Physiology & Sports Science

Physiology and sports science is a combination that examines the science of how the body functions and how it responds and adapts to physical exercise. Physiology provides the foundational knowledge of how biological systems, from the cardiovascular system and respiratory physiology to the neuromuscular system and metabolic pathways, function in health and under the physiological challenges of exercise and sport. Sports science applies this understanding to the performance and health contexts in which exercise occurs, developing the practical and analytical skills needed to support athletes and promote health through physical activity.

At Glasgow, the programme empowers you to serve the community in a variety of roles including research, teaching, coaching, and counselling, whether your interest lies in improving health through exercise, understanding the physiology of peak athletic performance, or examining the mechanisms by which exercise produces its effects. You will develop rigorous scientific knowledge alongside applied competency in sport and exercise science, supported by Glasgow's research strengths in both disciplines. The programme includes a year abroad and runs over four years full-time, leading to an MA (Hons).

The typical entry tariff is 200 points.

Graduates of physiology and sports science programmes pursue careers in sport science support, exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, health promotion, sports coaching, research, and healthcare. The physiological depth of the programme is a particular advantage for those seeking roles in clinical exercise physiology, NHS allied health professions, or postgraduate research. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in exercise science, physiology, physiotherapy, or sport psychology, where the rigorous scientific foundation of the undergraduate degree provides excellent preparation.