Sport and Exercise Sciences BSc

Course overview

Sport and exercise science has an important role in society, ranging from improving sports performance in elite athletes to reducing the burden of disease associated with physical inactivity in modern lifestyles.

On this course, you'll gain a broad knowledge and understanding of the principal body systems, processes and functions in health and disease.

Your learning will include the opportunity to discover and explore individual areas such as exercise physiology, psychology, biomechanics and motor control in more depth.

You'll explore how this knowledge may be applied to optimise sports performance, improve health, disease outcomes and inform rehabilitation strategies. You'll gain an integrated understanding of how the body and mind respond to and learn from the demands placed on it during sport and exercise.

At Leeds, you’ll be part of an investigative, inspirational, and engaging learning experience, informed by innovative research undertaken in purpose-built laboratories, and delivered by world-leading academics.

This degree will equip you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive as a confident sport and exercise professional, ready to take on diverse roles across the industry.

Why study at Leeds

• Put theory into practice and develop hands-on practical skills in our state-of-the-art facilities, including physiology, biomechanics and motor control laboratories, as well as the use of our environmental chamber and motion capture system.
• Develop the skill employers really value with dedicated practical skills modules that train you to identify problems, and design and conduct experiments to find answers to key health and sport-related questions.
• Enhance your career prospects and give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate with our year in industry – our close industry links and careers support services have given previous students the chance to work at leading sports and health organisations.
• Gain invaluable life experience and advance your personal development with our exciting study abroad programmes, spanning across universities worldwide
• Study in a city with a rich sporting heritage — at Leeds, you can enjoy our state-of-the-art sport and exercise facilities and enjoy access to over 70 sports clubs, from hockey and dance to rowing and ultimate frisbee, giving you everything you need to stay active and feel your best.
• We offer a coaching scholarship programme through Leeds Sport Volunteering, which gives you an opportunity to develop foundational practitioner skills in the field of strength and conditioning, have hands-on experience coaching University teams and athletes, gain access to mentoring from a UKSCA-accredited practitioner and be part of our strength and conditioning community.
• Flexible options to transfer onto other suitable and related degrees at the end of year 1, as many programmes within our School share a common first year.

Course details and modules

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read BSc Sport and Exercise Sciences course catalogue entry.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Structure and Function of Human Body Systems (20 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the core concepts underpinning the structure and function of human body systems, with an emphasis on how systems are structured, operate and interact. You'll also discover how the environment, exercise and disease can disturb these core systems, and the underpinning physiology.

Introduction to Sport and Exercise Biomechanics (10 credits)

This module introduces a key discipline in Sport and Exercise Sciences -Biomechanics. Biomechanics investigates the generation of movement and the associated forces using applied physical laws.

Exercise Physiology, Bioenergetics and Nutrition (10 credits)

This module investigates the Physiology of the acute responses to exercise and the chronic adaptations to exercise training. Alongside this, consideration is given to where the energy for exercise comes from, the fundamental concept of sports nutrition.

Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology (10 credits)

Psychology studies the use of mental skills to enhance performance, increase enjoyment, alongside interpersonal and social processes. This module covers areas such as social psychology and motivation key for encouraging participation and achieving exercise goals.

Introduction to Motor Control in Sport and Exercise (10 credits)

This module introduces the key discipline of Motor Control. Motor Control looks at how the central nervous system produces purposeful, coordinated movements in its interaction with the rest of the body and with the environment.

Team-Based Solutions for Local Challenges in Human Sciences (20 credits)

You’ll be provided with the opportunity to address a current human health-related challenge in a facilitated team-based environment. You'll develop the core skills necessary to tackle challenges whilst working in interdisciplinary groups.

Practical Application of Clinical, Laboratory and Field Skills for Human Sciences (20 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the key skills essential for basic fitness assessment and scientific research in the field of sports and exercise science. This includes hands-on practical application in a laboratory and out in the field, as well as skills that support these activities, including research design, hypothesis testing and data analysis.

Foundations of Strength and Conditioning (10 credits)

Thisintroduces the foundational principles of strength and conditioning in performance sport and athlete development settings. Key concepts such as overload and recovery, as well as profiling and monitoring, are covered, giving you a practical and theoretical understanding of how to work with individuals to develop their fitness.

Optional modules

List 1

Students must select 1-2 modules from the list below.

Introduction to Coaching and Instructing (10 credits)

You’ll develop core coaching and instructing skills applicable across sport and Exercise Science careers. Concepts such as leadership, pedagogy, ethics and communication will be explored alongside practicalities of session planning and safeguarding to help you effectively plan and evaluate coaching sessions.

Introduction to the Physical Activity and Exercise Industries (10 credits)

You'll critically explore the UK physical activity and exercise industries, including current policies, strategies and the challenges for the profession. You'll develop a deeper understanding of personal experiences and critical skills through looking at the industry, its professional development and the role it plays in government strategies.

Critical Debates in Sport, Exercise and Physical Activity (10 credits)

Sport, exercise, and physical activity fields are no strangers to false information, unsubstantiated claims, and bad scientific practices. In this module, you'll engage with contemporary issues in these areas through evidence-based debate. Through weekly explorations, you’ll gain an understanding of how to develop academic justification and the processes for defending academic arguments.

List 2

If only one module is selected from List 1, choose an optional module from List 2.

Introduction to Sports Analytics (10 credits)

You’ll be provided with an introduction to the use of analytics in elite sports. A key theme is the difference between analytics in invasion-territorial team sports and striking-and-fielding team sports. The analytical methods covered include exploratory data analysis, win-loss analysis, correlation and regression analysis, and win-contribution analysis

Discovery module (10 credits)

Discovery modules give you the opportunity to broaden your academic experience and enhance your employability outside of your main subject area. Examples of Discovery modules include: Medical Technology Futures, Should Scientists Be Activists?, Principles of Marketing, Managing Classroom Behaviours, and many more.

Year 2

Compulsory Modules

Experimental Skills in Sports and Exercise Sciences (20 credits)

In teams, you'll plan and execute various practical activities, including lab experiments, field projects and computational work. You'll explore experimental design principles, hypothesis testing, and enhance data evaluation skills using statistical methods. Emphasis will be on communicating experimental findings through written reports and other formats.

Physiological Responses and Behavioural Control of Human Movement (40 credits)

This module introduces advanced concepts underpinning the study of human physiology, including cardiac, circulatory and respiratory physiology, effects of disease, the impact exercise has on these systems and how this might affect sporting performance. Students will also cover how the body is influenced when exercising to the limit, alongside developing an understanding of muscle function and motor learning. This content builds on topics covered in year 1.

Social Psychology and Mechanics of Sport and Exercise (20 credits)

This module builds on your previous understanding of biomechanics and exercise psychology, exploring key areas such as the psychology of group dynamics and coach-athlete relationships, as well as further developing your skills and understanding in biomechanical analysis of complex activities and tissues of the body.

Team-Based Solutions to Global Challenges in Human Science (20 credits)

In line with key UN sustainability goals (United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Sustainability (leeds.ac.uk), you’ll build skills in knowledge application, analysis and scientific data presentation. Working as a team, you’ll research and create biomedical solutions to a global grand challenge, developing key academic and professional skills. This includes the critical analysis of research papers, communication, teamwork, planning, organisation, and negotiation.

Optional modules

Students study up to 20 credits from the following list of optional modules:

Teaching and Coaching Young People (10 credits)

This module is designed to enable you to develop your knowledge and understanding of working with children in a physical education and a sport environment. You’ll consider the difference in pedagogy between teaching and coaching and how each approach can get the best out of children aged 5-19 years. You’ll plan and deliver a session for primary school age children.

Physical Activity Across the Lifespan (10 credits)

This module explores how physical activity is defined as well as recommendations for different populations by various health bodies. You'll look at wearables and other technologies and consider how physical activity can be promoted for specific populations.

Event Management (10 credits)

You'll engage in the complete event management cycle, from design and planning (including producing a business plan) to delivery and evaluation (including event operations and risk assessments). You'll explore key principles and apply them practically. A key element of the module is each student’s personal development through their interaction with the content and through the planning, delivery and evaluation of your own event.

Sports Development and Management (10 credits)

You’ll critically explore the sporting landscape in the UK and examine how the UK government uses sport to contribute to the development of society. You’ll explore the current challenges facing the strategies and interventions for sport and physical activity, as well as consider the issues facing us as we approach a transhuman possibility.

Emerging Leaders (10 credits)

This module will provide you with a range of opportunities to test your leadership credentials in a practical setting. You’ll practically apply and assess your leadership skills and learn how effective leaders operate.

Supporting the Injured Athlete (10 credits)

You’ll explore the principles of rehabilitation along with the key skills and attributes needed to operate as a supporting specialist in performance sport. You’ll explore practical techniques used for rehabilitation and practice in producing a plan for rehabilitation of an injured athlete.

Discovery Module (10 credits)

Discovery modules give you the opportunity to broaden your academic experience and enhance your employability outside of your main subject area. Examples of Discovery modules include: Medical Technology Futures, Should Scientists Be Activists?, Principles of Marketing, Managing Classroom Behaviours, and many more.

Year 3

Compulsory Modules

Capstone Research Project (40 credits)

You’ll design and undertake, either individually or as part of a team, an extended enquiry-based project in an area or topic relevant to the biomedical sciences. Previous projects have included:

• Exploring the interplay of automatic processes, depression and exercise habits, to aid with the development of future exercise interventions (fieldwork)
• Effect of running shoes with embedded carbon plates on running economy (laboratory-based)
• The Impact of Menstrual Cycle Phase on the Airway Response to Exercise in Females with and without Asthma (laboratory-based)
• Addressing Core and Functional Symptoms and Redirecting Risk-taking Behaviours in adolescent ADHD cohorts (Consultancy)

Research Skills and Professional Development (20 credits)

You’ll attend a series of compulsory and optional units designed to provide scaffolding and support for your capstone research experience. This will develop and utilise your research and employability skills required both for the capstone project and for the workplace.

Exercise Prescription and Health Psychology (20 credits)

You'll learn how to interpret the results of health-related physical fitness testing and clinical exercise testing, and use this information to produce exercise prescriptions for special populations (e.g., cardiac patients, the elderly, children, pregnant women) and clinical conditions (e.g., dyslipidemia, obesity, hypertension, diabetes). You'll critically analyse research in exercise and health psychology to develop your understanding of theoretical models underpinning behaviour change and how to use them alongside exercise prescription to promote physical and psychological health.

Optional modules

List 1

Students study up to four optional modules from the following list:

Advanced Sports Biomechanics: Performance, Injury and Rehabilitation (10 credits)

This module looks at the biomechanics underpinning the latest advances in sports performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. We will look at a range of topics, including the design of sporting equipment, prostheses, rehabilitation assistive technologies and devices, and the latest analysis and modelling techniques. Students will partake in one lab using a full 3D motion capture system to look at the effects of shoe design on the kinematics and kinetics of running.

Motor Control and Neurorehabilitation (10 credits)

This module examines the neurophysiology of movement control in health and disease as well as current research in the rehabilitation of movement. The key aspects of the study of movement include: neuromuscular, cortical, spinal, supraspinal and sensory control of movement, with a particular focus on balance, locomotion, reaching and grasping. The module will examine the rationale and clinical justification for current therapy, which aims to promote neuroplasticity and recovery of function.

Advanced Exercise Physiology (10 credits)

You will discuss and critically analyse key contemporary issues in exercise physiology, evaluate relevant literature, and understand their significance in sport and exercise science. The module includes four lectures and tutorials on topics such as muscle oxygen consumption control, muscle fibre type plasticity, cardiac hypertrophy, cardiovascular and pulmonary performance limitations, genetics of human performance, circadian rhythms in performance, the female athlete triad, exercise in pre-puberty, and exercise during pregnancy.

Motor and Psychological Aspects of Rehabilitation (10 credits)

In this module, you will learn to critically analyse research in the field of exercise and health psychology and how to describe the key theoretical models underpinning behaviour change. You’ll gain an understanding of how exercise is used as an intervention to promote psychological health and the maladaptive consequences of exercise on psychological health. You’ll use this knowledge to demonstrate a critical understanding of exercise prescription from a psychological perspective and qualitatively analyse experiences of sedentary behaviour and provide recommendations to enhance exercise adherence.

Contemporary Issues in Sport and Exercise Medicine (10 credits)

In this module, you will focus on the health and well-being of individuals engaged in sports and physical activity. You will learn about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of sports-related injuries, as well as the promotion of overall health and performance. The module will explore current issues and challenges in SEM, taught by clinical experts, and will provide a critical understanding of its interdisciplinary nature and role in performance, health, and disease

List 2

If students have taken fewer than four modules from list 1, then they can take 1-2 modules from the list below

Diet and Cardiovascular Health (10 credits)

On this module, you will gain the knowledge and understanding of the functions of food and nutrients and their relationship to health and disease, and will be aware of recent advances in specific topics.

Teaching and Coaching Young People (10 credits)

Are you thinking of a career in teaching Physical Education or coaching sport? Not sure which one is for you? Would you like to know more about each discipline? This module offers you the opportunity to explore each career and help you to find which is right for you. This module is designed to enable students to develop their knowledge and understanding of working with children in a Physical Education and Sport environment. The module will consider the difference in pedagogy between teaching and coaching and how each approach can be applied to get the best out of children aged between 5 -19 years. The module covers both the theoretical and practical application of both disciplines and, as such, should develop knowledge and understanding from an applied perspective. This approach will allow students to reflect on their personal skills, strengths and weaknesses and their future aspirations, which underpins the assessment methodology of the module.

Sports Development and Management (10 credits)

In the U.K. sport Development was once merely the title of a professional position. However, it has now grown into a complex field of study as such professionals seek to understand the place of their role in the sport, exercise, and physical activity of a modern society. With sport’s increasing influence on social policy from education to health, and crime to international relations, sport development is a key area of analysis and understanding. In this module, students will critically explore the whole sporting landscape in the U.K. and examine how the U.K. government uses sport to contribute to the development of society. The module will also look at the current challenges facing the strategies and interventions for sport and physical activity, as well as considering the issues facing us as we approach a transhuman possibility. You will not only develop a deeper understanding of your own experiences, but also analytical and evaluation skills through looking critically at sport, the interventions for its development, and the impact sporting policies have. If you are interested in working sport, then this module will provide an interesting insight and a means for understanding the industry you are seeking to enter.

Research Development Project (10 credits)

This module is designed to enable you to develop your understanding of research and analysis of a specific theme within Sport Development / Education, Performance Sport or Outdoor Learning and Leadership. This module provides you with the opportunity to research a specific area of sport and physical activity leading on from their previous LEED module studies. Each of the themes has a dedicated subject specialist to supervise and guide you. Sport Development / Education: You will have the opportunity to develop a critical review of the literature surrounding a topic relating to Sport Development or Physical Education. Example topics include:

• Governmental Sports Policy
• Physical Activity Programmes
• Changes in the National Curriculum
• Curriculum and Physical Literacy
• Delivering Sport in the UK
• Customer-led approach to sport and physical activity

Outdoor Adventure-Land, Water and Air Activities (10 credits)

This module offers a unique chance to learn about some of the aspects that need to be considered when engaging in a variety of higher-risk adventure sports. Through a number of practical sessions, you'll make informed decisions regarding the inherent and controllable (rather than the perceived) risks of participation in these sports. You'll participate in a variety of activities and consider how risk management is applied in different contexts.

Discovery module (10 credits)

Discovery modules give you the opportunity to broaden your academic experience and enhance your employability outside of your main subject area. Suggested module for year 3 is Event Management​ and Health Promotion: Applications of Theory & Practice.

Discovery modules

Throughout your degree, you'll benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.

This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of Discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about Discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Structure and Function of Human Body Systems (20 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the core concepts underpinning the structure and function of human body systems, with an emphasis on how systems are structured, operate and interact. You'll also discover how the environment, exercise and disease can disturb these core systems, and the underpinning physiology.

Introduction to Sport and Exercise Biomechanics (10 credits)

This module introduces a key discipline in Sport and Exercise Sciences -Biomechanics. Biomechanics investigates the generation of movement and the associated forces using applied physical laws.

Exercise Physiology, Bioenergetics and Nutrition (10 credits)

This module investigates the Physiology of the acute responses to exercise, and the chronic adaptations to exercise training. Alongside this, consideration is given to where the energy for exercise comes from, the fundamental concept of sports nutrition. Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology (10 credits)

Psychology studies the use of mental skills to enhance performance, increase enjoyment, alongside interpersonal and social processes. This module covers areas such as social psychology and motivation key for encouraging participation and achieving exercise goals.

Introduction to Motor Control in Sport and Exercise (10 credits)

This module introduces the key discipline of Motor Control. Motor Control looks at how the central nervous system produces purposeful, coordinated movements in its interaction with the rest of the body and with the environment.

Team-Based Solutions for Local Challenges in Human Sciences (20 credits)

You’ll be provided with the opportunity to address a current human health-related challenge in a facilitated team-based environment. You'll develop the core skills necessary to tackle challenges whilst working in interdisciplinary groups.

Practical Application of Clinical, Laboratory and Field Skills for Human Sciences (20 credits)

You’ll be introduced to the key skills essential for basic fitness assessment and scientific research in the field of sports and exercise science. This includes hands-on practical application in ia laboratory and out in the field, as well as skills that support these activities including research design, hypothesis testing and data analysis.

Foundations of Strength and Conditioning (10 credits)

This Introduces the foundational principles of strength and conditioning in performance sport and athlete development settings. Key concepts such as overload and recovery as well as profiling and monitoring are covered giving you a practical and theoretical understanding of how to work with individuals to develop their fitness.

Optional modules

List 1

Students must select 1-2 modules from the list below.

Introduction to Coaching and Instructing (10 credits)

You’ll develop core coaching and instructing skills applicable across sport and Exercise Science careers. Concepts such as leadership, pedagogy, ethics and communication will be explored alongside practicalities of session planning and safeguarding to help you effectively plan and evaluate coaching sessions.

Introduction to the Physical Activity and Exercise Industries (10 credits)

You'll critically explore the UK physical activity and exercise industries, including current policies, strategies and the challenges for profession. You'll develop a deeper understanding of personal experiences and critical skills through looking at the industry, its professional development and the role it plays in government strategies.

Critical Debates in Sport, Exercise and Physical Activity (10 credits)

Sport, exercise, and physical activity fields are no strangers to false information, unsubstantiated claims, and bad scientific practices. In this module you’ll engage with contemporary issues in these areas through evidence-based debate. Through weekly explorations, you’ll gain an understanding of how to develop academic justification and the processes for defending academic arguments.

List 2

If only one module is selected from List 1, choose an optional module from List 2.

Introduction to Sports Analytics (10 credits)

You’ll be provided with an introduction to the use of analytics in elite sports. A key theme is the difference between analytics in invasion-territorial team sports and striking-and-fielding team sports. The analytical methods covered include exploratory data analysis, win-loss analysis, correlation and regression analysis, and win-contribution analysis

Discovery Module (10 credits)

Discovery modules give you the opportunity to broaden your academic experience and enhance your employability outside of your main subject area through developing a specific skill or pursuing a personal interest. Examples of Discovery modules include: Medical Technology Futures, Should Scientists Be Activists?, Principles of Marketing, Managing Classroom Behaviours, and many more.

Year 2

Compulsory Modules

Experimental Skills in Sports and Exercise Sciences (20 credits)

In teams, you'll plan and execute various practical activities, including lab experiments, field projects and computational work. You'll explore experimental design principles; hypothesis testing and enhance data evaluation skills using statistical methods. Emphasis will be on communicating experimental findings through written reports and other formats.

Physiological Responses and Behavioural Control of Human Movement (40 credits)

This module introduces advanced concepts underpinning the study of human physiology including cardiac, circulatory and respiratory physiology, effects of disease, the impact exercise has on these systems and how this might affect sporting performance. Students will also cover how the body is influenced when exercising to the limit, alongside developing an understanding of muscle function and motor learning. This content builds on topics covered in year 1.

Social Psychology and Mechanics of Sport and Exercise (20 credits)

This module builds on your previous understanding of biomechanics and exercise psychology exploring key areas such as the psychology of group dynamics and coach-athlete relationships as well as further developing your skills and understanding in biomechanical analysis of complex activities and tissues of the body.

Team-Based Solutions to Global Challenges in Human Science (20 credits) 

In line with key UN sustainability goals (United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Sustainability (leeds.ac.uk), you’ll build skills in knowledge application, analysis and scientific data presentation. Working as a team you’ll research and create biomedical solutions to a global grand challenge, developing key academic and professional skills. This includes the critical analysis of research papers, communication, team-working, planning, organisation, and negotiation.

Optional modules

Students study up to 20 credits from the following list of optional modules:

Teaching and Coaching Young People (10 credits)

This module is designed to enable you to develop your knowledge and understanding of working with children in a physical education and a sport environment. You’ll consider the difference in pedagogy between teaching and coaching and how each approach can get the best out of children aged 5-19 years. You’ll plan and deliver a session for primary school age children.

Physical Activity Across the Lifespan (10 credits)

This module explores how physical activity is defined as well as recommendations for different populations by various health bodies. You'll look at wearables and other technologies and consider how physical activity can be promoted for specific populations.

Event Management (10 credits)

You'll engage in the complete event management cycle, from design and planning (including producing a business plan) to delivery and evaluation (including event operations and risk assessments). You'll explore key principles and apply them practically. A key element of the module is each student’s personal development through their interaction with the content and through the planning, delivery and evaluation of your own event.

Sports Development and Management (10 credits)

You’ll critically explore the sporting landscape in the UK and examine how the UK government uses sport to contribute to the development of society. You’ll explore the current challenges facing the strategies and interventions for sport and physical activity, as well as considering the issues facing us as we approach a transhuman possibility.

Emerging Leaders (10 credits)

This module will provide you with a range of opportunities to test your leadership credentials in a practical setting. You’ll practically apply and assess your leadership skill and learn how effective leaders operate.

Supporting the Injured Athlete (10 credits)

You’ll explore the principles of rehabilitation along with the key skills and attributes needed to operate as a supporting specialist to performance sport. You’ll explore practical techniques used for rehabilitation and practice in producing a plan for rehabilitation of an injured athlete.

Discovery Module (10 credits)

Discovery modules give you the opportunity to broaden your academic experience and enhance your employability outside of your main subject area through developing a specific skill or pursuing a personal interest. Examples of Discovery modules include: Medical Technology Futures, Should Scientists Be Activists?, Principles of Marketing, Managing Classroom Behaviours, and many more.

Year 3

Compulsory Modules

Capstone Research Project (40 credits)

You’ll design and undertake, either individually or as part of a team, an extended enquiry-based project in an area or topic relevant to the biomedical sciences. Previous projects have included:

• Exploring the interplay of automatic processes, depression and exercise habits, to aid with the development of future exercise interventions (fieldwork)
• Effect of running shoes with embedded carbon plates on running economy (laboratory-based)
• The Impact of Menstrual Cycle Phase on the Airway Response to Exercise in Females with and without Asthma (laboratory-based)
• Addressing Core and Functional Symptoms and Redirecting Risk-taking Behaviours in adolescent ADHD cohorts (Consultancy)

Research Skills and Professional Development (20 credits)

You’ll attend a series of compulsory and optional units designed to provide scaffolding and support for your capstone research experience. This will develop and utilise your research and employability skills required both for the capstone project and for the workplace.

Exercise Prescription and Health Psychology (20 credits)

You’ll learn how to interpret the results of health-related physical fitness testing and clinical exercise testing and use this information to produce exercise prescriptions for special populations (for example cardiac patients, the elderly, children, pregnant women) and clinical conditions (e.g dyslipidaemia, obesity, hypertension, diabetes). You’ll critically analyse research in exercise and health psychology to develop your understanding of theoretical models underpinning behaviour change and how to use them alongside exercise prescription to promote physical and psychological health.

Optional modules

Students study up to four optional modules from the following list:

List 1

Advanced Sports Biomechanics: Performance, Injury and Rehabilitation (10 credits)

This module looks at the biomechanics underpinning the latest advances in sports performance and injury prevention and rehabilitation. We will look at a range of topics including the design of sporting equipment, protheses, rehabilitation assistive technologies and devices, and the latest analysis and modelling techniques. Students will partake in one lab using a full 3D motion capture system to look at the effects of shoe design on the kinematics and kinetics of running.

Motor Control and Neurorehabilitation (10 credits)

This module examines the neurophysiology of movement control in health and disease as well as current research in rehabilitation of movement. The key aspects of the study of movement include: neuromuscular, cortical, spinal, supraspinal and sensory control of movement, with a particular focus on balance, locomotion, reaching and grasping. The module will examine the rationale and clinical justification for current therapy which aims to promote neuroplasticity and recovery of function.

Advanced Exercise Physiology (10 credits)

You’ll discuss and critically analyze key contemporary issues in exercise physiology, evaluate relevant literature, and understand their significance in sport and exercise science. The module includes four lectures and tutorials on topics such as muscle oxygen consumption control, muscle fibre type plasticity, cardiac hypertrophy, cardiovascular and pulmonary performance limitations, genetics of human performance, circadian rhythms in performance, the female athlete triad, exercise in pre-puberty, and exercise during pregnancy.

Motor and Psychological Aspects of Rehabilitation (10 credits)

In this module, you’ll learn to critically analyse research in the field of exercise and health psychology and how to describe the key theoretical models underpinning behaviour change. You’ll gain an understanding of how exercise is used as an intervention to promote psychological health and the maladaptive consequences of exercise on psychological health. You’ll use this knowledge to demonstrate a critical understanding of exercise prescription from a psychological perspective and qualitatively analyse experiences of sedentary behaviour and provide recommendations to enhance exercise adherence.

Contemporary Issues in Sport and Exercise Medicine (10 credits)

In this module, you’ll focus on the health and well-being of individuals engaged in sports and physical activity. You’ll learn about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of sports-related injuries, as well as the promotion of overall health and performance. The module will explore current issues and challenges in SEM, taught by clinical experts, and will provide a critical understanding of its interdisciplinary nature and role in performance, health, and disease

List 2

If students have taken less than four modules from list 1 then they can take one-to-two modules from the list below

Diet and Cardiovascular Health (10 credits)

On this module, you’ll gain the knowledge and understanding of the functions of food and nutrients and their relationship to health and disease, and will be aware of recent advances in specific topics.

Teaching and Coaching Young People (10 credits)

Are you thinking of a career in teaching Physical Education or coaching sport? Not sure which one is for you? Would you like to know more about each discipline? This module offers you the opportunity to explore each career and help you to find which is right for you. This module is designed to enable students to develop their knowledge and understanding of working with children in a Physical Education and Sport environment. The module will consider the difference in pedagogy between teaching and coaching and how each approach can be applied to get the best out of children aged between 5 -19 years. The module covers both the theoretical and practical application of both disciplines and as such should develop knowledge and understanding from an applied perspective. This approach will allow students to reflect on their personal skills, strengths and weaknesses and their future aspirations which underpins the assessment methodology of the module.

Sports Development and Management (10 credits)

In the U.K. sport Development was once merely the title of a professional position. However, it has now grown into a complex field of study as such professionals seek to understand the place of their role in the sport, exercise, and physical activity of a modern society. With sport’s increasing influence on social policy from education to health, and crime to international relations, sport development is a key area of analysis and understanding. In this module, students will critically explore the whole sporting landscape in the U.K and examine how the U.K. government uses sport to contribute to the development of society. The module will also look at the current challenges facing the strategies and interventions for sport and physical activity, as well as considering the issues facing us as we approach a transhuman possibility. You’ll not only develop a deeper understanding of your own experiences, but also analytic and evaluation skills through looking critically at sport, the interventions for its development, and the impact sporting policies have. If you are interested in working sport, then this module will provide an interesting insight and a means for understanding the industry you are seeking to enter.

Research Development Project (10 credits)

This module is designed to enable you to develop your understanding of research and analysis of specific theme within Sport Development / Education, Performance Sport or Outdoor Learning and Leadership. This module provides you with the opportunity to research a specific area of sport and physical activity leading on from their previous LEED module studies. Each of the themes have a dedicated subject specialist to supervise and guide you . Sport Development / Education: You’ll have the opportunity to develop a critical review of the literature surrounding a topic relating to Sport Development or Physical Education. Example topics include:

• Governmental Sports Policy
• Physical Activity Programmes
• Changes in the National Curriculum
• Curriculum and Physical Literacy
• Delivering Sport in the UK
• Customer-led approach to sport and physical activity

Discovery (10 credits)

Discovery modules give you the opportunity to broaden your academic experience and enhance your employability outside of your main subject area through developing a specific skill or pursuing a personal interest. Suggested module for Year 3 are Event Management​ and Health Promotion: Applications of Theory & Practice.

Learning and teaching

Our teaching is delivered through a combination of large and small-group workshops and practicals. We take a student-centred approach to learning, and so our teaching is designed to enable student engagement through active learning approaches that include creative problem-solving, teamwork activities and mini projects. In this way, you are able to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt to practical, real-life contexts. We place a high value on practical teaching, and so a core part of your learning will focus on developing hands-on, practical, and associated research skills.

Independent study is an important part of university learning, and you’ll be expected to undertake private study. We will support you in becoming an independent learner through our teaching approaches and regular meetings with your personal tutor, who is there to advise you academically.

We use a range of digital tools to enhance your learning. Through our Minerva learning management system, you will be able to access our extensive library of online materials, some of which are designed specifically to support preparation prior to attending classroom sessions and discussing content with peers and teachers. In the classroom, educators use a variety of interactive digital tools to help you learn through discussion and debate. Laboratory practicals are accompanied by detailed online preparation guides and the use of electronic laboratory notebooks to ensure you get the most out of your time and develop workplace skills.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Assessment on the course is a mix of coursework and exams. A portfolio of assessment approaches is used, including authentic assessments, which aim to develop the personal and professional skills required in the workplace. These include:

• writing laboratory or other reports
• grant applications
• oral presentations
• poster presentations
• reflective accounts and portfolios
• data analysis and problem solving.

Communicating science to a wider audience is a key skill. In some circumstances, there may be a choice of assessment piece to make it more relevant, meaningful and engaging for you.

Assessments in the School are prepared in a fair and inclusive manner, adhering to relevant and up-to-date guidance.

Wellbeing and support

The University of Leeds features an extensive network of excellent services dedicated to you and your wellbeing. We are here to help throughout your time in higher education, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. For more information on the different facets of support you willyou’ll have access to, please see our Wellbeing and Support page.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAB

Including a science subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.

We accept the following science subjects: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics and Physical Education.

Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.

When an applicant is taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), the Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ) or Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate, this can be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you’re taking A-levels, this would be a one grade drop from the standard offer. For example, A in one of the above qualifications with ABB at A-level.

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English. The Faculty of Biological Sciences will accept Level 2 Functional Skills as equivalent to C/4 in GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer

Specific A Level subjects required – see entry requirement section above.

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.

Access to Leeds: Pass

Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year

This course is designed for students whose backgrounds mean they are less likely to attend university (also known as widening participation backgrounds) and who do not currently meet admissions criteria for direct entry to a degree.

The course will give you the opportunity to be taught by academic staff and provides intensive support to enable your development of academic skills and knowledge. On successful completion of your foundation year, you will progress to your chosen degree course.

Find out more about the Interdisciplinary Science Foundation Year.

Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants

If you are a mature applicant and you don’t have the required A-Levels or GCSE English and maths qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Contact the Lifelong Learning Centre for more information.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: £10,050

International: To be confirmed

The amount of tuition fees you pay is based on whether you are classified as a home (UK) or international student. Find out how we assess your fee status.   

Tuition fees for UK students 
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2026/27 are £9,790 and £10,050 for students starting in 2027/28.  

Subsequent years 
The UK government sets the maximum tuition fee caps that universities can charge UK students. This means your tuition fee in future academic years will reflect any changes set by the government.   

From 2028/29 onwards, tuition fees are likely to increase annually, at least in line with inflation, and may rise further if the government increases the fee cap.   

Tuition fees for international students 
The international fee applies for each year of full-time study and will remain the same for the duration of your course.    

Read more about tuition fees.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Scholarships are also available to help fund your degree. Find out more and check your eligibility below:

• Scholarships for International students
• Scholarships for UK students
• Your subject area may also offer scholarships

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We welcome applications from mature students. We welcome applications from mature students from all backgrounds onto both full-time and part-time programmes.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions guidance

Visit our admissions guidance page for more information about applying to undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.

Application process

The Faculty of Biological Sciences may consider applications submitted after this date. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed by UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants

As per the information detailed in the corresponding section of the University of Leeds Admissions Policy, the Faculty of Biological Sciences will consider prospective students via the Alternative Entry Scheme run by the Lifelong Learning Centre, where appropriate applicants will be referred to the Lifelong Learning Centre, who will advise the applicant further.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026

This course is taught by

Faculty of Biological Sciences

Contact us

Faculty of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Office

Email: fbsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk

Career opportunities

Throughout the degree, you’ll gain a wide range of practical and transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. We aim to equip you with the best possible skills for a variety of future careers. Graduates of our Sports and Exercise Sciences course have entered a wide variety of careers, including:

• physiotherapy
• academic research
• rehabilitation
• teaching
• coaching
• management
• football analyst
• clinical scientist
• accountancy
• sports development
• medical communications
• data science.

Some of our graduates continue to study at Leeds and undertake a Masters course in subjects including Sport and Exercise Medicine, Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation or other disciplines.

Supported by the faculty student opportunity team, Leeds for Life scheme and your academic and personal tutor, you’ll be ideally placed to focus on your personal development and make the most of your time at university.

You’ll develop excellent communication and interpersonal skills by undertaking additional experiences outside the academic requirements of the course, which could include taking a national coaching award.

We have a very close relationship with a variety of sports and exercise science employers. They visit us several times a year, speaking at careers seminars, attending our specialised sport careers networking event and running drop-in sessions.

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources –including our award-winning Employability Team, who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Employability events – we run a full range of events, including careers fairs in specialist areas and across broader industries, all with employers who are actively recruiting for roles.
• MyCareer system – on your course and after you graduate, you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
• Qualified careers consultants – gain guidance, support and information to help you choose a career path. You’ll have access to 1-2-1 meetings and events to learn how to find employers to target, write your CV and cover letter, research before interviews and brush up on your interview skills.
• Opportunities at Leeds – there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

We have a dedicated student opportunity team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre.

We offer numerous additional opportunities in addition to volunteering and placements. This includes our annual student-alumni networking event, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair. The fair is an amazing opportunity for you to meet Sport, Exercise and bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, CP+R, Labcorp, GSK, Nuffield, and NHS Ecological consultancies. You’ll be able to speak to alumni, attend workshops and more.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

Previous Sport and Exercise Sciences students have studied at:

• University of Calgary
• North Arizona University
• University of Toronto
• University of Sydney

Work placements

This programme gives you the opportunity to undertake an industrial placement year as part of the course.

It’s important to note, work placements are not guaranteed. The job market is competitive – and there may be competition for the placement you want. You’ll have to apply the same way you would for any job post, with your CV and, if successful, attend an interview with the organisation.

Our Employability Team will help you every step of the way. They run a number of placement sessions to discuss opportunities and support you with CV writing and interview preparations. Plus, they’ll be there to answer any questions you may have and offer guidance throughout the process, too.

Benefits of a work placement year:

• 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
• Build industry contacts within your chosen field
• Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
• Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
• Improve your employability

Previous industrial placements have included:

• Rotherham FC
• Hawk-Eye Innovations
• Crystal Palace FC
• Neuroconnect Rehabilitation
• The Children’s Trust
• GB RowingPrimary and secondary schools

My year at Hawk-Eye was a deep dive into the cutting edge of sports technology. I travelled the world to some of the biggest international sporting events, installing and operating motion capture officiating systems in high-stake, live environments. It was intense, hands-on, and fast-paced - an experience that sharpened my technical skills and shaped my career path.

Ross ,C - placement year at Hawk-Eye Innovations (2020-2021).

Find out more about Industrial placements.

Combined study and working abroad

Our new module allows you to combine both a study abroad and an industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year, you'll study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for six months abroad or in the UK.

Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.