Sport and Exercise Science - BSc (Hons)

University of Northampton

How do athletes optimise performance? What happens inside the body during exercise? How can scientific research be used to improve health, wellbeing and physical activity? Sport and Exercise Science helps answer these questions by exploring the science that underpins human movement, performance and physical health. Combining theory with practical application, this course develops your understanding of how the body and mind respond to exercise while equipping you with the skills needed to apply scientific principles in real-world settings. You'll study key areas including biomechanics, physiology and psychology, gaining insight into the factors that influence human performance and participation in physical activity. Throughout the course, you'll explore how scientific evidence is used to enhance performance, support recovery, improve wellbeing and inform professional practice across sport and exercise environments. Practical experience is central to your learning. Using purpose-built laboratories, you'll develop skills in testing, analysis, research and data interpretation while investigating contemporary issues. This hands-on approach helps you build both scientific understanding and technical confidence. A particular strength of the course is its applied focus. Through internship opportunities and connections with Northampton Town Football Club, Northampton Saints Rugby and Northants County Cricket, you'll have opportunities to experience the practical application of sport science within professional sporting environments. Alongside scientific knowledge, you'll develop valuable transferable skills in research, critical thinking, communication, problem-solving and evidence-based decision making. An employability-focused module in the first year helps you begin exploring career pathways and potential areas of specialism from the start of your studies. By graduation, you'll have developed the scientific understanding, practical laboratory experience and professional skills needed for careers in sport science support, performance enhancement, coaching, health and fitness, teaching or further postgraduate study.

At UON, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027\*.

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost\*\*, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship. ✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation\ ✱✱ Eligibility criteria and T&Cs apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits