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BSc Single Honours Sport and Exercise Science (Top-Up)

Foundation

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Sport and Exercise Science student using equipment

BSc Single Honours Sport and Exercise Science (Top-Up)

Course Description

On this course you will be given the opportunity to explore theoretical and practical factors that influence sports performance, health and wellbeing. You will learn about how scientific principles can help improve the performance of athletes or assist individuals in improving their health. You will explore and experience how the latest technological innovations are influencing the pursuit of sporting performance and how they inform interventions for those suffering from widespread disease and illness. This course will give you the opportunity to become a well-equipped professional and will help develop the knowledge and skills for work or further study. The course provides an excellent basis to explore employment opportunities in numerous areas such as sports & exercise science support, education and further research.

The Human Performance Lab is fully equipped with the latest equipment for use inside the laboratory and in the field. We have 3D analysis system, integrated force plates, gas & bloods analysis, Heart Rate and GPS monitoring systems as used by elite clubs. The HPL is a room which allows integrated analysis of sports performance from both a physiological and biomechanical perspective and specifically design to help interdisciplinary learning. The course is taught in dedicated facilities on one campus. The Human performance lab, indoor sports hall, strength & conditioning suite, aerobic conditioning suite, group exercise studio, full size outdoor 3G pitch, dedicated seminar rooms and staff offices can be found within a 100 yard radius of each other.

– Small class sizes create a vibrant learning environment
– Integrated human performance laboratory allows interdisciplinary learning
– All facilities (laboratory, sports hall, 3G pitch) on one campus in close proximity
– Experienced staff who support elite athletes and conduct research
– Field trips and opportunities for international trips

The BSc Sports & Exercise Science degree programme has a large amount of practical and laboratory-based work. You are encouraged to develop your own areas of academic research and relate your studies to practical sports situations.

A double-module project in the final year provides you with the opportunity to gain greater specialist knowledge by carrying out a significant piece of research in an area of personal academic interest, practical significance and/or vocational relevance.

The teaching methods and course content are informed by relevant professional bodies including the British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES), the Association of Physical Education (AfPE), the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), and the European College of Sports Science (ECSS).

Modules are academically challenging and vocationally relevant, ensuring that our graduates are in the best position to pursue careers in their chosen profession.

At Birmingham Newman you are taught by active researchers who apply their expertise in the world of sport. The lecturers on this course regularly present at conferences and provide sports science support to elite level athletes.

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Entry requirements, for UK home students, for September 2025 entry: All applicants will need to have 120 credits at level 4 and 120 credits at level 5 in a relevant Foundation Degree or HND. To progress directly onto level 6 (third year of the degree) applicants should normally achieve an overall merit or distinction. Applicants not achieving this can enter at level 5 (second year of the degree programme). All applicants intending to progress directly onto level 6 are required to attend and pass a bridging module prior to enrolment. This module focuses on research methods and academic writing. Applicants not achieving pass this module will enter the programme at level 5 (second year of the degree programme).

The tuition fee for academic year 2025/26 is: £9,535

Additional costs

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Advanced sport and exercise biomechanics
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module builds on key areas of sport and exercise biomechanics delivered at level 5. The emphasis is to provide a critical, theoretical and practical understanding of the major applied techniques used in the biomechanical analysis of sporting activity and how these maybe used to improve sports performance and reduce the risk of injury. Students will develop understanding of biomechanical assessment procedures, data analysis, interpretation and laboratory skills with particular emphasis on 3D motion analysis, advanced analysis of force using force platforms and the analysis of muscle activation using electromyography. In addition, the relationship between the biomechanist and coach will be explored. Relevant risk assessment and health and safety protocols will be adhered to within the human performance laboratory.

Dissertation
40 Credits (Compulsory)

This module builds on prior learning and offers students the opportunity for further development of their skills, knowledge and understanding through conducting an independent research project. The project is regarded as an important exercise for developing students’ abilities to formulate appropriate research design and procedures, to collect and present in an appropriate and meaningful way, to conduct a critical analysis of relevant literature, and to demonstrate their understanding and application of theoretical principles. The research focus must be specific to their chosen degree.

Physiology of performance enhancement
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module aims to build on key concepts in exercise training and monitoring from level 5. Students will explore the development of physiological capabilities but also the acute and chronic optimisation of these capabilities. The underpinning science behind preparation for and recovery from performance will be explored in traditional and contemporary contexts alongside introduction and evaluation of contemporary training methodologies

Current issues in sport and exercise science
20 Credits (Compulsory)

Explore a range of current issues that are influencing the science and policies surrounding sport and exercise. You can then choose which interests you and explore these in greater depth.

Applied sport and exercise psychology
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module explores the application of psychological profiling and intervention techniques in a variety of sporting situations. It seeks to develop a critical and evidence-based approach in the selection of specific strategies for individuals and groups. It further seeks to provide a basis for appraising and critically evaluating the impact of any intervention strategies employed with reference to their effectiveness, appropriateness, and ethical use.

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Studying and Living in Birmingham

At Birmingham Newman University, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful, green campus that creates the ideal setting for focused study and personal reflection, yet remains just eight miles from the vibrant city centre. As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham is also one of the youngest and most diverse in Europe, offering a dynamic blend of culture, innovation and opportunity. From world-renowned museums and music venues to a thriving food scene alongside a growing business and tech sector, it’s a place where creativity and ambition naturally thrive.

Experience Birmingham: A City Full of Possibilities

Whether you're discovering the Midlands for the first time or already know the area well, Birmingham provides a lively and inclusive environment for students. As one of the most energetic and multicultural cities in the UK, it’s a place where you can grow academically while developing personally. Its rich cultural heritage, creative energy and broad range of opportunities make it an inspiring backdrop for your university journey.

A City That Loves Great Food

Birmingham is a brilliant place to explore diverse culinary experiences. You might wander through the famous Balti Triangle, sample global street food at Digbeth Dining Club or enjoy a relaxed meal by the canals in Brindleyplace. The city is also home to independent cafés, vegan-friendly eateries and countless hidden gems. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite between lectures or planning an evening out, there’s always something new to discover.

Arts, Culture and Entertainment

The city pulses with creativity. You could catch live music at the O2 Academy, experience a world-class performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome or browse exhibitions at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Creative spaces like the Custard Factory showcase local talent while hosting events that celebrate innovation. With festivals, sporting fixtures and cultural celebrations taking place year-round, there’s never a shortage of things to enjoy.

Simple & Convenient Travel

Getting around Birmingham is straightforward thanks to its well-connected public transport system. Buses, trams and trains make it easy to reach campus, explore the city or travel further afield. Whether you're commuting daily or heading off for a weekend adventure, transport is both accessible and affordable.

Life Beyond the Lecture Hall

Your time at Birmingham Newman University extends far beyond academic study. You’ll have the chance to join student societies, contribute to community projects or try something entirely new. The university’s supportive atmosphere encourages you to build confidence, develop practical skills and feel genuinely at home throughout your studies.

What careers can I consider?

As a Birmingham Newman Sports and Exercise Science graduate, you will be well-equipped for a wide range of careers in sports science, coaching, education and related areas, including positions supporting elite athletes and teams. You could also be making a difference to real everyday lives by providing interventions for the sedentary, obese, elderly and ill. You will be well-prepared to continue your studies at postgraduate level to obtain higher degrees and acquire further specialist skills.

CIMSPA

Birmingham Newman University is proud to be the first West Midlands partner of CIMSPA (The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity) a professional development body for the UK’s sport and physical activity sector. CIMSPA works with over 300 partners across the sport and physical activity sector, meaning students can be assured they are working with a university that is contributing, not only to teaching sport but, to developing the professional standards for the industry. We are currently working towards full accreditation of course, thus eventually our courses will be recognised by CIMSPA as equipping students with the skills that employers are looking for.

Research

The Sport and Health team at Newman University pride themselves on their ongoing involvement in sport, health and physical education research. Staff are actively contributing in the following four areas of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) —Physical Activity and Health, Sport Performance, Mental Skills Training and Sport in Society. The team regularly publishes their research in industry journals, and present at international sport, health and physical education conferences. Our ‘Meet The Sport Team’ page details the specific areas of research that the team have been, or currently are involved in.

As a student at Newman, you will be taught by research-active staff, who are actively contributing to the latest developments across a wide-range of disciplines within the sport and health industry and the physical education sector. Staff bring the latest knowledge and expertise to the classroom, laboratory and sports field, enhancing your learning experience. At Newman you get the benefit of our staff’s cutting-edge knowledge combined with a focus on your needs, in a student-centred University where you are our priority. Our staff expertise, and their links with external agencies will maximise your University experience and hopefully provide you with opportunities as you consider your career paths for the future.

We encourage our students to proactively explore research during their studies. As a science-based discipline, you will be conducting research throughout a range of modules under the supervision of expert staff. For those that feel inspired, further opportunities are available to continue research at Newman to a post graduate level within MRes in Human Sciences or MPhil, or at Doctoral level (PhD).

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