Sports Science and Physiology, BSc, University of Leeds

Course content

Year 1 is a common course year, which will introduce you to the core concepts of sports science, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control and sport and exercise psychology. In addition, you will be introduced to the foundations of physiology and cardio-respiratory physiology. This year is a great opportunity to develop your skills around your interests and your practical and theoretical skills. This is supported by professional and academic skills modules, where there are opportunities to take coaching awards or short work placements.

In Year 2 you will continue to specialise, with compulsory modules in exercise biochemistry and exercise physiology in sport, health and disease. During the first two years, our students develop their communication and interpersonal skills by undertaking additional experiences outside academia, including coaching awards.

In Year 3, you will specialise in one of the core themes and undertake a research project on a topic of your choice; modules available include advanced exercise physiology and exercise prescription for health and disease. You will graduate with a broad base of transferable skills ideal for the graduate job market.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAA - ABB

  Including a science subject OR both Psychology and Sports Science/PE in place of a science at A2. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.

  GCSE: Typically Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English

  • Career opportunities

    Number 1 for employability - the Faculty of Biological Sciences is ranked highest for employability amongst Russell Group universities. Higher than Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham, Edinburgh, Kings College, Liverpool, Manchester, York.

    Sport science at Leeds is a highly respected discipline. 96% of our graduates are employed or in further study six months after graduation. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in a wide range of areas, including roles in:

    Our degrees prepare you for a variety of opportunities in scientific and non-scientific careers. In an increasingly competitive job market, they can give you the edge and help you stand out by developing the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. The structure of our courses as you go through the years offers opportunities for real-world experience and employment, where you will develop the communication and interpersonal skills necessary for success in your future career. You could also gain additional vocational qualifications and experience, such as a National Governing Bodies of Sport coaching award or working as a volunteer in a community sports club.

    Careers support

    We have a dedicated Employability Officer in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who works closely with the University's Careers Centre. We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. We also organise regular careers workshops designed specifically for sport sciences students to develop their career opportunities. These include our annual Bioscience Networking Event, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, speak to alumni, attend workshops and get masses of information.

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    Study abroad

    On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. The University has partnerships with more than 400 universities worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

    Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

    If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of the BSc studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

    Industrial placements are typically taken between your second and final year. If you choose to undertake a placement year, this will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement in industry, staff at Leeds will help you with your CV and application letters and provide a list of organisations which may offer industrial placements.

    Placements abroad are possible. We work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of this year. A year working in industry gives you an excellent opportunity to get used to the demands of the world of work, to develop new skills and to augment your CV.

    Our students have recently undertaken placements at:

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