BA (Hons) Sports Coaching and Development

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 72 with no individual score below 59.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Bedfordshire offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize excellence, support underrepresented groups, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.  

Vice Chancellor's Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students and offer a reduction in tuition fees. The scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and contribution to the community.

Bedfordshire Education Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at supporting high-achieving students from the local region. It provides a fee reduction for eligible undergraduate students who have achieved outstanding academic results.

Sports Scholarships: The university offers sports scholarships to talented athletes who have demonstrated exceptional performance in their respective sports. These scholarships provide financial support, coaching, access to sports facilities, and other benefits to help athletes balance their studies and sports commitments.

International Scholarships: The university provides scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and can help offset tuition fees for eligible international students.

External Scholarships: In addition to the university-specific scholarships, students can also explore external scholarship opportunities offered by government organizations, charities, and other funding bodies. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and support in finding external scholarship opportunities.

The University of Bedfordshire provide a range of scholarships to help students achieve their academic goals and make their university experience more accessible and affordable.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Sports Coaching and Development program at the University of Bedfordshire are well-prepared to pursue diverse and rewarding career paths in the sports industry. With a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and industry experience, graduates can make meaningful contributions to athlete development, sports coaching, and sports management.

Sports Coach: One of the primary career paths for graduates of the BA (Hons) Sports Coaching and Development program is becoming a sports coach. Sports coaches work with individuals or teams at various levels, from grassroots to elite, helping athletes develop their skills, improve performance, and achieve their goals. They design training programs, analyze performance data, provide feedback and motivation, and facilitate the overall development of athletes in their chosen sport.

Athlete Development Officer: Graduates may also pursue careers as athlete development officers or talent identification specialists. These professionals work for sports organizations, clubs, or governing bodies, overseeing programs and initiatives designed to identify and nurture talented athletes. They conduct talent identification camps, coordinate athlete pathways, provide support and guidance to emerging athletes, and collaborate with coaches and scouts to develop talent pipelines.

Sports Development Officer: For graduates interested in the broader aspects of sports development, careers as sports development officers offer exciting opportunities. Sports development officers work for local authorities, community organizations, or sports agencies, designing and implementing programs to promote sports participation, improve access to sports facilities, and enhance community engagement through sport. They may focus on specific target groups, such as youth, women, or individuals with disabilities, to ensure inclusivity and diversity in sports provision.

Strength and Conditioning Coach: Graduates with a background in exercise science and sports physiology may pursue careers as strength and conditioning coaches. These professionals work with athletes to improve their physical conditioning, strength, speed, and agility through targeted exercise programs. They design periodized training plans, oversee strength and conditioning sessions, monitor athlete progress, and minimize the risk of injuries through proper conditioning techniques.

Sports Manager/Administrator: Graduates with strong organizational and leadership skills may pursue careers in sports management or administration. Sports managers work for sports clubs, federations, or governing bodies, overseeing day-to-day operations, managing budgets, coordinating events, and implementing strategic plans to promote the growth and success of sports organizations. They may specialize in areas such as facilities management, event planning, or marketing and sponsorship.

Performance Analyst: In an era of data-driven decision-making, there is a growing demand for performance analysts in the sports industry. Performance analysts use video analysis software and statistical tools to analyze athlete performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and provide valuable insights to coaches and athletes. They play a crucial role in optimizing training strategies, improving tactical performance, and gaining a competitive edge in sports competitions.

Sports Scientist: Graduates interested in the scientific aspects of sports performance and injury prevention may pursue careers as sports scientists. Sports scientists conduct research, perform physiological assessments, and develop evidence-based interventions to enhance athlete performance, optimize training programs, and reduce the risk of injuries. They may work in sports institutes, research laboratories, or sports medicine clinics, collaborating with coaches, physiotherapists, and nutritionists to support athlete development.

Community Sports Coordinator: Community sports coordinators work to promote sports participation and physical activity within local communities. They organize sports events, coordinate community sports programs, and work with schools, youth groups, and community organizations to encourage active lifestyles and foster a sense of belonging through sport. They may focus on addressing barriers to participation and promoting social inclusion to ensure that sports opportunities are accessible to all members of the community.

Sports Entrepreneur/Consultant: Some graduates may choose to start their own sports-related businesses or work as consultants in the sports industry. They may establish coaching academies, sports camps, or fitness centers, offering specialized training programs and services to athletes and enthusiasts. As consultants, they may provide expertise in areas such as talent identification, sports marketing, or organizational development, helping sports organizations achieve their goals and maximize their impact.