Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport

Physical education, physical activity and sport is a discipline that sits at the intersection of science, education and social practice. It is concerned with how people move, learn through movement, and develop physical competence and wellbeing across the lifespan. It draws on exercise physiology, sport psychology, pedagogy, sociology and health sciences, and it asks both theoretical and practical questions about how sport and physical activity can be taught, promoted and valued in schools, communities and wider society.

At the University of Derby, this three-year full-time programme is available with a foundation year for students who will benefit from additional academic preparation before entering the main degree. The degree develops your knowledge of human movement and physical performance alongside your understanding of how physical education is taught and experienced in formal and informal settings. You will study the science of exercise and sport, explore pedagogical approaches to teaching physical activity, and engage with the social and cultural contexts that shape participation and inclusion.

A sandwich year placement, a year abroad, and a work placement are all available, giving you substantial opportunities to develop your professional experience and to apply your learning in real educational and sporting environments.

Practical and reflective skills are built throughout. You will develop your ability to plan, deliver and evaluate physical education experiences, to work with diverse groups, and to think critically about issues of inclusion, motivation and wellbeing in sport and physical activity. Assessment typically combines academic written work with practical and professional components.

Graduates move into teaching physical education in schools (typically with a PGCE following graduation), sport coaching and development, sport and exercise management, health promotion, community sport, fitness instruction, and a range of other roles in the education, health and sport sectors. Further study, including postgraduate teacher training, is a common pathway.