University of Ljubljana

What you'll study

This programme combines sport science, coaching practice and applied methodology so graduates can plan and lead effective training programmes. Core study areas include exercise physiology, anatomy and biomechanics; motor control and skill acquisition; strength and conditioning; periodisation and training methodology; sports nutrition; sport psychology; testing, monitoring and performance analysis; injury prevention and basic sports medicine; and research methods and statistics.

Teaching blends lectures, laboratory work and extensive practical sessions. Students undertake practical coaching placements with clubs and national federations, supervised project work and a final bachelor’s thesis or capstone project that applies scientific methods to a real-world training problem. Practical assessments typically include performance testing, programme design and delivery, and reflective logs from work placements.

Typical modules

• Human Anatomy and Physiology for Sport
• Exercise Physiology and Metabolism
• Biomechanics and Movement Analysis
• Strength and Conditioning and Resistance Training
• Motor Learning and Skill Acquisition
• Training Methodology and Periodisation
• Sports Nutrition and Recovery
• Sport Psychology and Coaching Strategies
• Performance Testing and Monitoring
• First Aid, Sports Safety and Injury Prevention
• Research Methods and Statistics in Sport
• Practicum / Coaching Internship

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised secondary school leaving qualification (such as the Slovenian matura or an equivalent international diploma). Admission may include academic assessment and a selection procedure that examines motivation and suitability for work with athletes. Candidates are often expected to demonstrate a minimum level of physical fitness and to provide a medical certificate confirming fitness to undertake practical training.

The programme is primarily delivered in Slovene; international applicants must therefore provide evidence of proficiency in the language or enrol on language preparation where available. Applicants with relevant prior learning, sports coaching experience or qualifications may be considered for recognition of prior learning for certain practical components.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles across performance sport, community sport and health sectors. Common destinations include positions as strength and conditioning coaches, sport-specific coaches, athletic development or youth pathway coaches, performance analysts, fitness and conditioning instructors, and rehabilitation assistants working alongside physiotherapists. Graduates also work within sports clubs and federations, fitness centres, schools and private coaching practices.

Many alumni choose to continue to postgraduate study in fields such as sport science, physiotherapy, high-performance coaching or sports management, or to gain professional certifications in strength and conditioning and coaching specialisms. The practical focus and strong placement component of the degree support a direct transition into employment in applied sport environments.

Why study at University of Ljubljana

The University of Ljubljana’s Faculty of Sport combines applied teaching with active research and strong links to the national sporting community. Students benefit from modern sports science laboratories, performance testing equipment and established partnerships with local clubs, national federations and elite training centres, providing rich opportunities for supervised placements.

The faculty’s staff include experienced researchers and practitioners in coaching and exercise science, ensuring that teaching is informed by current evidence and best practice. The university also supports international mobility and collaboration, allowing students to gain exposure to different coaching systems and to develop a professional network across Europe and beyond.