Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme covers the core scientific disciplines that underpin sport and exercise practice: exercise physiology, biomechanics, sport and exercise psychology, and sport and health-related nutrition. You will learn research methods and statistics, data collection and analysis, and applied topics such as strength and conditioning, performance analysis, injury prevention and exercise prescription for health.

Teaching combines lectures, small-group seminars, laboratory practicals and supervised applied projects. Typical modules include human physiology for sport, biomechanics of movement, performance analysis and coaching, exercise psychology, sport and health nutrition, research methods and a final-year independent research project. The degree places strong emphasis on practical skills: testing and monitoring athletes, using motion-capture and force platforms, metabolic testing, GPS and video analysis, and delivering evidence-based exercise interventions.

Students have opportunities for work-based learning and placements with local clubs, community organisations and performance centres. Many cohorts can take an optional professional placement or year abroad to gain hands-on experience and professional networks.

Entry requirements

Oxford Brookes accepts a wide range of UK and international qualifications. Typical entrants will have relevant qualifications such as A levels (including a science or sport-related subject preferred), a BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport or Applied Science, or equivalent international qualifications. Successful applicants normally demonstrate competence in maths and English at school-leaving level and show evidence of relevant experience or interest in sport, exercise or health (for example through coaching, volunteering or fitness work).

Mature applicants and those with non-traditional backgrounds are considered on an individual basis; personal statements and references that highlight motivation and practical experience strengthen applications. International applicants should meet the University's English language requirements through recognised qualifications or an approved test.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for roles in applied sport and exercise settings, including performance analysis, strength and conditioning support, sport science technician roles, exercise referral and community health programmes, coaching and fitness management. The degree also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study or professional training in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, sports nutrition, or sport psychology.

Typical employer settings include professional and amateur sports clubs, national governing bodies, private performance centres, community health services, leisure and fitness industry employers, and research institutions. Many graduates progress to specialist roles after gaining additional accreditation or postgraduate qualifications.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a practical, applied Sport and Exercise Science degree delivered with strong links to industry and local sporting organisations. The university provides dedicated sports science laboratories and testing facilities, access to biomechanics and performance-analysis equipment, and staff with active research and professional experience in sport and exercise disciplines.

Students benefit from integrated employability support, opportunities for work placements and collaborative projects with external partners, and a focus on hands-on learning that prepares graduates for professional practice or further study. The programme's location offers access to a wide range of community and elite sports settings for placements and applied learning.