Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme combines biological, behavioural and public-health perspectives to understand the role of physical activity in preventing and managing disease and promoting wellbeing. Core areas include anatomy and physiology, exercise prescription across the lifespan, epidemiology, behaviour-change theory, health promotion planning and evaluation, and research methods.

• Year-by-year structure: Early stages focus on foundational science (human physiology, biomechanics) and introductory public-health concepts. Intermediate stages develop applied skills (exercise testing, counselling techniques, community interventions) plus research skills. Final-stage modules emphasise independent research, advanced intervention design and the evaluation of programmes in real settings.
• Practical learning: The degree features laboratory work, practical sessions in exercise testing and prescription, communication and motivational interviewing practice, and opportunities to work on live projects with local health organisations. Students typically complete supervised placements in community, leisure or healthcare settings to apply skills in real-world contexts.
• Typical modules: Human Anatomy and Physiology; Foundations of Public Health; Physical Activity and Disease Prevention; Behaviour Change and Health Psychology; Exercise Testing and Prescription; Epidemiology and Statistics for Health; Health Promotion Planning and Evaluation; Research Project or Dissertation.
• Assessment: A mix of examinations, practical assessments, written reports, presentations and a substantial research or practice-based project in the final year.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have qualifications demonstrating academic readiness for higher education. Typical offers require successful completion of secondary-level qualifications or vocational equivalents, with preference often given to applicants with prior study in a relevant subject such as biology, sport science, psychology or health-related subjects. Providers of applied qualifications (for example BTEC) and mature applicants with relevant experience are considered.

• GCSE-level literacy and numeracy or recognised equivalents are usually required.
• Personal statements should highlight interest in public health or physical activity, relevant volunteering, work or sports experience, and an awareness of the practical and ethical issues involved in health promotion.
• International applicants should meet recognised English language requirements and provide equivalent academic documentation from their country.

Career prospects

Graduates develop the knowledge and practical skills needed for roles promoting physical activity and wellbeing across the public, private and third sectors. Common career destinations include health promotion officer, exercise referral co-ordinator, community development worker, wellness or workplace health advisor, and roles in leisure and fitness management.

• Many graduates work with local authorities, public health teams, the NHS, charities and community organisations to design and deliver activity programmes for different population groups.
• Other pathways include joining the fitness and leisure industry, commissioning or evaluation roles, or working in corporate wellbeing.
• Graduates may also progress to postgraduate study in public health, health promotion, health psychology or allied disciplines, or professional training such as postgraduate teacher training or healthcare-related qualifications.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes emphasises applied learning and close links with local health services, councils and community organisations, giving students opportunities for workplace placements and live practice projects. Teaching is informed by staff with professional and research experience in physical activity, public health and sports science, and the university provides well-equipped laboratories, exercise testing facilities and simulation spaces.

• Smaller group teaching and workplace-focused assessments support the development of practical skills sought by employers.
• Strong regional partnerships mean students can gain placement experience across healthcare, leisure and voluntary sectors to build networks and employability.
• The university's student support services, careers guidance and extra-curricular health and sport initiatives help students prepare for practice-based careers and further study.