Sport and Exercise Science

A Brighton Sport and Exercise Science degree prepares you for many rewarding career paths in health and sports performance as you gain an in-depth understanding of physiology, psychology, anatomy and biomechanics.

You’ll be part of a community that helps you grow, no matter what your background. The course is packed with opportunities to gain real-world experience, including a paid placement after year two, working with real clients on consultancy projects, plus hands-on experience in our new sport science labs throughout your degree. Our inclusive approach to learning will help you go further; we’ll make sure you play to your strengths and learn in ways that suit you best.

The course is endorsed by the Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES) and will provide you with the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills essential to enter the profession.

Brighton’s graduates go on to work as sport physiologists, strength and conditioning coaches, performance analysts, exercise referral specialists and sport psychologists.

Top reasons to choose this course

• Endorsed by the Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES) – the UK’s professional body.

• Brighton sport courses have received the 3-star ‘Enhancing’ grade for quality from the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

• You’ll build practical hands-on experience in our sport science labs and work with clients throughout your course.

• Work placement opportunities enable you to gain professional experience and make industry contacts.

• Explore your interests and tailor the course to your interests through option modules.

• Learn with our sport science experts and innovative researchers.

• Opportunity to specialise in PE if you’re considering a teaching career.

• Brighton is 8th in the UK for sport science courses – Guardian University Guide 2025.

Year 1
In year one you’ll build a strong foundation across areas including anatomy, biomechanics, physiology and psychology. Theoretical learning is combined with practical skills, exploring how the body moves, functions and responds to exercise, while also examining psychological and social influences on sport and health.

Core modules
Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Fundamental Biomechanics
Foundations of Physiology for Sport and Exercise
Foundations of Sport and Exercise Psychology
The Scientific Study of Sport and Exercise
Sport, the Body and Society
Integrated and Applied Studies

Year 2
In year two you’ll deepen your understanding of sport science principles with core modules focusing on advanced lab-based techniques, injury mechanisms, group dynamics and research design. Option modules allow for specialisation in areas such as nutrition, rehabilitation and performance analysis.

Core modules
Data Analysis and Research Methods
Applied Sport and Exercise Physiology
Biomechanics of Sport and Exercise
Sport and Exercise Psychology

Options*
Practical Performance
Creating a Positive Teaching and Learning Environment
Primary Physical Education: Theory and practice of teaching KS1 and KS2 PE
Performance in Environmental Extremes
Exercise Referral and Rehabilitation
Performance Assessment and Training Prescription in Strength and Conditioning
Performance Analysis
Nutrition for Physical Activity

Optional placement year
Gain valuable experience and earn money during an optional placement year. You’ll return to the final year of your degree with added confidence, additional real-world experience and valuable contacts.

Final year
In the final year you’ll undertake a major independent research project through your dissertation, applying advanced research and analytical skills to a topic of interest. You’ll also gain professional experience on placement. A choice of option modules allows you to specialise further in areas such as coaching, rehabilitation and applied psychology.

Core modules
Dissertation
Personal and Professional Development

Options*
Physical Education in the 14–16 curriculum
Education Studies 3: Inclusive Practice
Advanced Strength Coaching
Sports Nutrition
Applied Sport Psychology
Physiological Aspects of Exercise, Nutrition and Health
Injury and Rehabilitation in Sport and Exercise
Expedition Physiology
Exercise and the Brain
Physical Practical Activity 1

*Option modules are indicative and may change, depending on timetabling and staff availability.