critical thinking, and an awareness of ethical methodological approaches to study. You are provided with a choice of project types that reflect the key knowledge, skills and attributes of graduate careers associated with your course.
Option modules may include:
- Applied Physiology of Sport Performance
Develop a critical understanding of the differing demands of athletic events and learn how this knowledge influences the approach to performance evaluation and monitoring.
- Clinical Exercise Physiology
This module introduces the clinical use of exercise physiology techniques by considering the pathophysiology of several chronic diseases, the mechanism of action of commonly used medications for special clinical populations and concepts of clinical exercise testing.
- Nutrition for the Prevention & Treatment of Disease
Using real-world settings, you will apply knowledge and skills to critically examine conditions and situations that impose nutritional challenges to the maintenance of health as well as the prevention and treatment of disease.
- Performance Nutrition
Critically apply your knowledge and skills to examine conditions and situations that impose nutritional challenges to the maintenance of nutritional status.
- Psychological Applications of Physical Activity & Health
Develop a more critical and in-depth understanding of contemporary concepts and applications relevant to the psychology of physical activity and health. You will engage in critical discussion and debate regarding physical activity behaviour change and the psychological consequences of physical activity.
- Applied Sport Psychology
Explore how psychological and ethical principles inform interventions for individual performers and sports teams.
- Biomechanics of Health & Sports Injury
- Neuromuscular Aspects of Skilled Performance
- Performance in Extreme Environments
Examine and demonstrate the interdisciplinary nature of sport and exercise science within the context of extreme environments.
- Scientific Principles of Strength & Conditioning Practice
- Obesity Management
Gain an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of obesity. You will apply your knowledge to design an appropriate lifestyle programme for an individual to manage their weight, and to critique contemporary approaches to obesity management.
- Cardiac Rehabilitation
Gain in-depth knowledge of the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease, medical assessment and therapeutic procedures, and study the role of exercise, nutrition and psychological interventions within the multi-disciplinary management of rehabilitation and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
- Contemporary Health Issues & Physical Activity Rehabilitation
Learn to critically review a variety of contemporary health issues and critique the role physical activity and nutrition can play within the regulation and or rehabilitation of stages of disease.
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science - Yona Knight Wisdom, student
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science seminar - Applied Psychology
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science seminar - Nutrition & Biochemistry
Life in Leeds
Fees & funding
See further information on financing your studies or information about whether you may qualify for one of our Bursaries and Scholarships.
Coaching and First Aid qualifications - You will have the opportunity to gain additional qualifications in coaching and First Aid. Individual costs will vary depending on the qualification.
Tuition fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC, laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Course specific
- Use of laboratory equipment, including specialist sport and exercise science facilities and the Carnegie Research Institute
Additional costs
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Course-specific optional costs
-
Course branded sportswear
(Branded sportswear is available to buy, but it is not compulsory. Prices start at £10, with a complete kit bundle costing £135) - Various coaching qualifications as well as gym and personal trainer awards are available
(Cost will depend on the course chosen) -
The British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) access to membership and annual student conference
(Annual student membership costs £24 for a Direct Debit and £29 for non-Direct Debit) -
Sports membership
(Access to sport and fitness facilities, including a wide range of fitness classes. Active Beckett PLUS membership costs £90 per year. Other levels of membership are also available)
Other study-related expenses to consider: books (the library stocks books from your module reading list but you may wish to purchase copies for yourself); placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery; field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations); PC/laptop (provided on campus in social learning spaces and in the library. However, you may prefer to have your own); mobile phone/tablet (to access University online services); academic conferences (travel costs); professional-body membership (where applicable); and graduation (gown hire and guest tickets).
This list is not exhaustive and costs will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental or living costs are also in addition to your course fees.
See further information on fees and finance on our Financing Your Studies webpage.
Coaching and First Aid qualifications - You will have the opportunity to gain additional qualifications in coaching and First Aid. Individual costs will vary depending on the qualification.
Tuition fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC, laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Course specific
- Use of laboratory equipment, including specialist sport and exercise science facilities and the Carnegie Research Institute
Additional costs
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Course-specific optional costs
-
Course branded sportswear
(Branded sportswear is available to buy, but it is not compulsory. Prices start at £10, with a complete kit bundle costing £135) - Various coaching qualifications as well as gym and personal trainer awards are available
(Cost will depend on the course chosen) -
The British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) access to membership and annual student conference
(Annual student membership costs £24 for a Direct Debit and £29 for non-Direct Debit) -
Sports membership
(Access to sport and fitness facilities, including a wide range of fitness classes. Active Beckett PLUS membership costs £90 per year. Other levels of membership are also available)
Other study-related expenses to consider: books (the library stocks books from your module reading list but you may wish to purchase copies for yourself); placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery; field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations); PC/laptop (provided on campus in social learning spaces and in the library. However, you may prefer to have your own); mobile phone/tablet (to access University online services); academic conferences (travel costs); professional-body membership (where applicable); and graduation (gown hire and guest tickets).
This list is not exhaustive and costs will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental or living costs are also in addition to your course fees.
Additional information
For further information on financing your studies or information about whether you may qualify for one of our bursaries and scholarships, follow the links below:
Facilities
Location
Headingley Campus
Home to our first-rate sporting facilities – Headingley Campus has a rich and diverse history having played to visitors such as Winston Churchill and Oscar Wilde. Set in 100 acres of parkland, with easy access to Leeds city centre, many of our buildings look out onto our grassy acre – a perfect place for hanging out, playing games and catching up with friends on long summer days. Headingley Campus has modern sport science laboratories, animation and music studios and the latest computing labs, as well as one of our libraries, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
