Swansea University

What you'll study

This programme delivers a core scientific foundation in areas that underpin human movement and performance. In the early years you study anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, exercise physiology, sport and exercise psychology, nutrition, and research methods. Teaching combines lectures and seminars with regular practical laboratory classes, field testing and data analysis sessions so you develop hands-on skills in measurement, testing protocols and the use of performance analysis equipment.

As you progress, modules move from foundational material to more applied and specialist topics such as strength and conditioning, injury prevention and rehabilitation principles, advanced performance analysis, exercise prescription for health and clinical populations, and sport science technology. You complete a substantial independent research project or dissertation in your final year, applying experimental design and statistical analysis to a topic of your choice under academic supervision.

• Human anatomy and exercise physiology
• Biomechanics and movement analysis
• Sport and exercise psychology
• Nutrition for health and performance
• Research methods and statistics
• Strength, conditioning and performance testing
• Applied laboratory and field-based practicals
• Final-year research project/dissertation

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to UK A-levels, with a strong emphasis on science subjects such as biology, human biology, physical education or psychology. Entry is competitive and the programme accepts a range of UK and international qualifications; applicants who have taken vocational or BTEC qualifications, Scottish Highers, IB or other recognised credentials are considered. Typical requirements include a combination of academic achievement plus evidence of interest in sport or exercise (for example through volunteering, coaching or relevant work experience).

GCSE-level English and Maths are commonly required. Mature applicants and those with work experience in sport, fitness or health settings are welcome to apply; admissions tutors consider each application on its individual merits. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English language proficiency to the university's required standard.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a wide range of careers across sport, fitness, health and research. Common entry-level roles include sport scientist assistant, strength and conditioning support coach, performance analyst, fitness and gym instructor, exercise referral specialist, and roles in sport development and coaching. Many graduates also move into allied health professions or clinical roles after further study, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy or postgraduate programmes in sport and exercise science.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study and research careers, or for roles in sport management, community health promotion, corporate wellbeing and performance consulting. Practical skills such as testing, data analysis, report writing and applied problem-solving are attractive to employers in both public and private sectors.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea combines research-led teaching with an emphasis on applied learning and practical experience. Students benefit from access to laboratory and field facilities, regular practical classes, and opportunities to work on real-world projects. The university's coastal location and campus environment provide varied settings for outdoor testing and performance work.

Swansea's academic staff are active researchers in sport and exercise sciences, offering supervision and support for student projects. The programme encourages employability through links with local clubs, community organisations and industry partners, and supports the development of professional skills valued by employers and professional bodies. Small-group teaching and hands-on sessions help ensure that theory is directly linked to practice throughout the degree.