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Check eligibility →DipHE Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences (Physical Education, Coaching and Social Issues) Foundation degree at Brunel University of London
DipHE Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences (Physical Education, Coaching and Social Issues) at BUL. You'll study physical education, coaching, and social issues through specialist options, an independent project, and professional skills development.
About this course
Brunel's Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences (Physical Education, Coaching and Social Issues) BSc is your stepping stone to a career in teaching and coaching. From the provider’s course page.
DipHE Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences (Physical Education, Coaching and Social Issues) is a Foundation degree (DipHE) at BUL, based in Brunel University Campus. It runs 2 years, studied full-time.
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Sport & Exercise Science, see the sections below.
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year 1 7 modules
- Introduction to BiomechanicsCompulsory
Module details
This module will enable students to gain elementary scientific foundations of knowledge in the biomechanical principles, underpinning human movement. Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of the measurement tools used to obtain key measures of human movement and forces; and to develop their appreciation of their utility and limitations. It will also support students to apply fundamental biomechanical principles to understanding movements in sport, health and exercise scenarios.
- Academic and Personal DevelopmentCompulsory
Module details
This module supports students' effective transition from prior learning and work-based contexts into the higher education environment and the Brunel learning community. You'll reflect on and develop your study skills and learn the fundamentals of effective academic practices.
- Introduction to Physical Activity, Health and WellbeingCompulsory
Module details
This module introduces students to selected theoretical, conceptual and methodological approaches to promoting, delivering and measuring physical activity for health and wellbeing. You will also develop your problem-solving skills as you consider approaches for improving health and wellbeing through physical activity.
- Introduction to Human Anatomy and PhysiologyCompulsory
Module details
This module will provide students with a foundational knowledge of human anatomy and physiology in relation to sport, health and exercise contexts. It will raise students' awareness of key theories, principles and processes as they apply to sport, health and exercise-related activities. Students will also gain an appreciation of how learned theories, principles and concepts may be applied in an interdisciplinary manner.
- Pedagogy and Policy in Sport and Physical EducationCompulsory
Module details
Students will be introduced to a range of issues relating to Physical Education teaching and coaching practice, including: the history and aims, pedagogical concepts, principles of inclusion and the relationship between policy, curriculum and practice. The module also introduces the theoretical concept of physical literacy through a range of practical contexts and explores how it underpins lifelong participation in physical activity.
- Introduction to the Psychology of Sport and ExerciseCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to equip students with a preliminary understanding of key psychological concepts in relation to sport and exercise contexts; including how factors such as anxiety, motivation, and confidence impact sports performance. During laboratory-based sessions, students are encouraged to analyse, evaluate, create and apply knowledge to hypothetical and/or real-world scenarios.
- Sport Development Issues and PolicyCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to encourage students to identify and understand social phenomena associated with sports in contemporary society. Students are introduced to social and management theories as well as different political and cultural ideologies, and how they relate with the world of sport.
Year 2 7 modules
- Developing Research Methods and Data Analysis SkillsCompulsory
Module details
The aim of this study block is to develop students' understanding of the nature of different research models as well as their quantitative and qualitative research skills. Students will have the opportunity to formulate research questions and determine appropriate methods that are related to their final-year project.
- Graduate and Transferable SkillsCompulsory
Module details
The aim of this module is to introduce a range of knowledge and skills expected within working environments. Students will develop their ability to engage in self-appraisal through a personal development plan to identify learning needs in the context of work settings.
- Physical Activity, Health and Wellbeing in the Life CourseCompulsory
Module details
This module aims to develop students' ability to examine and apply selected theories and concepts of physical activity for health and wellbeing in the life course. Students will also discover and understand the multidisciplinary nature of physical activity, health and wellbeing.
- Policy and Practice in Physical Education, Sports Coaching and Sport Development (Macro Analysis)Compulsory
Module details
During this module, students will develop their understanding of different policy instruments and processes and how different people engage with and interpret macro level policy. Students will consider the issue of inclusion and exclusion in Physical Education, youth sport and sports development from a policy and practice perspective.
- Sport, Social Issues and Video ProductionCompulsory
Module details
Students will learn to use theory and research to explain and evaluate contemporary social issues in sports. Students learn about all phases of video production and create a short film using state of the art camera and video equipment.
- Pedagogy, Social Psychology and Learning in SportCompulsory
Module details
This module enables students to develop their understanding of physical literacy as well as effective learning environments and motivational climates that support the development of lifelong participation in physical activity. Students will gain understanding of the effects of children's experiences and movement competence on their lifelong participation in physical activity.
- The Application of Sport Science to Coaching: Working with IndividualsCompulsory
Module details
The aim of this module is to promote students' understanding of the multidisciplinary nature of coaching and their ability to apply theory to sports coaching practices, contexts and performers; specifically relating to the individual needs of sports performers, at different stages of learning and development. Students will learn performance analysis skills and how these relate to the coaching process.
Year 3 7 modules
- Employability and Professional DevelopmentCompulsory
Module details
The aim of this module is to continue to improve students' professional development and employability through critical reflexive practice, personal responsibility and autonomy. Specifically, the module encourages the development of leadership and management skills that are valued in graduate-level employment contexts and enable students to produce strong applications for graduate-level jobs and/or courses of further study.
- Issues in Physical Activity, Health and Wellbeing in the Life CourseCompulsory
Module details
The aim of this module is to select, critically analyse and apply interdisciplinary knowledge and methods to understanding physical activity, health and wellbeing. The module encourages students to engage in detailed critical analysis of current policy research and practice in the field of physical activity, health and wellbeing.
- Advanced Research Methods and Data Analysis: Final Year ProjectCompulsory
Module details
Students will carry out an individual, original piece of academic work within an area of personal interest in a particular topic within the context of sport, health and exercise sciences. Students can choose their own approach to the project, which is most suited to their skills, interests and subject focus.
- Critical Issues in SportOptional
Module details
The aim of this module is to provide students with an opportunity to critically evaluate social problems/issues associated with sports in contemporary society and apply social theories/research to critically analysing these issues. A particular focus is given to the role of the media in (re)producing social phenomena.
- Critical Pedagogy and Learning in SportOptional
Module details
The aim of this module is to explore how diverse learners experience Physical Education and youth sport, and to consider the application of critical pedagogy to support effective learning environments. Additionally, the module encourages students to examine how contemporary cultural issues related to technology, health and embodiment impact learners and pedagogy in sport. Students will investigate the challenges, choices and constraints faced by Physical Education teachers, coaches and learners
- The Application of Sport Science to Coaching: Working with TeamsOptional
Module details
This module aims to develop an understanding of effective team coaching and enhance awareness of the multidisciplinary nature of contemporary sports coaching. Specifically, students will discover the multidisciplinary needs analysis of a team, and to propose a viable intervention to address those needs. Skills acquired within this module relate to performance analysis and how this links to the coaching process.
- Applied Sport and Exercise PsychologyOptional
Module details
The aim of this module is to familiarise students with contemporary topics in applied sport and exercise psychology (e.g. imagery, anxiety and performance and exercise as a mental health intervention), as well as encouraging deep thinking about the links between research and applied practice. The content covers relevant concepts, theories and research to derive applied interventions.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This foundation degree is your stepping stone to a career in teaching and coaching. You'll study the science of sport and human performance across two years. A course like this normally moves from foundations, anatomy, exercise physiology, and introductory sport psychology, to practical coaching skills and applied training methods. In year two, you'll progress to biomechanics, the physiology of training, and research methods in sport science. Throughout, you'll develop hands-on experience and explore specialisations such as strength and conditioning, sport psychology, nutrition, rehabilitation, coaching, and PE teaching routes. The emphasis is on applying theory to real coaching and teaching contexts.
Who it's for
This course suits those seeking practical grounding in sport and exercise science alongside theoretical understanding. It's designed for students interested in physical education, coaching practice, and the social dimensions of sport and health. The Foundation degree pathway allows you to develop professional competencies before progressing to further study or employment.
Careers & job market
Across Sport and Exercise Science courses nationally, 90% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of completing their degree. Of those working, 62% are in highly skilled roles or undertaking further study. National graduate earnings data shows starting salaries typically range from £22,000 to £30,000 at 15 months post-graduation, rising to £23,375–£33,000 after five years. These figures reflect the broader labour market for the field and vary by individual role and progression.
University & format
You'll study full-time at Brunel University of London, a public university on its Brunel University Campus, over two years. The course is taught in English. Brunel holds Bronze in the Office for Students' Teaching Excellence Framework (2023) and is recognised as a UK degree-awarding body, so your foundation degree will be nationally recognised.
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Provider-published requirement; check the linked course page before applying.
The provider publishes contextual-offer information. Eligibility and any reduced offer are applicant-specific.
Names detected beside accreditation or recognition copy on the provider course page; verify the route and intake.
Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Entry & how to get in
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course. One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider-sourced figure; academic year not supplied. The 2026/27 England cap is up to £9,790. Verify this course.
Check fees at BUL →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
Named awards published by the university. Compare the eligibility and application route before budgeting for one.
talented sportsmen and sportswomen
Check eligibility →Amounts, exclusions and deadlines can change. An award is not guaranteed unless the university confirms it.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Sport & Exercise Science graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in sport & exercise science · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Sport & Exercise Science nationally
National figures for Sport & Exercise Science graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
Job market & outlook
How Sport & Exercise Science graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Sport & Exercise Science graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Sports clubs & NGBs
- Leisure providers
- Schools
- The NHS
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Sport & Exercise Science graduates.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Brunel University London
Biological and sport sciences across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Brunel University Campus
1,392 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Sport & Exercise Science right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to BUL from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £17,400 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
BUL offers the Dean's International Scholarship (£2,000 per academic year) for international students, see Scholarships above.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with BUL and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at BUL
Common questions
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates earn?
What will it cost me?
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