Sport and Exercise Science

Sport and exercise science applies the principles of biology, physiology, psychology, biomechanics, and nutrition to understanding human physical performance and the role of exercise in health. It is both a scientific discipline and a practically oriented field, concerned with how the body responds and adapts to physical demand, and with how evidence-based knowledge can be applied to help people move, compete, and live better.

At Birmingham City University this three-year, full-time BSc equips you with the skills to work as a practitioner in the sport and exercise industry, whether that means supporting high-performance athletes to achieve their potential or working with members of the public from diverse backgrounds and circumstances to reach their own goals. The programme covers the key scientific disciplines underpinning the field alongside the applied skills needed in professional practice, including fitness assessment, coaching support, performance analysis, and the design and delivery of exercise interventions. A sandwich year is built into the programme, and work placement opportunities are available, giving you substantial professional experience in sport, exercise, or health settings before you graduate.

Graduates of sport and exercise science go on to careers across the sport, health, and fitness sectors. Many move into roles in elite sport, working as sports scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, performance analysts, or physiologists in professional clubs, national governing bodies, or sports institutes. Others build careers in exercise referral, cardiac rehabilitation, community health, corporate wellness, personal training, or the armed forces.

Teaching and coaching at school and club level are also common paths. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in sport and exercise science, sports psychology, physiotherapy, or strength and conditioning, developing specialist expertise in a particular area of practice.