A guide to sports courses

What is the study of Sports?

The study of sports at university level focuses on the science, management, and broader social impact of sport and physical activity. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to examine how the human body performs under exercise, how to improve athletic performance, and how to manage sporting organisations and events.

Sports studies is a multidisciplinary field, drawing from biology, psychology, physiology, sociology, education, and business. It aims to support not only elite athletic performance but also public health, youth development, and community engagement through sport.

What topics can I study?

At university, sports studies can be tailored to various interests and career paths. Common subject specialisations include:

• Sports Science – Focuses on anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, and nutrition to understand physical performance.
• Exercise and Health Science – Explores the role of physical activity in improving public health and preventing disease.
• Sports Coaching and Performance – Covers coaching techniques, athlete development, and performance analysis.
• Football Coaching – Covering the techniques used to encourage the development of football/soccer.
• Sports Management – Business-oriented, focusing on sports marketing, event management, and club administration.
• Physical Education (PE) – Prepares students for careers in teaching and promoting physical activity in schools.
• Sports Psychology – Examines mental performance, motivation, and the psychological aspects of competition.
• Movement Therapy – Studies injury prevention, treatment, and recovery for athletes.
• Sports Journalism – Learning all aspects of covering sports in news publications.

These specialisations often intersect, giving students the flexibility to pursue academic or applied careers in sports and health.

Why choose to study a university degree in Sports?

There are many reasons to pursue a degree in sports:

• Passion for sport and physical activity – Ideal for those who are active, health-conscious, and interested in how the body works.
• Diverse career opportunities – Ranging from coaching and teaching to physiotherapy, performance analysis, and sports business.
• Growing global industry – The sports industry is multi-billion dollar and continues to expand across sectors.
• Health impact – Promote wellness, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.
• Opportunity to work with athletes – From grassroots to elite-level sport.
• Interdisciplinary learning – Combines science, education, and business.

Students often choose this field to turn their passion into a profession that improves lives and communities.

Practical learning and research opportunities

Sports programs are hands-on and research-rich. Learning opportunities often include:

• Laboratory sessions – In physiology, biomechanics, and performance testing.
• Coaching placements – With schools, sports clubs, or professional teams.
• Internships – In gyms, fitness centres, rehab clinics, sports organisations, or event companies.
• Fieldwork – Such as outdoor education, community sports engagement, or research data collection.
• Performance analysis – Using video analysis and wearable technology.
• Dissertation or final-year research project – Allowing students to explore a topic of personal or professional interest.
• Access to facilities – Including sports labs, gyms, arenas, and rehab clinics.

Universities often have partnerships with professional clubs or community organisations, enhancing practical experience and employability.

Courses available at undergraduate and postgraduate levels

Undergraduate programs:

• BSc in Sport and Exercise Science
• BA or BSc in Sports Management
• BA in Physical Education
• BSc in Coaching and Performance
• BSc in Sports Therapy or Rehabilitation
• BSc in Kinesiology

Duration:

• UK and Europe – Typically 3 years (4 years in Scotland).
• USA/Canada – 4 years.
• Australia – Usually 3–4 years.

Postgraduate Programs:

• MSc in Sport and Exercise Science
• MSc in Strength and Conditioning
• MSc in Sports Coaching
• MSc in Sports Management
• MSc in Rehabilitation or Physiotherapy (specialised)

Duration:

• Taught Master’s – Usually 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time.
• Research-based Master’s (MRes) – 1–2 years.
• PhD in Sports Science or Related Fields – 3–4 years of independent research.

Academic entry requirements

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

• A-levels, IB, or national high school diploma – With relevant subjects (e.g. biology, PE, or science).
• Typical UK A-level offer: BBB–CCC, depending on the university.
• English language proficiency – IELTS (usually 6.0–6.5) for non-native speakers.
• Personal statement or motivation letter – Explaining interest in sport.
• Work experience or sports participation – May be an advantage, especially for coaching courses.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• A relevant bachelor’s degree – In sports science or a related discipline.
• Work or coaching experience – Often required or recommended.
• References – Academic or professional.
• English language test – Required if first degree wasn’t in English.

Some universities may also require an interview or assessment as part of the selection process.

Tuition fees for sports degrees

Tuition fees vary by country and course level. Approximate costs are:

Undergraduate (Annual Fees):

UK:

• Home students: ~£9,250
• International students: £14,000–£20,000

USA:

• Public universities: $10,000–$30,000 (in-state), $25,000–$45,000 (out-of-state)
• Private universities: $35,000–$60,000

Australia:

• AUD 25,000–40,000

Canada:

• CAD 8,000–30,000

Postgraduate:

• UK MSc: £10,000–£20,000 (home); £15,000–£30,000 (international)
• USA MSc: $20,000–$50,000
• Australia MSc: AUD 25,000–45,000

Many universities offer sports scholarships or bursaries for athletes and students with strong academic or extracurricular profiles.

In conclusion

Studying sports at university offers a dynamic mix of science, practice, and passion.

Whether your goal is to coach athletes, improve public health, manage major events, or contribute to sports research, a degree in this field provides the tools, knowledge, and experience needed to make an impact.

With growing interest in health, wellness, and performance, the career possibilities are more exciting and diverse than ever.