Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Sport and Exercise Science
Help improve people’s sporting performance and health through the study of human movement and activity.
Course Overview
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UCAS code
C600 -
Institution code
L27 -
Main location
Headingley Campus Beckett Park -
Attendance
Full-Time -
Duration
3 Years -
Start date
16 Sep 2024
You’ll study behavioural, physical and life sciences on this practice-based course. A passion for understanding the science behind sport performance, health, and physical activity will drive your career helping people of all physical abilities.
Develop in-demand skills
You’ll develop skills which are increasingly in-demand as the importance of health and physical activity becomes more prominent in the UK and beyond. You could find yourself working with elite athletes on their sporting performance, working in rehabilitation, or helping people suffering from long-term illnesses.
Industry recognised
This course is endorsed by British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), the professional body for sport and exercise sciences in the UK. You can read about the benefits of choosing a BASES-endorsed degree course on the BASES website.
Find your niche
The degree is multi-disciplinary, meaning you’ll explore and learn about different theories and approaches to the subject. This will enable you to discover your specialism, helping you choose the right career path.
How you’ll learn
You’ll learn the theory in lectures and seminars and apply your learning in practical lab sessions. There’ll also be opportunities to work with our extensive range of industry partners and sporting clubs on placements.
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Gain an evidence-based appreciation of biomechanics, nutrition, physiology and psychology and their use within sport and exercise environments
- Take part in practical sessions examining oxygen consumption, blood lactate and glucose concentration, body composition and dietary analysis, ECG, power output, human motion analysis and exercise cognition
- Use scientific processes to question and problem solve. You could explore why athletes might not respond to training as expected, plan dietary strategies for the general population, or use movement analysis to understand why athletes might get injured
Build an impressive CV
Access work placement opportunities within professional sports clubs, exercise settings, or public health.
Dedicated state-of-the-art facilities
You’ll study in our dedicated £45m sports building and have access to world-class labs and facilities, including:
- An environmental chamber which simulates the effects of diverse climatic conditions on physical performance
- A human movement laboratory and state of the art instrumented treadmill which allows simultaneous motion capture and force measurements to analyse gait and other forms of human movement
- A DXA bone scanner, where you’ll be able to measure the density and mineral composition of the skeletal structure
- Custom-built igloo simulation and visualisation facility. You’ll recreate the demands of sport, exercise and physical activity settings to provide an applied learning environment in sport and exercise psychology
- A strength and conditioning suite where you’ll learn and coach others in the performance of weightlifting, plyometric and agility activities
Work-ready skills
You can boost your CV by gaining additional nationally recognised sporting qualifications.
Why study Sport and Exercise Science at Leeds Beckett University...
- You’ll be employable - 92.2% of graduates in work or further study 15 months after graduation*
- BASES-endorsed - this course is endorsed by the British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES)
- World-class facilities - study in our £45m sports building, which boasts industry standard environmental chambers, sport performance and biochemistry labs
- 96% of students on BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science were positive about the way teaching staff explain things**
- We’re the best in our field - learn from academics and researchers renowned in the sport and exercise science industry
- Globally recognised - Carnegie School of Sport is ranked in the top 75 in the world for Sport Science Schools and Departments and 6th in the UK***
*Percentage of respondents from this course, HESA Graduate Outcomes 20-21
**National Student Survey 2023
***2022 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS)
Explore videos and blogs
Carnegie School of Sport building tour
Everything you need to know
Entry requirements
points required
We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
Sport and Exercise Science
Entry requirements
points required
UCAS Tariff Points: 112-128 points required.
(Minimum 72-80 from two A Levels or equivalent, e.g. BTEC Nationals or Cambridge Technicals, excluding General Studies. At least one of these should normally be from a science subject, which can include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Education or Psychology. If you are studying Biology, Chemistry or Physics to meet this requirement you must also achieve a 'Pass' in the practical assessment, where that practical assessment is separated (from 2017).).
GCSEs
GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade 4 or above (Grade C for GCSEs taken before 2017) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy and Adult Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma
Pass overall with 112-128 UCAS tariff points in a relevant subject.T Levels
Pass overall with 112-128 UCAS tariff points, including a C or above on the core, in a relevant subject.Scottish Awards
112-128 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade B or above and should include at least one science subject.Irish Leaving Certificate
112-128 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 subjects at higher level of which at least 3 must be grade H3 or above and should include at least one science subject.International baccalaureate
112-128 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above and should include at least one science subject.IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
Due to the popularity of this course, we may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
DBS Check
An enhanced criminal history (DBS) check maybe required for certain modules which involve working with children and/or vulnerable others. The DBS in the UK is currently not able to conduct overseas criminal record checks, therefore international applicants, those without British Citizenship and British Citizens with a significant period of overseas residency will therefore require a criminal records check or certificate of good conduct from their home/overseas country before undertaking work with children and/or vulnerable others
Our commitment to help every student succeed
Leeds Beckett University is committed to ensuring that every student with the potential to succeed at our University is able to do so regardless of their background. For this reason we operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we take into account a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria will be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff (above).Our contextual admissions criteria are:
- Home postcode is in an area where few people go to University (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2 area. This can be checked on the Office for Students website).
- Declared disability on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants).
- Over the age of 21 on the 1st of September before the course starts.
- Declared as a care experienced on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants).
Mature Applicants
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade C in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
International baccalaureate
112-128 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above and should include at least one science subject.IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
Due to the popularity of this course, we may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
DBS Check
An enhanced criminal history (DBS) check maybe required for certain modules which involve working with children and/or vulnerable others. The DBS in the UK is currently not able to conduct overseas criminal record checks, therefore international applicants, those without British Citizenship and British Citizens with a significant period of overseas residency will therefore require a criminal records check or certificate of good conduct from their home/overseas country before undertaking work with children and/or vulnerable others
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Teaching & Learning
Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Sport and Exercise Science
Teaching & Learning
Through the study of study Biomechanics, Nutrition, Physiology and Psychology in the contexts of sport and exercise, you will learn how people function in sport and exercise settings. The course is designed to meet the requirements of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences' criteria for endorsement.
The tabs below detail what and how you will study in each year of your course. The balance of assessments and overall workload will be informed by your core modules and the option modules you choose to study – the information provided is an indication of what you can expect and may be subject to change. The option modules listed are also an indication of what will be available to you. Their availability is subject to demand and you will be advised which option modules you can choose at the beginning of each year of study.
What you'll learn
What you'll learn
Option modules may include
What you'll learn
Option modules may include
This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘sandwich’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree, typically making your course four years in total.
Students who choose the sandwich route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.
Fees & Funding hellooo
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Sandwich Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £1385.International 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Sandwich Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £2400.Sport and Exercise Science
Fees & Funding
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Sandwich Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £1385.Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Laboratory equipment, including specialist sport and exercise science facilities and the Carnegie Research Institute
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Optional Costs
- The British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) access to membership and annual student conference. Annual student membership (£24 for a Direct Debit and £29 for non-Direct Debit)
- General membership with the British Psychological Society (£5-7 per annum)
- Course branded sportswear (from £12)
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Sandwich Year
You will normally spend a whole year in placement. For this year you will be charged a reduced fee of £2400.Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Laboratory equipment, including specialist sport and exercise science facilities and the Carnegie Research Institute
Optional Costs
- The British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) access to membership and annual student conference. Annual student membership (£24 for a Direct Debit and £29 for non-Direct Debit)
- General membership with the British Psychological Society (£5-7 per annum)
- Course branded sportswear (from £12)
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
96%
of students on BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science were positive about the way teaching staff explain things
National Student Survey 2023
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Facilities | Carnegie School of Sport
We're committed to being the place where people can learn how to revolutionise sports coaching and performance. In our new £45million Carnegie School of Sport building, you'll be able to access state-of-the-art learning, activity and laboratory spaces.
Take the tour -
Facilities | Strength and conditioning suite
Advanced training facility that features 12 Olympic standard lifting platforms which provide immediate training feedback in areas including strength, speed and agility.
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Facilities | Environmental chamber
A world-class environmental chamber that can mimic different altitudes and environments. It is capable of achieving temperatures of between -30 degrees Celsius to +50 degrees Celsius and reaching altitudes up to 8,000 metres.
360° tour -
Facilities | Human movement lab
This lab is designed to allow complete biomechanical analysis of athletic performance. Cameras around the lab facilitate 3D motion capture allowing the examination of every detail of human movement which is then used to adapt technique and training programmes to improve performance.
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Facilities | Sport performance lab
With a customised treadmill able to accommodate runners, cyclists, skiers as well as those using a wheelchair, this lab allows for high performance sport and exercise physiology testing. Additionally, our biochemistry analyser provides us with accurate, instant measures of blood glucose and lactate with the capacity to analyse many other chemistries and performance indicators.
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Facilities | Nutrition kitchen
This hands-on learning space enables each student to have access to a fully equipped bench including food processors and blenders, in which to prepare and cook nutritional meals. It adheres to professional kitchen regulations and has a separation discussion area with linked IT facilities.
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Facilities | Igloo shared immersive environment
A custom built 180 degree immersive space, it provides a state-of-the-art simulation and visualisation facility. It integrates with sports equipment, including treadmills and exercise bikes.
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Facilities | Biochemistry lab
This lab boasts a state-of-the-art analyser that has an extensive testing range including routine chemistries, specific proteins, lipids, antioxidants, and cardiac and diabetes testing.
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Facilities | Physiology labs
These labs have ergometers which are used to perform exercise tests and can be controlled to enable workload and physiological data such as heart rates for complete assessment of cycling or running performance.
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Facilities | Athletics Performance Centre
A 60m, four lane, indoor track with high performance flooring, allowing athletes to wear spiked footwear anywhere in this area.
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Facilities | CRI hall
The CRI incorporates state-of-the-art laboratories dedicated to cutting edge sport science research. These include biomechanics, physiology, biochemistry and nutrition laboratories alongside specialised clinical equipment.
360° tour -
Facilities | IT suite
The IT labs will support PC based analysis of sport performance as well as other standard IT needs.
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Facilities | Lecture theatre
This modern lecture theatre with grouped seating allows students to work in pairs or clusters. There are in built microphones on tables and screens placed around the room so that students can participate and can be heard by their peers.
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Facilities | Headingley Library
Our iconic Grade II James Graham Building houses many of our lecture theatres, teaching spaces and studios as well as the Headingley Library. Our libraries provide you with access to a range of support and resources to support your studies.
360° tour -
Facilities | Headingley campus gym
Our multi-functional gym offers a range of cardio equipment, weights and squat racks.
360° tour -
Facilities | Sports Hall
The facility is marked for various sports and can be split into two smaller halls. It has excellent acoustics and climate control.
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Facilities | Outdoor track
The outdoor running track is 400m long and has 8 lanes.
Our course emphasises the importance of employability and student experience, offering a range of learning activities from lab-based sessions to work placements. We ensure our students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to follow a variety of exciting career paths.
Moving on up
Leeds Beckett climbs 40 places in the Complete University Guide 2024
Your future in our hands
Alumni stories | Lara talks about finding her niche as a sports nutritionist
92.2%
of BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science graduates in work or further study 15 months after graduation*
*Percentage of respondents from this course, HESA Graduate Outcomes 20-21
Alumni stories | Olympian Laura Weightman talks about her university experience
My favourite part of the course has been how varied it is. I’m more of a practical learner and the course is suited to that style of learning. We had the chance to use a lot of equipment that I would have never used otherwise. I would 100% recommend the course to anyone who is interested and looking into it.
Career Prospects
We have a strong track record of preparing students for employment and further study within sport and exercise science.
Our graduates have gone on to work in a variety of settings, including high-performance sport, the health and fitness industry, health education, exercise referral and teaching.
Studying this course will also provide an excellent foundation for postgraduate study in sport and exercise science and related fields. You could study subjects including sport and exercise psychology, dietetics, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, public health and many others.
We have a strong track record of preparing students for employment and further study within sport and exercise science.
Our graduates have gone on to work in a variety of settings, including high-performance sport, the health and fitness industry, health education, exercise referral and teaching.
Studying BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science also provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate study in sport and exercise science and related fields, including sport and exercise psychology, dietetics, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, public health and many others.
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Some of the jobs this degree could lead to include:
- Sport and Exercise Scientist
- Sports Therapist
- Clinical Exercise Physiologist
- Performance Analyst
- Physiotherapist
- Sports Coach
- Sport and Exercise Nutritionist
- Health Promoter
- PE Teacher
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.
Our Graduate Promise
We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.
Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Interview skills and assessment centres
- Connecting with employers and organisations
Your Beckett experience
i2i soccer academy
If you're a US student, our partnership with i2i Soccer Academy allows you the opportunity to study in the UK whilst developing your soccer skills.
Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed.
Leeds - Best Place to Live in the North and Northeast*
From music venues and art galleries to parks, shopping and transport – we’ve got it all. We also have the best-paying jobs outside of London.
*The Sunday Times Best Place to Live guide, 2024.
i2i soccer academy
If you're a US student, our partnership with i2i Soccer Academy allows you the opportunity to study in the UK whilst developing your soccer skills.
Still thinking about your uni choices? Discover Uni has official information to help you decide. They provide statistics for courses taken from national surveys and data collected from universities about their students.
Kick-start your career
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