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Why choose the School of Sport Science and Physical Activity


Our sports science courses rank in the UK top 15 in their subject field (Daily Mail university rankings, 2024).

Our sports courses rank 1st for student/staff ratio (Guardian, 2024).

Over 95% of our full-time UK graduates are in employment and/or further study, 15 months after graduating (Source: HESA Graduate Outcomes data for 2020/21, pub 2023).

About the course

If you are fascinated by the science behind sport and exercise performance, this course gives you the opportunity to learn from and be part of a world-leading research team, using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities in a high-performance environment. The course combines scientific knowledge and sports performance with lab work, and offers specialist units in biomechanics, exercise physiology and social psychology, to name a few.

Course accreditation / industry endorsement

BASES logo

CIMSPA logo

This course is endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) and the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), allowing you to work towards CIMSPA professional standards in gym instruction, personal training and working with people with long-term conditions.

Facilities and specialist equipment

  • Six BASES-accredited laboratories
  • Environmental chamber
  • Biochemical analysis laboratory
  • Mechanical treadmill
  • Expired gas analysis
  • Hydrostatic weighing tank
  • Biomechanics labs with 3D camera system
  • Echocardiogram machine
  • Purpose-built strength and conditioning facility with Olympic weight room
  • State-of-the-art gym with free membership for students
  • A fully supervised, on-site sports therapy and rehabilitation centre with a sports injury clinic, open to staff, students and external athletes/clients
  • 4G sport pitch

Industry links

Luton Town FC Official Education Partner and Bedford Blues Official Higher Education Partner

We are official Education Partners of Luton Town FC and Bedford Blues RFC, offering placement opportunities as well as other partner organisations including MK Dons; Ampthill & District RUFS; Bedfordshire County Cricket; Oaklands College Sports Academies; and Samuel Whitbread School.

CIMSPA logo

We are an Educational Partner of the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

Your student experience

  • Learn in a high-performance environment with a leading research team offering research opportunities and skills development rare to the UK.
  • Gain valuable work experience at our Community Exercise Clinic and Human Performance Centre, which offers testing to sports people, teams and the general public for fitness, flexibility and body composition assessments.
  • Be part of a team working on prestigious projects for elite sports teams, governing bodies and government initiatives.
  • Enhance your learning and build your experience through field trips to destinations such as St George’s Park, Burton-upon-Trent, the home of England Football; Northampton Saints physio centre; and a ‘cadaver lab day’ at King’s College, London.
  • Hear from guest speakers who attend our ISPAR seminar series. Previous speakers have included Tom Bromley (MK Dons); Jack Wells (PGA); Akash Modhwadia (Strength and conditioning coach at MK Dons); Marsha Brierley (Behaviour Change Practitioner at Buckinghamshire Public Health).
  • Benefit from the support of your own personal academic tutor who will guide and support you throughout your student journey.
  • Our Bedford campus is a small, thriving academic community where academic staff get to know you well.

with Professional Practice Year

This course has the option to be taken over four years which includes a year placement in industry. Undertaking a year in industry has many benefits. You gain practical experience and build your CV, as well as being a great opportunity to sample a profession and network with potential future employers.

There is no tuition fee for the placement year enabling you to gain an extra year of experience for free.

*Only available to UK/EU students.

with Foundation Year

A Degree with a Foundation Year gives you guaranteed entry to an Undergraduate course.

Whether you’re returning to learning and require additional help and support to up-skill, or if you didn’t quite meet the grades to pursue an Undergraduate course, our Degrees with Foundation Year provide a fantastic entry route for you to work towards a degree level qualification.

With our guidance and support you’ll get up to speed within one year, and will be ready to seamlessly progress on to undergraduate study at Bedfordshire.

The Foundation Year provides an opportunity to build up your academic writing skills and numeracy, and will also cover a range of subject specific content to fully prepare you for entry to an Undergraduate degree.

This is an integrated four-year degree, with the foundation year as a key part of the course. You will need to successfully complete the Foundation Year to progress on to the first year of your bachelor’s degree.

Why study a degree with a Foundation Year?

  • Broad-based yet enough depth to give you credible vocational skills
  • Coverage of a variety of areas typically delivered by an expert in this area
  • Gain an understanding of a subject before choosing which route you wish to specialise in
  • Great introduction to further study, and guaranteed progression on to one of our Undergraduate degrees

The degrees offering a Foundation Year provide excellent preparation for your future studies.

During your Foundation Year you will get the opportunity to talk to tutors about your degree study and future career aspirations, and receive guidance on the most appropriate Undergraduate course to help you achieve this; providing you meet the entry requirements and pass the Foundation Year.

 

Course Leader - Dr Jeff Aldous

In 2011, I graduated from my undergraduate degree in Sport and Exercise Science BSc (Hons) from the University of Bedfordshire.

I then completed a Ph.D in Environmental and Exercise Physiology titled “Environmental stressors and cooling interventions on simulated soccer performance”, which was funded by the João Havelange Research Scholarship on behalf of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

After completing my PhD I worked as a Research Associate for six months at the University of Bedfordshire on a funded project by the European Hydration Institute investigating the effects of fluid replacement strategies on simulated military-based exercise in the heat. I was then employed as a Visiting Lecturer in Research Methods at the University of Bedfordshire. I became a Lecturer in Exercise Physiology in January 2017. Since 2019, I have been course co-ordinator for BSc Football Science.

Course Leader - Dr Jeff Aldous

In 2011, I graduated from my undergraduate degree in Sport and Exercise Science BSc (Hons) from the University of Bedfordshire.

I then completed a Ph.D in Environmental and Exercise Physiology titled “Environmental stressors and cooling interventions on simulated soccer performance”, which was funded by the João Havelange Research Scholarship on behalf of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

After completing my PhD I worked as a Research Associate for six months at the University of Bedfordshire on a funded project by the European Hydration Institute investigating the effects of fluid replacement strategies on simulated military-based exercise in the heat. I was then employed as a Visiting Lecturer in Research Methods at the University of Bedfordshire. I became a Lecturer in Exercise Physiology in January 2017. Since 2019, I have been course co-ordinator for BSc Football Science.

Course Leader - Dr Jeff Aldous

In 2011, I graduated from my undergraduate degree in Sport and Exercise Science BSc (Hons) from the University of Bedfordshire.

I then completed a Ph.D in Environmental and Exercise Physiology titled “Environmental stressors and cooling interventions on simulated soccer performance”, which was funded by the João Havelange Research Scholarship on behalf of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

After completing my PhD I worked as a Research Associate for six months at the University of Bedfordshire on a funded project by the European Hydration Institute investigating the effects of fluid replacement strategies on simulated military-based exercise in the heat. I was then employed as a Visiting Lecturer in Research Methods at the University of Bedfordshire. I became a Lecturer in Exercise Physiology in January 2017. Since 2019, I have been course co-ordinator for BSc Football Science.

What will you study?


Studying our Sport and Exercise Science BSc (Hons) course will equip you with the skills and knowledge in physiology, biomechanics and psychology to best prepare you for a career in sport, exercise and health. In year one, via a blend of both theoretical and practical sessions you will learn the principles of human movement and anatomy in both the Anatomy and Biomechanics and Biomechanics for Sport and Exercise Science units. Our Principles of Nutrition and Human Physiology units will provide you with an understanding of metabolism, energy balance and energy conversion alongside the key physiological systems used at both rest and exercise within the human body. You will be given an Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology and how it contributes to performance enhancement and athlete wellbeing. You will also be introduced to reading and understanding sport and exercise science research in our Introduction to Research Methods unit. Furthermore, there will be an opportunity to gain the Level 2 Gym Instructor Qualification endorsed by CIMPSA in Fundamentals of Strength and Conditioning. You will also gain a coach's perspective into the field of sport and exercise science in our Developing the Coaching Environment and Practice unit.

During year two, our Exercise Physiology Measurement and Assessment unit will develop your laboratory skills by allowing you to experience testing external athletes with the University of Bedfordshire’s Human Performance Centre. Using both theory and practice, you will also examine the current factors that influence sport and exercise performance, how the human body adapts to different types of exercise and various training methods in Physiology of Exercise and Adaptation. You will also enhance your understanding of nutrition for sport, health and exercise in our Nutrient Metabolism unit. Through examining human behaviour, you will look at the Social Psychology of Sport by analysing theories, principles and concepts to understand behaviour and its effects on performance and participation in sport and physical activity. The Biomechanics unit will focus on acquiring the skills for measurement and assessment techniques in sports science practice while considering sports performance and injury prevention. You also have the opportunity in Advanced Applied Exercise Practice to gain the Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification endorsed by CIMPSA.

You may wish to gain a further insight into the technical, tactical and physical components underpinning sport in our Performance Analysis: Individual unit. Finally, both Dissertation Preparation and Research Methods for Sport and Exercise and Physical Activity will provide you with a further opportunity to enhance your understanding of sport and exercise science research to prepare you for your final year project. Finally, you can also undertake a Professional Practice Year (Sport Science and Physical Activity) that will allow you to gain work experience while developing your professional skills. In year three, you will consider the current measures of exercise performance and issues within sport and exercise science during Applied Exercise Physiology. You will also consider the role of Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Health in the prevention, management and treatment of disease. This course also gives you the flexibility to choose from a range of optional units to tailor to your interests. You may complete a Dissertation for Sport Science and Physical Activity designing and auctioning a relevant study within your field of interest, using the skills and knowledge gained from your academic study.

Alternatively, you may complete the Work Placement Project or Work Experience in Sport Science and Physical Activity units that will allow you to undertake work experience in the field that can be used to develop reflective practice, critical evaluation and work-based skills. You can explore a variety of techniques in Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology, discover the ergogenic aids used by athletes to enhance performance in the Performance Nutrition unit, or analyse the Psychology of Physical Activity and how it affects participation and psychological wellbeing. Furthermore, our Applied Biomechanics unit will teach you the techniques for biomechanical analyses of performers and how to make recommendations based on this. Separately, if you wish to learn more about how to safely prescribe exercise, particularly for individuals with diseases, our Exercise and Fitness Testing for Clinical Populations unit will give you the opportunity to do this. Furthermore, this unit will also allow you to obtain the CIMPSA endorsed Working with People with Long Term Conditions qualifications.

How will you be assessed?


Assessment on the course is both formative and summative in nature and occurs at various points throughout the academic year. A wide variety of strategies and activities are employed to assess the specific unit learning outcomes and to permit all students opportunities to utilise their personal strengths across different assessment types.

Modes of assessment include examinations (seen and unseen) essays practical tests laboratory reports research projects case studies presentations and data-analysis exercises. These assessment methods will develop and assess core knowledge and skills relevant to your future employment and/or further education.

At level 4 you will be assessed primarily on your breadth of knowledge pertaining to core relevant topics. At level 5 you will be assessed on your level of knowledge and ability to critically evaluate specific key topics. At level 6 your assessments will evaluate your ability to critically analyse core topics synthesis literature and theories and apply this in various situations through a process of problem solving. Formative assessment points provide feedback regarding your progress and diagnostic assessment will be used to assess your knowledge understanding

Careers


BSc Sport and Exercise Science, with its strong emphasis on performance and health, equips graduates for diverse careers in the sports and health sectors. Recent graduates have become sport scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, and technical coaches in professional sports such as football, rugby, and cricket. Those with a passion for health have pursued careers in Public Health and Exercise Referral, supporting various populations with long-term health conditions. The course also serves as an excellent foundation for postgraduate studies, including a PGCE in Physical Education or an MSc in Clinical Exercise Physiology, Strength and Conditioning, and Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Behaviour Change. Additionally, the course’s research focus has inspired some graduates to advance into PhD studies.

Entry Requirements

48 UCAS tariff points including 32 from at least 1 A-level or equivalent

Entry Requirements

    112 UCAS tariff points including 96 from at least 3 A-levels or equivalent

Entry Requirements

    112 UCAS tariff points including 96 from at least 3 A-levels or equivalent

Fees for this course

UK

The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £9,250 per year. You can apply for a loan from the Government to help pay for your tuition fees. You can also apply for a maintenance loan from the Government to help cover your living costs. See www.gov.uk/student-finance

Excellence Scholarships

Worth £2,500 per year of study over three years when you score a defined number of UCAS tariff points from specified qualifications*

» If you don’t qualify for an Excellence Scholarship but have 120 UCAS tariff points, you have enough points for one of our Achievement Scholarships offering £500 per year of study**

» Other scholarships, bursaries and financial support packages are available

* Points requirements vary depending on type of qualification.
** Threshold is 120 UCAS tariff points across all awarding bodies and qualifications.

 

International

The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 2025/26 is £16,900 per year.

There are range of Scholarships available to help support you through your studies with us.

A full list of scholarships can be found here.

Alternatively if you have any questions around fees and funding, please email admission@beds.ac.uk

Fees for this course

UK

The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £9,250 per year. You can apply for a loan from the Government to help pay for your tuition fees. You can also apply for a maintenance loan from the Government to help cover your living costs. See www.gov.uk/student-finance

Excellence Scholarships

Worth £2,500 per year of study over three years when you score a defined number of UCAS tariff points from specified qualifications*

» If you don’t qualify for an Excellence Scholarship but have 120 UCAS tariff points, you have enough points for one of our Achievement Scholarships offering £500 per year of study**

» Other scholarships, bursaries and financial support packages are available

* Points requirements vary depending on type of qualification.
** Threshold is 120 UCAS tariff points across all awarding bodies and qualifications.

 

International

The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 2025/26 is £16,900 per year.

There are range of Scholarships available to help support you through your studies with us.

A full list of scholarships can be found here.

Alternatively if you have any questions around fees and funding, please email admission@beds.ac.uk

Fees for this course

UK

The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £9,250 per year. You can apply for a loan from the Government to help pay for your tuition fees. You can also apply for a maintenance loan from the Government to help cover your living costs. See www.gov.uk/student-finance

Excellence Scholarships

Worth £2,500 per year of study over three years when you score a defined number of UCAS tariff points from specified qualifications*

» If you don’t qualify for an Excellence Scholarship but have 120 UCAS tariff points, you have enough points for one of our Achievement Scholarships offering £500 per year of study**

» Other scholarships, bursaries and financial support packages are available

* Points requirements vary depending on type of qualification.
** Threshold is 120 UCAS tariff points across all awarding bodies and qualifications.

 

International

The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 2025/26 is £16,900 per year.

There are range of Scholarships available to help support you through your studies with us.

A full list of scholarships can be found here.

Alternatively if you have any questions around fees and funding, please email admission@beds.ac.uk

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