Strength and Conditioning Science

Train to coach sports performers with a Strength and Conditioning Science degree at St Mary’s University – the front-runner for strength and conditioning education

Understand how to physically prepare and coach sports performers with our Strength and Conditioning Science degree. You will learn anatomy, neuromechanics, and how to apply your knowledge to the workplace.

Our strength and conditioning science programme is accredited by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Therefore, you’ll be eligible for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) qualification in the USA.

Our course also meets the requirements of the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA).

International reputation

St Mary's is internationally recognised as the front-runner for strength and conditioning education. Our strength and conditioning science course was the first of its kind in the UK, and we have made sure it evolved to be highly successful.

We help students pursue careers in elite sport. Some of our graduates have performed in:

• Olympic and Paralympic games

• shows by The Royal Ballet

• premiership football

• premiership rugby.

Expert teaching and support

You will learn from accredited and highly experienced coaches here to aid your personal and professional development. Our student, Ben, tells us how our lecturers supported him during his Strength and Conditioning Science degree.

Build hands-on, professional experience

You will gain crucial coaching experience with our partner clubs and organisations, such as:

• Crystal Palace FC

• London Irish RFC

• University London Boat Club

• Sutton Tennis Academy

• Royal Ballet Company.

If you decide to spend a year studying abroad, you will also build coaching experience in college American football and NCAA basketball – a rare experience in the UK.

Share facilities with Olympians

You will learn in our 5,000-square-foot Performance Education Centre – part of our world-class facilities used by Olympians.

You’ll also access our state-of-the art:

• Biomechanics Laboratory

• Exercise Physiology Laboratories.

Why St Mary’s?

You will gain skills and support to make a positive impact – for yourself and for others – through high-quality teaching, real-world experience, and a community that lifts each other up. Our campus is a London oasis – blending city energy with open green spaces to think, connect, and grow.

Year 1 - The first year is a foundation year for all students within the sport sciences. In addition to core sport science study you will cover additional modules in fundamentals of strength & conditioning, field based training techniques, & strength training techniques, which require a significant level of practical involvement. The training techniques covered over the first year include weightlifting, plyometrics, strength training, speed & agility, gymnastics, aerobic & anaerobic conditioning & aquatic training. Year 2 - You will now move more deeply into practical understanding & the application of acquired theoretical knowledge. Core topics will progress to cover all of those required as part of the UKSCA & NSCA accreditation processes. Year 3 – You will complete, alongside other theoretical & practical modules, both a work placement & an extended research project. Students have the option of splitting their final year & gaining credit for a work placement or internship.