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Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
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Postgraduate MSc
Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
Examine the movement of the human body from a biomechanical perspective and learn how to apply this to sport performance and injury.
Course Overview
-
L27 -
Headingley Campus Beckett Park -
Full-Time -
12 Months -
09 Sep 2024
Taught at one of the largest providers of sport in UK higher education – this course will allow you to apply the principles of sport and exercise biomechanics to support and enhance your understanding of human performance and injury.
As part of your course you’ll:
- Examine the function and movement of the human body through laboratory data collection – employing cutting-edge technology such as 3D motion analysis, multicomponent dynamometry and neuromuscular imaging
- Critically assess a broad range of theories, methodologies and research findings
- Learn how to apply theories, strategies and methodologies in appropriate ways
- Develop empirical rigour in identifying solutions to complex problems
Your learning will be inspired by the very latest insights, and you’ll be supported by tutors who are engaged in research and scientific support within the areas of neuromuscular assessment and the optimisation of athletic performance.
Your teaching team have provided support and coaching interventions for Olympic athletes. Under their guidance, you’ll be able to put your learning into practice working with university sports teams, professional sports clubs and elite performers.
Why study Sport and Exercise Biomechanics at Leeds Beckett University...
- Develop specialist knowledge - enhance your understanding of human performance
- Work with experts – learn from a teaching team engaged in research and scientific support
- State-of-the-art facilities - take advantage of the university’s new Carnegie School of Sport building
- Build your experience – engage with sport volunteering opportunities
Human Movement Laboratory Course Director Dr Gareth Nicholson highlights the key features of the Human Movement Laboratory, including an instrumented treadmill that analyses athlete performance and injury risk, and how the facility is used by professional sports clubs including Leeds United FC.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
Applicants should either have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subjects of Sport & Exercise Science, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Physics, Biomechanics, Sports Technology, Sports Therapy, Physical Education or Podiatry, at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject supported by evidence of an aptitude for the subject applied for, or have equivalent experience or training, normally from within the work environment. All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion.
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements . Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 6.0. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages .
Entry requirements
Applicants should either have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subjects of Sport & Exercise Science, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Physics, Biomechanics, Sports Technology, Sports Therapy, Physical Education or Podiatry, at least a second class honours degree in a non-cognate subject supported by evidence of an aptitude for the subject applied for, or have equivalent experience or training, normally from within the work environment. All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion.
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements . Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 6.0. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages .
IELTS
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements . Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 6.0. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages .
Selection Criteria
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.
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.
Teaching & Learning
*core modules for students completing the full programme within standard timescales
If you don’t complete four of the core discipline modules, you will be able to choose one option module. These can be chosen from either the four core biomechanics modules below or the option modules listed.
What you'll learn
You will complete a research project of your choosing under the supervision of a member of academic staff. Ideally you will aim to produce research of a publishable quality.
Learn the core skills you will need to be a successful sports psychologist. You will have the opportunity to apply the techniques you've studied and explore traditional and modern approaches to psychology consultancy.
You'll be introduced to different styles and approaches to designing research and analysis. And you'll learn to take a more critical approach to theory and evidence, providing the basis for your own master’s level research.
Develop and appreciate the principles underpinning the function and operation of a range of biomechanical equipment. You'll have a critical understanding of the major aspects of kinematics, kinetics and other biomechanical techniques. This module will also enable you to comprehend the principles underpinning these techniques and critically evaluate how biomechanical methods can be employed to study and analyse motion in a variety of contexts. You'll be able to collect and critically analyse data using a range of equipment and appropriate ICT applications. Studying this module will enable you to critically evaluate the merits of different biomechanical equipment and analysis techniques including understanding the effect of measurement error on data collected.
Explore specific aspects of the structure and function of the neuromuscular system and their relationship with intrinsic and extrinsic factors. You will learn about the mechanical basis of joint and muscle function, as well as developing an understanding of the relationship between external and internal loading factors that can lead to injury.
Study the contemporary issues in sports biomechanics through a series of real-life scenarios. This module will enable you to utilise current concepts in biomechanics to critically analyse sports performance in a variety of settings. You'll develop an appreciation of the key mechanical factors underpinning sports performance and the use of appropriate modelling techniques. You'll understand the theoretical and practical relevance of advanced biomechanical data collection and analysis techniques. Throughout this module, you'll develop professional skills, such as problem-solving, that are relevant to the sport and exercise biomechanist.
Develop an understanding of the biomechanics of human gait. This module will enable you to gain critical knowledge of normal, pathological and competitive gait. You'll improve your knowledge of the internal and external factors that can affect gait, such as fatigue, footstrike patterns, footwear-surface interaction and ageing. Finally, you'll complete a range of laboratory-based activities to observe human gait and to assess common biomechanical methods used in gait analysis.
What you'll learn
Consider the evidence basis for advanced exercise testing and prescription methods. You'll discuss contemporary technological advancements and their application to sports physiology with the aim to enhance elite performance. This module will provide you with theoretical knowledge and critical skills needed to evaluate and apply such methods in the field of sports physiology.
Examine the broad range of cutting-edge issues and trends that appear within contemporary sport psychology literature, as you gain an in-depth understanding of human behaviour in the sporting environment.
You will introduced to the general principles, concepts and underpinning theory in nutrition and biochemistry necessary for the development of performance nutrition strategies.
Study the mechanisms that couple exercise training and physical inactivity with health and disease. You'll gain new insight and appreciation of the importance of physical activity for the prevention and treatment of cardiometabolic disorders.
Study the effects of exercise on behaviour and mental health. You will consider both the positive and negative results of exercise, exploring its beneficial impact on well-being and cognitive function, as well as the negative implications of exercise dependence.
Critically evaluate the impact of a number of nutritional strategies, ranging from nutritional manipulation to supplementation with specific supplements, on metabolism, sports performance and health.
Fees & Funding hellooo
£9,900
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9900. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
£17,500
International 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £17500. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Fees & Funding
£9,900
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9900. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
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:
- Sports facilities and equipment linked to your studies, including our specialist sports science labs
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
- Access to membership and annual student conference of the British Association for Sport & Exercise Science (BASES) (annual student membership costs £24 for Direct Debit and £29 for non-Direct Debit)
- Course branded sportswear (prices start at £24)
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.
£17,500
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £17500. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
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:
- Sports facilities and equipment linked to your studies, including our specialist sports science labs
Optional Costs
- Access to membership and annual student conference of the British Association for Sport & Exercise Science (BASES) (annual student membership costs £24 for Direct Debit and £29 for non-Direct Debit)
- Course branded sportswear (prices start at £24)
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.
Moving on up
Leeds Beckett climbs 40 places in the Complete University Guide 2024
Your future in our hands
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Dr Catherine Tucker
Senior Lecturer / Carnegie School Of Sport
Catherine is a Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Biomechanics. Catherine’s research focuses on the biomechanics of different forms of gait. Catherine is also interested in understanding the biomechanical determinants of golf performance using 3D motion capture and other technologies.
I've always been interested in the human body and how things work. I knew I would never make an athlete myself, so it seemed natural to forge a career in biomechanics and physiotherapy. My masters helped me to develop more robust techniques for helping players who have had long-term injuries get back on the field. I'm now looking to introduce new screening methods that will help healthy players avoid injuries.
Andy Barker
Former Head of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Leeds Rhinos - MSc Sport & Exercise Biomechanics
Career Prospects
A range of career options will be available to you upon graduation. You could lead sport science support programmes for teams and elite athletes or work in industry for companies specialising in sport science solutions and innovation. You could apply for jobs in health and clinical settings or secure employment with national governing bodies or sporting organisations. You will also be well placed to progress your expertise by conducting research at PhD level.
- Sports biomechanist
- Clinical biomechanist
- Sports scientist
- Athlete support officer
- Performance analyst
- Biomechanics teacher
- Sports equipment developer
Beckett Careers Team
Our careers service is not just there for undergraduates, we support our postgraduate taught and research students too.
Your postgraduate degree will boost your CV and help you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're just starting out on your chosen career path, changing careers or moving to the next level, we can provide you with expert advice and resources to help you take the next steps to achieving your goals.
Your Beckett experience
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
Why Leeds for Sport? Discover what the city of Leeds has to offer and why it’s a great choice for students studying sport.
Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed – whether that’s completing your current studies or joining our cutting-edge research teams.
