Loughborough University

What you'll study

This master's combines applied and theoretical biomechanics to give you practical experience with contemporary measurement systems and analytical approaches. Core teaching typically covers quantitative movement analysis, musculoskeletal modelling, muscle function and electromyography, wearable sensors and data analytics, and biomechanics of injury and rehabilitation.

• Research methods and statistics for biomechanics — experimental design, signal processing, and statistical techniques used in movement science.
• Motion analysis and modelling — 3D motion capture, force platform analysis, inverse dynamics, and forward musculoskeletal modelling.
• Muscle mechanics and neuromuscular control — EMG techniques, muscle-tendon dynamics and interpretation of muscle function in performance and injury.
• Sports technology and sensors — inertial sensors, pressure mapping, wearable devices and data fusion for field-based assessment.
• Biomechanics of injury and rehabilitation — mechanisms of common sports injuries, risk profiling and biomechanical markers used in clinical practice.
• Major research project (dissertation) — an independent, supervised research project using laboratory or field methods, producing a dissertation and often a conference-style report.

Teaching methods mix lectures, practical laboratory sessions in facilities such as force platforms and high-speed capture systems, computer-based modelling and supervised research. Many students undertake project work that involves collaboration with performance centres, clinical partners or industrial sponsors.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (typical UK equivalent 2:1) in a relevant subject such as sport and exercise science, biomechanics, kinesiology, mechanical or biomedical engineering, physiotherapy or a closely related discipline. Applicants with a 2:2 and substantial relevant experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Demonstrable experience with quantitative methods, basic programming or signal processing is advantageous. You will usually need to submit a personal statement outlining your research interests and relevant laboratory or applied experience; academic transcripts and references are required. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency at postgraduate level (e.g. an IELTS-equivalent score commonly accepted by UK universities).

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across sport, health and technology sectors. Typical destinations include:

• Performance support roles within professional teams, national governing bodies or high-performance centres, providing movement analysis and injury-prevention input.
• Research and development positions in sports technology companies, developing algorithms, sensor systems and analysis tools.
• Clinical and rehabilitation roles using gait and movement analysis in hospitals, clinics and private practice.
• Ergonomics and human factors roles applying biomechanical assessment to workplace safety and product design.
• Further academic study and research, including progression to MPhil/PhD and careers in university or institute research groups.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough is internationally recognised for sport science and offers extensive specialist facilities that support applied biomechanics teaching and research. You will gain hands-on experience in dedicated biomechanics laboratories equipped with motion-capture systems, force plates, instrumented treadmills, EMG and pressure measurement systems, alongside access to multidisciplinary expertise across sport science, engineering and technology.

The university has strong industry and performance partnerships that create opportunities for applied projects, placements and collaborative research. Small-group supervision and access to research-active staff mean many students finish the programme with publishable-quality projects and a network of contacts across performance, clinical and commercial sectors.