Sport and Exercise Science Undergraduate Courses

Performance sports, exercise and physical activity play an essential part in modern life. Not only do they improve our health and wellbeing, but they can help provide a sense of community. Join one of our Sport courses and play your part in making a difference.

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Undergraduate Sport and Exercise Science courses

_Top15for satisfaction with teachingSports Science subject area - The Guardian University Guide 2025

_Top20for Sports ScienceThe Guardian University Guide 2025

_Top20for satisfaction with feedbackSports Science subject area - The Guardian University Guide 2025

_Top20for teaching quality - Sports Science subject areaTimes and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

_Top15for learning resourcesSport and Exercise Science subject area - National Student Survey 2024

_Top20for teachingSport and Exercise Science subject area - National Student Survey 2024

_Top25for assessment and feedbackSport and Exercise Science subject area - National Student Survey 2024

Why study Sport and Exercise Science at Derby?

Combine scientific expertise with practical experience to prepare you for a dynamic career.

Accredited Programmes: Recognised by professional bodies such as BASES and CIMSPA.
Expert Lecturers: Learn from academics with experience in elite sports and groundbreaking research.
Real-World Experience: Work with professional athletes and community programmes to apply your knowledge.

Industry connections

Collaborate with organisations like Derby County Football Club and England Athletics.
Gain placement opportunities with community fitness programmes, rehabilitation clinics, and elite sports teams.
Attend guest lectures and networking events featuring industry leaders.

Female Sport and Exercise Science student lifting weights

A female student sitting on a bike in the Human Performance Unit in our Sports Centre.

Research

Our academics are engaged in impactful research, including:

Biomechanics and injury prevention: Studies aimed at improving athletic performance and reducing injury risk.
Exercise and health: Investigating the role of physical activity in preventing and managing chronic diseases.
Psychology of sport: Exploring mental resilience and motivation in athletes.

Cutting-edge facilities

Our students hone their skills in exceptional facilities at our Derby campus, including:

Human Performance Unit: Equipped with advanced motion analysis systems, strength and conditioning labs, and environmental chambers.
Clinical Exercise Physiology Suite: Designed for testing and rehabilitation.
Sports therapy rooms: For hands-on practice in injury prevention and treatment.

Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Derby

Gain an overview of the Sports and Exercise Science subject area, and the facilities available.

Video guide to Sports and exercise Science and facilities at the University of Derby

Careers

A degree in Sport and Exercise Science prepares you for careers such as:

Performance Analyst
Rehabilitation Specialist
Sport Scientist
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Health and Wellbeing Advisor

Professional bodies

Our BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science course is accredited by The British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES). BASES endorsement is awarded to courses that meet criteria covering the knowledge, technical skills and professional development competencies required to succeed in the profession. When reviewing a course, BASES considers the curriculum, the practical experience gained by students and the resources and facilities of the institution.

Our BSc (Hons) Sport Therapy and Rehabilitation is accredited by The Society of Sports Therapists, on graduating, you'll be eligible to apply for full membership of The Society of Sports Therapists and prepared to go into practice as an injury and exercise-based rehabilitation and fitness specialist.

Sport at Derby

Team Derby

Our reputation for sport is one of the fastest growing in the country. We offer a wide range of sports courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level and provide students with the chan...

A male student walking on a treadmill with a breathing monitor on

Postgraduate Study

Benefit from top-class facilities and support from an expert team with our postgraduate courses, which provide you with the route to a fulfilling career as a sport and exercise professional.