Sport Coaching (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
Undergraduate
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Discover how coaching practice, sport science combine to build professional confidence across sport, education and community development. The BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching at Birmingham Newman University offers a research-informed route into coaching, teaching and performance support. If you are passionate about helping others grow through sport, this course equips you with the knowledge, practical skills and critical thinking needed to make a lasting impact. You will explore how coaching theory and sport science apply across diverse settings, while developing an inclusive and evidence-based approach to leadership and care.
Foundation Year at Birmingham Newman University
The Foundation Year is the first year of a four-year undergraduate degree at Birmingham Newman University. It offers a flexible route into higher education for students who may not meet standard entry requirements or who are returning to study after time away. Whether you are exploring a new direction or looking to strengthen your academic foundations, this additional year of study provides the structure, support and space to help you succeed.
You’ll apply through UCAS for your chosen degree with Foundation Year. Once you’ve successfully completed the Foundation Year and met the progression criteria, you’ll move into Year 1 of your undergraduate course.
Who is the Foundation Year for?
This route is designed for students who:
- Are returning to education after a break
- Do not currently hold the qualifications for direct entry onto a three-year degree
- Want to build confidence and academic skills before starting undergraduate study
- Are seeking a structured and supportive introduction to university life
You’ll be part of a learning community that recognises your potential and supports your development from the very beginning. The Foundation Year is not just a pathway into university. It is a purposeful and personalised start to your academic journey.
What will I study?
The Foundation Year focuses on helping you become a confident, reflective and independent learner. You’ll begin by exploring how you learn and identifying strategies that work for you. You’ll also engage with wider themes such as identity, inequality and the human experience in a digital world. These topics encourage critical thinking and personal insight, while connecting across subject areas.
You’ll develop core academic skills including writing, research, digital literacy and communication. These are taught through seminars, workshops, online activities and one-to-one support. The aim is not only to prepare you for your chosen subject, but to help you feel connected to your learning and to the university community.
‘For someone returning to education after a hiatus, this foundation (year) was essential in helping me regain my academic footing and feel prepared for the challenges ahead.’ – Alix Wyatt, Birmingham Newman University Alumna
What happens after the Foundation Year?
Once you’ve successfully completed the Foundation Year and met the progression requirements, you’ll begin Year 1 of your undergraduate degree. You’ll already be familiar with the university environment, your subject area and the expectations of academic study, giving you a strong foundation to build on.
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Why study this course?
The BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching offers a practical and inclusive route into the science of movement, health and human performance. You will explore how physical activity supports wellbeing, how the body and mind respond to exercise, and how coaching practice can be adapted to meet individual needs. The course combines academic study with hands-on experience, using specialist facilities and applied projects to develop your technical and professional skills. Whether you are interested in coaching, consultancy, performance analysis or education, this degree equips you to apply scientific knowledge with confidence and care.
Explore the Science Behind Coaching and Athlete Development
You will explore key themes across sport coaching and exercise science, including training adaptation, injury prevention, nutrition and mental wellbeing. Through practical workshops, collaborative projects and applied research, you will investigate real-world challenges and develop inclusive approaches to athlete development and performance support. You will also examine professional frameworks such as safeguarding, coaching ethics and health promotion strategy, gaining a clear understanding of how sport coaching is delivered in practice. While the course does not include a formal placement year, work-related learning is embedded throughout, helping you prepare for roles in coaching, consultancy, health support or performance analysis.
Supportive and Personalised Learning
At Birmingham Newman University, you will be part of a close-knit academic community that values your aspirations and supports your development. Your interests help shape the curriculum, while small-group seminars and one-to-one mentoring ensure your learning is purposeful and personal. You will graduate with a strong set of transferable skills, including communication, leadership, data analysis and reflective practice, and a clear sense of where you want to make a difference. Whether you choose to work in elite sport, community health or education, you will be equipped to lead with confidence, empathy and impact.

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Entry requirements
We welcome students from all backgrounds and accept a wide range of qualifications. If yours aren’t listed, don’t worry – our Admissions Team can help you explore your options. See full entry requirements.
Entry requirements, for UK home students: 48 UCAS points
Those with significant work and life experience of a complexity that demonstrates an aptitude to study at degree level, but with no formal qualifications, will also be favourably considered.
Different degree pathway options available at the end of the foundation year may have different additional entry requirements. If you require any further information or clarification of entry requirements please contact our friendly, helpful Admissions department, who will be happy to help.
Please contact Admissions if you have any questions.
Course fees & funding
Fees
All fees are shown in GBP (£).
The tuition fee for the 2026/27 academic year is: £9,790.
Fees for the 2027/28 academic year can be found on our Student Finance pages and choosing your degree type.
Please note: If this course includes a Foundation Year, the fees shown above apply to the Foundation Year only. Fees for subsequent years will be charged at the standard undergraduate full-time fee.
Funding
Find out what funding and support might be available to you through Student Finance and Student Success.
Additional costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
Find out about extra costs, timetable details, and how course modules may change through additional course information.
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Where will you study?
Human Performance Lab
Our campus
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Student life & support
Student life & support at Birmingham Newman brings together the services, facilities and guidance that help students feel supported and succeed at every stage of their journey.
From academic skills, wellbeing and disability support to student finance, cost‑of‑living help, accommodation and campus life, we support students both inside and outside the classroom – so they can make the most of their time at university and beyond.
Life in Birmingham
Birmingham is one of the UK’s largest and most diverse cities, offering a vibrant and welcoming environment for students. From world-class shopping and a thriving food scene to cultural attractions and green spaces, there’s always something to explore.
The city is also one of the most affordable places to study in the UK, helping you make the most of your student budget. With excellent transport links, you can easily travel across the UK, including quick connections to London and other major cities.
Whether you’re looking for nightlife, live events, or quiet places to relax, Birmingham has something for everyone.
Where this course can take you. You will graduate with a strong foundation in sport coaching, ready for roles such as performance coach, personal trainer, PE teacher or youth sport coordinator. Birmingham Newman graduates are known for their adaptability, critical thinking and inclusive approach. Whether you choose to specialise in coaching, teaching, policy or community sport, you will be equipped to make a positive and lasting contribution. You will also join a supportive alumni network that continues to inspire and connect professionals across the sector.
Accreditations and Exemptions
This course is informed by current sector standards and guidance from professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), ensuring your learning remains relevant and respected across the sector. While the degree does not offer formal exemptions or chartered status, it provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study and specialist qualifications in areas such as physical education, strength and conditioning or sport psychology. Whether you continue your studies or move directly into employment, you will be equipped with the credibility, adaptability and insight to thrive in coaching, education or sport leadership.
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