BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science Bachelor's degree at the University of Kent
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science at University of Kent. You'll combine physiology, biomechanics, and psychology with hands-on research methods and applied practice, preparing you for roles in sports performance, rehabilitation, and health and fitness.
About this course
Explore the science behind physical performance with a BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Kent. Study physiology, biomechanics, and psychology to prepare for a career in sports performance, rehabilitation, or health and fitness. Apply now! From the provider’s course page.
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science is a Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons)) at the University of Kent, based in Canterbury. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For Biological and sport sciences graduates from this provider, 100% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 50% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £25,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Sport & Exercise Science, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Moderate evidence Published sample: 40; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2022-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 100% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 85% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Stage 1 6 modules
- Introduction to Sport and Exercise BiomechanicsCompulsory
Module details
Introduction to the ways sports scientists can use maths and physics to better understand sport and exercise performance. Through lectures, seminars and practical lab classes, discover the basic mechanical principles of human movement and their applications to sports performance and exercise.
- Introduction to Sport and Exercise PsychologyCompulsory
Module details
Understanding of what factors influence how individuals think, feel and behave. Key psychological theories and how they relate to sport and exercise contexts. Development of personal and professional understanding of how cognitive and social factors impact group and individual behaviour.
- Principles of Sport Science, Physical Activity & HealthCompulsory
Module details
Fundamentals of training principles, tailoring these to meet individual needs, and barriers and enablers that affect participation. Support the population to be more active by examining real-world examples of activity promotion campaigns. National and international sporting initiatives.
- Introduction to Research MethodsCompulsory
Module details
Evidence-based practice and scientific research methods. Comparison of different methods of scientific testing across sports performance, therapy and rehabilitation, and health. Research terminology, study design, and data analysis.
- Introduction to Exercise PhysiologyCompulsory
Module details
Core principles of anatomy and physiology including structure and function of different physiological systems, maintenance of homeostasis, and adaptation of the human body to exercise.
- Introduction to Sport & Exercise NutritionCompulsory
Module details
Dietary nutrients, exercise metabolism, and how nutritional composition of the diet can influence sport and exercise performance, responses and adaptations.
Stage 2 8 modules
- Applied Exercise PhysiologyCompulsory
Module details
Body's responses to both acute and chronic exercise, aerobic and anaerobic performance, and impact of fatigue on physiological processes. Key physiological factors that determine and limit exercise performance. Approaches to improve performance.
- Applied Sport and Exercise PsychologyCompulsory
Module details
Bridge theory and practice using real-world scenarios. Design appropriate intervention strategies to enhance performance or encourage behavioural change. Critical understanding of strengths and limitations of psychological research and theory.
- Research Methods, Design and PlanningCompulsory
Module details
Research methods in sport and exercise performance, therapy and rehabilitation, and health. Selection, employment and interpretation of statistics in research. Fundamentals of forming feasible and appropriate studies.
- Applied Sport & Exercise BiomechanicsCompulsory
Module details
Application of biomechanics to sporting performance using specialised equipment such as force plates and computer-based motion analysis. Angular kinematics and kinetics. Use of specialised biomechanical hardware and software.
- Performance Analysis in SportOptional
Module details
Sport performance analysis and technology. Notational analysis focusing on technical and tactical performance and work-rate analysis in sport. Reliability of feedback processes and data. Performance analysis software.
- Applied Sport and Exercise NutritionOptional
Module details
Advanced knowledge of nutritional needs of individuals engaged in different modes of physical activity and exercise. Evidence-based nutritional guidelines, interventions, and strategies. Sports foods, supplements and ergogenic aids.
- Life Course Variability in Sport and Physical ActivityOptional
Module details
Physical activity and sport participation across different life course stages. Specific physical activity and training modifications for children, youth, females, pregnancy, disability, adults and older adults. Physiological, biological and psychosocial changes throughout life.
- Movement as MedicineOptional
Module details
Global healthcare systems and preventing health conditions. (Description incomplete in source text)
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
You'll study the science of physical performance and training adaptation. The course explores how the body moves and responds to exercise, combining physiology, biomechanics and psychology to prepare you for careers in sports performance, rehabilitation or health and fitness. A course like this typically progresses from foundations in anatomy, exercise physiology and sport psychology in Year 1, moving into applied sciences in Year 2, biomechanics, training physiology and research methods, before Year 3 specialist options and independent work. You'll usually choose pathways such as strength and conditioning, sport psychology, nutrition, rehabilitation, coaching or PE teaching, combined with an applied placement and a final research dissertation.
Who it's for
You're drawn to understanding how the body works during exercise and competition. You have a solid grasp of science and enjoy bridging theory with real-world application, whether that's in a lab, a gym, a clinic, or a sports facility. This degree suits you if you want to combine your interest in sport with rigorous scientific thinking, and you're willing to engage with both academic depth and practical skills development.
Careers & job market
Nationally, 90% of Sport and Exercise Science graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduating. Of those working, 62% are in highly skilled roles or pursuing postgraduate study. Starting salaries typically fall between £22,000 and £30,000; after five years, national earnings data suggests £23,375 to £33,000. Pathways include sports science support, clinical rehabilitation, health and fitness management, and research roles.
University & format
This is a 3-year full-time Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, UCAS code C602) taught in English at The University of Kent, a public university founded in 1965 and based in Canterbury. The degree is recognised as a UK degree-awarding body, and the university holds a Silver award for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
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.
Year in industry. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 90% |
| another higher-education qualification | 5% |
| a Baccalaureate | 5% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications and UCAS points. If you're worried about grades, this course has historically taken a wide range, and contextual offers may apply.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
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 (code C602). 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 fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at University of Kent →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
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
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.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £25,000 | £23,000 – £28,000 | 40 |
| 3 years after | £24,500 | £20,000 – £29,000 | 310 |
| 5 years after | £30,500 | £25,000 – £38,500 | 350 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Moderate evidence. Published sample: 40; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2022-23.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 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.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Moderate evidence. Published sample: 40; avoid reading small differences as meaningful. Cohort 2022-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Sport & Exercise Science courses at the same study level.
Compared with 915 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Sales occupationsSOC 2020 71 · 20% of published destinations · ASHE median £15,975
- Managers, directors and senior officialsSOC 2020 1 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £51,733
- Information Technology ProfessionalsSOC 2020 213 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £55,357
- Teaching and Childcare Support OccupationDiscover Uni category · 10% of published destinations
- Other Health ProfessionalsSOC 2020 225 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £42,902
- Leisure, travel and related personal service occupationsSOC 2020 62 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £22,297
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 30; response rate: 50%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Is BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science worth it?
It depends. BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science adds about +£35,630 over the first ten years vs. going straight to a job, but on these earnings the payoff is slower than average.
Cumulative earnings vs. going straight to work at 18, counting tuition and 3 years of wages given up while studying. The line clears zero around year 20.4. This is a simplified gross-earnings comparison, not a forecast of cash loan repayments.
Model: this course’s own median graduate earnings (Graduate Outcomes / LEO) above the £24,000 non-graduate baseline (ONS), net of £9,790/yr over 3 years (published course home fee). Eligible England-domiciled students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan; repayments are 9% only on income above the threshold, with anything left written off after 40 years. That makes the cash flow different from conventional commercial debt. Opportunity cost assumes £18,000 gross earnings forgone in each study year; figures are nominal and exclude tax, living costs, investment returns and loan interest. A simplified estimate. Earnings and actual fees vary by graduate, provider, fee status and UK nation.
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.
Sport CoachAspire PeopleSport Science LeadBiolyz FlexCoBTEC Tech Awards Sept 22 - Sport - ExaminerPearsonEquine Vet: Independent Clinic for Leisure & Sport HorsesBritish Veterinary LGBT+Learning Mentor (PE/Sport)Prospero TeachingCasual Youth Worker: Sport, Community Growth & BelongingActive Herefordshire & WorcestershireIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
Published home tuition is £9,790/year for this course. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
100% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £25,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 9.2 out of 10: NSS 90.3% · in work or study 100% · continued 85%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
The University of Kent
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 Canterbury
318 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 University of Kent from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £23,500 / 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
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check University of Kent’s funding pages.
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 University of Kent and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at University of Kent
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise ScienceBSc (Hons) · University of KentBSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science with a Foundation YearBSc (Hons) · University of KentBSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science with a Foundation YearBSc (Hons) · University of KentBSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science with a Year in IndustryBSc (Hons) · University of Kent
Common questions
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