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Postgraduate PG Dip
Sport and Exercise Psychology
Develop intervention strategies by analysing how psychological theories contribute to sports studies and how they apply to health education.
Course overview
-
L27 -
Headingley Campus Beckett Park -
Full-Time -
1 Year -
21 Sep 2026
Taught at the Carnegie School of Sport – this course will help you develop professional and ethical competencies in the research and application of psychology within sport and exercise settings.
As part of your course, you’ll:
- Evaluate psychological theories
- Examine issues such as self-determination, psychological resilience and the effects of exercise on mood
- Analyse biological, cultural and environmental factors that can influence sport performance and physical activity
- Develop professional competencies linked to the pursuit of a career as a Chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist
During the course, you'll benefit from the expertise and knowledge of our staff, studying at a university that is passionate about sport.
A member of our experienced course team will be on hand to support you throughout your learning journey, offering personalised advice to aid your professional development and help you realise your career aspirations.
Why study Sport and Exercise Psychology at Leeds Beckett University...
- Work alongside academics who help to nurture the next generation of athletes at the university's groundbreaking sports psychology centre
- Global reputation - we're recognised as one of the top 100 institutions in the world for Sports-Related Subjects*
- Develop an in-depth understanding of psychology, adopting a critical approach to its application within sport and exercise settings
- You'll be among the first students to take advantage of our state-of-the-art Carnegie School of Sport building
- Take advantage of our sport volunteering opportunities, which have previously included global events such as the Olympics, World Athletics Championships and Commonwealth Games
*2025 QS World University Rankings by Subject
Helping people overcome negative feelings about exercise to improve their mental health Past memories of sport and exercise, when negative, can cause huge problems for many people who suffer with poor physical and mental health. Dr Jackie Hargreaves, senior Lecturer in sport and exercise psychology at Leeds Beckett University, is determined to help people get over this barrier.
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 a second class honours degree in the cognate subjects of Sport & Exercise Science, Physical Sciences, Physical Activity, Health Sciences, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Sports Coaching, Physical Education or Medicine, 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 a second class honours degree in the cognate subjects of Sport & Exercise Science, Physical Sciences, Physical Activity, Health Sciences, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Sports Coaching, Physical Education or Medicine, 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.
Modules, teaching and learning
What you'll learn
Explore different styles and approaches to designing research and analysis in the field of sport, exercise and physical activity. You'll develop a critical perspective on theory and evidence, providing the foundation for your own master's level research. Upon completion, you'll be able to analyse and synthesise the strengths and weaknesses of various quantitative and qualitative methodologies, as well as methods of data collection and analysis. You'll also have the know-how to propose and justify alternative solutions and modifications to address contemporary research questions and practical challenges.
Explore how exercise influences behaviour, mental health, and psychological well-being. You'll consider both the positive effects of exercise- such as improved mood, cognitive function, and mental health conditions – and the potential negative consequences, including exercise dependence. By the end of the module, you'll be able to critically apply behaviour change theories to design interventions that target priority health challenges.
Engage with a range of emerging issues and trends shaping contemporary sport psychology. By critically evaluating key psychological theories, concepts, and principles, you'll deepen your understanding of human behaviour within sporting environments. You'll also develop the skills needed to critically review research literature and effectively communicate psychological insights to both academic and professional audiences.
Gain an in-depth understanding of the nature of psychosocial development within sport and exercise. You will study the development of expertise across the lifespan and consider psychological development and dynamics in relation to transitions in sport and exercise.
This module aids the development of early career evidence-informed practitioners aligned with the professional standards and ethical codes required by relevant accrediting bodies and job roles. It supports your continuing professional development, enabling progression towards professional registration or further study. Alongside studying this module, you could gain specific professional qualifications to raise your awareness of the interdisciplinary nature of the practitioner's role.
Engage in a range of applied activities to prepare you for your future career as a sport or exercise psychologist.
Fees and funding
£6,940
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £6940. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
£12,295
International 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £12295. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Fees and funding
£6,940
For students entering in 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £6940. 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.
Essential Costs
- Placement locations and experiences will vary throughout the course and you'll need to pay for any additional travel costs.
Optional Costs
- Access to membership and annual student conference of the Chartered Association for Sport & Exercise Science (CASES) (annual student membership costs £25 for Direct Debit and £30 for non-Direct Debit).
- General membership with the British Psychological Society (£15 per year).
- Course branded sportswear (prices start from £17.96).
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.
£12,295
For students entering in 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £12295. 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.
Essential Costs
- Placement locations and experiences will vary throughout the course and you'll need to pay for any additional travel costs.
Optional Costs
- Access to membership and annual student conference of the Chartered Association for Sport & Exercise Science (CASES) (annual student membership costs £25 for Direct Debit and £30 for non-Direct Debit).
- General membership with the British Psychological Society (£15 per year).
- Course branded sportswear (prices start from £17.96).
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.
Funding support for your studies
Discover more about our range of postgraduate funding options including a Master's Loan of up to £12,858, and our 20% alumni discount*
*Terms apply
ground-breaking centre
Learn from academics at university's sports psychology hub
The university's Carnegie School of Sport hosts a ground-breaking centre to nurture the next generation of elite athletes in the North of England. Helping both local and national stars, the centre is a base for the British Psychological Society.
You will have the opportunity to engage in applied experience under supervision, a practical component of the course likely to enhance your future professional activities within the field of sport and exercise science.
Professor Susan Backhouse
Director of Research & Knowledge Exchange
Carnegie School of Sport Heritage We have a long history in sports education stretching back to 1933 and the prestigious Carnegie College of Physical Training. Today, alumni of this college and its successor institutions are leaders in national and international sport.
Career prospects
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.
The practicum module allowed me the opportunity to gain invaluable practical experience working with athletes and coaches, developing my competency and confidence as an applied practitioner. Overall the course provided me with a strong theoretical and practical foundation to undertake the Stage Two Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology.
Ross Shand
Consultant in Sport Performance
Career Prospects
Following successful completion of this course, you will be well placed to undertake further studies which will enable you to use the protected professional titles of Sport & Exercise Psychologist, Registered Psychologist or Practitioner Psychologist. (Please refer to our MSc Psychology of Sport & Exercise course for further details.) If you are already working in the field of sport and exercise psychology, this qualification will enhance your expertise and career prospects in your specialist area.
- Sport and exercise scientist
- Performance lifestyle adviser
- Lecturer/Researcher in Higher Education
- Exercise intervention facilitator
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.
Student life
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.
Why Leeds?
With great music venues, culture, shopping and parks – we’ve got it all. Voted no.1 student city in the UK* and the Best Place to Live in the North and Northeast**.
*StudentCrowd, Best Student Cities UK, 2024
**The Sunday Times Best Place to Live guide, 2024.
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