The course specifically responds to the growing number of job opportunities linked to exercise referral schemes. Health organisations are keen to proactively help people to be healthier so that they require less treatment. There are also wide-ranging job opportunities in the broader health and fitness sector.
In your first year, you will develop core knowledge in sport and exercise psychology, anatomy, physiology and leadership. In your second year, you will extend your skills in these areas and also study ‘Personal Training’ and ‘Injuries and Rehabilitation’. In your final year, you will acquire advanced expertise in areas such as ‘Exercise Behaviour Change’ and ‘Physical Activity and Exercise for Special Populations’.
This course is subject to review. The course title and modules are subject to change.
Why us?
- 93.4% of our graduates are in employment, further study or training within six months of graduating, according to DLHE 2016/17 (based on full-time, first degree, home leavers)
- Provides students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to enable them to work in the exercise and fitness industry as well as in the health sector
- Offers students the opportunity to gain industry-led vocational qualifications alongside their degree
- We have great links to clubs in the local area, including Sunderland Association Football Club and Durham County Cricket Club
- There is an option to apply to the Elite Athlete Bursary Scheme
- Our Sports Science courses were ranked 3rd overall in the UK in the 2018 UK Engagement Survey
- Our Sports Science courses were ranked 3rd in the UK for Assessment and Feedback, 3rd in the UK for Retention and Progression, and 3rd in the UK for Employability in the 2018 UK Engagement Survey
Course structure
Our teaching methods are designed to develop not only your academic knowledge but also graduate-level skills that enhance employability. Methods include small group work, practical activities, workshops, lectures, tutorials, computer-based and problem-based learning, presentations and independent learning.
The content of the course prepares you for appropriate Skills Active qualifications. These include: ‘Instructing Exercise and Fitness (Gym)’, ‘Personal Trainer’ and ‘Exercise Referral’.
Assessment methods include essays, reports, practical work and presentations. As well as assessments that count towards your degree, there are also on-going assessments for feedback and consolidating your learning.
Employment
Potential employers for graduates of this course include sports and leisure companies, recreation services, local authorities, health bodies including the NHS, and schools and colleges.
PD: Approval qualifications
Sport and Exercise Sciences now has accreditation from PD: Approval, the national endorsement body for Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), to award vocational qualifications (related to the health and fitness industry) to students who successfully complete specific modules.
| University level | Main module mapped to | Vocational qualifications |
| 4 | Principles of Sport and Exercise Leadership | Level 2 Gym Instructor |
| 5 | Personal Training | Level 3 Personal Trainer |
| 6 | Physical Activity and Exercise for Special Populations | Level 3 Exercise Referral Instructor |
Career opportunities
Job roles include the following (some require further training):
- Exercise leader/instructor
- Physical activity health professional
- Fitness centre manager
- Teacher of PE
- You could also progress to further study and a career in research
