Sport and Exercise Science
Sport and exercise science applies the methods of biology, physiology, psychology, and biomechanics to understand human physical performance and the role of exercise in health and wellbeing. It is a discipline that bridges elite sport and public health, asking how the body adapts to training, what factors influence athletic performance, how exercise can be used therapeutically, and how we can motivate people to be more active throughout their lives. The scientific knowledge base of the field is growing rapidly, and graduates with strong training in applied sports and exercise science are in consistent demand.
At the University of Derby, this part-time degree with a foundation year option provides a flexible and accessible route into sport and exercise science for students from a range of backgrounds. The foundation year builds the scientific and academic foundations needed for degree-level study, and the part-time structure allows you to balance your education with work or other commitments. As your studies progress, you will be able to choose from specialised modules in areas such as strength and conditioning, sports psychology, nutrition, or clinical exercise science, tailoring your degree to your interests and career ambitions.
A sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement are all available within the programme, giving you extensive opportunities for professional experience in sport and health settings.
Sport and exercise science graduates work in professional sport, fitness and wellbeing organisations, health promotion, clinical exercise referral, rehabilitation, and research. Many go on to further professional training in physiotherapy, sports medicine, strength and conditioning, or sport psychology. Others work in education, coaching, or sports development, where scientific knowledge combined with practical skills creates effective and reflective practitioners.
The breadth of the discipline means that graduates move into a wide range of roles across sport and health, and the specialist modules allow you to develop the particular expertise that fits your career direction.