Come along to one of our autumn Open Days in October and November. Hear from staff and students about our courses, find out about our accommodation and see our stunning campuses for yourself.
This foundation programme is designed for students who may not meet the requirements for direct entry to Stage 1 of our degree courses, and is an excellent conversion course for applicants who have shown academic ability in non-science subjects.
The Sport and Exercise for Health with Sport Management degree equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to boost the performance of elite athletes and to work with members of the public including children, older people and those adapting to illness and injuries, to improve their quality of life.
Our expert lecturers are active researchers and have practical experience of working in areas such as sports management and policy, sport marketing and leadership, nutrition, sport psychology and sport science, and their research underpins our teaching, ensuring you learn about the latest thinking in the field.
You might also be interested in our Sport and Exercise for Health, Sport and Exercise Science or Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation degrees.
Dr Geoffrey Kohe talks about our Sport Management pathways and how they could be the first step to wherever you want to go.
Sports Science at Kent scored 85% overall in The Complete University Guide 2024.
If you are already competing at county level or equivalent (at least), you can apply for a sports scholarship from the University.
The School of Sport and Exercise Science has close working relationships with Science in Sport, Team Sky, the NHS and the Ministry of Defence.
You'll gain invaluable real-world experience in our laboratories and clinics.
Our typical offer levels are listed below and include indicative contextual offers. If you hold alternative qualifications just get in touch and we'll be glad to discuss these with you.
CDD including either a Science subject (i.e. Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Sport, Psychology, Mathematics, Business Studies, Economics, Geography or Sociology, at grade D OR CCC including at least two subjects from the following areas: humanities, computing, art and design, English language or literature.
MMP in Applied Science, Biomedical Science, Medical Science, Sport or Sports Coaching. All other subjects are considered on a case by case basis. Please contact us for further advice on your individual circumstances.
24 points overall or 11 points from three HL subjects including HL Science subject, Sport, Psychology, Maths, Economics or Geography at 4 or SL Science subject, Sport, Psychology, Maths, Economics or Geography at 5
Maths and English Language at grade 4/C
N/A
Pass overall in Science with C or more in the core components.
The University welcomes applications from Access to Higher Education Diploma candidates for consideration. A typical offer may require you to obtain a proportion of Level 3 credits in relevant subjects at merit grade or above.
The following modules are offered to our current students. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.
Compulsory modules
SPOR3380 Introduction to Sport and Exercise Physiology (30 credits)
SPOR3440 Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology (15 credits)
SPOR3450 Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics (30 credits)
SPOR3500 Introduction to Sport Industries (15 credits)
SPOR3550 Research in Sport & Exercise Sciences (30 credits)
Compulsory modules
SPOR5300 Sport and Exercise Leadership (15 credits)
SPOR5550 Principles of Sport Marketing (30 credits)
SPOR5670 Sport and Exercise Promotion (30 credits)
SPOR5920 Research Methods, Design & Planning (30 credits)
Optional modules
Students must select a total of 15 credits from a list of optional modules that will be provided.
Compulsory modules
SPOR5230 Exercise Prescription, Referral and Rehabilitation (30 credits)
SPOR5660 Research Study in Sport Science (45 credits)
Students must select ONE of the following modules:
SPOR5780 Event Management (30 credits)
SPOR5790 Industry Placement (30 credits)
Optional modules
Students must select a total of 15 credits from a list of optional modules that will be provided.
This module will introduce students to the fundamental components of life. Students will be introduced to the function of key cellular components and their organisation in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Through the study of cellular processes, students will develop an appreciation and understanding of the key biological processes underpinning living organisms.
This module will cover chemical concepts and principles. Through lectures and workshops, student will learn about atoms and states of matter, valence and bonding, basic chemical reactions, molecular shapes and isomerism, writing chemical equations and thermodynamics. The application of these principles in chemistry, forensic science, biological and exercise science will be explored in workshops, illustrating their fundamental importance in the natural sciences.
This module will provide a fundamental academic framework the support students in the study of Natural Sciences. The curriculum will address the study of science in a higher education environment and support students in the transition to university. Within the context of the Natural Science subjects, students will undertake laboratory investigations, developing skills and confidence in experimental work. Student will also learn how to find and evaluate information relevant to scientific investigation and use key software packages and databases to do so. The module will provide training in the use of mathematics to develop skills and confidence in numeracy, mathematical and statistical evaluation and graphical presentation of quantitative information.
This module draws together different strands of biological, chemical, physiological and human sciences to explore how scientific investigations can address major global challenges. Practical experimental work involving equipment used in research investigations, creative and critical thinking workshops, and guided group work will explore the role of the natural sciences in addressing some of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The module will provide insight into the degree pathways available after completion of the foundation year.
This module will build upon fundamental biological principles and processes and place them in the context of key human physiological systems. The function of human tissues will be explained and discussed. The module will explore key principles of genetic inheritance and the drivers of genetic variation. These key areas will provide the foundations for exploring homeostasis in humans, the maintenance of health and the onset of disease.
This module will introduce students to the scientific applications of fundamental sport and exercise sciences topics. This will include anatomy and physiology, as applied to sport, exercise and physical activity; the musculoskeletal system; biomechanics of human movements; psychology in sport and exercise; and how physical fitness, or components of fitness, are assessed in an objective and scientific way.
This module will cover chemical concepts and principles. Through lectures and workshops, student will learn about how chemical reactions occur and the fundamentals and uses of common transformations. This will be accompanied by an introduction to the methods by which these can be studied. The application of these concepts and techniques in chemistry, forensic science, biological and exercise science will be explored in workshops, illustrating their fundamental importance in the natural sciences.
This is an introductory module where students will study the structure and function of the different physiological systems in the human body. The principles of the maintenance of homeostasis and the physiological adaptation of the body systems to exercise will also be covered.
This module provides students with an introduction to sport and exercise psychology. This includes the learning and performance process, as well as approaches and responses to various sport and exercise situations. Indicative content includes:
• Sport and Exercise Psychology in Action
• Motor Learning and Performance
• Feedback
• Attention and Concentration
• Personality and Individual Differences
• Motivation
• Self-Confidence and Self-Efficacy
• Arousal, Stress and Anxiety
• Group and Team Dynamics
Students will cover the biomechanics of movement, movement patterns of the lower limb, upper limb and trunk; bones and surface markings of the lower limb, upper limb and spine; joints of the lower limb, upper limb and spine; muscles (origin, insertion and actions) of the lower limb, upper limb and trunk; soft tissue structures of the lower limb, upper limb and trunk; and nerves of the lower limb, upper limb and trunk.
Sport in the United Kingdom.
Participation in sport
Sport sectors and structures (voluntary, professional and public)
Rational for sport provision and sport policies
From grassroots to gold – the pathways for athletes, coaches and officials.
Core activities of a sports organisation
Multisport Games (Olympic, Commonwealth)
Challenges that face sport
Establishing competitive advantage
The module aims to provide students with knowledge of the foundations in research methods in sport sciences. Students will explore different data collection methods in sport sciences and how that information is presented and communicated appropriately. Research and academic study skills will be developed throughout the module.
One-on-one meetings and small group tutorials focused on academic progression and the development of key skills to support the core curriculum and future study or employment. Students meet with their Academic Advisor individually or in small groups at intervals during the academic year. Individual meetings review academic progress, support career planning etc. Themed tutorials develop transferable skills; indicative topics are essay and report writing, presentation skills, sourcing information, critical analysis etc. The tutorials are informal involving student activity and discussion. Year group events deliver general information e.g. on University resources, 4-year programmes, module selection etc.
The course has taught me so many things, so there are quite a few career areas I could go into.Carys Morgan
One-on-one meetings and small group tutorials focused on academic progression and the development of key skills to support the core curriculum and future study or employment. Students meet with their Academic Advisor individually or in small groups at intervals during the academic year. Individual meetings review academic progress, support career planning etc. Themed tutorials develop transferable skills; indicative topics are essay and report writing, presentation skills, sourcing information, critical analysis etc. The tutorials are informal involving student activity and discussion. Year group events deliver general information e.g. on University resources, 4-year programmes, module selection etc.
The module starts by considering the multi-dimensional nature of health to broaden student's understanding of the many factors – individual or environmental - that could contribute to personal experience of health & what that means to different members of the population. Key aspects of sport and exercise promotion are considered, culminating in students completing a sport or exercise promotion event of their own. Whilst there is an emphasis on theoretical issues in the module, students are encouraged to apply these principles to the various aspects of sport and exercise promotion practice.
Introduction – What is health, sport and exercise?
Determinants of health, sport and exercise
Concepts and theories of health & health promotion
Health promoters & their roles
Sport development agencies and their roles
Guidelines for agencies involved in developmental work
Identifying population needs in relation to health & Sport needs
Motivation & behaviour change
The health and physical activity status of different population groups
Understanding and interpreting epidemiological research
Strategies for promoting sport and exercise participation amongst the population
Exercise guidelines for different population groups and the associated evidence, rationale, issues and implications
Sport and Exercise campaigns and the marketing of physical activity to different population groups, the influence of physical and social environments on engagement
Planning & evaluating a health, sport or exercise promotion activity
This module introduces students to the analysis techniques required for their dissertation module, as well as how to develop a research idea into a formal study proposal.
This module will enable students to interpret the pathophysiology of a range of sports injuries by mechanism of injury, anatomical region and tissue type. The module develops the students' ability to relate the mechanism of injury to the pathology of sports injuries. Students will cover basic the management of injuries, this will include when to refer and the initial treatment.
This module will enable students to acquire an understanding of sports massage, in order to practically demonstrate a range of sports massage skills effectively and safely. The module also develops the students' ability to record and review their own sports massage sessions with clients.
Content will include all skills required in order to carry out a full body sports massage. Basic sports massage strokes such as effleurage, petrissage, tapotement and frictions will be included. These strokes will be applied on the back, shoulders, gluteals, legs, feet, arms, hands, chest, neck and abdomen.
Underpinning knowledge will include record keeping, professional ethics and code of practice, as well as health and safety regulations.
The topic areas covered in this module build upon the knowledge gained in SPOR3480 Introduction to Fitness Testing & SPOR5700 Fitness Training Methods, which covers the fundamental aspects of exercise testing and prescription. Special populations are those groups of individuals that may need some adaptation or modification to an exercise prescription or programme, to take into consideration a limitation, whether that be physiological, biological or psychosocial. The emphasis is on promoting health, fitness and safety in exercise, as well as some consideration being given to performance environments.
A synopsis of indicative topics included in this module are:
Exercise, physical activity and health
Fitness assessment issues related to special population groups
Children and physical activity
Females and exercise issues
Exercise considerations for a sedentary population
Exercise and the older adult
Special exercise considerations and adaptations for special populations
Risks and benefits of exercise for special populations
Psychosocial issues & strategies for exercise/physical activity adherence
Leadership in the context of sport and exercise is becoming increasingly recognised as providing the 'spark' that drives successful sport organisations. In this module, students will become more aware of styles of leadership and types of communication used in the sporting context. This module is important for establishing the necessary academic and specific sport management skills that students will need to complete a successful third year at University.
a) Leadership theory
b) Leadership styles
c) Philosophy of teaching and the facilitation of learning
d) Communication styles and techniques
e) Importance of feedback
f) Session delivery and observation
g) Motivation styles and techniques
h) Evaluating performance
This module considers the nutritional needs of different types of sports people. Students will learn to apply sound nutritional guidance. Nutritional guidance is based on an understanding of the underpinning concepts and principles associated with sports performance and how applied nutrition can maintain and enhance performance.
The module explores the physiological response to exercise for a healthy adult. There is a focus on cardio-pulmonary & metabolic responses, which will be scrutinised in terms of differing exercises intensities and duration. The module will examine the key physiological factors that determine and thus limit exercise performance in humans, and will expose students to different methods of collecting, handling and processing exercise data.
The module aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of human responses and adaptations to sport and exercise. Using a psychological approach, students acquire knowledge and understanding of sport and exercise performance and exercise adherence to promote health. Lectures and seminars provide forums for discussion and understanding of cognitions, affect and behaviour and the complex interactions between these. A key module aim is to provide an understanding of the application of theory to real 'applied' situations within sport and exercise settings.
Topics include:
Individual differences and personality
Attributions and perceived control
Exercise behaviour
Motivation
Emotions in sport
Attention and focus
Group dynamics
Leadership
Communication
Goal setting
Psychophysiology in sport and exercise
Exercise prescription for the asymptomatic older adult
Physical activity and cardiovascular diseases
Physical activity and metabolic diseases
Physical activity and neurological impairment
Physical activity and orthopedic diseases
Physical activity and pulmonary diseases
Exercise in clinical rehabilitation settings
Exercise psychology
The module takes the form of an individual research study. There are taught lectures covering the management of a research project. The research projects are then conducted with the supervision of a tutor who will advise the student on issues such as methodology, analysis and presentation. It is the student's responsibility to organise, conduct, analyse and present the research as required. The research project may comprise an experimental laboratory based dissertation, or a systematic review of the literature.
One-on-one meetings and small group tutorials focused on academic progression and the development of key skills to support the core curriculum and future study or employment. Students meet with their Academic Advisor individually or in small groups at intervals during the academic year. Individual meetings review academic progress, support career planning etc. Themed tutorials develop transferable skills; indicative topics are essay and report writing, presentation skills, sourcing information, critical analysis etc. The tutorials are informal involving student activity and discussion. Year group events deliver general information e.g. on University resources, 4-year programmes, module selection etc.
The module aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of the role of applied practice within sport and exercise psychology. A key module aim is to provide students with knowledge and understanding of the applied sport and exercise psychology service delivery process. Students will explore how sport psychology practitioners initially approach intervention work; consider ethical and professional practice dilemmas; appraise and evaluate approaches to evidence-based evidence; design an intervention; and reflect on their practice. Students will be required to conduct a case study with a sport or exercise participant.
A synopsis of the indicative topics included in this module are:
Introduction to the module
Frameworks and approaches in sport psychology (including philosophy and models of practice)
Professional practice (ethical standards, considerations, and evidence-based practice)
Initial needs assessment (Intake, interview, and performance profiling)
Choosing and planning an intervention
Psychological skills and strategies
Reflective practice - Athletic injuries and psychology - Clinical psychology (eating disorders, burnout, and exercise addiction)
Working with special populations (youth athletes, older adults, and living with disability/chronic illness)
Soft Tissue Techniques will enable students to pursue inquiry into the treatment of selected soft tissue injuries, using a variety of soft tissue techniques. This module develops the students' ability to use critical analysis and clinical reasoning skills in the application of soft tissue techniques. Students will be required to analyse current issues in the use of soft tissue techniques within the field of Sport and Exercise Therapy.
Topics include:
Deep Tissue Massage
Soft Tissue Release
Reciprocal Inhibition
Trigger Points
Positional Release
Taping techniques
In this module students will study and investigate the latest research in sports nutrition. This will provide the opportunity to critically analyse research evidence and practical nutritional strategies in sports nutrition. Students will study nutritional ergogenic aids and nutritional strategies suggested to improve performance. Students will conduct practical sessions in order to test some of the theories and strategies studied.
Individuals from a variety of populations take part in sport and exercise. This module takes an in-depth look at 'athletic populations' and factors that impact on performance. Students will critically analyse and discuss what types of exercise are optimal for different athletes and consider the risks and benefits associated with sport and exercise activities. Students will focus on some key issues related to sports performance, e.g. managing athlete with respiratory issues? What strategies could be used to minimise musculoskeletal injury in child athletes? Should pregnant females play sport?
The module utilises the expertise of staff within SSES, guest speakers and student contributions. Students will be encouraged to think about how they might work with athletes on an individual basis.
The module provides a structured opportunity to combine appropriate developmental work experience with academic study. The placement will provide the opportunity for students to develop appropriate vocational and applied academic knowledge. In order for the student to take this module they must secure a placement. The placement should be appropriate to the student's degree, experience and potential career aspirations. All placements will be subject to the module convenor's authorisation.
The programme involves lectures, small group seminars and private study. In addition, you are expected to design, lead and take part in practical sports sessions. You have several lectures or practical sessions and a series of seminars each week. You are also required to spend additional time developing your skills and knowledge in real-life situations.
The first half of Stage 1 is largely assessed by coursework and observed assessments. In the second half of Stage 1, some modules have written examinations in addition to coursework and practical assessments. During Stages 2 and 3, the form of assessment varies from 100% coursework to a combination of examination and coursework.
For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours. The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.
Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.
The programme aims to:
You gain knowledge and understanding of:
You gain intellectual skills in the following:
You gain subject-specific skills in the following areas:
You gain transferable skills in:
Our focus is to help you follow your passion and give you the best possible start to your future. You’ll graduate with extensive knowledge and skills to help you pursue a successful career as a qualified practitioner.
You’ll have an excellent grounding in scientific knowledge and extensive experience, as well as a toolbox of transferable skills highly sought after by employers. These include communication and problem-solving skills; analytical thinking; effective time management; and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
Our graduates are well equipped for careers across a range of fields. Typical graduate destinations include:
The 2024/25 annual tuition fees for this course are:
For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.
For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.*
The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.
Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.
Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.
At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence.
The scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of A*AA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.
We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.
Many of our sports scholars go on to earn incredible achievements in their chosen sport. Here they tell us their favourite thing about the University of Kent.
Next steps
If you are from the UK or Ireland, you must apply for this course through UCAS. If you are not from the UK or Ireland, you can apply through UCAS or directly on our website if you have never used UCAS and you do not intend to use UCAS in the future.
We welcome applications from students all around the world with a wide range of international qualifications.
Student life
Kent was ranked top 50 in the The Complete University Guide 2023 and The Times Good University Guide 2023.
Kent Sport
Kent has risen 11 places in THE’s REF 2021 ranking, confirming us as a leading research university.
Accommodation
