MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
St Mary's University Twickenham, London, offers a highly regarded MSc Applied Sport...
BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (with a Placement Year)
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (with a Placement Year) at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, is an immersive four-year undergraduate degree meticulously designed to cultivate a profound understanding of the scientific principles underpinning human movement, physical activity, and elite athletic performance. This comprehensive program, recognized by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), delves into critical areas such as physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and nutrition. Students benefit immensely from the university's world-class sports facilities, which have hosted Olympians and professional teams, including BASES-accredited laboratories and a Performance Education Centre. The integrated placement year provides invaluable practical experience, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world professional settings and significantly enhance their employability within the dynamic sport and health sectors.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (with a Placement Year) is structured to progressively develop students' knowledge and skills from foundational concepts to advanced, applied specialisms. In the initial year, core modules introduce essential disciplines like anatomy, physiology of exercise, fundamentals of sport psychology, and biomechanics, laying a solid scientific groundwork. The second year builds upon this, exploring more complex topics such as advanced research methods, physiology of training, neuromechanics, and testing and monitoring in sport, with options for interdisciplinary study. The pivotal third year is dedicated to the compulsory placement year, offering extensive professional development and industry insight. The final academic year focuses on independent research through a capstone project, advanced application in areas like applied physiology and biomechanics, and critical analysis of contemporary issues, preparing graduates for diverse career pathways or further postgraduate study.
Research Focus: St. Mary's University is deeply committed to impactful research that not only enriches its teaching but also contributes significantly to the wider sport and health community. The Faculty of Sport, Technology and Health Sciences, home to the Sport and Exercise Science department, conducts cutting-edge research across various domains. Key research areas include elite performance, injury prevention and rehabilitation, physical activity and health, nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics, expert performance and skill acquisition, and female health and wellbeing. Students are actively encouraged to engage in research, often working alongside experienced academics in state-of-the-art facilities like BASES-accredited physiology labs and environmental chambers. This research-led environment fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and innovation, with opportunities to contribute to publications or present findings at conferences.
Industry Engagement: The program boasts robust industry links, providing students with exceptional opportunities for real-world exposure and professional networking. The integrated placement year is a cornerstone of this engagement, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in sports organisations, health services, and fitness industries across the UK and potentially internationally. St. Mary's University has strong affiliations with prominent bodies such as the English Institute of Sport (EIS) and UK Athletics, both of which have a presence on campus, offering unique insights and potential collaborative opportunities. Guest lectures from leading professionals, work placements, and collaborations with sports teams and community health projects are integral to the curriculum, ensuring graduates are well-equipped with the practical skills and industry understanding highly valued by employers in fields like sports science support, coaching, rehabilitation, and health promotion.
Global Perspective: Recognising the increasingly interconnected nature of sport and health, the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science program at St. Mary's University integrates a global perspective into its teaching and research. The curriculum exposes students to international case studies, diverse population health challenges, and global trends within sport and exercise science. While the primary focus is on a UK-based placement, the transferable skills gained and the comprehensive understanding of global best practices prepare graduates to work effectively in international settings. Furthermore, the university’s diverse student body and academic community foster a culturally rich learning environment, broadening students' understanding and preparing them to be competitive and adaptable professionals in the global sport and health markets.
Location
Twickenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17100
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% 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 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 55.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
St. Mary’s University Twickenham offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education and rewarding academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and recognize the talents and hard work of students coming from all over the world.
International Student Scholarships: St. Mary’s provides International Student Scholarships for students from a range of countries. These scholarships are typically partial fee reductions, aimed at making education more affordable. Eligible students are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and their potential to contribute to the university community. The scholarships are open to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to international students at St. Mary’s University. This scholarship offers a significant reduction in tuition fees for high-achieving students, with eligibility determined by academic performance and specific course requirements. Students from a variety of regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, are encouraged to apply for this highly competitive scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, St. Mary’s offers country-specific scholarships for students from certain regions. These scholarships provide additional financial assistance and are designed to support students from areas where educational opportunities may be limited. International students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas are often eligible for these specialized scholarships.
Sports Scholarships: For students excelling in sports, St. Mary’s University provides Sports Scholarships. These awards are available to talented athletes who demonstrate the potential to represent the university in competitive sports. Sports scholars benefit from personalized coaching, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and financial support to help balance academic and athletic commitments.
The BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (with a Placement Year) at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, equips graduates with a robust scientific understanding and practical skills, opening doors to a diverse range of rewarding career opportunities. The integrated placement year is particularly valuable, providing real-world experience and professional connections that significantly enhance employability in a rapidly evolving industry. Graduates are well-prepared to make an impact in both elite sport and broader health and wellbeing sectors.
Sport and Exercise Scientist: Working with professional athletes or sports teams, these scientists apply principles of physiology, biomechanics, and psychology to optimize performance, prevent injuries, and support rehabilitation. They often conduct physiological testing, analyse movement patterns, and provide evidence-based recommendations.
Strength and Conditioning Coach: Specialising in improving physical performance, these coaches design and implement bespoke training programmes for athletes across various sports. Their role involves enhancing strength, speed, endurance, power, and agility to meet the demands of specific disciplines.
Exercise Physiologist: Operating in clinical settings, exercise physiologists prescribe tailored exercise interventions for individuals managing chronic diseases (such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity), disabilities, or those undergoing rehabilitation. Their expertise helps improve health outcomes and quality of life.
Performance Analyst: Utilising advanced software and video technology, performance analysts meticulously collect and interpret data on individual and team performance. They provide coaches and athletes with critical insights to refine strategies, identify strengths and weaknesses, and improve competitive outcomes.
Sports Nutritionist: Advising athletes and active individuals on dietary strategies, sports nutritionists help optimise energy intake, support recovery, manage body composition, and enhance overall health and performance. Some may seek further registration with professional bodies like SENr.
Sports Development Officer: These professionals work within local authorities, national governing bodies, or community organisations to promote participation in sport and physical activity. They design and deliver programmes, secure funding, and foster a culture of active lifestyles across diverse populations.
PE Teacher (via PGCE): Graduates passionate about education can pursue a postgraduate teaching qualification (PGCE) to become Physical Education teachers in primary or secondary schools. They inspire young people by teaching a range of sports, promoting healthy habits, and fostering physical literacy.
Sports Psychologist (via further study): With additional postgraduate qualifications (typically an MSc or Doctorate), graduates can become sports psychologists, helping athletes develop mental resilience, cope with pressure, enhance focus, and manage performance anxiety.
Health Promotion Specialist: Working for public health organisations, charities, or within corporate wellness programmes, health promotion specialists design and implement initiatives to encourage healthier lifestyles, increase physical activity levels, and address public health challenges in communities.
Personal Trainer/Fitness Instructor: Equipped with a deep understanding of exercise science, these professionals work one-on-one or with small groups to design personalised exercise programmes, provide motivation, and guide clients towards achieving their specific health and fitness goals in gyms, private studios, or as self-employed practitioners.
