BSc (Hons) — 2025 entry Sport and Exercise Science

This module will give an introduction into skill acquisition and research methods. You will cover the basic structure and functions of the nervous system, and key psychological theories and models relating to skill acquisition. You will develop an understanding of how this theoretical knowledge is used to guide applied practice in health and performance domains. This module will help you critique, analyse and present research findings.

This module supports all students in starting their journey toward becoming an informed and effective professional, in the ever-evolving landscape of modern food, health and exercise science. Students will explore subject-specific content in their respective course cohorts. This includes contemporary topics, focusing on persistent misconceptions, current issues, and essential skills for success in their field. This will inform an exciting assessment format, whereby students will work in groups to develop a promotional video for a food, health, or exercise product, using contemporary scientific research and information technology. Students will also explore core content as one larger cohort. This includes essential knowledge required to succeed in both their studies and their professional field of practice. This will require all students to draw upon their own core knowledge, their interpersonal and intrapersonal skills, and their strengths and weaknesses, in order to take full advantage of the personal and professional development opportunities available. This will be realised in the written coursework assessment, where students must analyse and reflect on a peer’s work, their own development, and their future developmental needs. Completion of this module will support the student transition to subsequent modules and levels of study, particularly where they are required to interpret scientific research, problem solve, work with others and use information technology.

This module is designed to develop a fundamental understanding of the structure and function of cells and the biochemical processes that underpin them.

In this module students will be taken on a learning journey through protein structure and function, emphasising their importance in the biochemical processes which occur within living cells. Students will explore the contributions of lipid molecules and sugars to cellular ATP production, and will be introduced to the important role that the TCA cycle and electron transport systems have in production of ATP.  Students will undertake practical classes which highlight and develop the concepts taught within the module, and which will enhance their understanding of the key concepts.  

This module is designed to introduce the basic principles of biomechanics. The module aims to help students understand how biomechanical principles seen in human movement link to ‘real-world’ sporting and clinical scenarios.  Students will enter the module with an understanding of basic anatomy and how to describe human movement (gained from BMS1042 ‘Anatomy and Kinesiology’). The module will provide the knowledge of how this anatomy causes and affects motion (Kinetics) and how the corresponding movement can then be quantitatively described (Kinematics).  Assessments in this module are designed to give students the opportunity to test the learnt theory in a practical manner, analyse the data produced and write up the findings in a scientific report  (building on skills previously gained from BMS1053 ‘Skill Acquisition & Research Methods’). 

This module builds on from knowledge gained in semester one in cell biology and biochemistry and starts placing the knowledge gained there into a greater perspective relevant to all fields related to Sport & Exercise and Nutritional Sciences. Physiology aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of living things from a basic cellular level all the way up to a whole organism and how the different structures (e.g. organs) interact and influence each other. In this module we will start to instil an appreciation and initial endeavour to integrating molecular, cellular, and whole-body functions. Physiology helps to create an understanding of how our bodies stay healthy and deal with and overcome pressures in everyday life such as stress or disease and how we can improve our health, performance and longevity.

This module offers students a comprehensive exploration of human anatomy, kinesiology, exercise principles, and their application in promoting health and fitness. Students will also examine psychological barriers to exercise and explore effective strategies for overcoming them. They will also delve into various training methods and their physiological adaptations, providing a solid foundation for understanding exercise interventions that target health and fitness. Integral to the module is the development of skills necessary for effective communication with clients, enabling students to gather relevant information crucial for designing tailored exercise programs. The culmination of the module involves the design and delivery of individualised exercise programs aimed at addressing the health and fitness needs of individual clients. Furthermore, this module equips students with practical skills essential for future careers in the health and fitness industry. Through hands-on assessments, students will demonstrate their ability to lead individuals through a safe and effective exercise session. Upon successful completion, students will attain formal accreditation as Gym Instructors, endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), enhancing their employability prospects within the industry.

This module introduces students to the fundamental ideas and practices of sports psychology. It is intended as an introduction though it assumes some familiarity with basic concepts delivered in the first year of the programme. The module moves from a physiological understanding of athletes, to understand the psychological processing also governing performance.

The module builds on students’ knowledge of the mechanical concepts (gained in BMS1046 ‘Introduction to Biomechanics’) used in describing and analysing movement and equilibrium of the musculoskeletal system in sports. Previously covered topics are developed and applied further, whilst new areas such as angular kinematics and kinetics, inverse dynamics and stress analysis are introduced. The module also introduces the students to principles of motor control, qualitative biomechanical analysis and the application of these concepts in performance analysis and injury prevention in sports.   Assessments in this module are designed to give students the opportunity to apply knowledge of underlying theory and practical considerations in ‘real world’ contexts. Students will have to analyse a variety of data sets and synthesise meaningful findings in order to produce a laboratory portfolio. Students must also be able to apply the theoretical and practical concepts from this module to a case study-based viva voce examination (spoken exam). 

This module provides an introduction to human nutrition, with an added focus for sport and exercise. Students will develop further knowledge and understanding on the macronutrients that were introduced in BMS1044, and be introduced to key micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) throughout the module.

In this module, you will gain essential foundational knowledge and skills required to proficiently plan and conduct research studies. The module focuses on key research skills, including research design, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and critical review, preparing you for advanced exploration in BMS3057 during level 6, where research design strategies and data analytical procedures are further emphasised. Moreover, this module provides a solid foundation to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to undertake your Dissertation module in level 6. By exploring a range of research approaches utilised in the exploration of various phenomena, whether in nutrition or sport and exercise science, you will understand the significance of systematic and rigorous research design as the cornerstone of scientific inquiry, investigation, examination, and exploration. Through practical application and theoretical understanding, you will develop the capabilities to understand, interpret, conceptualise, and apply diverse research methodologies and methods, empowering you to design and execute scientific investigations effectively within your respective disciplines.

The overarching theme of this module is for students to develop their understanding of performance physiology and how to assess and train athletes optimally. This modules builds on first year knowledge of human biosciences (BMS1060, BMS1030, BMS1042, BMS1058) and an understanding of training methods (BMS1044) to explore how the body responds (through an integration of physiological systems and biochemical processes) and adapts (i.e. from a cellular to whole body level) to different modalities of exercise, and the mechanisms for improved sports performance. This module evaluates current practices in athlete assessment and training. Students consider the validity and reliability of sports performance testing and conduct a thorough athlete needs analysis, before exploring methods of monitoring training load, periodization, program development, recovery strategies and tapering. Laboratory and field based sessions complement theoretical learning, fostering practical and employability skills. The primary objective is for students to enhance their comprehension of performance training and the assessment of athletes. The module aligns with the Personal Training award within the degree program, accredited by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA). It contributes significantly to students' ability to critically appraise theory, practice, and research in the realm of performance training and assessment, supporting their professional practice in performance environments within the broader program.

This Module provides a broadly-based review of current methods employed in experimental nutrition, food science and sport & exercise sciences, with hands-on practical aspects in statistics, epidemiology, study design, physical activity assessment and dietary intake measurements, as well as experience in scientific writing and critical reviews. Statistics will be at the level of simple (e.g. descriptives and correlations) and more complex (t-test, Mann Whitney U test, Wilcoxon Matched Pairs, ANOVA, Friedman Test, Repeated Measures ANOVA and Regression). Statistics will be assessed through a piece of coursework analyzing data from either a Nutrition & Health dataset or an Exercise & Health Dataset from original published papers. The Module will also provide an opportunity to develop professional skills, attributes and awareness of appropriate conduct/practice crucial to working in the sectors of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics or Sport. This module will also help with preparation for employability, including presentations and discussions on career options. Both professional skills and employability will be assessed through a piece of coursework on Case Studies and a digital LinkedIn page. Each Coursework will be worth 50% of the marks.

In this module, students will consider a range of issues in designing and monitoring strength and conditioning (S&C) programmes for the enhancement of sports performance. In addition, students will explore principles of skill acquisition during the coaching process. They will be placed in coaching situations where they are required to intervene and adapt on the spot, and given the opportunity to convey their understanding of safe and effective speed, strength, and power training in real-world situations. These are desirable skills for future employment in sport and exercise. This module advances the principles and techniques that were introduced to all students in BMS1044 Exercise, Fitness & Health and BMS2063 Performance Training and Assessment. Additionally, students will also need to draw upon learnings from other topics (e.g. biomechanics, psychology) to fully grasp the highly diverse skillset of an S&C practitioner.

The final year research project is the culmination of all the practical, analytical, literature and presentation skills developed during the typical undergraduate degree programme. This module allows the student to engage in an in-depth major project in an area relevant for nutritional science in the 21st Century. Projects may involve direct data collection, analysis of pre-existing datasets or “big-data”, systematic reviews/meta-analysis or involve writing a research grant application to answer a pertinent nutritional question. The project will run over two semesters, and the student is expected to spend a minimum of one full day each week (in terms of hours) working on the project. The student and supervisor(s) will discuss how the work is to be divided into background research, laboratory work/data collection, data analysis and report writing. Students will be expected to liaise regularly with their supervisor(s) and if undertaking a laboratory-based project will be expected to follow good laboratory practice and adhere to local safety rules at all times. Those undertaking a clinical project either based within the University or the NHS will be expected to follow ethical guidelines, store and dispose of material in accordance with the guidelines produced by the Human Tissue Authority and follow the University policy on confidentiality and data protection

This year-long module is designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and capabilities that students will require to succeed during undergraduate study in the Biosciences. During the foundation year, students will explore fascinating processes of life, from evolutionary genetics and cells to organ systems, through to human impact on ecosystems. Students will also study topics in chemistry and mathematics, the principles that underpin biological sciences. Students will have many opportunities to put theory into practice through laboratory sessions and fieldwork. Academic skills development is embedded throughout the strands and encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning. In addition to lectures and tutorials, learning takes place in the format of debates, lab and field work, problem-based scenarios and skills-based workshops. Subject-specific content is designed to integrate, for example students apply chemistry skills in biological contexts. Employability skills are coordinated through portfolio activities and reflective tasks, students will interrogate their future discipline and explore academic literature in their field of interest. The module aims to broaden students’ perceived scope of the biosciences, with investigations of themes associated with sustainability. Resilience is built into this module through the strong formative challenges that are present for all coursework. Challenges are set that allow students to make mistakes and learn from them. This feeds into reflective activities that invite students to develop their academic processes, so they are best able to cope with the challenges ahead. Finally, the module takes a strong approach to team-working; learners regularly work with the same small group of peers and this work is directly assessed. Learning about their various peers and how to adapt to working effectively develops students’ cultural awareness and is a key employability skill.

This module will give an introduction into skill acquisition and research methods. You will cover the basic structure and functions of the nervous system, and key psychological theories and models relating to skill acquisition. You will develop an understanding of how this theoretical knowledge is used to guide applied practice in health and performance domains. This module will help you critique, analyse and present research findings.

This module supports all students in starting their journey toward becoming an informed and effective professional, in the ever-evolving landscape of modern food, health and exercise science. Students will explore subject-specific content in their respective course cohorts. This includes contemporary topics, focusing on persistent misconceptions, current issues, and essential skills for success in their field. This will inform an exciting assessment format, whereby students will work in groups to develop a promotional video for a food, health, or exercise product, using contemporary scientific research and information technology. Students will also explore core content as one larger cohort. This includes essential knowledge required to succeed in both their studies and their professional field of practice. This will require all students to draw upon their own core knowledge, their interpersonal and intrapersonal skills, and their strengths and weaknesses, in order to take full advantage of the personal and professional development opportunities available. This will be realised in the written coursework assessment, where students must analyse and reflect on a peer’s work, their own development, and their future developmental needs. Completion of this module will support the student transition to subsequent modules and levels of study, particularly where they are required to interpret scientific research, problem solve, work with others and use information technology.

This module is designed to develop a fundamental understanding of the structure and function of cells and the biochemical processes that underpin them.

In this module students will be taken on a learning journey through protein structure and function, emphasising their importance in the biochemical processes which occur within living cells. Students will explore the contributions of lipid molecules and sugars to cellular ATP production, and will be introduced to the important role that the TCA cycle and electron transport systems have in production of ATP.  Students will undertake practical classes which highlight and develop the concepts taught within the module, and which will enhance their understanding of the key concepts.  

This module is designed to introduce the basic principles of biomechanics. The module aims to help students understand how biomechanical principles seen in human movement link to ‘real-world’ sporting and clinical scenarios.  Students will enter the module with an understanding of basic anatomy and how to describe human movement (gained from BMS1042 ‘Anatomy and Kinesiology’). The module will provide the knowledge of how this anatomy causes and affects motion (Kinetics) and how the corresponding movement can then be quantitatively described (Kinematics).  Assessments in this module are designed to give students the opportunity to test the learnt theory in a practical manner, analyse the data produced and write up the findings in a scientific report  (building on skills previously gained from BMS1053 ‘Skill Acquisition & Research Methods’). 

This module builds on from knowledge gained in semester one in cell biology and biochemistry and starts placing the knowledge gained there into a greater perspective relevant to all fields related to Sport & Exercise and Nutritional Sciences. Physiology aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of living things from a basic cellular level all the way up to a whole organism and how the different structures (e.g. organs) interact and influence each other. In this module we will start to instil an appreciation and initial endeavour to integrating molecular, cellular, and whole-body functions. Physiology helps to create an understanding of how our bodies stay healthy and deal with and overcome pressures in everyday life such as stress or disease and how we can improve our health, performance and longevity.

This module offers students a comprehensive exploration of human anatomy, kinesiology, exercise principles, and their application in promoting health and fitness. Students will also examine psychological barriers to exercise and explore effective strategies for overcoming them. They will also delve into various training methods and their physiological adaptations, providing a solid foundation for understanding exercise interventions that target health and fitness. Integral to the module is the development of skills necessary for effective communication with clients, enabling students to gather relevant information crucial for designing tailored exercise programs. The culmination of the module involves the design and delivery of individualised exercise programs aimed at addressing the health and fitness needs of individual clients. Furthermore, this module equips students with practical skills essential for future careers in the health and fitness industry. Through hands-on assessments, students will demonstrate their ability to lead individuals through a safe and effective exercise session. Upon successful completion, students will attain formal accreditation as Gym Instructors, endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), enhancing their employability prospects within the industry.

This module introduces students to the fundamental ideas and practices of sports psychology. It is intended as an introduction though it assumes some familiarity with basic concepts delivered in the first year of the programme. The module moves from a physiological understanding of athletes, to understand the psychological processing also governing performance.

The module builds on students’ knowledge of the mechanical concepts (gained in BMS1046 ‘Introduction to Biomechanics’) used in describing and analysing movement and equilibrium of the musculoskeletal system in sports. Previously covered topics are developed and applied further, whilst new areas such as angular kinematics and kinetics, inverse dynamics and stress analysis are introduced. The module also introduces the students to principles of motor control, qualitative biomechanical analysis and the application of these concepts in performance analysis and injury prevention in sports.   Assessments in this module are designed to give students the opportunity to apply knowledge of underlying theory and practical considerations in ‘real world’ contexts. Students will have to analyse a variety of data sets and synthesise meaningful findings in order to produce a laboratory portfolio. Students must also be able to apply the theoretical and practical concepts from this module to a case study-based viva voce examination (spoken exam). 

This module provides an introduction to human nutrition, with an added focus for sport and exercise. Students will develop further knowledge and understanding on the macronutrients that were introduced in BMS1044, and be introduced to key micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) throughout the module.

In this module, you will gain essential foundational knowledge and skills required to proficiently plan and conduct research studies. The module focuses on key research skills, including research design, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and critical review, preparing you for advanced exploration in BMS3057 during level 6, where research design strategies and data analytical procedures are further emphasised. Moreover, this module provides a solid foundation to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to undertake your Dissertation module in level 6. By exploring a range of research approaches utilised in the exploration of various phenomena, whether in nutrition or sport and exercise science, you will understand the significance of systematic and rigorous research design as the cornerstone of scientific inquiry, investigation, examination, and exploration. Through practical application and theoretical understanding, you will develop the capabilities to understand, interpret, conceptualise, and apply diverse research methodologies and methods, empowering you to design and execute scientific investigations effectively within your respective disciplines.

The overarching theme of this module is for students to develop their understanding of performance physiology and how to assess and train athletes optimally. This modules builds on first year knowledge of human biosciences (BMS1060, BMS1030, BMS1042, BMS1058) and an understanding of training methods (BMS1044) to explore how the body responds (through an integration of physiological systems and biochemical processes) and adapts (i.e. from a cellular to whole body level) to different modalities of exercise, and the mechanisms for improved sports performance. This module evaluates current practices in athlete assessment and training. Students consider the validity and reliability of sports performance testing and conduct a thorough athlete needs analysis, before exploring methods of monitoring training load, periodization, program development, recovery strategies and tapering. Laboratory and field based sessions complement theoretical learning, fostering practical and employability skills. The primary objective is for students to enhance their comprehension of performance training and the assessment of athletes. The module aligns with the Personal Training award within the degree program, accredited by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA). It contributes significantly to students' ability to critically appraise theory, practice, and research in the realm of performance training and assessment, supporting their professional practice in performance environments within the broader program.

This Module provides a broadly-based review of current methods employed in experimental nutrition, food science and sport & exercise sciences, with hands-on practical aspects in statistics, epidemiology, study design, physical activity assessment and dietary intake measurements, as well as experience in scientific writing and critical reviews. Statistics will be at the level of simple (e.g. descriptives and correlations) and more complex (t-test, Mann Whitney U test, Wilcoxon Matched Pairs, ANOVA, Friedman Test, Repeated Measures ANOVA and Regression). Statistics will be assessed through a piece of coursework analyzing data from either a Nutrition & Health dataset or an Exercise & Health Dataset from original published papers. The Module will also provide an opportunity to develop professional skills, attributes and awareness of appropriate conduct/practice crucial to working in the sectors of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics or Sport. This module will also help with preparation for employability, including presentations and discussions on career options. Both professional skills and employability will be assessed through a piece of coursework on Case Studies and a digital LinkedIn page. Each Coursework will be worth 50% of the marks.

In this module, students will consider a range of issues in designing and monitoring strength and conditioning (S&C) programmes for the enhancement of sports performance. In addition, students will explore principles of skill acquisition during the coaching process. They will be placed in coaching situations where they are required to intervene and adapt on the spot, and given the opportunity to convey their understanding of safe and effective speed, strength, and power training in real-world situations. These are desirable skills for future employment in sport and exercise. This module advances the principles and techniques that were introduced to all students in BMS1044 Exercise, Fitness & Health and BMS2063 Performance Training and Assessment. Additionally, students will also need to draw upon learnings from other topics (e.g. biomechanics, psychology) to fully grasp the highly diverse skillset of an S&C practitioner.

The final year research project is the culmination of all the practical, analytical, literature and presentation skills developed during the typical undergraduate degree programme. This module allows the student to engage in an in-depth major project in an area relevant for nutritional science in the 21st Century. Projects may involve direct data collection, analysis of pre-existing datasets or “big-data”, systematic reviews/meta-analysis or involve writing a research grant application to answer a pertinent nutritional question. The project will run over two semesters, and the student is expected to spend a minimum of one full day each week (in terms of hours) working on the project. The student and supervisor(s) will discuss how the work is to be divided into background research, laboratory work/data collection, data analysis and report writing. Students will be expected to liaise regularly with their supervisor(s) and if undertaking a laboratory-based project will be expected to follow good laboratory practice and adhere to local safety rules at all times. Those undertaking a clinical project either based within the University or the NHS will be expected to follow ethical guidelines, store and dispose of material in accordance with the guidelines produced by the Human Tissue Authority and follow the University policy on confidentiality and data protection

This year-long module is designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and capabilities that students will require to succeed during undergraduate study in the Biosciences. During the foundation year, students will explore fascinating processes of life, from evolutionary genetics and cells to organ systems, through to human impact on ecosystems. Students will also study topics in chemistry and mathematics, the principles that underpin biological sciences. Students will have many opportunities to put theory into practice through laboratory sessions and fieldwork. Academic skills development is embedded throughout the strands and encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning. In addition to lectures and tutorials, learning takes place in the format of debates, lab and field work, problem-based scenarios and skills-based workshops. Subject-specific content is designed to integrate, for example students apply chemistry skills in biological contexts. Employability skills are coordinated through portfolio activities and reflective tasks, students will interrogate their future discipline and explore academic literature in their field of interest. The module aims to broaden students’ perceived scope of the biosciences, with investigations of themes associated with sustainability. Resilience is built into this module through the strong formative challenges that are present for all coursework. Challenges are set that allow students to make mistakes and learn from them. This feeds into reflective activities that invite students to develop their academic processes, so they are best able to cope with the challenges ahead. Finally, the module takes a strong approach to team-working; learners regularly work with the same small group of peers and this work is directly assessed. Learning about their various peers and how to adapt to working effectively develops students’ cultural awareness and is a key employability skill.