Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme delivers an integrated curriculum covering the physiological responses to exercise, the nutritional determinants of performance and recovery, and translational approaches to health and disease. Teaching blends advanced core theory with practical laboratory work, applied case studies and an independent research project.

• Core topics: exercise physiology (cardiorespiratory, metabolic and muscular function), applied sports nutrition (macronutrients, timing, supplementation), body composition and metabolism, and exercise prescription for health.
• Methods and measurement: laboratory techniques in metabolic testing, indirect calorimetry, VO2max and lactate testing, muscle function assessment, biomechanical and field-based performance testing, and dietary assessment methods.
• Applied practice: case-based approaches to athlete support, clinical exercise interventions for long-term conditions, behavioural strategies for dietary change, and periodised training and recovery planning.
• Research project: an independent dissertation or laboratory/demonstrator-led research study that develops practical skills in experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.
• Optional modules: postgraduate options typically allow depth in areas such as performance physiology, nutritional genomics, paediatric or ageing exercise physiology, and applied strength and conditioning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK upper-second class honours degree (2:1) or an international equivalent in sport and exercise science, physiology, nutrition, biomedical science, or a closely related subject. Applicants with a lower second class degree plus relevant professional or research experience may be considered.

• Demonstrable laboratory or applied experience (for example in sport teams, clinical exercise settings, research placements or nutrition practice) strengthens an application.
• Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirements; evidence of an approved qualification or test score is required.
• Where appropriate, applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement outlining their academic interests, relevant experience and intended career direction, and one or two academic or professional referees.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across elite sport, healthcare, research and the fitness industry. The programme targets both applied practitioners and those aiming for further academic study.

• Applied roles: sport scientist, performance physiologist, strength and conditioning support, applied nutritionist (with further professional accreditation depending on jurisdiction), exercise referral or clinical exercise specialist.
• Health and community: exercise professional roles within NHS or community health services, workplace wellbeing coordinator, and public health practitioner positions focusing on physical activity and nutrition.
• Research and academia: research assistant roles, laboratory technician positions and progression to PhD study in exercise physiology, nutrition science or related biomedical fields.
• Other sectors: sports technology and wearable companies, performance analytics, coaching, and consultancy roles within sport organisations and the fitness industry.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough is home to a large, multidisciplinary School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences with established expertise in physiology and nutrition research. You will benefit from access to dedicated human performance laboratories, metabolic suites and strength and conditioning facilities, supported by technical staff and active research groups.

• Strong applied links with national governing bodies, professional sports teams and healthcare providers create opportunities for placements and collaborative projects.
• Teaching is informed by active researchers and practitioners, providing a balance of rigorous science and real-world application.
• Extensive careers and employability support, combined with networks across sport, health and research sectors, helps graduates move into applied roles or further study.