Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BSc (Hons)
Sport and Exercise Science
Help people improve their sporting performance and health through the study of human movement and activity in our advanced facilities.

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
20 Sep 2021
Endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences, this practical, multidisciplinary degree will help you to develop as a complete sport and exercise scientist. You will gain an evidence-based appreciation of biomechanics, nutrition, physiology and psychology and their applications within sport and exercise environments.
Based in our Carnegie School of Sport, you will have access to nationally and internationally recognised staff with a wealth of research and applied experience, a supportive academic advisory programme, specialist laboratories and facilities, and a progressive learning environment.
This course balances evidence-based knowledge and practical skills with the aim of producing graduates who can contribute constructively in varied settings. Our laboratories are equipped with the latest modern facilities, where you will take part in practical sessions examining O2 consumption, blood lactate and glucose concentration, body composition and dietary analysis.
You will have access to an environmental chamber which simulates the effects of diverse climatic conditions on physical performance, a full biomechanics laboratory and a DXA bone scanner, measuring the density and mineral composition of the skeletal structure.
On top of this, you can boost your CV by gaining nationally recognised sporting qualifications such as UK Coaching Certificates and gym and personal trainer awards, which are both available at the University.
Through work placement opportunities, you could find yourself working for professional sports clubs, such as Leeds Rhinos or Yorkshire County Cricket, local schools or health clubs. Many of our students have also taken advantage of our sport volunteering opportunities which have included national and global events such as the Student and Commonwealth Games.
The British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) is based at the University and offers a wealth of advantages including an annual student conference and membership, along with networking and employment opportunities. This course also meets the standards set by BASES and as a student here, you will be able to apply for personal accreditation.
We are ranked third in the country for Sport and Exercise Science research and education with our staff producing leading cutting edge research into the most current and topical issues in this subject, which will inevitably benefit and feed into your learning.
SPORT AND ACTIVE LIFESTYLES
We're passionate about sport and at Leeds Beckett University there's a huge range of sports and activities for you to get involved in, including more than 40 sports clubs. If you'd like to find out more about what we have to offer - including our Carnegie Sports Scholarship Scheme - take a look at the Sport & Active Lifestyles website.
Why study Sport and Exercise Science at Leeds Beckett University...
- Study on a course endorsed by the British Association for Sport and Exercise Science (BASES)
- Work alongside nationally and internationally recognised staff to gain a unique insight into the subject
- Utilise residentials and field trips to gain a real-life understanding into what you learn in the classroom
- Be among the first students to take advantage of the university’s new 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
BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science student Yona Knight-Wisdom Yona talks about studying Sport and Exercise Science at Leeds Beckett University
Everything you need to know
Entry requirements
UCAS Tariff Points:
120 points required. (Minimum 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). Or 112 UCAS points from three A levels (excluding General Studies) or equivalent e.g. BTEC Nationals or Cambridge Technicals. At least one A Level 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).If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
We have now welcomed students from over 140 countries across the globe. If you are interested in studying with us you can find your country and get all the information you'll need about entry requirements and how to apply.
Sport and Exercise Science
Entry requirements
UCAS Tariff Points:
120 points required. (Minimum 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). Or 112 UCAS points from three A levels (excluding General Studies) or equivalent e.g. BTEC Nationals or Cambridge Technicals. At least one A Level 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).If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
Additional Requirements:
GCSEs:
GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade C or above (Grade 4 for those sitting their GCSE from 2017 onwards) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy/Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma:
In a relevant subject, Pass overall with a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points.Scottish Awards:
Minimum of 5 subjects at Grade B at Higher Level. At least one science subject normally required which can include Psychology or PEIrish Leaving Certificate:
Minimum of 5 subjects at Grade C1 or above at Higher Level of which at least 3 must be at B2. One science subject normally required which can include Psychology or PESelection 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.
International baccalaureate
26 Points
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.
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 leaver on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants)
Our place as an Anchor Institution:
Leeds Beckett University is in the top 10 universities nationwide for being representative of our local community. To further strengthen our position as a key provider of education and training for West Yorkshire we apply an Anchor Institution Policy in our admissions process. Students who apply to us from any of the five Local Authority areas in West Yorkshire (BD, HD, HX, LS, WF) will be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points.
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 now welcomed students from over 140 countries across the globe. If you are interested in studying with us you can find your country and get all the information you'll need about entry requirements and how to apply.
UCAS Tariff Points:
120 points required. (Minimum 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). Or 112 UCAS points from three A levels (excluding General Studies) or equivalent e.g. BTEC Nationals or Cambridge Technicals. At least one A Level 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).If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
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.
International baccalaureate
26 Points
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.
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.
Our silver status in the latest Teaching Excellence Framework, reflects our commitment to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.
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.
Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic we are currently unable to advise on the mode of teaching for September 2021, however we will keep you updated and provide more information as soon as we can. We continue to follow government guidance and your teaching and learning will reflect the restrictions in place at the time of delivery. We currently anticipate that you may experience a blended approach – this is a mix of face-to-face, on campus and online teaching and learning. You can keep up to date with teaching and learning at Leeds Beckett via our Covid-19 website. Updated course specifications will be available in August 2021. In the meantime, our existing course specifications are available.
What you'll learn
What you'll learn
Option modules may include
What you'll learn
Option modules may include
Fees & Funding
Home / EU 2021
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2021/22 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
International 2021
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2021/22 is £13000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Sport and Exercise Science
Fees & Funding
For students entering in 2021
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2021/22 is £9250. 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
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 £19.99).
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.
Additional information
For students entering in 2021
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2021/22 is £13000. 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:
- 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 £19.99).
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.
Additional information
Carnegie School of Sport Exercise Studio Dr Theocharis Ispoglou talks about the versatile space of the exercise studio in the new Carnegie School of Sport building, which enables students to apply practice to their theory.
95%
overall student satisfaction.
National Student Survey 2020
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.
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Facilities | Sports training and research facilities
You'll have access to a whole host of sports faciltiies and we have invested £45m in a state-of-the-art building providing an iconic home for the Carnegie School of Sport, housing specialist teaching and research laboratories.
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Facilities | Sports Science Laboratories
Our specialist sports science facilities include a human performance lab, a cardio-respiratory lab, blood sampling room for biochemical marker work, a full working physiology lab for monitoring athletes, a full body composition scanner and a nutrition laboratory.
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Facilities | Libraries
Our Library will provide you with access to specialist books and journals, learning spaces, computers, multimedia facilities and media equipment hire. Tens of thousands of our Library's digital resources, including ebooks, ejournals and databases, can be accessed online at a time and place to suit you.
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Facilities | Gym and Sports Facilities
Our gyms at City and Headingley Campuses includes cardio machines, free weights (including dumbbells and squat racks), resistance machines and stretching areas.




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.

Your future in our hands
Carnegie School of Sport employability event at Elland Road Stadium Carnegie School of Sport and Elland Road have teamed up to host this year’s event highlighting the importance of employability as a student. Students take part in interactive activities as well as Q&A sessions with sports professionals and Leeds Beckett University alumni.
Career Prospects
We have a strong track record of preparing students for employment and further study within this increasingly popular subject area. 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. This course 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.
- Sports Coach
- Performance Developer
- PE Teacher
- Physiotherapist
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that the opportunity to experience an education here at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us to study for your undergraduate degree, you may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary.
Bursaries are usually awarded depending on household income, whilst scholarships are available for a number of areas, and are based on sporting or academic excellence. For more information visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
Beckett Careers Team
Our Beckett Careers Team will support you with all aspects of your career planning, throughout university and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a part-time job or want to gain experience alongside your studies, need help preparing an application or exploring graduate job options, we can provide expert support every step of the way!
Throughout your university journey and up to five years after you graduate you'll have access to a broad range of support and tools to help you with:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Preparing for an interview
- Applying for a graduate vacancies or placements
- Connecting with employers and organisations
Your Beckett experience

Experience Leeds Beckett
Explore our specialist teaching facilities and premium accommodation that you’ll be proud to call your second home.






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