Course specification and structure
Undergraduate Course Structures Postgraduate Course Structures

UDSPEXFY - BSc Sport and Exercise Science (including foundation year)

Course Specification


Validation status Validated
Highest award Bachelor of Science Level Honours
Possible interim awards Bachelor of Science, Diploma of Higher Education, Certificate of Higher Education, Bachelor of Science, Preparatory Diploma, Preparatory Certificate
Total credits for course 480
Awarding institution London Metropolitan University
Teaching institutions London Metropolitan University
School School of Human Sciences
Subject Area Health Sciences
Attendance options
Option Minimum duration Maximum duration
Part-time 6 YEARS 8 YEARS
Full-time 4 YEARS 8 YEARS
Course leader  

About the course and its strategy towards teaching and learning and towards blended learning/e-learning

This four-year course includes a Foundation Year (level three) which introduces you to the fundamentals of science, enabling you to study Sport and Exercise Science at level four. It makes no assumptions about prior scientific study. You will gain a solid grounding in biology, chemistry, sports science and numeracy relevant to these subject areas. Practical sessions in the Science Centre will help you gain proficiency at experimental work, and are delivered within PR3001 (Scientific Studies). The project module teaches you how to conduct research into a topic relating to Sport and Exercise Science, and to report your findings accordingly, thus providing you with fundamental subject-specific knowledge and relevant skills.


Following the level 3, this multidisciplinary, modular course comprises three further levels of which the first concentrates on developing foundation knowledge in the principal areas of Sport and Exercise Science and also the areas of biology and chemistry on which the discipline relies. The subsequent two levels follow the different elements of Sport and Exercise Science in increasing depth, and include choice of subjects studied. Particular emphasis is given to Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics and Psychology. An important component of the final level is the research project, which accounts for 25% of the total credits and which offers you a free choice of research topic. The modules include an integrated programme of practical work in the laboratory, sports hall and field, designed to develop skills useful in subsequent sports-related employment.


Labs (Physiology and Biomechanics), large sports hall, gym and specifically designed teaching rooms provide you with appropriate facilities for your studies. You will apply your knowledge and gain employment related experience during a Work Placement module in the second year of study and final year. You will develop your employment and industry related skills through specific study within your module curriculum. You will further be involved in the testing and data communication with visiting athletes in the level 6 Physiology module.


Knowledge and understanding of the discipline of Sport and Exercise Science is developed through an integrated programme of teacher-led lectures, tutorials, seminars and laboratory based practical sessions, as well as through the guided use of student-centred learning activities: problem solving exercises, case studies, directed reading and e-learning. The three levels of study are streamlined to ensure a clear and linked progression of material and learning, both theoretical and practical leading ultimately to industry standard and applied knowledge.


· Level 4 provides a foundation of general subjects underpinning the Sport and Exercise Sciences including biochemistry, cell biology, physiology and numerical skills, as well as including introductory material to the various branches of this multi-disciplinary subject including Biomechanics, Psychology and research skills. Lab work throughout the first year begins the development of technical skills and independent practice and problem solving in exercise testing and measurement. Group work and collaboration simulating the multidisciplinary team environment are developed at this stage


· Level 5 includes focuses on the study of selected areas of sport and exercise science, including biomechanics, exercise physiology (with an introduction to environmental exercise physiology and athlete support), also sport psychology and research methods with the start of work on the individual (Dissertation) research project. An increasing emphasis is placed upon independent working and self reliance in this stage of study as well as the skills of effective written and verbal communication.


· Level 6, emphasises advanced and applied aspects of these same areas, with concentration on practical applications and employment related skills as well as the completion of a (Dissertation) research project in a subject area chosen by you. In this final stage of study you are encouraged to think critically and to operate independently as you develop theoretical and practical skills relevant to the industry. Guest lectures from specialists in their fields and representing areas of related industry are involved in the lecturing and practical delivery.

Blended learning opportunities are centred around the University’s VLE but also include specialised software such as that used for demonstrating and learning musculoskeletal anatomy, virtual practicals in exercise physiology, and dedicated software for the recording and analysis of physiological and biomechanical data.
The Holloway Road campus offers specialised group study areas in the Library as well as access to a comprehensive range of textbooks, journals, e-journals and online learning resources. There are numerous quiet study areas available, throughout the campus, providing comfortable seating, IT and wireless facilities with Wifi access.


Utilisation of the University’s VLE is an invaluable tool with which to disseminate information and to support and assess your learning. In addition, you will be using facilities provided within the Science Centre, which include state of the art physiology laboratories, environmental chamber, high altitude units, large sports hall and training gym.


There is an extensive range of support available, both academically and pastorally, via a combination of academic staff, academic mentors and University-wide student services. This support is in place to aid in student satisfaction and academic success.

Course aims

The principal aim of this pathway is to educate students, from a wide variety of backgrounds, to their full potential at graduate level. This potential is the ability to enter relevant industry sectors with the fundamental skills required by these employers. Potential comprises the acquisition and application of subject-specific knowledge, as well as a range of transferable skills. The course has some degree of emphasis on those parts of the subject directly-linked in the natural sciences. This gives rise to substantial components of physiology, anatomy, metabolism and biomechanics. There is also coverage of sport psychology and some attention to sports sociology. Both performance and health related aspects are incorporated in all areas covered. The course furthermore aims to develop your ability to
· work both independently and in collaboration
· develop solutions to problems in a systematic and effective manner
· communicate confidently and clearly in both written and verbal form
· deploy generic work-related skills including time-management and prioritisation of tasks.
You will be encouraged to engage meaningfully with personal development planning (PDP) through the curriculum, to enable you to reflect on, plan and review your own personal and academic skills. PDP will enable you to recognise, record and communicate your achievements to others.

Course learning outcomes

The course learning outcomes listed below have been developed in line with the Level 6 descriptors for Bachelor’s Degree with honours as stated in the QAA’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

1. Knowledge and understanding:
On completing the course, students will:
1.1. Have a thorough systematic knowledge of the various scientific topics studied
1.2. Show an ability to apply knowledge in practical settings involving Sport and Exercise
1.3. Have the capacity to execute and critically evaluate research relevant to the Sport and Exercise Sciences
1.4. An appreciation of fundamental concepts in biology, chemistry, sports science, numeracy, and laboratory skills

2. Cognitive intellectual skills:
On completing the course, students will:
2.1. Be able to understand and develop coherent arguments in support or criticism of scientific assertions and theories, incorporating literature-based evidence
2.2. Demonstrate a general ability to organise and apply knowledge in a logical and systematic manner appropriate to the purpose or question in hand
2.3. Show fluency with appropriate quantitative and numerical skills, involving relevant mathematical and statistical methods
2.4. Demonstrate academic and scientific literacy at a graduate level

3. Transferable skills including those of employability and professional practice:
On completing the course, students will:
3.1. Have the ability to communicate, both orally and in writing, in a concise, clear and lively manner
3.2. Demonstrate a range of other key transferable skills including active involvement in learning, exercise of initiative and judgement, use of appropriate resources and technology including IT, the ability to work both independently and with others, and the capacity for self-awareness and self-reflection
3.3. Understand ethical and other professional issues involved in practice as a Sport and Exercise scientist
3.4. Appreciate the skills necessary to secure and retain employment, including communication, consideration for others, creativity, dedication, organisation, work ethic and self-discipline
3.5. Demonstrate confidence, resilience, ambition and creativity and act as inclusive, collaborative and socially responsible practitioners/professionals in their discipline

4. Subject-specific practical skills:
On completing the course, students will:
4.1. Demonstrate an understanding of practical skills relating to Sport and Exercise Science, including competence in collecting data from a range of test equipment and from psychological inventories, and in implementing appropriate interventions.
4.2. Be aware of the principles of scientific measurement, including the appropriate expression of results, and the distinction between analogue and digital information
4.3. Propose appropriate methodologies for a variety of measurements in the Sport and Exercise Sciences

Principle QAA benchmark statements

There is currently no Benchmark Statement for
BSc Sports and Exercise Science however, the Benchmark Statement for ‘Events, Hospitality, Leisure, Sport and Tourism’ were used.
Of the study areas specified as characterising sports - related programmes, the present course focuses principally on 6.17 and 6.18. There is also some coverage of 6.19 and 6.20.

Assessment strategy

A variety of assessment methods are used including unseen and seen written and practical examinations, essays, literature searches/reviews, practical reports, oral presentations and oral examinations. With the exception of written examinations, most assessments have both formative and summative roles. Additional non - assessed formative assessments will be used. The final year project provides the opportunity for an extended piece of formal scientific writing.


A blend of assessment methods are used throughout the degree programme which address written and verbal skills, group working and presentation ability. Coursework across the first two years takes the form of lab reports and case studies which address scientific communication skills as well as knowledge and ability required to offer scientific support services sports performers and athletes. In the final year students are assessed on their ability to communicate science in both an advanced language but also to the non-scientist as is required within industry.


In all cases feedback is provided to Students in the form of individual written material, in verbal feedback within the classroom setting and in individual tutorials. This method provides the opportunity for ongoing benefit from each assessment.
All assessed components adhere to the Universities feedback guidelines.

Organised work experience, work based learning, sandwich year or year abroad

Level 6 students will work with visiting athletes in the lab environment to gain experience with testing procedures and communication skills. Business Developments in Health Studies is an optional module available in addition to the Work placement module.

Course specific regulations

Part-time structure:

Level 4:
September entry (all core):
Year 1: PR3002, PR3052, PR3054
Year 2: PR3001, PR3053, PR3P54


Levels 4-6:
Part-time students will be programme planned on an individual basis.
Part-time study involves the completion of a maximum of 90 credits per year to maintain their part-time study status. This means that students will complete the full 360 credit programme in between 4 and 6 years. There is, however, flexibility to move to full-time status if personal circumstances change. Pre-requisite modules for each level must be taken as priority to enable progression.
A sample of a 4-year part-time study programme would be:
Year One: Up to 90 credits of Level 4 modules
Year Two: Up to 30 credits of Level 4 modules + up to 60 credits of Level 5 modules
Year Three: 60 credits of Level 5 modules + 30 credits of Level 6 modules
Year Four: Up to 90 credits of Level 6 modules
Default modules:
SP5054 ‘Sociology of effective coaching and teaching’
WL5W50 ‘Empowering London: Working within the community’ (Sport, exercise and health based work placement opportunity).

Modules required for interim awards

All core modules must be taken to achieve awards.

Arrangements for promoting reflective learning and personal development

On the course you will first learn the basic concepts, value and application of reflective practice. This will be delivered within the sport psychology module (SP4062) and professional studies module (SP4055). Here, reflective learning will be built into the material delivered and cemented by emphasis in assessment completion.
At Level 5 the Spring semester exercise Physiology module (SP5051) will again include reflection as a key component, with in-depth theoretical knowledge central to delivery. Personal development and reflection opportunities will also be included in the sports science research module (SP5065). There will also be an option at Level 5 to take a work placement module (WL5W50) which can be tailored to individual needs in terms of personal development.

At Level 6 both the Autumn (SP6051) and Spring (SP6061) Physiology modules will offer the opportunity for extensive personal development along with assessment partly based on reflection of learning experiences related to the workplace environment. Over the length of the course there will be a clearly defined thread which will explore and progress both personal development and reflective practice through the progression of learning as you move through levels 4, 5 and into 6.

Other external links providing expertise and experience

Students’ attention is drawn to the professional organisation the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) and the resources it offers to students. All laboratory work is undertaken to the published standards of BASES.

Course accreditation by BASES is underway at time of writing.

Career, employability and opportunities for continuing professional development

Employment opportunities for graduates in Sport and Exercise Science are diverse. Increasing numbers of graduates are entering employment and further training with the NHS as Clinical Scientists and Physician Associates. Also private healthcare providers are also employing Sport and Exercise Science graduates in Physiology based roles associated with healthcare and exercise testing roles.


Currently, many of our graduates work with sports clubs/ teams either individually or as part of a multi - disciplinary science and medical team. Private sector employment is offered by health and fitness organisations, including those operating in healthcare leisure and fitness centres. Larger private companies and hotels, frequently offer sports and leisure facilities 'in house' and Sport and Exercise Scientists oversee the facilities.


Related post graduate study is also a common undertaking as the degree allows entry to numerous areas of further study such as Physiotherapy, Nutrition and Sports Medicine.

Employability is addressed through module study at Level 5 within the degree pathway. Within Level 6 study employment related learning is addressed within all Biomechanics and Physiology modules. In the Biomechanics students will gain a conceptual and practical knowledge of symptomatic and non-symptomatic movement. Both modules will cover a range of conditions, and then provide the tools and techniques that will enable the therapist, coach or sports scientist to be able to extract kinetic and kinematic data, analyse the performance, and interact with other professionals with regards to improving performance or reducing the (further) risk of injury. Both modules draw heavily from problem-based and case-based learning approaches, so that work-related learning is at the heart of both modules.


In Physiology learning outcomes and the final assessments are based upon core competencies from related industry with students expected to demonstrate relevance practical, interpretive and communication skills associated with athlete/patient testing and feedback. TIme spent in the Physiology labs involves skill development with instruments in common use in the Sport and Exercise area but also in healthcare and clinical practice. Development of operative skill with these methods is also a key practical requirement of employers.

Career opportunities

This degree will prepare you for a career in both commercial and scientific settings. You’ll receive general scientific training and gain a range of transferable skills that will enable you to take a wide range of roles.

Our graduates have gone into roles in sports therapy at AFC Wimbledon and holistic training at Educogym.

Entry requirements

In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:

  • at least one A level (or a minimum of 32 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification, eg BTEC Subsidiary/National/BTEC Extended Diploma) but may not have achieved the appropriate grades to immediately join a BSc programme
  • English Language and Mathematics GCSEs at grade C (grade 4) or above (or equivalent).

Applicants who meet the UCAS points criteria but who obtained a D (grade 3) in English and/or Maths at GCSE may be offered a University test in these areas.

Official use and codes

Approved to run from 2019/20 Specification version 1 Specification status Validated
Original validation date 16 Aug 2019 Last validation date 16 Aug 2019  
Sources of funding HE FUNDING COUNCIL FOR ENGLAND
JACS codes
Route code SPEXFY

Course Structure

Stage 1 Level 03 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
PR3001 Scientific Studies Core 30 NORTH AUT+SPR FRI AM
PR3002 Biology Core 30 NORTH AUT+SPR TUE AM
PR3003 Chemistry Core 30 NORTH AUT+SPR TUE PM
PR3006 Nutrition and Sports Science Core 30        
PR3008 Nutrition & Sports Science Core 30        

Stage 1 Level 03 January start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
PR3001 Scientific Studies Core 30        
PR3002 Biology Core 30        
PR3003 Chemistry Core 30        
PR3006 Nutrition and Sports Science Core 30        
PR3008 Nutrition & Sports Science Core 30        

Stage 2 Level 04 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
SP4051 Human Physiology Core 15 NORTH AUT MON AM&PM
          NORTH AUT MON AM
SP4053 Fundamentals of Musculoskeletal Anatomy Core 15 NORTH AUT THU PM
SP4054 Essential Principles of Effective Coaching and ... Core 15 NORTH AUT FRI AM
SP4055 Professional and Core Skills Core 15 NORTH AUT THU AM
SP4061 Physiological Principles of Training Core 15 NORTH SPR MON AM&PM
          NORTH SPR MON AM
SP4062 Foundations of Sport Psychology Core 15 NORTH SPR FRI AM
SP4063 Introduction to Biomechanics Core 15 NORTH SPR THU AM
SP4065 Applied Sports Science Core 15 NORTH SPR THU PM

Stage 3 Level 05 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
SP5051 Exercise Physiology Core 15 NORTH AUT TUE AM
SP5052 Sport Psychology: Controlling Individual Perfor... Core 15 NORTH AUT WED AM
SP5053 Biomechanics of Human Movement Core 15 NORTH AUT THU PM
SP5061 Environmental Exercise Physiology Core 15 NORTH SPR TUE AM
SP5062 Sport Psychology: Group Dynamics and Human Inte... Core 15 NORTH SPR THU AM
SP5063 Biomechanical Applications Core 15 NORTH SPR WED PM
SP5065 Sports Science Research Methods Core 15 NORTH SPR WED AM
SP5054 Sociology of Effective Coaching and Teaching Option 15 NORTH AUT TUE PM
WL5W50 Empowering London: Working within the Community Option 15 NORTH AUT+SPR FRI AM
          NORTH AUT+SPR WED PM

Stage 4 Level 06 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
SP6051 Clinical Exercise Physiology Core 15 NORTH AUT TUE PM
SP6052 Sport Psychology and the Elite Athlete Core 15 NORTH AUT TUE AM
SP6061 Applied Exercise Physiology Core 15 NORTH SPR TUE PM
SP6062 Sport Psychology: Practical Application in the ... Core 15 NORTH SPR TUE AM
SP6063 Human Movement Analysis Core 15 NORTH AUT THU AM
SP6P01 Sports Science and Therapy Dissertation Core 30 NORTH AUT+SPR WED PM
SP6065 Business Developments in Sport Option 15 NORTH SPR WED AM
WL6W50 Empowering London: Working within the Community Option 15 NORTH AUT+SPR FRI AM
          NORTH AUT+SPR WED PM