Sport and Exercise Science | BSc (Hons)

Course Overview

Sports scientists combine theoretical knowledge with the practical application of scientific principles and technology to help individuals maximise their sports performance.

This multi-disciplinary degree has been developed in response to the growing prominence of sport and exercise science in athletic performance, and the role that sport and physical activity can play in improving health.

The programme aims to develop your knowledge, understanding, and practical skills in key areas of physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition, in order to understand their impact on sports performance, physical activity, and health. A number of elective modules are aligned to relevant professional standards which means that students are able to apply for industry-recognised standalone certification in Gym Instruction, Personal Training, and/or Exercise Referral at an additional cost.

Why Choose Lincoln?

CIMSPA endorsed programme for Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer

Dedicated sports laboratories and practical spaces

Partnered with Lincoln City FC and a range of external partners

Learn from our expert academic team members

How You Study

This degree reflects current research-informed teaching and innovation within the sector.

The first year of the programme is designed to provide the essential foundations of sport and exercise science theory, completing four sport science-specific modules across the key disciplines of biomechanics, psychology, physiology and nutrition, and one broader module to develop their research skills.

Whilst these disciplines continue into the second year of study, the context of each module becomes even more applied than first year as the emphasis shifts towards students converting their knowledge of theory into applied practice. There is also the opportunity to start to individualise the specific mix of modules taken relating to physiology and nutrition depending on each students' preferences and longer-term plans - selecting three options from Applied Health Physiology, Applied Exercise Physiology, Exercise Instruction and Nutrition for Health and Performance.

In the third year, you can tailor the degree to your own preferences and future plans, and choose three from a selection of seven optional modules to study across a range of disciplines and contexts. This is alongside the completion of your final year dissertation which gives you the chance to apply research skills developed in your first two years, to plan and complete a specific research project relating to a topic you're interested in.

We want to ensure our students to become the best graduates they can be, and in addition to interactive lectures and seminars, weekly laboratory and/or practical sessions, guest speakers, web-based activities, and staff-student research projects, we encourage students to deliver sports science workshops to school groups and sports clubs, and undertake their own independent research ideas (e.g. dissertation), and offer a wide range of voluntary applied sports science roles.

Each of our students is also paired up with a member of staff as their personal tutor from the very first week of enrolment, in order to help them settle in, discuss issues or questions they have, and to help guide and develop their academic growth and extracurricular experience towards any post-degree plans they may have.

BASES Endorsement

This programme is endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES), the UK's professional body for sport and exercise sciences. This accreditation recognises degrees which incorporate the knowledge, skills and professional development opportunities that are considered essential for sport and exercise science students to succeed in the industry.

CIMSPA Endorsement

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

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.

Biomechanical Basis of Human Movement 2024-25SES1011MLevel 42024-25This module seeks to examine the mechanics of human movement, identifying the internal and external forces acting on the human body and the effects of these forces. Particular emphasis will be placed on applying the theoretical principles of biomechanics to sport and exercise. The specific objectives are to: - Provide an opportunity to develop an understanding of the basic principles of biomechanics. - Investigate the relationship between the theoretical principles of biomechanics and sports performance. - Introduce students to the basic laboratory techniques for the biomechanical assessment of motion.CoreFoundations in Human Nutrition 2024-25SES1068MLevel 42024-25This 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 2024-25SES1021MLevel 42024-25This 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. 2024-25SES1022MLevel 42024-25This 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.CoreResearch Skills 2024-25SES1023MLevel 42024-25On 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 2025-26SES2069MLevel 52025-26This 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 Movement Analysis 2025-26SES2044MLevel 52025-26This module aims to enable students to build on practical knowledge and skills gained at level one within the Biomechanical Basis of Human Movement module. It aims to include a discussion of how to assess human movement through different kinetic, kinematic and performance analysis techniques and the delivery of application of theoretical concepts to practical sport assessment.CoreSport and Exercise Psychology 2025-26SES2005MLevel 52025-26This module aims to build upon knowledge gained in the first year of the course by facilitating a deeper level of knowledge and critical analysis in key areas of sport and exercise psychology. Module content aims to evaluate how psychological knowledge is developed with a critical evaluation of existing knowledge. Key theories can be discussed and evaluated in light of existing research evidence. Additionally, a number of important developing lines of research can be covered with the aim of a move towards understanding how psychology can be applied to aid performance and promote more enjoyable experiences.CoreApplied Exercise Physiology 2025-26SES2020MLevel 52025-26This 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 2025-26SES2021MLevel 52025-26The 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 2025-26SES2067MLevel 52025-26This 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 2025-26SES2022MLevel 52025-26The 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 2025-26SES2245MLevel 52025-26Students 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 2025-26SES2256MLevel 52025-26This 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 2026-27SES3024MLevel 62026-27The Dissertation module provides an opportunity for an in-depth study of a particular topic and to demonstrate original and critical thought.CoreAdvanced Biomechanical Analysis 2026-27SES3002MLevel 62026-27This optional module provides students with an opportunity to develop their ability to carry out independent research and consultancy activities in the area of sport and exercise biomechanics. Seeking to build upon the knowledge gained at previous levels, this module introduces specialised techniques to assess performance and the wider issues surrounding support work. The specific objectives of the module are to: - Provide an opportunity to develop proficiency in the use of advanced quantitative biomechanical systems to analyse and evaluate human performance. - Provide the opportunity to develop an advanced understanding of the use of biomechanics in supporting and developing performance within elite athletes. - Critically analyse recent and possible future developments in sports biomechanics.OptionalAdvanced Sport and Exercise Nutrition 2026-27SES3016MLevel 62026-27This 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.OptionalAdvanced Sport Physiology 2026-27SES3017MLevel 62026-27This optional module aims to encourage students to apply knowledge and understanding of the physiological systems active during exercise, at fatigue and following training, to the performance and specific requirements of different high-performance athletes. The specific objectives of this module are to: - Provide the opportunity to develop an understanding and experience of physiological intervention and sports science support models as accepted tools for the performance development of the elite athlete. - Provide the opportunity to gain relevant vocational experience in relation to physiological assessment and training prescription. - Prepare students academically and vocationally for future work in terms of knowledge, planning, understanding, research and assessment.OptionalApplied Sport and Exercise Psychology 2026-27SES3003MLevel 62026-27This optional module aims to develop further understanding of how sport and exercise psychology can be applied to improve and support performance. It seeks to provide an insight into how psychological skills training can be used by athletes from all different levels and how the performer can manage competition and training and enhance performance. Students have the opportunity to consider how to effectively assess an athlete’s psychological profile, and how to design and implement training programmes.OptionalExercise Prescription for Health 2026-27SES3013MLevel 62026-27This 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 2026-27SES3014MLevel 62026-27This 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.OptionalSport and Exercise Nutrition 2026-27SES3006MLevel 62026-27This optional module seeks to draw upon prior knowledge and practical experience in nutrition, with the aim of furthering the relationship with exercise and environmental physiology.OptionalStrength and Conditioning 2026-27SES3009MLevel 62026-27This optional interdisciplinary module aims to build on prior knowledge of anatomical and physiological processes of the musculoskeletal system, and the testing and evaluation of sports performance. The specific objectives are to: - Provide students with the opportunity to develop a comprehensive knowledge of the strength and conditioning environment and factors to consider within the support of athletes. - Provide students with the chance to develop a critical understanding and appreciation of strength and conditioning programmes to enable effective delivery, implementation and evaluation. - Prepare students academically and vocationally for future work in terms of knowledge, understanding, research, assessment and planning.Optional

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. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, contact hours, and our return to face-to-face teaching.

Placements

At the end of your second year, you'll have the option to apply to complete a ‘study abroad’ or ‘placement’ year in industry (e.g. professional sports club) as part of the degree. When undertaking a placement, you will be responsible for covering your travel, accommodation, and general living costs.

My degree has helped me to develop my career. I learned valuable sports-based knowledge and made connections which have enabled me to progress into a management role.

Partnered with Lincoln City Football Club

Our ongoing partnership with Lincoln City FC offers you opportunities to undertake work placement or internship opportunities, as well as providing a potential pathway for full-time employment after you graduate. Many Lincoln graduates are employed within the organisation in roles spanning coaching, physiotherapy, sports science, and performance analysis.

Students in the Human Performance Centre

Facilities

Our Human Performance Centre offers dedicated practical and teaching spaces including physiology laboratories, a psychology laboratory, consultation suites, and specific practical spaces to support exercise instruction and referral work. 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. High-profile sports organisations have used the facilities, including British Canoeing and British Ice Skating.

Facilities

Facilities

How you are assessed

The way students are assessed on this course may vary for each module. Examples of assessment methods that may be used include coursework, such as written assignments, reports or dissertations; practical exams, such as presentations, performances or observations; and written exams, such as formal examinations or in-class tests.

United Kingdom

120 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 3 A Levels or equivalent qualifications.

A Level: BBB

International Baccalaureate: 30 points

BTEC Extended Diploma: Distinction, Distinction, Merit or equivalent

T Level: Merit

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 120 UCAS Tariff points

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

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry and do accept a combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTECs, EPQ etc.

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

Contextual Offers

At Lincoln, we recognise that not everybody has had the same advice and support to help them get to higher education. Contextual offers are one of the ways we remove the barriers to higher education, ensuring that we have fair access for all students regardless of background and personal experiences. For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit our Offer Guide pages.

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.

Find out More at an Open Day

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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Three students walking together on campus in the sunshine

BSc (Hons)
Sport and Exercise Science

Key Information

Duration

Typical Offer

Campus

UCAS Code

Academic Year

Facilities

Facilities

Facilities

Facilities

Facilities

United Kingdom

International