Sport and Exercise Science

The Sport and Exercise Science degree at the University of Northampton focuses on the scientific principles that underpin sport and exercise. Our programme of study is practical based, stimulating, well-structured and research-informed covering a range of topic areas including biomechanics, physiology and psychology. The practical elements of the degree make use of purpose-built laboratories to develop the students' knowledge and understanding of the key issues within sport and exercise science. Our academic staff are research active, enthusiastic, and experienced teachers. Our careers and employability module ensures our graduates are well-prepared for employment. Additionally, the programme offers internship opportunities with three local professional sports clubs in the area.

Evidence as to the need for exercise for fitness and health is now widely accepted in industry, education, medicine and sport. This increasingly important role has led to a demand for scientific evidence to improve sport performance. These factors have contributed to sport becoming one of the most rapidly advancing areas of study. The course aims to develop graduates who can think critically and analytically from a scientific perspective, and who also possess a range of personal and transferable skills. We have purpose-built laboratories which enable physiological, biomechanical and psychological practical skills to be developed alongside the practical experiences gained throughout all areas of sport and exercise science. The first year provides an introduction to the core disciplines which underpin the academic analysis of sport and provides a platform from which knowledge, understanding and practical/laboratory skills are developed.  In years two and three students can select from a range of modules which allows them to tailor their studies towards a particular area of interest within Sport and Exercise Science.

The modules are taught in structured programmes that are delivered within the classroom, sports hall and laboratories. All sessions are supported by our online learning environment, NILE. Students can expect two hours of contact time each week for each module. Classes are delivered in a variety of means – lectures, seminars and practicals – and our aim is to provide opportunities for students to become actively involved in their learning. As such, for each two hours of contact time there will be an additional 3 hours of non-contact directed study.  Personal tutorials, and meetings with a personal academic tutor are additional to the time spent in the class and would average another one hour per week. There are no additional costs for the course, however students will need sports clothes (trainers, shorts, tops) when participating in the practical sessions.