Loughborough University

What you'll study

This programme blends core engineering topics with applied sport science. You study biomechanics, materials and manufacturing for sports applications, sensor and instrumentation systems, data acquisition and signal processing, and computational modelling and simulation. Teaching typically comprises taught modules and practical laboratory work, followed by an individual research project or industry-linked dissertation that allows you to investigate a specific engineering challenge in sport.

• Biomechanics and human movement: principles of kinematics and kinetics applied to performance and injury mechanics, motion capture and analysis techniques.
• Sports materials and product design: material selection, fatigue and impact performance, design for manufacture and testing protocols for equipment and protective wear.
• Sensors, instrumentation and embedded systems: wearable sensor design, data logging, wireless transmission and calibration methods.
• Data analysis and modelling: signal processing, statistics for experimental data, finite element analysis and multi-body dynamics used in equipment and athlete modelling.
• Testing, validation and performance measurement: laboratory and field-based testing, standards and certification processes, replicate and reliability studies.
• Project and professional skills: research methods, project management, technical communication and ethics in sport engineering.

Structure

The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars and extensive hands-on laboratory sessions in specialist facilities, concluding with an independent research project or industry-linked placement. It is commonly available full-time with a substantial project period, and part-time study routes are often available for professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree in engineering, mechanical engineering, electronic engineering, materials science, sport and exercise science with a strong quantitative focus, or a closely related discipline. Relevant professional experience in engineering, product development or sports technology can be considered where academic qualifications differ. You will also need to demonstrate competence in mathematics and technical computing; evidence of prior laboratory or research experience is advantageous. Applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency through an accepted English language qualification or equivalent evidence.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles designing and testing sports equipment, developing wearable and sensor technologies, and delivering performance analysis for teams and athletes. Typical employers include sports equipment manufacturers, wearable-technology companies, high-performance sport organisations, research institutes, test and standards bodies, and consultancy practices focused on product development and athlete monitoring. The degree also prepares students for doctoral research and academic careers in sport engineering and biomechanics.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough is recognised for its strong focus on sport and engineering, offering access to specialist laboratories and test facilities where teaching and research overlap. Students benefit from hands-on experience in biomechanics labs, materials and impact testing facilities, and opportunities to work with industry partners and performance sport programmes. The interdisciplinary environment brings together engineers, sport scientists and designers, providing practical exposure to real-world problems and strong links to employers across the sports technology sector.