Physical Education and Sport

Ranked 2nd for Satisfied with Teaching and 4th for Satisfied with Feedback Satisfied for Sports Science - Data taken from the 2026 Guardian University Guide, Sport Science Subject table filtered by Teaching or Feedback

This degree explores the ways that sport, physical education and physical activity are delivered and organised across schools and local communities. You are encouraged to think critically about current and historical practice in sport and Physical Education and reflect on your own experiences.

This course allows you to study key disciplines within sport and physical education and includes an opportunity to undertake a work placement at a local sport or physical education provider. The course provides a mixture of classroom-based sessions (to introduce theories and concepts) and practical activities that enable you to develop your own coaching/teaching delivery styles to children and adults.

There are also several opportunities to learn ‘off campus’ through study trips, work placements and gain teaching/coaching practice at local schools. Alongside the degree, you are also encouraged to take an active engagement in practical work experience with internships at the local professional sports clubs, and volunteering in community sports clubs.

We also offer the opportunity of attaining coaching qualifications whilst studying. Graduates from this course should be excellently placed to pursue a career in sport development, sport coaching, move into further study to become teachers, or apply the transferable skills nurtured to a range of other graduate careers.

UON’s Sport and Exercise Sciences subject area was ranked 3rd based on overall student positivity out of all universities in England, according to the latest 2025 National Student Survey (NSS)^

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

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.

Built for your future

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.

Guaranteed accommodation

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*.

Exceptional student benefits

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.

A modern campus experience

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.

The Northampton Employment Promise

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/ for more information
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

^Calculations are based on Office for Students (OfS) data from the average positivity score across all NSS questions for this subject area across all modes and levels at UK Universities.

Course Modules

STAGE 1

• Introduction to Physical Education (compulsory)

• Introduction to Sport & Exercise Psychology (compulsory)

• The Social Context of Sport and Exercise (compulsory)

• Professional and Academic Skills in Physical Education and Sport (compulsory)

• Sport Coaching Science (compulsory)

• Introduction to Motor Learning and Skill Acquisition (compulsory)

STAGE 2

• Sport Research Methods (compulsory)

• Sports Development (compulsory)

• Developing Professional Practice (compulsory)

• Teaching and Learning in Physical Education (compulsory)

• The Developing Athlete (compulsory)

• Sport Pedagogy in Context (compulsory)

OPTIONAL PLACEMENT YEAR

• Sport Optional Placement Year (designated)

STAGE 3

• Sport Development Dissertation (compulsory)

• Contemporary Issues in Sport Development (compulsory)

• Critical Issues in Physical Education (compulsory)

• Advanced Professional Practice (designated)

• Physical Activity and Society (designated)

• Social and Welfare Issues in Sport (designated)

Module information is quoted for 2026 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

The course is assessed in a number of ways:

• Essays

• Exams

• Reports

• Presentations

• Work placements