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Course Overview

Our BSc Sport and Exercise Science degree is a multi-disciplinary course which combines theoretical knowledge with the practical application of scientific principles. Whilst studying this course, you can participate in a wide range of topics relating to sport and exercise science, developing knowledge, understanding, and practical skills in key areas of physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and nutrition. Accredited and experienced teaching staff deliver research informed teaching and practice on a range of areas, from applied athletic performance to supporting health and wellbeing.

Practical sessions within the course help you to contextualise theory, and you will have access to our purpose-built Human Performance Centre. This industry-standard facility includes bespoke physiology laboratories, a biomechanics laboratory, and specific practical spaces to support modules on gym instruction and personal training.

This degree is endorsed by the The Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES), the UK's professional body for sport and exercise sciences, and has modules with additional endorsement from The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

Why Choose Lincoln?

CIMSPA endorsed modules for Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer

Modules led and taught by CASES and CIMSPA accredited staff members

Endorsed by the Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Science (CASES)

Opportunities to apply theoretical understanding and gain practical knowledge

Subject area ranked in the top 10 for teaching in the UK*

Subject area ranked in the top 20 overall in the UK**

*National Student Survey 2024 (out of 83 ranking institutions) **Guardian University Guide 2026 (out of 85 ranking institutions)

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How You Study

This degree reflects current research-informed teaching and innovation within the sector.

The first year of the programme is designed to provide the essential foundations of sport and exercise science theory, completing four sport science-specific modules across the key disciplines of biomechanics, psychology, physiology and nutrition, and one broader module to develop their research skills.

Whilst these disciplines continue into the second year of study, the context of each module becomes even more applied than first year as the emphasis shifts towards students converting their knowledge of theory into applied practice. There is also the opportunity to start to individualise the specific mix of modules taken relating to physiology and nutrition depending on each students' preferences and longer-term plans - selecting three options from Applied Health Physiology, Applied Exercise Physiology, Exercise Instruction, Physical Activity and Health, and Nutrition for Health and Performance. Alternatively, students can choose to substitute one of these optional modules for a Placement (Sport & Exercise Science) module, which would allow students to undertake a one term placement in a relevant area. Along-side these discipline focused modules, students will also continue to pursue an Advanced Research Skills module, designed to prepare students for their independent project in third year.

In the third year, you can tailor the degree to your own preferences and future plans, by choosing three from a selection of seven optional modules to study across a range of disciplines and contexts. This is alongside the completion of your final year dissertation which gives you the chance to apply research skills developed in your first two years, to plan and complete a specific research project relating to a topic you're interested in.

We want to ensure our students become the best graduates they can be, and in addition to interactive lectures and seminars, weekly laboratory and/or practical sessions, guest speakers, web-based activities, and staff-student research projects, we encourage students to deliver sports science workshops to school groups and sports clubs, undertake their own independent research ideas (e.g. dissertation), and offer a wide range of voluntary applied sports science roles.

Each of our students is also paired with a member of staff as their personal tutor from the very first week of enrolment, in order to help them settle in, discuss issues or questions they have, and to help guide and develop their academic growth and extracurricular experience towards any post-degree plans they may have.

CASES Endorsement

This programme is endorsed by the Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Science (CASES), the UK's professional body for sport and exercise sciences. This accreditation recognises degrees which incorporate the knowledge, skills and professional development opportunities that are considered essential for sport and exercise science students to succeed in the industry.

Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences Logo

Guest Lectures

Students can benefit from guest lectures from a variety of guest lecturers. Previous lectures have included a session on genetics from Dr Ian Varley and sessions on coronary heart disease from Dr Jo Blackwell, a visiting fellow at the University of Lincoln.

CIMSPA Endorsement

This programme is endorsed by The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) for the roles of Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer. This endorsement demonstrates the University's commitment to ensuring students' teaching and learning is aligned to industry standards. For a student to register with CIMSPA and arrange certification for professional standards gained during this degree, a small administration charge would be required.

CIMSPA logo

Modules

Module Overview

This module aims to showcase how research is applied in practice, in policy and in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and social responsibility. In lectures, students will be introduced to examples of how research is applied in the workplace, how research is used to shape policy, and how research relates to the SDGs and social responsibility. In parallel, a series of workshops will teach students to apply this knowledge. This module develops the following Skills for Life: global mindset, leadership & influence, active learning, critical thinking, solving complex problems and equality & inclusion. Specifically, on this module, students will develop their global mindset and leadership & influence through considering how research is applied in a global context, including contributing to the SDGs and writing for a general audience. By developing a dissertation proposal, students will be active learners, required to think critically and solve complex problems while centring equality and inclusion.

Module Overview

This module aims to use pathophysiology and epidemiology to examine the relationship between physical activity, sedentary behaviour, physical fitness, and health. Students can learn both the risks and benefits of physical activity and exercise, understanding the contraindications to exercise for a range of special population groups. Students will be supported in areas such as the measurement of health-related fitness for at-risk individual and make suitable recommendations for exercise to benefit health. The specific objectives of the module are to: (1) establish an understanding of the dose-response relationship between physical activity, sedentary behaviour, physical fitness and health; (2) develop an understanding and knowledge of key health problems and their pathophysiology; (3) provide the required knowledge to conduct safe and effective screening and pre-exercise assessment for sedentary individuals; and (4) develop an understanding of how to produce suitable exercise recommendations for specific individuals.

Module Overview

This module aims to enable students to develop both their knowledge and application of more advanced biomechanical principles that underpin human movement. It will involve the delivery of applied theoretical concepts with specific application to common sporting movement patterns. It will involve advanced practical data collection and analysis techniques, with emphasis on data handling and interpretation to assess biomechanical theories that are fundamental to sporting performance. Students will typically develop skills in critical thinking, active learning, digital and data literacy, and curiosity.

Module Overview

This module will build on the foundations of human nutrition introduced at Level 4 and encourage students to develop and apply theoretical understanding and practical skills to nutritional support with a range of clients with specialist requirements based on health status or athletic requirements. The content will explore key nutritional interventions in terms of empirical support, client relevance, safety and practical application and include exploration of monitoring and evaluation techniques. Key life skills developed throughout this module include curiosity, digital and data literacy, leadership and influence, and persuasion and negotiation.

Module Overview

This module aims to enable students to consolidate and expand their knowledge of the foundations of sport physiology, developed at Level 1 by encouraging the application of the fundamental principles of anatomy and physiology. Students will learn how physiological assessments are used to evaluate sporting performance and they will undertake a range of practical assessments related to key performance-related components of fitness. The specific objectives are to: (1) develop theoretical understanding of sports specific components of fitness; and (2) improve independent proficiency in monitoring, assessing, and evaluating physiological performance using underpinning theoretical knowledge.

Module Overview

This module aims to enable students to develop knowledge and application of strength and conditioning practices. Building on the foundations provided by the core Strength and Conditioning module there will be an increased emphasis on the theoretical underpinning to neural, molecular and structural adaptations and application to variety of training modalities. Students will typically develop skills and competencies in assessing/testing individuals, developing competency to coach advanced lifting techniques such as Olympic lifts, utilising a variety of training modalities to improve athlete performance and planning, conducting and delivering coaching sessions.

Module Overview

This module will facilitate a deeper level of knowledge, understanding and critical awareness in key areas of health and exercise psychology. Through the evaluation and critical appraisal of behaviour change approaches/models, theories, and research evidence, students on this module will consider how knowledge is developed and applied in the context of physical activity/exercise promotion and maintenance. Students will be required to challenge existing knowledge and best practice across developing and topical lines of research, which will foster skills such as critical thinking, curiosity, and open-mindedness.

Module Overview

This optional, year-long module enables students to spend a year studying abroad at one of the University’s approved partner institutions. Eligible students must have completed their second year of study to a satisfactory standard and successfully completed the application process for the year abroad. During the year spent abroad, students share classes with local students and study on a suite of locally-delivered taught modules which have been approved in advance by the University. Upon their return, as part of the assessment for this module, students are required to critically reflect upon their experience of living and studying in a different cultural environment and the skills acquired.

Module Overview

This module aims to enable students to develop knowledge and application in the area of data collection strategies to monitor and analyse sporting performance. It will involve the delivery of theoretical underpinning and field-based performance analysis strategies and their application to assessment of practical sport. Students will typically develop skills and competency in using specialist equipment and software and communicating data through a variety of formats. Students will typically develop skills in critical thinking, active learning, digital and data literacy, and curiosity.

Module Overview

This module will facilitate a deeper level of knowledge, understanding and critical awareness in key areas of sport and performance psychology. Through the evaluation and critical appraisal of core concepts, theories, and research evidence, students on this module will consider how knowledge is developed and applied to aid performance and psychological outcomes in sporting contexts. Students will be required to challenge existing knowledge and best practice across developing and topical lines of research, which will foster skills such as critical thinking, curiosity, and open-mindedness.

Module Overview

This module aims to create a valuable opportunity for students to gain important insights and improve their skills and prospects relevant to employment or further study (i.e. within psychology, sports science, therapy, rehabilitation or related subject areas) by undertaking relevant work experience.

Module Overview

This module aims to explore student’s ongoing professional development as a practitioner in their given specialist field. Built upon good evidence based working practices, a key purpose will be to enhance associated knowledge and competency-based skills that relate to professional practice through critical self-reflection. It is expected that students will undertake professional practice activity within or of benefit to their degree of study. Activity can include, but is not limited to, a current working professional position, support-centred consultancy or programme-based intervention activities, a continued professional development activity, interaction and observation with a senior colleague/working professional, shadowing, volunteering, mentoring or leading an area of sport and exercise science service delivery (where appropriate). Students will be required to critically reflect on their experience in relation to contemporary societal and employment issues, professional body guidelines and policies, ethical and moral dimensions, graduate skills and future ambitions. Such skill development will be underpinned by Skills for Life dimensions aligned to active learning, critical thinking, leadership and influence, and emotional intelligence.

Module Overview

This module will prepare students for carrying out independent research and applied consultancy activities in the area of sport and exercise biomechanics. Building on the knowledge and experience gained at previous levels, students will acquire skills and experience relating to the use of a range of state-of-the-art techniques for assessing human movement from both performance and injury perspectives. Extensive opportunities for practical data collection and analysis will be complemented by a focus on developing scientific rigour. Students will typically develop skills in critical thinking, active learning, digital and data literacy, and curiosity.

Module Overview

This module develops advanced knowledge and applied skills in human physiology within health contexts. Students will critically engage with current concepts, contemporary research, and theoretical frameworks, applying these to real-world scenarios in health promotion and support alongside disease prevention. The module explores contemporary topics in health physiology, including chronic disease pathophysiology, exercise prescription, progressive risk assessment, and health promotion strategies. Students will evaluate how physiological theory and evidence-based practice inform the design and implementation of interventions aimed at improving population health. Students will typically develop skills in critical thinking, complex problem-solving, equality and inclusion, emotional intelligence, and intercultural awareness.

Module Overview

This module develops advanced knowledge and applied skills in human physiology within performance contexts. Students will critically engage with current concepts, contemporary research and theoretical knowledge, applying these to real-world scenarios in performance. Students will examine contemporary topics in performance physiology and critically evaluate how physiological theory and research inform the assessment and enhancement of athletic performance. Students will typically develop skills in critical thinking, complex problem-solving, equality and inclusion, emotional intelligence, and intercultural awareness.

Module Overview

The module will be structured around the critical application of strength and conditioning and factors influencing the preparation of athletes for physical performance. Learning will be supported through delivery of both lectures, practical sessions and applied practice. Students will typically develop skills in evidence-based application of theory, critical thinking, self-reflection, practical coaching and written and oral communication.

Module Overview

This module aims to provide students with an opportunity to engage in an applied practice project within a community organisation, professional organisation or sports club setting. Students will co-produce a project that addresses real-world challenges, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. Specifically, the module will require students to plan, design, deliver, and evaluate a project that responds to the need and/or development of a group/individual in a relevant context or setting. Students will typically develop skills in critical thinking, complex problem solving, equality and inclusion, resilience and flexibility, active learning and open-mindedness.

Module Overview

This module will deepen students’ understanding of psychological concepts, theories and models in sport and exercise settings. Students will critically engage with contemporary research and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, including case studies and applied interventions. Students will have the opportunity to assess an athlete’s psychological profile and explain how psychological interventions could be designed and implemented. Students will typically develop skills in critical thinking, complex problem-solving, equality and inclusion, emotional intelligence, and intercultural awareness.

Module Overview

This module provides an opportunity for an in-depth study of a particular topic relevant to the field of their particular degree and to demonstrate original and critical thought. The Dissertation module tests a student’s ability to identify an appropriate research question and to design a method that allows data collection and analysis to be conducted in order to answer the proposed research question. Students will typically develop skills in scientific literacy, critical thinking, data analysis, and written and oral communication. Skills for Life will be gained in Complex Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, Curiosity & Digital & Data Literacy.

All Dissertation projects must be derived from and/or embedded within a clear theoretical framework. Students have to demonstrate their knowledge of research skills in order to analyse the data gathered and their theoretical knowledge in interpreting the results of their study in relation to the background literature. This can be done through the use of quantitative methods, qualitative methods, or a combination. The module is assessed through the presentation of their research via a poster presentation and the production of a written thesis. The role of the supervisor is to guide them through these processes and the students will be supported through a range of masterclasses covering topics aligned to the development of the students' research.

† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, and contact hours.

The staff at Lincoln are fantastic, everyone is always happy to answer any questions students may have in order to develop their learning. Due to how the programme is taught, I feel that students develop a nice student-staff relationship, which definitely helps engagement with course content and learning materials.

Callum Andrews

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

Placements

At the end of your second year, you'll have the option to apply to complete a placement year in industry (e.g. professional sports club), or a study abroad year at one of our partner institutions, as part of the degree. The placement year is a full-time position in a role relevant to your studies and is an excellent opportunity to gain relevant work experience.

For students undertaking a placement or a study abroad year, a Placement Year Fee is payable to the University of Lincoln. Students are expected to cover their own travel, accommodation, and living costs. Students who require a visa to study in the UK must remain compliant with the conditions of that visa for a placement year. Our International Advice Team are on hand in Lincoln to help you understand what any limitations might be, so that we can ensure you can make the most of any opportunities available to you.

Partnered with Lincoln City Football Club

Our ongoing partnership with Lincoln City FC offers you opportunities to undertake work placement or internship opportunities, as well as providing a potential pathway for full-time employment after you graduate. Many Lincoln graduates are employed within the organisation in roles spanning coaching, physiotherapy, sports science, and performance analysis.

Lincoln City Football Club logo

Industry Experience

Students can support pre-season fitness testing with Lincoln City Women FC and gain hands-on experience through the delivery of fitness testing. There are also plenty of opportunities for sport and exercise science students to engage with our in-house consultancy team, delivering high-quality sport science support to a variety of sport and health professionals.

Staff within the school have been so supportive, whether it be personal tutor, lecturing staff or support staff, they are always on hand to answer your questions. They have helped me develop my own personal qualities and skills and helped me to apply these in interviews for my career next steps.

Jess Haylock

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

How you are assessed

Assessment methods used include written assignments, lab reports, presentations, practical assessments, and some written examinations or multiple-choice tests. Alongside more traditional methods of assessment, staff also strive to include innovative assessment strategies that reflect the dynamic nature of the industry, such as e-posters, or video-based professional learning platforms for blogs depending on selected modules.

Entry Requirements 2026-27

United Kingdom

96 to 104 UCAS Tariff points.

This must be achieved from a minimum of 2 A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications. For example:

A Level: CCC to BCC

BTEC Extended Diploma: Distinction Merit Merit

T Level: Merit Overall

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 96 to 104 UCAS points to be achieved from 45 Level 3 credits.

International Baccalaureate: 28 points overall.

GCSE's: Minimum of three at grade 4 or above, which must include English, Maths and Science . Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may be considered.

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry and do accept a combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTECs, Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).

We may also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.

International

Non UK Qualifications:

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/

If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk

Please note application assessment criteria may vary by country and we may close to applications from some domiciles. Please view the Your Country pages of our website before making an application.

Contextual Offers

At Lincoln, we recognise that not everybody has had the same advice and support to help them get to higher education. Contextual offers are one of the ways we remove the barriers to higher education, ensuring that we have fair access for all students regardless of background and personal experiences. For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit our Offer Guide pages. If you are applying to a course that has any subject specific requirements, these will still need to be achieved as part of the standard entry criteria.

Fees and Scholarships

Going to university is a life-changing step and it's important to understand the costs involved and the funding options available before you start. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found on our course fees pages.

Course Fees

For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. To help support students from outside of the UK, we are also delighted to offer a number of international scholarships which range from £1,000 up to the value of 50 per cent of tuition fees. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.

What Can I Do with a Sport and Exercise Science Degree?

Given the wide range of transferable skills students gain through this programme, our graduates have gone onto exciting careers such as: sport and exercise psychologist, specialist respiratory physiotherapist, strength and conditioning coach, health and wellbeing coach, cardiac rehabilitation exercise physiologist, and football development officer (disability and inclusion). Students can also undertake further study.

Find out More by Visiting Us

The best way to find out what it is really like to live and learn at Lincoln is to visit us in person. We offer a range of opportunities across the year to help you to get a real feel for what it might be like to study here.

Three students walking together on campus in the sunshine

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The University intends to provide its courses as outlined in these pages, although the University may make changes in accordance with the Student Admissions Terms and Conditions.