Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced taught modules, intensive practical laboratory work and a research dissertation to develop competence in clinical assessment and exercise‑based rehabilitation. Core themes include exercise testing and prescription for clinical populations, pathophysiology of chronic disease, advanced exercise physiology, and research methods and statistics.

• Clinical exercise testing and assessment – cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), submaximal testing, exercise electrocardiography, field and laboratory-based functional tests, interpretation of physiological data.
• Exercise prescription and rehabilitation – individualised programmes for cardiac, pulmonary, metabolic and neuromuscular conditions; behaviour change techniques; monitoring and progression of interventions.
• Pathophysiology and pharmacology – understanding disease mechanisms and common medications that alter physiological responses to exercise.
• Advanced exercise physiology – muscle physiology, energy metabolism, exercise immunology and adaptations to training in clinical populations.
• Research methods and statistics – study design, applied statistics, critical appraisal, ethics and evidence synthesis relevant to clinical exercise trials.
• Practical skills and professional development – supervised laboratory sessions, use of physiological monitoring equipment (VO2 analysis, gas exchange, ECG, blood lactate), clinical placement or applied project with health services or industry partners.
• MSc dissertation – a substantial research or applied project that consolidates research skills and specialist knowledge in a chosen clinical area.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants hold a 2:1 honours degree (or international equivalent) in Sport and Exercise Science, Physiology, Biomedical Science, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a 2:2 may be considered if they have relevant postgraduate experience or substantial clinical work experience. Evidence of practical laboratory skills or experience working with clinical populations is advantageous.

Applicants who are healthcare professionals can often have their prior clinical experience recognised. International applicants must meet Loughborough's English language requirements; details are available from the university’s admissions information.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across NHS and private healthcare settings, public health, sport and clinical research. Typical career paths include:

• Clinical exercise physiologist or specialist practitioner in cardiac, pulmonary or metabolic rehabilitation services.
• Exercise referral coordinator or programme manager for long‑term condition management.
• Research assistant or coordinator in academic or clinical trials involving exercise interventions, or progression to a PhD.
• Roles in health technology and diagnostics companies developing physiological monitoring and rehabilitation products.
• Further clinical training or integration into multidisciplinary teams delivering community and secondary care services.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough is internationally recognised for sport and exercise science and provides access to well‑equipped human performance and clinical physiology laboratories. Students benefit from teaching and supervision by researchers active in applied clinical and translational research, and from established links with NHS services, regional rehabilitation providers and industry partners that support placements and collaborative projects.

The learning environment combines rigorous laboratory training, applied placement opportunities and a research culture that emphasises evidence‑based practice, preparing graduates to deliver safe, effective exercise interventions for people with health conditions.