MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
St Mary's University Twickenham, London, offers a highly regarded MSc Applied Sport...
BA (Hons) Physical Education, Sport and Youth Development
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Physical Education, Sport and Youth Development at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, is a dynamic and practical undergraduate degree designed for individuals passionate about leveraging physical activity and sport for the holistic development of young people. This three-year program provides a solid foundation in key theoretical areas such as teaching and coaching pedagogy, sport sociology, and the psychology of youth development. It uniquely blends academic rigor with hands-on learning experiences, including practical activity sessions and opportunities for school-based placements. With a strong reputation in physical education and sport, St. Mary's equips students with the knowledge, skills, and professional insights necessary to kickstart rewarding careers in teaching, sports coaching, sports development, and youth work, enabling them to make a tangible positive impact on young lives.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Physical Education, Sport and Youth Development program at St. Mary's is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of the field. In the first year, core modules focus on establishing foundational knowledge, including "Holistic Development of the Young Person," "Learning in Context," "Introduction to Teaching and Coaching Games," "Introduction to Creativity and Individual Activities," "Introduction to Equality and Diversity in PE and Sport," 1 and "Health and Wellbeing." The second year builds upon this, with core modules like "Professional Practice 1," "Teaching and Learning 1," and "Research Proposal," complemented by optional modules such as "Teaching and Coaching Games," "Developing Creativity within Individual Activities," "Contemporary Issues in PE and Sport," and "Adapted Physical Activity, PE and Sport 1." The final year culminates in a "Research Project" and includes "Professional Practice 2," with options for advanced study in "Teaching and Learning in Secondary Physical Education," "Applied Teaching and Coaching Pedagogy," "Coach Education, Development and Mentoring," "Advanced Contemporary Issues in PE and Sport," "Adapted Physical Activity, PE and Sport 2 2," "Teaching and Learning in Primary Physical Education," and "Youth Talent Development." The program emphasizes engaging students in practical contexts to develop physical competence, tactical awareness, and teaching strategies.
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Physical Education, Sport and Youth Development program at St. Mary's University is informed by the diverse and active research interests of its academic staff, who are experts in areas such as physical education pedagogy, sports coaching, sport sociology, adapted PE, disability sport, and dance. The curriculum encourages students to engage in critical inquiry and reflective practice, particularly through the "Research Project" in their final year. This allows students to investigate specific areas of interest within physical education, sport, or youth development, drawing on contemporary research and contributing to the knowledge base of the field. The program fosters an environment where students can probe deeply into relevant theories and practices, applying academic understanding to real-world scenarios and developing a critical perspective on current issues and innovations in the sector.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a core component of the BA (Hons) Physical Education, Sport and Youth Development program at St. Mary's University, designed to provide students with invaluable professional experience and enhance their employability. The program incorporates significant work placement opportunities, allowing students to apply their academic learning directly in professional environments. St. Mary's has established strong links with over 200 schools, as well as various National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of sport and numerous sports clubs, including those in elite and disability sport. This extensive network facilitates diverse placement opportunities, enabling students to gain practical skills, build commercial awareness, and develop crucial industry connections. The "Professional Practice" modules also reinforce the importance of applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the demands of their chosen careers.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Physical Education, Sport and Youth Development program at St. Mary's University integrates a global perspective by encouraging students to consider the diverse contexts and impacts of physical education, sport, and youth development across different cultures and international landscapes. While specific exchange opportunities may vary, the curriculum often explores how socio-cultural factors, policies, and practices influence physical activity participation and youth well-being globally. Modules may address contemporary issues in sport that have international relevance, such as talent development pathways, adapted physical activity in diverse settings, or the role of sport in community development worldwide. This broad outlook prepares graduates to work in an increasingly interconnected global environment, whether in international sports organisations, community development projects, or educational settings that embrace diverse populations and approaches to physical education and youth engagement.
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 BA (Hons) Physical Education, Sport and Youth Development at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, equips graduates with a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills crucial for careers that empower young people through physical activity and sport. The program's focus on pedagogy, coaching, youth development, and the sociological aspects of sport prepares students to operate effectively in diverse settings. With an emphasis on hands-on learning and professional practice, including opportunities for school and sports-based placements, graduates emerge with the confidence and expertise to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.
Physical Education (PE) Teacher: Graduates are well-positioned to pursue Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) via a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), enabling them to teach PE in primary or secondary schools. Their deep understanding of pedagogy, child development, and a wide range of sports prepares them to inspire the next generation.
Sports Coach: The program provides a strong foundation in coaching principles, skill acquisition, and youth development, making graduates ideal for roles as sports coaches across various disciplines. They can work with amateur or professional sports clubs, national governing bodies, or in community sports initiatives.
Sports Development Officer: Graduates can work for local authorities, sports councils, or charities to plan, implement, and manage initiatives that increase participation in sport and physical activity within communities, focusing on engaging diverse groups and promoting active lifestyles.
Youth Worker: With a focus on the holistic development of young people, graduates are well-suited for roles in youth services, charities, or community organisations. They support young individuals, facilitate educational and recreational activities, and help address social challenges.
Community Sports Coordinator: This role involves organising and managing sports programs and events within local communities, often aimed at promoting health, inclusion, and social cohesion through physical activity. Graduates can work with schools, leisure centres, and voluntary groups.
Health and Fitness Instructor / Personal Trainer: Graduates possess a strong understanding of human movement, exercise science, and motivational techniques. They can work in gyms, leisure centres, or as self-employed personal trainers, designing and delivering fitness programs for individuals and groups.
Adapted Physical Activity / Disability Sport Specialist: The program's insights into adapted PE and disability sport prepare graduates to work with individuals with diverse needs, ensuring inclusive access to physical activity and sports opportunities within educational, community, or specialist settings.
Outdoor Activities / Education Manager: Combining practical skills with an understanding of physical education and youth development, graduates can manage or lead programs at outdoor activity centres, focusing on adventurous activities, team-building, and environmental education for young people.
Leisure Centre Manager: Graduates can oversee the operations of sports and leisure facilities, including managing staff, budgets, health and safety, and programming. Their broad understanding of sports, youth engagement, and operational management is highly relevant.
Academic/Research Assistant (Sport & Youth Studies): For those interested in further study or contributing to the academic field, the program's emphasis on research methods and critical inquiry prepares graduates for roles supporting research projects within universities or sport-related research institutes, focusing on areas like sports sociology or youth development.
