Program Overview

Want to explore psychology but not quite ready to study at degree level? On the social sciences foundation year route, students will study a range of topics that are central or highly relevant to the study of the social sciences. You’ll explore areas such as mental health and wellbeing, contemporary issues in social sciences, and professional practice to help prepare for undergraduate study and direct entry to the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Psychology degree.

The social sciences foundation year has an applied focus – students are encouraged and enabled to apply their theoretical knowledge to real world problems, such as mental health, psychological wellbeing and everyday problem-solving. During the year, you’ll begin to develop the academic writing and independent learning skills necessary to study a scientific discipline. You’ll also begin to learn the basics of thinking and writing in social sciences before starting your full degree.

Over the last few decades, interest in sport and exercise psychology has grown. More time and money is being spent on understanding what motivates people to exercise, play sport and live active lifestyles. Governing bodies and professional teams are hiring more sport psychologists than ever before, as increasing amounts of accountability is given to the mental aspects of physical performance.

Solent’s sport and exercise psychology degree, accredited by The British Psychological Society, is the ideal way to kickstart a career in this growing area. You will explore how people act and interact, and the thoughts and feelings that underlie their behaviour. You’ll develop an understanding of intervention techniques that can be applied in exercise and team settings. You’ll also gain an insight into the coach-athlete relationships.

The subject contributes to an understanding of the day-to-day problems faced by people all around the world. Psychologists use a wide variety of methodological techniques including experiments, questionnaires, observations, video analysis and interviews to investigate human behaviour and obtain reliable evidence. This evidence can then form the basis of potential interventions and recommendations.

Core areas of study include cognitive psychology, child development and social psychology. All of these can be applied within a sport and exercise context. We work closely with sport teams and health organisations in order to provide you with hands-on learning opportunities. The applied nature of the course ensures that you’ll develop the professional skills needed for work in the sports industry.