Develop specialist skills in performance analysis and coaching to train elite athletes to their full potential. You'll also gain knowledge to understand and improve team tactics and techniques to enhance performance.
Gain your Hudl Academy qualifications and become a certified Sportscode user. You'll also have access to the Hudl Analysis package
Use the latest performance analysis technologies and state-of-the-art facilities including our new performance analysis suite in the sports centre
Choose an innovative programme which focuses on the interdisciplinary nature of performance analysis and coaching
Benefit from a strong combination of practical and theoretical learning
Make the most of unique work placement and internship opportunities with professional clubs
Build your skills with learning and assessment strategies which reflect real world practice and prepare you for employment
Designed in collaboration with our industry partners, this exciting new course will provide you with invaluable knowledge, applied experience and technological skills for a performance analysis career in elite sport.
93%of students agreed they had explored ideas and concepts in depthBSc (Hons) Performance Analysis and Coaching Science - National Student Survey 2024
Performance Analysis and Coaching Science at Derby
Using the latest technologies, including Hudl Sportscode, WyScout, iCoda, Hudl Replay, VICON 3D and Quintic, this course enables you to develop specialist skills in performance analysis and coaching to help inform athletes, leading them to future successes.
Throughout the course, you’ll study exciting modules examining the theory and science behind performance analysis and coaching, designed to prepare you for work in the industry. We’ll also introduce you to some of the other sport sciences, such as biomechanics, psychology and physical performance, vital for a successful career in performance sport.
We’ll help you by combining your understanding of how to analyse both individuals and teams in a variety of different sports. Unique work placement and internship opportunities with professional clubs allow you to apply your theoretical knowledge to practice - essential preparation for your future career.
Find out more about the course by watching the video below:
Many of our staff work in the industry as practitioners, ensuring that what we teach you is current and relevant to industry practice. Some of our work in the industry includes working with national and international athletes and coaches. The team also works closely with Hudl and focuses on the development of the next generation of analysts. We’re also actively involved in research with many of our staff undertaking high-level scientific research investigations on themes such as improving athletes' performance through coaching, performance profiling, sports psychology, and the use of latest technologies.
Kedleston Road is home to our Sports Centre and specialist sports science facilities including our suite of performance analysis equipment. You'll get to work in our new Performance Analysis Suite, which is fully equipped with 20 dual screen iMac computers. Not only will you use this facility within teaching and practical sessions, but you can use it within applied work and self-guided exploration in your own time. Each iMac has a number of the leading video analysis, data analysis, and visualisations software packages to ensure you are able to fine-tune each of these key skill sets and be fully prepared for a successful career within the applied world. As well as a number of pitch and court schematics to facilitate the application of the analysis work undertaken, the suite incorporates teaching and lecture capabilities to ensure students can combine theory and practical in a parallel environment.
"The type of hands-on practical we get at the University is a variety of different things, so outside we have the 4G pitch where we've done a lot of athlete testing out there and also we have access to the Performance Analysis Centre where we can do a lot of data analysis. We have dual-screen iMacs where we have access to Hudl. This is a type of software where you can analyse data and analyse sporting events." Chloe Dhillon, Bsc (Hons) Performance Analysis and Coaching Science graduate
Specialist facilities
You’ll also benefit from our laboratories and our bespoke performance suite. The Sports Centre also includes a range of sports facilities including fitness gym studios, squash and badminton courts, outdoor pitches, an indoor climbing wall, sprint track and sports hall. It also houses our Human Performance Unit, which delivers sport science support services and workshops to assist professional and amateur athletes to improve their performance in a range of sports.
Our Performance Suite
Our Performance Suite allows Sport and Exercise Science students to learn about performance analysis, biomechanics, strength and conditioning, and injury prevention. As well as elite athletes outside of the University, you'll also be working with our Team Derby athletes to help them improve their performance and successfully compete. Take a look at the Performance Suite and Vicon cameras in action:
The University of Derby is a sporting hub for talented athletes and coaches. We have a track record of improving the performance of our University sports clubs and we have created an infrastructure to provide support for talented athletes. We offer a Sports Scholarship programme that aims to help talented student-athletes realise their sporting potential while supporting them through their academic studies. We offer scholarships of up to £6,000 and provide tailored athlete-support packages delivered by an experienced multi-disciplinary Performance Sport team. Two of the Universities most recent successful sports scholars are Charlie Tanfield (World Champion and Commonwealth Cycling gold medallist) and Jack Burnell (European Open Water silver medallist 2016 and Olympian 2016).
Join Team Derby
If you enjoy a challenge and would like to make the most of your own sporting passion and prowess, you could become involved with Team Derby which is the focal point for the University’s sporting community. It encompasses all aspects of sport, including courses, numerous sports clubs, the Athletics Union and sport development activities. You can also take part in the national BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) competitions.
We have also recently appointed Double Olympic Medallist, Bryan Steel, as the Head Coach for Team Derby Performance Sport Cycling. Bryan is a celebrated figure in the world of cycling, bringing a wealth of experience to his role. The decorated Olympian, who represented Team GB at four Olympic Games from 1992 to 2004, boasts an impressive medal collection. His crowning achievements include a bronze medal in the team pursuit event at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Games in the same discipline. Brian's journey also includes 14 World Championship appearances, where he secured five medals, along with three medals at the Commonwealth Games. With the arrival of Bryan, Performance Sport at the university will work in partnership with HUUB-BCC Race Team to give track and road riders access to an elite pathway during and post higher education. This collaboration opens doors for Team Derby Performance Cycling's athletes, offering a unique opportunity to bridge their academic pursuits with professional cycling aspirations.
Sport and Exercise Science - your questions answered
In the below video, Head of School for Sport and Exercise Science, Andy Hooton, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Derby.
When Mark Faghy first arrived in Derby as a teenage undergraduate, he stated proudly that his goal was to become manager of the England football team. Now he is a respected research academic leading an international collaboration in the fight against Covid. And his students are helping.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Big spaces for big ideas
Kedleston Road offers it all: study in our largest library, relax at Basecamp, train in real-world healthcare settings, and stay active in our state-of-the-art Sports Centre.
The best way to find out if studying at Derby is right for you is to experience an Open Day. Get a feel for the city and campus, tour our first-class facilities and see where you could be living.
This applied programme will use the latest technology and performance analysis systems in our new £10.8m state-of-the-art sport centre to develop knowledge and skills in the classroom and applied settings. Opportunities will be available for students to work in an interdisciplinary environment, with internal and external sport teams. You will also have the opportunity to undertake an internship with professional and non-professional sport clubs and organisations, to enhance your employability.
Assessment
You will be assessed in a variety of ways, including coursework, practicals, exams, and presentations. Assessments will be individual and group based, with a strong emphasis on applied work. All assessment methods have been designed to prepare you for industry.
Helping you reach your full potential
Our Personal Academic Tutoring programme supports your academic journey, helping you achieve your goals and unlock your potential.
At the University of Derby, every student is assigned a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) from the very start of their degree journey. This dedicated tutor becomes a key figure in your academic life, offering guidance, support, and insight to help you make the most of your university experience. Whether it's through one-to-one meetings or more informal catch-ups, your PAT will work with you to explore your strengths, address any challenges, and help you achieve your full potential. This relationship is designed to ensure you're not just succeeding academically, but also growing as an individual, developing the skills and confidence you'll need for your future career.
Your PAT will provide tailored advice to support your academic journey, whether that's by discussing your work, helping you set goals, or exploring career options. These regular meetings give you the space to reflect on your progress, understand where improvements can be made, and build on your strengths. At Derby, we want you to feel both challenged and supported. Your PAT will encourage you to push your boundaries, think critically about your work, and develop a proactive approach to your studies.
But it's not just about coursework. Your PAT will also help you identify extra-curricular opportunities, whether that's joining clubs, gaining work experience, or developing new skills outside of your course. These experiences not only enhance your CV but also give you the confidence to tackle future challenges. In short, your Personal Academic Tutor will be there to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you leave university with more than just a degree — but with a wealth of experiences, skills, and the knowledge that you're ready for the next chapter of your life.
Who will teach you
James Mitchell
Programme Leader
James Mitchell
James Mitchell is a Lecturer in Sport Outdoor and Exercise Science at the University of Derby.
Our degree offers the perfect route into career areas such as elite sport, performance analysis, talent identification and sport coaching in the UK and abroad.
You can also consider taking your qualifications to the next level. We offer the MSc Clinical Exercise Science and MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Science – which includes a Performance Analysis pathway and a Sport and Exercise Psychology pathway – where you will develop advanced knowledge in your chosen subject. Another option is our Careers and Employment Service where you can further your applied sport science and research skills.
Through our Professional Development Package, you'll gain valuable transferable skills, including:
Written and verbal communication
Research and analytical
Personal motivation, organisation and self-reflection
Numeracy
IT literacy
Critical awareness
Getting you career ready
Your degree is only part of your story.
We're here to help prepare you for life after university.
96% of UK graduates are in employment or further study.
Top 5 for employability. Uni Compare Annual Student Review Rankings 2025.
87% of UK graduates say their current activity is meaningful.
Getting you career ready
Your degree is only part of your story. We're here to help prepare you for life after university. We'll tailor your talents and help you build the tools that will set you apart when you are ready to look for your first graduate role.
Our staff have valuable and varied experiences in the workplace and beyond. And we have great links to industry. This means you'll have opportunities to apply your learning. You'll find work experience that's directly relevant to your studies, including placements and real projects set by businesses.
Our promise
We promise to provide an inclusive approach; supporting, advising and guiding you on your employability journey to success. We will listen to your needs and signpost opportunities for you to engage with up to three years after graduation.
At the University of Derby, we aim to attract the very best students to join us and to support their progression to university to ensure they reach their full potential and achieve their ambitions. We believe the very best students come from all backgrounds and we want to build a community that reflects our society.
What is a contextual offer?
Contextual offers are used by universities and colleges to take account of a student’s individual circumstances. Employing contextual offers at the University Derby will allow our admissions team to identify applicants with the greatest potential to succeed in higher education and be an exceptional Derby student. This makes the application process fairer and builds confidence in students about their ability to be part of our academic community.
We will use the information in an application form and may either reduce grade requirements or give extra consideration when deciding whether to give a contextual offer. We will also support these students through information, advice and guidance, outreach activities and on-campus visits before and during the application process.
What is the criteria?
Typical criteria may include one or more of the following:
Students who are care experienced
Students who are estranged from their families
Students who are refugees or asylum seekers
Students whose parents/carers are in the UK armed forces
*Please note students need to declare they meet one of these criteria on their application.
BBC (At least a grade C at A Level (or equivalent) from a Science subject, which can include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physical Education or Psychology.)
T Level
T Level in Science
BTEC
DMM
GCSE
GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification
Access to HE
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 15, Merit: 24, Pass: 6. Must include passes in compulsory Level 3 subjects
English language requirements
IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each skills area)
If you're an international student and want to improve your English language skills before you start your course, the Derby English Language Centre's pre-sessional English course can help you.
We're committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
Included in your fees
To welcome you to our team, you’ll receive a University of Derby, Sport and Exercise Science t-shirt
If a DBS check is needed for the purposes of a module or programme related work placement, this is included in your fee if done via the University
You will be given access to specialist PA software (Hudl Sportscode) throughout the entirety of your degree. Personal licenses will be issued to some students where circumstances require it (placement, Independent study, etc) and will be allocated at the discretion of the PA staff team
Access to Hudl Academy Level 1, 2 & 3 qualifications will be paid for in full on your behalf
Whole day field trips to relevant Sport and Exercise Science events/organisations are also included and we will contribute to, or pay the full cost
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
If not already owned, appropriate clothing for practical sessions such as tracksuit bottoms and trainers - approximate cost is £50-£100
Travel to placements - cost varies depending on your placement venue of choice
Optional costs not included in your fees
Additional optional qualifications may arranged by the University on your behalf (e.g. Introduction to Coaching Football). We may contribute to, or fund fully fund these, but this is at the Sport department's discretion. Some courses will be offered to you at a heavily subsidised cost, but will require a financial contribution from you
Lots of e-books are available for free through the University Library, however you may wish to purchase a hard copy of these at your own expense
Our undergraduate and postgraduate course pages will show the intakes that are available and open to applications. It's best to apply early so you can secure your place and beat the rush.
Once we have received your application and supporting documents (such as qualifications or references), we will review it and contact you within 4 weeks to let you know if you have been successful or not.
Our aim is to support all students to have the best possible opportunities to succeed and so our application and enrolment deadlines are in place to ensure you stand the best chance of doing so.
Joining the programme later may harm your chances of success on your course. It is therefore vital that you take note of the dates and ensure you submit your completed application and subsequent enrolment in time.
Undergraduate and postgraduate taught deadlines
Please note some courses may have an earlier induction, teaching and enrolment deadline date.
If your course operates a gathered field or pooled admissions process there may be an earlier application date. Please check your individual course page for further details.
If you are in Year 13 and applying for a full-time undergraduate course (including our joint honours courses), we recommend that you apply through UCAS.
If you are applying to study part-time, or already have your qualifications, or wish to join at Year 2 or 3, you should apply directly to the University.
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Course updates
The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.
If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
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