Sport Development and Coaching | BSc (Hons)

Stephen Lynch - Programme Leader

Academic Staff List

Welcome to BSc (Hons) Sport Development and Coaching

Sports coaches inspire teams and individuals to achieve their goals, working across a variety of sports and a range of levels, from elite athletes to local clubs.

Lincoln's BSc (Hons) Sport Development and Coaching degree has been developed to produce independent and informed practitioners through engagement with a range of practical, laboratory, and field-based experiences, alongside more traditionally-focused lectures and seminars.

Students have access to specialist sport physiology, biomechanics, and psychology laboratories in the University's Human Performance Centre, as well as a range of sports facilities and fitness equipment in our Sports Centre.

CIMPSA Endorsed programme

This programme is endorsed by The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) for Health Navigator, Gym Instructor, and Personal Trainer. This endorsement demonstrates the University's commitment to ensuring students' teaching and learning is aligned to industry standards.

For a student to register with CIMSPA and arrange certification for professional standards gained during this degree, a small administration charge would be required. Please visit the CIMPSA website above for details.

Endorsed by CIMPSA

This programme is endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMPSA).

How You Study

Drawing on contemporary research, the degree aims to help students to develop their expertise and knowledge in a range of academic and vocational activities. These can include coaching on school and community-based projects, exercise prescription and fitness testing, and managing and evaluating sport development schemes.

The first year introduces students to areas of study such as the sport development environment, physical literacy, sociological issues, and the foundations of sport and exercise science. It includes core modules such as the Fundamentals of Teaching and Coaching, and Research Skills, both of which are developed further in the second and third years.

Students are able to tailor their learning to suit their individual interests and career aspirations by choosing from a range of optional modules. These include Physical Activity and Health; Performance Analysis; Psychology of Performance and Participation; and Project Management for Sport.

In their third year, students are expected to complete a dissertation, which enables them to undertake independent study on a topic of their choice and work to develop key skills, such as critical analysis and evaluation.

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. To help you choose the course that’s right for you, we aim to bring to your attention all the important information you may need. Our What You Need to Know page offers detailed information on key areas including contact hours, assessment, optional modules, and additional costs.

Find out More

An Introduction to Your Modules

† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Developing Physical Literacy 2023-24SES1026MLevel 42023-24A high-quality physical education or coaching programme can develop a range of physical and cognitive skills within a child that can subsequently encourage positive life experiences. These experiences can include confidence development, the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, alongside experiencing achievement whilst fulfilling potential. Through theoretical and practical experiences, including a school placement, this module aims to develop the knowledge and applied understanding of concepts and practices that can support child development.CoreFoundations in Sport and Exercise Science 2023-24SES1051MLevel 42023-24This module aims to examine the structure and function of the human body during sport and exercise. It will seek to address the physiological, biomechanical and psychological determinants of performance, with the aim of enabling students to develop an understanding of the fundamental principles involved and introducing students to a range of practical skills for measuring performance in the laboratory and/or field.CoreFundamentals of Teaching and Coaching 2023-24SES1055MLevel 42023-24This module is designed to provide students with a range of practical experiences in a variety of sports, and serves as an introduction to fundamental coaching methods, as applied to a range of scenarios and environments. It aims to increase students awareness of learning and pedagogy, coaching philosophy and session structure. It aims to introduce the four pillars of coaching: organisation, management, communication and differentiation.CoreResearch Skills 2023-24SES1023MLevel 42023-24On this module, students have the opportunity to develop useful study skills for the sport and exercise scientist and benefit from an introduction to the underpinning concepts of scientific study and research methods. This module aims to enable students to benefit fully from the higher education learning environment and develop their reflective practice, alongside an understanding of the philosophy of science as related to scientific study in sport and exercise.CoreSociological Issues in PE and Sport 2023-24SES1028MLevel 42023-24This module aims to introduce students to the field of sociology as applied to the study of sport and physical education. Students will be encouraged to think critically about sport and its place in society and in education. In particular, subjects such as the stratification of society (i.e. by race, sex, religion, class, age, ability etc.) and the sporting experiences of different social groups in the community and in schools, can be investigated. This module encourages students to think critically about sport, PE and their (reciprocal) relationships with politics, the media and broader social processes such as sportisation and commercialisation.CoreSport Development Environment 2023-24SES1052MLevel 42023-24This module aims to introduce students to the structure of, and central issues in, the present sport development environment. It aims to provide an overview of the structure and purpose of sports organisations and describes the hierarchical relationship between the major agencies responsible for delivering sport. Students are encouraged to begin developing a critical understanding of government aims and objectives and how they impact on those working at the delivery level (e.g. coaches, teachers, Sports Development Officers).CoreAdvanced Research Skills 2024-25SES2069MLevel 52024-25This module aims to build directly on the key research concepts delivered at Level 3, as well as seeking to provide an introduction to a wide range of methodologies applicable to exercise, physical activity, health and sport performance research. Students have an opportunity to undertake independent research activities to develop their analytical skills through applied evidence-based practice.CoreApplied Principles of Teaching and Coaching 2024-25SES2056MLevel 52024-25This module aims to develop the students knowledge of pedagogical concepts, which were first experienced at level one in Fundamentals of Teaching and Coaching, and to continue to develop the key pillars of coaching through the application of the spiral curriculum. Within this module students are expected to consider the wider context in which teaching and coaching takes place.CoreFitness Testing & Training 2024-25SES2027MLevel 52024-25This module aims to address why an understanding of core fitness components is essential for the coach in practice, investigates key training principles and how these can be integrated into coaching session plans, and seeks to explore applied testing and training approaches to evaluate individual and group performance ability. Each of these aspects can be considered in the context of coaching experience, practice and application.OptionalPerformance Analysis 2024-25SES2028MLevel 52024-25This optional module provides an opportunity for students to build on knowledge gained at level one within the Foundations in Sport and Exercise Science module. Students can develop their understanding of the theory underpinning the subject, as well as field-based performance analysis strategies and their application to assessment of practical sport.OptionalPhysical Activity and Health 2024-25SES2029MLevel 52024-25This introductory health module is designed to enable students to develop their knowledge of the positive role of physical activity in society. A major emphasis will be placed on identifying the key factors involved in determining health status; addressing the link between sedentary behaviour and health.OptionalPolicy in Sport Development & Physical Education 2024-25SES2031MLevel 52024-25This module aims to build on the knowledge and concepts developed within the level one module Sport Development Environment and enable students to advance their understanding of the central strategies and policies in sport development, physical education and school sport. The central aim of this module is to allow students the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of major sport policies and strategies and to explore sport provision at a local level, in order to think analytically about the policy process and the complexities associated with policy implementation.OptionalProject Management for Sport 2024-25SES2032MLevel 52024-25The module is designed to encourage students to learn about the concept of project management and to understand how it relates to sport. The Lincolnshire Event Safety Partnership guidance will be used within this module to provide students with an opportunity to develop realistic and local knowledge about project management within a contemporary setting.OptionalPsychology of Performance and Participation 2024-25SES2033MLevel 52024-25This module aims to introduce and develop knowledge of key concepts and theories that describe and explain the importance of psychology in sport, exercise and physical education settings.OptionalSport, Physical Education and Social Theory 2024-25SES2034MLevel 52024-25This module aims to provide students with a formal introduction to social theory and its application to the study of sociological problems in sport and PE. It is intended to build on the level one module, Sociological Issues in Sport and PE, by providing the opportunity to examine a variety of topics in sport from different theoretical perspectives. Students are encouraged to understand that all sociological observations are guided by theory, while also comparing and critiquing the range of approaches to sport introduced in the module. A selection of sociological sporting phenomena will be used to illustrate the importance of theory in guiding any sociological study.OptionalStudy Abroad 2024-25SES2245MLevel 52024-25Students from the School of Sport and Exercise Science can enrol at partner institutions in the USA during the third year of their undergraduate degree programme*. It is anticipated that partner institutions in other countries will be added in the near future. The Study Abroad Initiative is available to those who have successfully completed years 1 and 2 of their degree and enables students to spend a year studying overseas during what would be their third year of study. During the year abroad, students will not pay a tuition fee to either the University of Lincoln or their host university. Students will be responsible for their travel and accommodation costs in addition to their normal living costs throughout the year. Where applicable, visa costs will also need to be covered by the student. Students will then return to the University of Lincoln to complete the final year of their degree. *Only a limited number of places are availableOptionalWork Placement Year 2024-25SES2256MLevel 52024-25This optional placement year will provide students with the opportunity to practice full-time in a professional sport setting*, with the aim of enhancing the student's practical skills and level of employability. The placement will also provide the student with the opportunity to practically apply the skills and knowledge developed on their prior modules within a 'real-life' sport and exercise science and/or strength and conditioning context. Due to the nature of placement it will be of particular relevance to those students targeting a career in the applied support of professional athletes. *Only a limited number of placements are availableOptionalDissertation 2025-26SES3024MLevel 62025-26The Dissertation module provides an opportunity for an in-depth study of a particular topic and to demonstrate original and critical thought.CoreCritical Issues in Coaching 2025-26SES3020MLevel 62025-26The module aims to provide students with the support and opportunity to apply the coaching knowledge gained at levels one and two in a vocational situation and challenges them to discuss contemporary issues in the coaching and sports pedagogy literature.OptionalHealth Promotion and Development 2025-26SES3021MLevel 62025-26The module gives students the opportunity to develop an understanding of the relationship between physical activity/inactivity and population health. This module will seek to develop knowledge on the role of preventive healthcare (rather than treatment) and includes a central focus which explores current UK government-supported policy in this area.OptionalInclusive Sport and Physical Activity 2025-26SES3022MLevel 62025-26This module aims to provide students with an opportunity to explore notions of disability within the context of sport and physical activity. The programme aims to place competing models of disability, theories of disability and disabling barriers at the centre of a reflective investigation of sport and activity provision for people with disabilities. The module aims to focus upon private, public and voluntary sectors with a particular emphasis on National Governing Bodies, school and community sport providers.OptionalNew Directions in Physical Education 2025-26SES3018MLevel 62025-26This module aims to mobilise the knowledge and skills gained in years one and two by engaging students in the critical analysis of contemporary issues in Physical Education. The central aims of the module are to build on students existing understanding of the philosophical, political and sociological components of physical education by critically engaging with research and reflecting on their practical experiences within other modules.OptionalScientific Support in Practice 2025-26SES3023MLevel 62025-26This module aims to give students the opportunity to apply sport and exercise science concepts to coaching practice in order to enhance performance and enjoyment in participants. Students will have the opportunity to learn how to develop an effective working alliance with clients, with ethics and competency central to the learning experience and models of applied practice.OptionalSocial Justice Issues in Sport and Physical Activity 2025-26SES3256MLevel 62025-26This module aims to develop knowledge and skills to understand and address a wide range of issues of inequality in sport, and physical activity by aiding and engaging students in the development of critical analysis.OptionalStrategic Management in Sport 2025-26SES3059MLevel 62025-26The specific objectives of the module are to encourage critical examination of the nature of strategic management within sport, critique its role in contemporary sport and the practical difficulties in formulating and implementing strategy, and consider appropriate developments in improving the performance of sport related operations and activities.Optional

How you are assessed

In the first year, assessment is 89% coursework and 11% practical exams. In the second year it is 96% coursework and 4% practical exams. In the third year it is 70% coursework, 13% practical exams, and 17% written exams.

Essays, reports, posters, oral presentations and portfolios will be used to assess knowledge, understanding and communication skills. Teaching and coaching practicum is also assessed practically throughout the programme.

Facilities

The University of Lincoln’s Human Performance Centre offers excellent facilities to meet the academic needs of our students. The Centre provides first class sport and exercise support. Our experienced staff have academic and professional expertise in a range of areas including sport and exercise physiology, sports biomechanics, sports psychology, coach education, and sports nutrition.

Placements

The course has strong links with a number of external partners, including British Orienteering, British Canoeing, Active Lincolnshire, Lincoln City Football Club, and Lincolnshire Cricket. Local partnerships with schools, community groups, and sports clubs provide additional opportunities for students to engage in relevant work experience. The School will cover all reasonable costs associated with work placements.

The College of Social Science’s Work Opportunities Hub is available to support students who are seeking to enhance their studies by engaging with a variety of work settings.

Entry Requirements 2023-24

United Kingdom

A Level: BBC (112 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 3 A Levels or equivalent qualifications).

International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall.

BTEC Extended Diploma: Distinction, Merit, Merit or equivalent qualification.

T Level: Merit

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points.

A combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTEC, EPQ etc

Applicants will also need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English, Maths and a Science or sport related subject. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry. We will also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.

International

Non UK Qualifications:

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/

EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/

If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk

Fees and Scholarships

Going to university is a life-changing step and it's important to understand the costs involved and the funding options available before you start. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found on our course fees pages.

Course Fees

For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.

"This course has given me an excellent foundation in sport development and I have been able to use this knowledge in my current role in the sports industry."

Konrad Bem, Sport Development and Coaching graduate

Visit Us in Person

The best way to find out what it is really like to live and learn at Lincoln is to join us for one of our Open Days. Visiting us in person is important and will help you to get a real feel for what it might be like to study here.

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Key Information

BSc (Hons) Sport Development and Coaching