Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules, practical laboratory and clinic-based skills sessions, a supervised placement and an independent research project. Core areas include clinical assessment and measurement, exercise prescription for musculoskeletal and cardiometabolic conditions, neuromuscular rehabilitation, and the application of exercise across different populations (e.g. older adults, athletes, people with long-term conditions).

• Clinical assessment and outcome measurement: movement analysis, functional testing and interpretation of clinical measures.
• Rehabilitation interventions: evidence-informed exercise programmes for musculoskeletal injury, post-operative recovery and chronic disease management.
• Applied exercise physiology: physiological responses to rehabilitation exercise and monitoring intensity and progression.
• Neuromuscular and motor control approaches: strategies to restore function, proprioception and coordinated movement.
• Research methods and statistics: study design, critical appraisal and skills to plan and deliver a dissertation project.
• Professional practice and placement: supervised clinical experience in community, NHS or private rehabilitation settings and development of communication, risk management and multidisciplinary working skills.

The programme emphasises practical skill development in Loughborough’s movement laboratories and clinical teaching spaces, alongside critical engagement with current evidence to inform clinical decision-making. A substantial dissertation or project gives you experience of primary research or an applied evaluation in a rehabilitation setting.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a good honours degree (UK 2:1 or international equivalent) in sport and exercise science, physiotherapy, rehabilitation science, or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a lower-class degree but relevant professional experience in clinical or applied rehabilitation settings may be considered.

Applicants should have some prior exposure to human physiology, biomechanics or clinical assessment through undergraduate study or work experience. Evidence of numeracy and basic statistics competence is desirable. International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency to a standard appropriate for postgraduate taught study.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across clinical, community and performance contexts. Typical career paths include exercise rehabilitation practitioner, clinical exercise physiologist, musculoskeletal or sports rehabilitation therapist in private practice, community rehabilitation co‑ordinator, roles within cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation services, and positions with sports teams or performance centres.

The programme also provides a foundation for further research or clinical postgraduate training, such as doctoral study or specialist clinical qualifications and can support progression into roles within the NHS, third-sector rehabilitation services or private healthcare and fitness organisations.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough is known for its integrated sports science and sport medicine environment, providing access to purpose-built movement analysis labs, strength and conditioning facilities and clinical teaching spaces that support hands-on learning. The university’s strong links with local NHS services, elite sport organisations and industry partners facilitate placement opportunities and applied projects.

Teaching is delivered by academics and practitioners with expertise in exercise physiology, biomechanics and clinical rehabilitation, ensuring a balance of up-to-date research and real-world clinical practice. The programme’s multidisciplinary setting encourages collaboration with related subject areas such as physiotherapy, sports therapy and performance science, helping you build a professional network and practical experience relevant to rehabilitation careers.