Program Overview

How can athletes optimise their training and performance? How can individuals and communities improve their physical activity, health and well-being? Our inter-disciplinary team of scientists and practitioners will help you understand the role of physiology, psychology, biomechanics and nutrition in sports and exercise science.

Our BSc Sports and Exercise Science course will give you a new and exciting perspective on the world of sport, exercise, health and physical fitness.

Your study topics include:

• How and why different energy systems are deployed at different exercise intensities
• Biomechanical principles behind acute and chronic sporting injuries, and how these can be applied to prevent injuries
• The role of ergogenic aids in improving athletic performance
• How physical activity and nutrition can reduce the risk of cardio-metabolic disease
• The design and implementation of psychological skills training programmes

Practical work in your first two years provides you with the professional and scientific skills you need to conduct your own research project in your final year, and to make the transition to postgraduate study or on to a fulfilling career in a range of industries, especially sport, health and education.

As part of our School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences you’ll have an exciting opportunity to join a community specifically focused on sports and exercise science, sports therapy and physiotherapy. We bring together internationally recognised research, share knowledge, and enhance placement and vocational opportunities for our students and graduates.

Placement year

Alternatively, you can spend your third year on a placement year with an external organisation. This is usually focussed around your course, and enables you to learn about a particular sector, company or job role, apply your academic knowledge in a practical working environment, and receive inspiration for future career pathways.

Organisations our students have recently been placed with include West Ham United Football Club, Colchester United Football Club, Colchester Rugby Club and Royal Hospital School.

If you complete a placement year you'll only pay 20% of your usual tuition fee to Essex for that year.