Sports Coaching and Physical Education

Sports coaching and physical education together address two interrelated but distinct professional domains. Sports coaching is concerned with developing athletic performance, planning training, understanding the biomechanics and physiology of sport, and developing the leadership and communication skills that effective coaching requires. Physical education, particularly in schools, is concerned with developing young people's physical literacy, their enjoyment of movement, their understanding of health and fitness, and the lifelong habits of physical activity that support wellbeing.

A degree that combines both prepares you for roles both in performance sport and in educational settings.

At the University of Sunderland this three-year full-time programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to experience sports coaching and physical education in a different national context and to develop the international perspective that enriches practice in both fields. The programme is built around the integration of theory and practice: you will apply your understanding of coaching methodology, sport psychology, exercise physiology and pedagogy in real-world placement opportunities throughout the course. Sunderland's description of the programme is direct about its orientation, aiming to develop understanding of sports coaching and teaching physical education in schools, with real-world placement opportunities and the relevant skills for future employment.

You will develop knowledge in sports science, coaching theory, educational psychology, curriculum design, inclusive practice and the psychology of physical activity, building a profile that is relevant to both sport performance and school-based education.

Graduates pursue careers as sports coaches, physical education teachers (typically following a PGCE for qualified teacher status), sports development officers, community sport coordinators, strength and conditioning coaches, and performance analysts. Many go on to postgraduate study in coaching science, sports development or physical education, and some pursue specific NGB coaching qualifications in their chosen sport alongside or after the degree.