Sport and Exercise Science

Sport and Exercise Science is the systematic study of the physiological, psychological and biomechanical principles that underlie human physical performance and exercise behaviour. It is a discipline that applies scientific rigour to questions about how the body adapts to training, how performance can be optimised, how exercise affects health and wellbeing, and how sport and physical activity can be made more effective, accessible and safe for different populations. As both sport and public health have come to rely more heavily on scientific evidence, the demand for graduates with this combination of applied scientific knowledge has grown steadily.

At the University of Derby, this three-year full-time programme provides a strong foundation in the science behind sport and exercise, covering exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports psychology, research methods and anatomy. As you progress through the programme, you have the opportunity to pursue specialist modules that deepen your knowledge in areas of particular interest, developing the multi-skilled profile that gives you flexibility in a varied graduate job market. A foundation year is available for students who need additional preparation before the main degree, and the programme also includes a sandwich year, year abroad, and work placement opportunities, giving you an unusually wide range of professional and international experience.

Graduates of Sport and Exercise Science programmes work in applied performance sport, strength and conditioning, sport science support for clubs and academies, public health and community physical activity promotion, exercise rehabilitation, health and fitness management, and sport development. Some go on to postgraduate study leading to chartered status in sport and exercise science or physiotherapy. Others pursue careers in teaching, coaching, or sport management.

The combination of scientific grounding and practical skills makes this a versatile degree with genuine breadth of opportunity.