Sport Science and Coaching
Sport science examines the physiological, biomechanical, and psychological factors that influence athletic performance and physical activity for health. Coaching applies that scientific understanding in practice, developing the skills to guide individuals and teams toward improved performance, healthy participation, and long-term athletic development. Together they prepare you for careers that sit at the intersection of evidence and practice, whether in elite sport, community participation, or health and wellbeing.
At Nottingham Trent University, this four-year full-time programme begins with a foundation year that introduces you to the scientific aspects of sport, exercise, and physical activity for health. The foundation year provides a thorough introduction through a combination of taught content and practical sessions, allowing you to apply theory from the outset and to develop the study skills needed to thrive at degree level. From there the programme develops your understanding of sports physiology, nutrition, biomechanics, psychology, strength and conditioning, and the science of skill acquisition, alongside the practical coaching competencies that employers in sport value.
You will take part in lots of hands-on sessions and have opportunities to work with athletes and participants in real coaching contexts.
The combination of sport science knowledge and coaching skills is designed to produce graduates who can work across a wide range of settings, from school and community sport to performance environments at national and professional level. The typical entry tariff is 120 UCAS points.
Graduates go into careers as sports coaches, strength and conditioning specialists, performance analysts, sport development officers, physical education teachers, and health and exercise practitioners. Many progress to postgraduate study in sport science, coaching, physical education, or physiotherapy, and the programme also provides a strong foundation for those considering a career in sport management or administration.