Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced theoretical modules with applied practice and an independent research dissertation. Core teaching typically covers contemporary theories of performance psychology, psychological skills training, motivation and self-regulation, mental health and wellbeing in sport and exercise, and psychophysiological approaches to performance. Research methods and statistics form a substantial component, ensuring you develop the quantitative and qualitative skills needed to design, analyse and interpret applied research.

Practical elements include supervised applied practice placements, case formulation and intervention planning, consultation skills, and the ethical and professional issues of working with athletes, teams and exercisers. You will also complete a substantial research project or dissertation that allows you to pursue a specialist topic under academic supervision.

• Performance enhancement and psychological skills training
• Motivation, adherence and behaviour change
• Sport, exercise and mental health
• Research design, quantitative and qualitative methods
• Applied practice and professional development (placements/consultancy)
• Dissertation or independent research project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in psychology from a BPS-accredited programme for those seeking the BPS Stage 1 route. Candidates with degrees in related disciplines and substantial relevant experience (for example coaching, applied sport support, physiotherapy or exercise science) may be considered, though they may need to demonstrate sufficient undergraduate psychology content or complete a conversion pathway.

Applicants should also demonstrate relevant experience or commitment to applied work in sport/exercise settings; this can include voluntary or paid placements, coaching, or research experience. International applicants must meet the Universitys English language requirements; evidence of proficiency is normally required as part of the application.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme typically progress into applied roles working with athletes, teams, community sport organisations and exercise programmes, offering performance support, mental skills training, and behaviour-change interventions. The course provides the academic foundation required for BPS accreditation routes and further professional training toward chartered status and practitioner registration.

Other common career pathways include roles in sports development, coaching support, health and wellbeing services, injury rehabilitation teams, and performance analysis. Many graduates also move into research or doctoral study, or take up positions in education, public health and corporate wellbeing where psychological insight into motivation and behaviour change is valued.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough is recognised for its integrated sport and exercise environment: you will learn within the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences alongside active researchers and practitioners. The Universitys close links with national and professional sports organisations, elite athlete programmes and community sport providers create strong opportunities for applied placements and professional networking.

Students benefit from access to dedicated sport science and research facilities, multidisciplinary expertise across psychology, physiology and biomechanics, and a learning environment geared explicitly towards applied performance and health. The programme prioritises real-world experience, supervised practice and research excellence to help you build the skills needed for a career in sport and exercise psychology.