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Sport and Exercise Science (Outdoor Fitness), BSc

University of Wales Trinity Saint David, the United Kingdom

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

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About Sport and Exercise Science (Outdoor Fitness), BSc - at University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Course Overview

The first year of study is generic across the portfolio of Sport and Exercise Science degree pathways, and gives all students a grounding in the main principles of the subject area, along with the time to decide if they want to specialise in a particular pathway, or change pathways. The three core subjects of physiology, psychology and biomechanics form the foundations, with delivery comprising of a combination of theoretical lectures followed by an opportunity to apply that knowledge practically in our well-equipped sports science laboratories. Students will develop the hands-on skills required to use equipment such as: gas analysers, light gates, force platforms, motion analysis software, and body composition analysers.

Alongside the core subjects, the first year gives students the opportunity to study the principles of training and exercise, and to gain vocational awards as Gym Instructors and Personal Trainers alongside their studies, if they wish. A grounding in the basics of sports nutrition is also developed, as well as an understanding of the importance of physical activity in health and wellbeing.

In the second year, students continue to develop their knowledge in the foundational subjects of physiology, biomechanics and psychology, alongside developing their ability to understand and conduct research. A specialist module on Leading and Coaching Outdoor Sports allows students to experience and explore the skills required to lead a coach a range of outdoor sports and activities, whilst Nutrition for Sport and Exercise develops their knowledge of nutrition.

During the final year, students deepen their knowledge in their specialist area by conducting an independent experimental research study of their own, alongside an in-depth review of the literature. The Extreme Physiology module explores the effects of heat, cold, altitude and ultra-distance on the physiology of the body, whilst Advanced Training Methods builds on knowledge developed in the first two years.

Key Features

Sport and Exercise Science is one of the top 10 most popular degree subjects in the UK, with over 65,000 students each year applying through UCAS for courses across the country.

The Complete University Guide ranks sports science at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David as 8th in the UK for student satisfaction, with 95% of students being satisfied with their experiences according to the National Student Survey.

The growth in the popularity of outdoor endurance-based sports over recent years has been enormous, with cycle sportives, triathlons, marathons, adventure races and other outdoor challenges taking place every weekend all over the country. The demand for experts in this area is also growing, both on the performance side (coaches, personal trainers, bike-fit technicians, etc) and on the recreational side (mountain bike guides, expedition leaders, outdoor recreation promotion officers, etc). This degree will produce graduates who have the skills and knowledge to gain employment in this growing market, and turn their passion for outdoor sports into a career.

Our portfolio of Sport and Exercise Science degrees allows students to specialise in certain areas, or remain on a generic pathway, according to their aspirations. After a common first year, students can choose to either remain on the generic pathway, or choose one of the following pathways: Sports Nutrition; Clinical Exercise Physiology; Personal Training; or Outdoor Fitness.

Sport and Exercise Science (Outdoor Fitness) is studied on the Carmarthen campus which offers a friendly and personal learning experience, with access to a wide range of outdoor settings for participating in outdoor sports. The campus is only 15 miles West of the Brecon Beacons National Park and near to the fantastic mountain bike trails of Brechfa and Afan Argoed. For water lovers we have a partnership with a local paddle sport centre with excellent access to recreational and competitive equipment and coaching. The nearby Gower peninsula and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park offer unrivalled opportunities for a range of coastal activities, along with fantastic roads and trails for cycling and running, including the course of Ironman Wales. On campus enjoy free access to the swimming pool, health suite and climbing wall. The Students? Union provides an extensive array of sporting clubs and leisure activities.

In addition to the main skills required of a Sport and Exercise Scientist, students graduating from University of Wales Trinity Saint David will also gain the skills required to conduct fitness and health assessments and will have the opportunity to qualify as gym instructors and personal trainers. A range of Outdoor National Governing Body Awards are available at an extra cost. Conducting and understanding research is also a key skill developed throughout the degree and students will be constantly challenged to critically review the latest research and conduct their own studies. Within the final year students will design and conduct their own research in a specialist area of their choice.

Modules

  • Human Physiology and Fitness
  • Sport and Exercise Psychology
  • Leading and Coaching Outdoor Sports
  • Kinesiology
  • Personal Training
  • Nutrition for Health
  • Injuries and Chronic Disease
  • Biomechanics of Sport and Exercise
  • Advanced Training Methods
  • Extreme Physiology
  • Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology
  • Ergogenic Performance and Sport
  • Exercise and Specific Populations
  • Nutrition for Sport and Exercise

Course Tutor(s)

  • Geraint Forster
  • David Gardner
  • Kate Louise Evans
  • Alison Connaughton
  • Hayley Herbert
  • Dylan Blain
  • Peter Herbert

Assessment

Whilst the degree is predominantly assessed through a combination of course work and practical examination, students will also develop an extensive portfolio of professional practice and case study evidence.

Career Opportunities

90% of our graduates in this subject area are employed or in full-time further study within 6 months of graduating. In general, degrees in Sport and Exercise Science prepare graduates for careers such as:

  • sport scientist (working with professional sports teams, governing bodies, etc)
  • strength and conditioning coach
  • Personal Trainer
  • Outdoor Expedition Leader
  • Coaching and advising recreational athletes (e.g. triathlon, running, cycling)
  • Youth sport
  • Academic Research
  • Teaching

Further Information

All equipment needed to study this degree is provided by the University within the Sports Injuries Clinics, Human Performance Laboratory, Body composition laboratory, swimming pool, and fitness training facilities. Students will be required to purchase university tracksuit and training tops which are required in practical sessions and when working with external groups. In addition students wishing to achieve additional, vocational qualification will incur additional charges for these courses.

Several open days are held throughout the year where potential students are encouraged to come and discuss the course with academic staff. The dates for open days and taster days are listed on the University / Schools website.

Related Courses

  • BSc Sport and Exercise Science (Sports Nutrition)
  • BSc Sport and Exercise Science
  • BSc Sport and Exercise Science (Personal Training)
  • BSc Sport and Exercise Science (Outdoor Fitness)
  • BSc Sport and Exercise Science (Clinical Exercise Physiology)
  • BSc Sports Therapy

Additional Costs

£30 induction overnight activity for all year 1 students

Sports clothing (£80-£120) depending on course

Entry requirements

Entry Criteria

Students would normally be expected to achieve a minimum of 96 UCAS points (2017 Tariff) with a focus on science based subjects and/or physical education. Mature students without sufficient UCAS points will be considered on merit through an interview process.

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