• Undergraduate

Sport and Exercise Science BSc (Hons)

Overview

Overview

Why study at the University of West London? 
  • Ranked 30th university in the UK - The Guardian University Guide 2025
  • Number 1 London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2024**
  • Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024

Explore how the mind and body work together and apply this knowledge to help people achieve their sport, exercise and physical activity goals on our BSc Sport and Exercise Science degree.

Integrating biomechanics, physiology and psychology to address both sport and health contexts, the course also emphasises the societal role of sport and health promotion, alongside developing your business and management skills. 

Taught by accredited scientists who collaborate with partners including Brentford FC, local sport and health community groups, the NHS and elite athletes, our sport and exercise science course is mapped against professional industry standards ensuring that you gain the competencies needed for vocational qualifications in exercise and fitness.

The degree is endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) and the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), pending ratification.

A man works with a dumbell overseen by a private trainer

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Study options:
We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Sport and Exercise Science with us?

Why study Sport and Exercise Science with us?

What our students say…

I applied to UWL because I liked the vibe at the open day. There was lots of information and a good bond between lecturers and students.The modules on my course are really interesting and we have amazing teachers. If there's an issue, I can talk to them. They're always available and are really welcoming.

Olivia Tedman
Next
A statistic stating that the University of West London has been ranked 30th overall in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2025
Industry focused teaching
study full time or part time
Specialist careers advice
Course detail & modules

Course detail & modules

​Our BSc Sport and Exercise Science course aims to provide you with wide-ranging knowledge and understanding of the key theories relevant to sport and exercise science.

You will learn how to apply your understanding of the science to real-world situations, including:

  • how the human body works during physical activity, exercise and sport to promote mental, physical and social health
  • how to address issues faced by different populations: from enhancing the performance of elite athletes to improving the quality of life through physical activity. 

Additionally, you will learn about research design and methodologies and conduct independent project at the cumulation of your studies in our designated laboratories providing you with first-hand industry-level experience.​

Along with accreditation from the British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES), our degree aims to equip you to achieve the professional standards of the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA): Level 2 Gym Instructor (passing Level 4) and Level 3 Personal Trainer (passing Level 5).

Join us and embark on a journey that blends scientific knowledge, practical experience and professional development. With our Sport and Exercise Science degree, you will be equipped to make a significant impact on the world of sport and health.

Course subject to approval

Approval is the formal process by which the University ensures that the proposed design, content and delivery of a course will provide a high quality learning experience for all students.

Assessment


Compulsory modules

You will study all the compulsory modules and will choose ONE of the optional modules.
  • Behaviour and Mind

    On this module you will examine the contribution that behaviourist, biopsychological and cognitive perspectives have made to our understanding of behaviour, including maladaptive behaviour and drug addiction. We will consider how we experience the world through memory, and attentional and perceptual processes.

  • Growing Up

    On this module, you will be introduced to a range of important topics with a specific focus of how we ‘grow up’ socially and in relation to others. You will be exploring key issues that help shape our development including learning about how we develop as social beings. 

     

  • History of Psychology

    This module will provide you with an introduction to conceptual and historical issues in psychology. The module will cover the history of scientific psychology, from its earliest beginnings up to the present day.

  • Psychology in the Real World

    Through lectures from practising chartered psychologists, this module will look at psychology's application in professions such as health, counselling, education, forensic and occupational psychology, and psychology as an academic discipline. You will have the opportunity to reflect on your own career goals and skills in order to develop a personal development plan.

  • Qualitative Research Methods in Psychology

    This module will be the second stage in an introduction to research methods and statistics in psychology. It will further develop your understanding of some basic concepts in research design, data analysis, and research reporting. You will be introduced to qualitative methods employed in psychological research.

  • Think Psychology

    Using current staff research as an example, you will meet in small groups to help develop an understanding of academic literacy, academic honesty and critical thinking skills. You will also meet individually with your personal tutor to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

  • Quantitative Research Methods in Psychology

    This module will be the second stage in an introduction to research methods and statistics in psychology. It will further develop your understanding of some basic concepts in research design, data analysis, and research reporting. You will be introduced to qualitative methods employed in psychological research including analysing text from online sources and semi-structured interviewing.

Optional modules

  • Addictive Behaviours

    On this module you will explore the psychological theories that underpin our understanding of compulsive and addictive behaviours. You will also have an introduction to the effects of psychoactive substances and what makes them addictive. The link between substance misuse, mental illness, learning disability and criminal behaviour will be discussed.

  • Criminal Minds

    This module will explore perspectives that try to explain patterns of thinking that lead certain individuals to commit crimes while others do not. You will consider the possible neural underpinning that may suggest whether criminals are born 'pre-wired'. This will be contrasted with social perspectives on crime, ie the 'nature vs nurture' debate.

  • Understanding Mental Health

    This module provides a psychological perspective on key issues in relation to mental health and well-being. The module looks at definitions of mental health and well-being, and examines vulnerability and protective factors, including links to physical health. It investigates the symptoms of common mental health problems and the experiences of those who suffer from them.

Assessment


Compulsory modules

  • Biological and Atypical Psychology

    This module will provide you with an exciting introduction to the fascinating area of biological psychology. You will learn about the building blocks of our brains and discover how they allow us to operate in our worlds and give rise to the many higher order processes that define our daily experiences.

  • Cognition in Action

    This module will explore how the mind works, ie how our brains process, store and modify information through our senses. It will examine how we process sensory signals, what role attention plays in dealing with information from our senses, and how we store and transform this information.

  • Lifespan Development

    This module examines the physical, cognitive and social development of individuals from birth to maturity. As the name implies, this module adopts a lifespan approach to human development; the first half of the programme focuses upon development in infancy and childhood, whilst the second half focuses upon development through adolescence, adulthood and old-age. Specific topics in this area, such as theory of mind, attachment, language, cognitive development, gender development and developmental disorders will all be covered. Where possible, module material is focused upon both the theoretical perspectives of development and how these can be applied in practice.

  • Further Research Methods

    This module will extend what you learnt on the Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods modules. You will use the statistical package SPSS to carry out statistical analyses and apply findings to real-world research issues.

  • Individual Differences

    On this module you will examine key concepts, theories, methods and findings in the psychology of personality and intelligence. Principles of measurement are a key component of this module, as is psychometric testing in the study of the similarities and differences between people.

  • Social Psychology

    On this module you will focus on various issues concerning the social and interactive aspects of human behaviour. The module will give you an overview of the main areas of study and introduce the diversity of social psychology, presenting findings on a variety of topics central to social psychological enquiry.

Assessment


Compulsory modules

You will study all the compulsory modules and will choose FOUR of the optional modules.

Optional modules

  • Double Dissertation

    This double weighted module requires an original piece of empirical quantitative or qualitative research in a recognised sub-area of the discipline with the support of a member of the academic team.

    The assessment profile of this module consists of an oral presentation of the proposed research, a poster presentation and a final write up. This module would be of interest to those students wishing to conduct greater in-depth research in their final year.

    (Note: that if selected, takes the place of the Dissertation module plus one option module choice)

  • Forensic Psychology

    On this module you will gain an overview of key topics in forensic and criminological psychology. We will look at theories of crime, domestic and sexual violence, crime and mental health, eyewitness testimony, investigative interviewing, and interrogations and confessions.

  • Gender Psychology

    This module is designed to encourage you to explore the world and yourselves in reference to gender. We will be critically examining psychological theories of gender and sex differences, as well as how gender is influenced by family, peers, school, and the media. We will also be looking at how a language is a key tool in constructing and reinforcing gender. In the second half of the module, we will begin to look at how we can identify and apply gender theory in real life, including its relationship to body image and the sex industry; the workplace; LGBTQIA+ psychology; and the criminal justice system.

  • Health Psychology

    This module will introduce how psychological theory and research can help us to understand health-related behaviours (such as smoking uptake and taking exercise). We’ll explore the stress–illness link, medication adherence, living with chronic health conditions and how illness related beliefs are important. We will also explore how interventions seek to promote healthy behaviour.

  • Foundations of Talk Therapies

    This module will help you understand the connection between theory and what is evidence-based practice within the therapeutic field of psychology. It will also introduce you to the experiential learning and personal skills required for working as a counsellor. Although this module will not prepare you to become a practicing counsellor, it will offer practical exercises to familiarise you with basic counselling skills, reflective skills and develop your understanding of the ethical issues in the field.  

  • Neuropsychology

    On this module, you will examine the relationship between the brain, behaviour and cognitive abilities. The module will focus on specific brain functions, such as memory, visual perception and language, using comparisons between brain injury patients and healthy individuals.

  • Occupational Psychology

    This module will introduce you to a variety of issues related to work, and how psychological principles may be applied to enhance people's wellbeing and productivity in the workplace. We will address the application of psychological theory and research methods in the context of work, at individual and organisational levels.

  • Psychology of Mental Health

    This is an introduction to psychological disorders that looks at historical perspectives in abnormal psychology, classification and assessment, and different perspectives and treatment methods.

    It also focuses on specific disorders, such as schizophrenia, mood disorders, anxiety and phobias, eating disorders and substance use disorders.

  • Violent Relationships

    On this module you will examine violence and abuse in the context of relationships, from a range of perspectives. Psychological understanding and its implications are increasingly relevant, and we will look at aspects of violence that most affect the psychology of relationships.

Assessment


Compulsory modules

You will study all the compulsory modules and will choose ONE of the optional modules.
  • Behaviour and Mind

    On this module you will examine the contribution that behaviourist, biopsychological and cognitive perspectives have made to our understanding of behaviour, including maladaptive behaviour and drug addiction. We will consider how we experience the world through memory, and attentional and perceptual processes.

  • Growing Up

    On this module, you will be introduced to a range of important topics with a specific focus of how we ‘grow up’ socially and in relation to others. You will be exploring key issues that help shape our development including learning about how we develop as social beings. 

     

  • History of Psychology

    This module will provide you with an introduction to conceptual and historical issues in psychology. The module will cover the history of scientific psychology, from its earliest beginnings up to the present day.

  • Psychology in the Real World

    Through lectures from practising chartered psychologists, this module will look at psychology's application in professions such as health, counselling, education, forensic and occupational psychology, and psychology as an academic discipline. You will have the opportunity to reflect on your own career goals and skills in order to develop a personal development plan.

  • Qualitative Research Methods in Psychology

    This module will be the second stage in an introduction to research methods and statistics in psychology. It will further develop your understanding of some basic concepts in research design, data analysis, and research reporting. You will be introduced to qualitative methods employed in psychological research.

  • Think Psychology

    Using current staff research as an example, you will meet in small groups to help develop an understanding of academic literacy, academic honesty and critical thinking skills. You will also meet individually with your personal tutor to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

  • Quantitative Research Methods in Psychology

    This module will be the second stage in an introduction to research methods and statistics in psychology. It will further develop your understanding of some basic concepts in research design, data analysis, and research reporting. You will be introduced to qualitative methods employed in psychological research including analysing text from online sources and semi-structured interviewing.

Optional modules

  • Addictive Behaviours

    On this module you will explore the psychological theories that underpin our understanding of compulsive and addictive behaviours. You will also have an introduction to the effects of psychoactive substances and what makes them addictive. The link between substance misuse, mental illness, learning disability and criminal behaviour will be discussed.

  • Criminal Minds

    This module will explore perspectives that try to explain patterns of thinking that lead certain individuals to commit crimes while others do not. You will consider the possible neural underpinning that may suggest whether criminals are born 'pre-wired'. This will be contrasted with social perspectives on crime, ie the 'nature vs nurture' debate.

  • Understanding Mental Health

    This module provides a psychological perspective on key issues in relation to mental health and well-being. The module looks at definitions of mental health and well-being, and examines vulnerability and protective factors, including links to physical health. It investigates the symptoms of common mental health problems and the experiences of those who suffer from them.

Assessment


Compulsory modules

  • Biological and Atypical Psychology

    This module will provide you with an exciting introduction to the fascinating area of biological psychology. You will learn about the building blocks of our brains and discover how they allow us to operate in our worlds and give rise to the many higher order processes that define our daily experiences.

  • Cognition in Action

    This module will explore how the mind works, ie how our brains process, store and modify information through our senses. It will examine how we process sensory signals, what role attention plays in dealing with information from our senses, and how we store and transform this information.

  • Lifespan Development

    This module examines the physical, cognitive and social development of individuals from birth to maturity. As the name implies, this module adopts a lifespan approach to human development; the first half of the programme focuses upon development in infancy and childhood, whilst the second half focuses upon development through adolescence, adulthood and old-age. Specific topics in this area, such as theory of mind, attachment, language, cognitive development, gender development and developmental disorders will all be covered. Where possible, module material is focused upon both the theoretical perspectives of development and how these can be applied in practice.

  • Further Research Methods

    This module will extend what you learnt on the Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods modules. You will use the statistical package SPSS to carry out statistical analyses and apply findings to real-world research issues.

  • Individual Differences

    On this module you will examine key concepts, theories, methods and findings in the psychology of personality and intelligence. Principles of measurement are a key component of this module, as is psychometric testing in the study of the similarities and differences between people.

  • Social Psychology

    On this module you will focus on various issues concerning the social and interactive aspects of human behaviour. The module will give you an overview of the main areas of study and introduce the diversity of social psychology, presenting findings on a variety of topics central to social psychological enquiry.

Assessment


Compulsory modules

You will study all the compulsory modules and will choose FOUR of the optional modules.

Optional modules

  • Double Dissertation

    This double weighted module requires an original piece of empirical quantitative or qualitative research in a recognised sub-area of the discipline with the support of a member of the academic team.

    The assessment profile of this module consists of an oral presentation of the proposed research, a poster presentation and a final write up. This module would be of interest to those students wishing to conduct greater in-depth research in their final year.

    (Note: that if selected, takes the place of the Dissertation module plus one option module choice)

  • Forensic Psychology

    On this module you will gain an overview of key topics in forensic and criminological psychology. We will look at theories of crime, domestic and sexual violence, crime and mental health, eyewitness testimony, investigative interviewing, and interrogations and confessions.

  • Gender Psychology

    This module is designed to encourage you to explore the world and yourselves in reference to gender. We will be critically examining psychological theories of gender and sex differences, as well as how gender is influenced by family, peers, school, and the media. We will also be looking at how a language is a key tool in constructing and reinforcing gender. In the second half of the module, we will begin to look at how we can identify and apply gender theory in real life, including its relationship to body image and the sex industry; the workplace; LGBTQIA+ psychology; and the criminal justice system.

  • Health Psychology

    This module will introduce how psychological theory and research can help us to understand health-related behaviours (such as smoking uptake and taking exercise). We’ll explore the stress–illness link, medication adherence, living with chronic health conditions and how illness related beliefs are important. We will also explore how interventions seek to promote healthy behaviour.

  • Foundations of Talk Therapies

    This module will help you understand the connection between theory and what is evidence-based practice within the therapeutic field of psychology. It will also introduce you to the experiential learning and personal skills required for working as a counsellor. Although this module will not prepare you to become a practicing counsellor, it will offer practical exercises to familiarise you with basic counselling skills, reflective skills and develop your understanding of the ethical issues in the field.  

  • Neuropsychology

    On this module, you will examine the relationship between the brain, behaviour and cognitive abilities. The module will focus on specific brain functions, such as memory, visual perception and language, using comparisons between brain injury patients and healthy individuals.

  • Occupational Psychology

    This module will introduce you to a variety of issues related to work, and how psychological principles may be applied to enhance people's wellbeing and productivity in the workplace. We will address the application of psychological theory and research methods in the context of work, at individual and organisational levels.

  • Psychology of Mental Health

    This is an introduction to psychological disorders that looks at historical perspectives in abnormal psychology, classification and assessment, and different perspectives and treatment methods.

    It also focuses on specific disorders, such as schizophrenia, mood disorders, anxiety and phobias, eating disorders and substance use disorders.

  • Violent Relationships

    On this module you will examine violence and abuse in the context of relationships, from a range of perspectives. Psychological understanding and its implications are increasingly relevant, and we will look at aspects of violence that most affect the psychology of relationships.

Please note, the course is subject to approval. Module names and content could change.


Compulsory modules

Please note, the course is subject to approval. Module names and content could change.


Compulsory modules

  • Dissertation

    This module is your opportunity to conduct your own independent research project on a psychological topic of your choice. Working closely with a member of academic staff you review relevant literature to generate a research question, design a study to address your question, obtain ethical approval for your study, collect and analyse your data, and write this up as a final research report.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

112 UCAS points required from level 3 qualifications

These can include:

  • A Levels at grade B, B and C, or above
  • BTEC Extended Diploma with Distinction, Merit, Merit
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • T Levels

You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 – 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents.

 

Mature applicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply. Your application will be considered on an individual basis.

Level 5 (year 2) entry
To directly enter the second year of this course you need 120 credits at Level 4 of a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology course. We will review your application to check that the modules you have already studied are equivalent to the Level 4 modules on our BSc (Hons) Psychology course. Find out more about our processes for recognising prior learning.

Level 6 (year 3) entry
To directly enter the third year of this course you need 120 credits at level 4 and 120 at level 5 of a BPS accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology course. We will review your application to check that the modules you have already studied are equivalent to the Level 4 and Level 5 modules on our BSc (Hons) Psychology course. Find out more about our processes for recognising prior learning.

6.0 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement - a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the 4 individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept. 

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Mature applicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply. Your application will be considered on an individual basis.

Level 5 (year 2) entry
To directly enter the second year of this course you need 120 credits at Level 4 of a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology course. We will review your application to check that the modules you have already studied are equivalent to the Level 4 modules on our BSc (Hons) Psychology course. Find out more about our processes for recognising prior learning.

Level 6 (year 3) entry
To directly enter the third year of this course you need 120 credits at level 4 and 120 at level 5 of a BPS accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology course. We will review your application to check that the modules you have already studied are equivalent to the Level 4 and Level 5 modules on our BSc (Hons) Psychology course. Find out more about our processes for recognising prior learning.

Fees & funding

Fees & funding

{{ formatCurrencyValue(currentVariantData.field_p_cv_uk_eu_main_fee.name) }} per year

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Foundation year bursary

If you are a UK student joining a foundation year course with UWL, you will receive a £2000 Path to Success bursary to support your studies. This is not a loan and does not need to be repaid. You will receive £500 per year subject to your attendance, engagement and progression through your studies. 

To find out more, explore our Undergraduate scholarships and bursaries page.

{{ formatCurrencyValue(currentVariantData.field_p_cv_int_main_fee.name) }} per year

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships. 

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

 

Teaching staff

Teaching staff

Robert Vaughan

Associate Professor Robert Vaughan

Robert has taught across a range undergraduate and postgraduate courses on topics such as Sport and Exercise Psychology, Personality and Individual Differences, Health Psychology and statistics and research methods modules.

Robert has taught across a range undergraduate and postgraduate courses on topics such as Sport and Exercise Psychology, Personality and Individual Differences, Health Psychology and statistics and research methods modules.

Study & career progression

Study & career progression

A physio tests a patient's blood pressure

This BSc Sport and Exercise Science degree meets the professional standards set by the most highly regarded employers in the sector. Upon graduation, jobs for sport and exercise science graduates include:

  • sport scientist
  • sports marketing manager 
  • sports facility manager 
  • health and wellbeing coach 
  • strength and conditioning coach 
  • professional sports coach 
  • PE teacher 
  • sports development officer 
  • sports technologist 
  • exercise or sports science researcher
  • exercise practitioner
  • gym instructor
  • personal trainer.

Alternatively, you could develop a related specialism or explore a new area on one of our postgraduate courses.

How to apply

How to apply

Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

*Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

**The National Student Survey 2023 and 2024 - Average of answers to all questions by registered student population. Excludes specialist institutions.

Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming. In some cases a new Course Leader has joined the University since the video was filmed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.