Health and Exercise Science | BSc (Hons)

Dr Melissa Bargh - Programme Leader

"I teach across several undergraduate and postgraduate modules, primarily Physiology and Nutrition within the School of Sport and Exercise Science. I am also Programme Leader for Health and Exercise Science BSc. My passion is to enhance learning by integrating theory and practice to help students become capable and competent practitioners."

Academic Staff List

Welcome to BSc (Hons) Health and Exercise Science

Health and exercise professionals play an important role in tackling the health challenges we face as a society with a range of physical activity interventions.

The BSc (Hons) Health and Exercise Science degree at Lincoln aims to inspire and empower students to become confident and efficient professionals. It prepares students to work with a broad array of issues in the physical activity and health development sector.

The course is designed to develop students' knowledge and understanding of health, as well as the underpinning exercise science behind it. It aims to prepare students to support clients from a range of population groups, both physically and psychologically, and to prescribe evidence-based interventions according to individual requirements.

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.

How You Study

In the first year, students can examine core theoretical components relevant to physical activity, exercise, and health. During the second and third years, this theory is put into practice, and vocationally relevant skills can be developed through workplace shadowing and practical assessments. The School will aim to cover all reasonable costs associated with local work placements, including travel.

The course supports students to develop applied skills in evaluating and assessing a range of clients. It encourages them to confidently provide suitable physical activity and healthy eating recommendations, and design, implement, and evaluate health promotion projects. It strives to give students an understanding of a broad array of components in local public health work.

Modules can include Physical Activity and Public Health; Promoting Physical Activity and Health; Nutrition for Health and Performance; Health Psychology; and Community Health Development.

Students can achieve industry recognition by completing optional modules in Exercise Instruction, Community Health Development, Personal Training, and Exercise Prescription for Health, and be recognised by the CIMSPA professional standard and potential membership to this professional body.

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.

Foundations in Human Nutrition 2023-24SES1068MLevel 42023-24This module introduces the key terminology and the scientific principles in human nutrition, metabolism and digestion. Importantly, both structure and function of all essential nutrients are covered alongside recommendations on dietary reference values (DRVs) for the population. Furthermore, basic molecular and cell biology are incorporated to better understand current and future developments in this field. Practical components will explore public health guidance on nutrition including, estimating portion sizing, food labelling and food choice education/skills training.CoreFundamentals of Human Physiology 2023-24SES1021MLevel 42023-24This module aims to provide the opportunity for students to develop a basic knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. The module seeks to focus on anatomical, biochemical and physiological integration necessary for human movement production. Initial examination aims to develop an understanding of structures and processes relating to biological energy processing and systems, and the relationship between anatomical structures and physical functions. Students have the opportunity to develop an integrated systems approach to human movement, examining endocrine, neural and muscular functions required for movement initiation.CoreIntroduction to Psychological Principles. 2023-24SES1022MLevel 42023-24This module aims to introduce students to key concepts and theories that describe and explain the importance of psychology in sport, exercise and physical activity settings. There is a focus on supporting students to understand how and why psychological factors are related to issues such as performance outcomes, participation rates and wellbeing. In particular, students will have the opportunity to examine the influence of thoughts, feelings and behaviours on various outcome measures (success, enjoyment etc.), and how these same variables can change as a result of experiences within sport and exercise.CorePhysical Activity and Public Health 2023-24SES1024MLevel 42023-24This module aims to enable students to develop an understanding of the relationship between physical activity and population health. It is designed to examine the role of preventive health (rather than treatment) and includes a central focus which explores current UK government-supported policy in this area. Specific emphasis will be on reviewing physical activity policies/strategies and the associated initiatives/campaigns, the challenges for implementation and debating the relevance and application to address the problem of sedentary behaviour.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.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.CoreHealth Psychology 2024-25HEA2038MLevel 52024-25This module aims to give students the opportunity to examine how different people respond to health, wellbeing and illness. The role of the rapidly expanding discipline of health psychology can be discussed in relation to psychological procedures for the assessment, intervention and prevention of ill health. Students also have the opportunity to consider individuals, families, age, cultures, religions, gender, psychological and social health and wellbeing.CorePromoting Physical Activity and Health 2024-25SES2023MLevel 52024-25This module will seek to develop the knowledge and skills required for students to be able to promote physical activity effectively in specified settings such as community, schools and workplaces. Course content aims to cover psychological theories and planning strategies used in typical health promotion initiatives. Practically, students have the opportunity to shadow and help support a local health authority/school/employer to experience the delivery and implementation of a health promotion programme focused on physical activity and/or healthy eating.CorePsychology of Physical Activity 2024-25SES2024MLevel 52024-25The aim of this module is to provide students with the opportunity to examine the role of psychology within physical activity and exercise contexts. There is a focus on supporting students to understand how and why psychological factors are related to issues such as adopting and maintaining physically active lifestyles. Students have the opportunity to learn how psychological theories can be applied to promote more physically active behaviours, while also learning how physical activity and exercise can impact on psychological wellbeing. The efficacy of a variety of interventions can be considered.CoreApplied Exercise Physiology 2024-25SES2020MLevel 52024-25This module aims to give students the opportunity to consolidate and expand their knowledge of the foundations of sport physiology developed at level one, by encouraging the application of the fundamental principles of anatomy and physiology. There is an emphasis on practical skills development with the aim of enabling students to evaluate responses to exercise in a laboratory and field environment. Students have the opportunity to apply the generic principles of sports physiology to different athletic groups in order to develop an appreciation of suitable methods of fitness development and adaptations to training prescription.OptionalApplied Health Physiology 2024-25SES2021MLevel 52024-25The aim of this module is to examine the relationship between physical activity and health, understanding the health problems that are caused by inactivity and their pathophysiology. Students can learn both the risks and benefits of physical activity, understanding the contraindications to exercise for a range of special population groups. Students will be supported in the measurement of health-related fitness for sedentary individuals and make suitable recommendations for exercise in order to benefit health.OptionalExercise Instruction 2024-25SES2067MLevel 52024-25This module aims to enable students to develop an understanding of the underpinning theory and skills required to be able to competently instruct different modalities of exercise pertaining to free weight exercises and cardiovascular/resistance machines.OptionalNutrition for Health and Performance 2024-25SES2022MLevel 52024-25The Nutrition for Health and Performance module seeks to further develop the knowledge and skills required for students to effectively assess the diet and nutritional status of a client. The module will explore a range of dietary intake measures, body composition assessment methods and dietary analysis software tools, as well the relative strengths and weaknesses of associated methods and tools. Importantly, the practical elements of this module will allow students to develop the interpersonal/relationship building skills required for effective client interaction in performance nutrition and/or health contexts.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.CoreAdvanced Sport and Exercise Nutrition 2025-26SES3016MLevel 62025-26This optional module aims to draw upon prior knowledge and practical experience in sport and exercise nutrition and sport physiology. The specific objectives of this module are to: - Integrate these disciplines to enhance understanding of the demands of sport and exercise upon nutritional requirements. - Provide an opportunity to develop an understanding of the relationship between the health requirements of daily nutritional intake and optimal sports performance. - Provide the opportunity to develop practical skills for the assessment of nutritional intake, hydration status, energy balance and body composition. - Improve ability to translate individual nutritional needs of different sports performers into appropriate dietary strategies and daily nutritional prescription.OptionalCommunity Health Development 2025-26SES3012MLevel 62025-26This module seeks to critically explore the implementation and evaluation of community health promotion programmes and health policies based on promoting physical activity and/or healthy eating. The theoretical content is designed to develop skills in ethical and moral planning, monitoring and evaluation, which can be used to implement a 'live' student-led health promotion project or policy. Practically, students have the opportunity to organise a health promotion project or develop a health policy with a local health authority, employer or school and assist with delivery, monitoring progress and observing outcomes, whilst critically appraising the entire process. Projects involve small groups of students and are designed to encourage an increased physical activity and/or healthy eating provision and participation.OptionalCounselling and Guidance Skills 2025-26HEA3031MLevel 62025-26This module aims to introduce students to a range of contemporary models of counselling and guidance practice. The aim is to give students the opportunity to develop skills and attitudes that can be of value in a variety of human service settings. A key feature of the module will be to allow students the opportunity to make judgements as to the appropriateness of using such techniques in different scenarios.OptionalExercise Prescription for Health 2025-26SES3013MLevel 62025-26This elective module aims to explore the prescription of exercise to benefit specific medical conditions. It draws upon the theoretical issues and practical skills delivered at level two when exploring physical activity and health. Students have the opportunity to employ vocationally relevant skills in the health assessment of a client, designing and delivering an exercise programme to benefit a specified medical condition. Students can explore healthcare systems, critically examining roles and responsibilities and the use of evaluation. This optional module includes a placement that is linked to the module assessment. Students who choose to take this module will be responsible for their travel, accommodation and general living costs during the placement.OptionalPersonal Training 2025-26SES3014MLevel 62025-26This interdisciplinary module is designed to build on prior knowledge of exercise instruction, and the anatomical and physiological processes of sport and exercise physiology related to the planning, prescription and delivery of a specific exercise programme.OptionalSpecial Populations 2025-26SES3015MLevel 62025-26This module aims to enable students to develop their knowledge base and skill set. In particular, students have the opportunity to develop a critical understanding of the marginalisation of specific groups from physical activity, health promotion and service provision.Optional

Entry Requirements 2023-24

United Kingdom

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

International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall

BTEC Extended Diploma: Distinction, Merit, Merit or equivalent qualifications

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 https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

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/home/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.

How you are assessed

A variety of assessment methods are used at each level of the course to evaluate learning outcomes and students' ability to collect, organise, analyse and interpret data. These may include presentations, critical reflections, portfolios, exams, practical assessment within the community and a dissertation.

Facilities

The University of Lincoln’s Human Performance Centre offers excellent facilities to meet the academic needs of our students. We have dedicated practical and teaching spaces which include physiology laboratories, designated psychology laboratory, and consultation suites alongside specific practical spaces to support exercise instruction and referral work.

Interviews and Applicant Days

We may interview applicants on occasions where the applicant has a non-traditional background, falling short of the standard entry requirements but with relevant work experience and professional qualifications.

Is This Course Right For Me?

You should consider this degree if you are interested in:

Helping others to improve their health and wellbeing by improving or maintaining levels of physical activity.
Learning in an applied way and dealing with real-world scenarios.

What you may gain from the course:

The opportunity to learn from staff who maintain their expertise in the subject area through industrial experience and research in fields such as exercise referral, community physical activity interventions, and health promotion.
A vocational degree developed in conjunction with employers, which aims to provide you with the knowledge and skills that are relevant and valuable in the industry.
A variety of employment prospects.

Career Opportunities

Previous graduates have established careers in a variety of industries such as public and private healthcare, fitness, teaching, charity, and dietetics.

Within these industries, graduates could consider a wide range of roles including, but not limited to: exercise referral, obesity prevention, community engagement, NHS projects support, personal training, teaching, and charity work.

Other graduates of this programme have also chosen to progress to further study.

"My degree included shadowing real-world health promotion programmes and working with a range of clients to meet their health and fitness needs. This has helped me to advance an array of skills."

Georgia Clay, School of Sport and Exercise Science graduate

What We Look For In Your Application

A good academic profile.
An evidenced interest in health and fitness through volunteering or participation.
Transferable skills such as communication, leadership, and team work.

"I chose this course because the wide range of modules allow you to select your favourite subjects and tailor to your interests as you go along. I've enjoyed opportunities to get involved in real-world health promotion in the workplace, the community, and schools and work with actual clients."

Dona Hall, BSc (Hons) Health and Exercise Science

Placements

During your studies, students can undertake work placements, which offer an ideal opportunity to put their learned theory into practice. The School of Sport and Exercise Science has excellent professional links with regional Public Health, NHS services, local authorities, state, and private schools, as well as the fitness industry.

Previous students have participated in delivering health checks, provided advice at Lincolnshire Police offices and wellbeing van, the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue wellbeing conference, and have also worked with dementia-friendly golf services.

The University's Work Opportunities Hub looks to identify suitable placements for students and is available to support students who seek to enhance their studies by engaging with a variety of work settings. This may be as part of their programme or as an activity during term-time or holidays.

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.

Book Your Place

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Key Information

BSc (Hons) Health and Exercise Science