The Brunel Physical Activity and Exercise for Health MSc explores the importance of physical activity and exercise across different population groups. It provides students the opportunity to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to assess, prescribe and support individuals and groups with engaging in health-enhancing physical activity and exercise.

Physical activity has a wide range of physical, mental and social health benefits. However, many people in the population do not engage in sufficient amounts of physical activity to maintain good health. This MSc will develop your ability to design public health initiatives to promote physical activity behaviour change at local population and global levels.

Regular physical activity and limiting sedentary behaviour is important for the effective management of long-term health conditions like Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mental ill-health. This MSc, therefore, includes a focus on the application of theory and specialist techniques from multiple disciplines (psychology, physiology and biomechanics) to engage clinical and special population groups in physical activity.

You will also gain specialist knowledge and skills in assessing physical activity, exercise and physical function, and benefit from hands-on learning in our modern physiology and biomechanics laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

The course is aimed at graduates from a range of disciplines (such as sport and exercise sciences, psychology, physiology, health sciences, biosciences and physiotherapy) as well as individuals currently working in healthcare, the fitness industry and public health.

Physical activity and exercise are recognised nationally and internationally as a primary target for effective management of long-term health conditions, driving a growing demand for trained professionals in these fields. Graduates of this MSc will be equipped to pursue diverse roles across health and fitness industries, clinical healthcare, primary and community healthcare, private healthcare, exercise medicine services, consultancy, public health, and research.

Career opportunities include roles such as Health and Wellbeing Specialist, Exercise Physiologist, Public Health Practitioner, Physical Activity Facilitator, Clinical Biomechanist, and Research Assistant. Graduates can also seek roles in public health policy, health promotion, and specialized exercise instruction for specific populations.

Postgraduate progression options include registration as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist with the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) after 2–3 years of experience, or pursuing a PhD in a relevant area.