University of Hull

What you'll study

This programme combines biomedical science with practical rehabilitation skills to enable safe, effective management of acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Core areas include anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, exercise prescription, injury assessment and diagnosis, manual therapy techniques, therapeutic modalities, and rehabilitation planning. You will learn clinical reasoning, differential diagnosis, sports psychology, and the principles of load management and return-to-play.

The course structure mixes laboratory sessions, simulation in clinical skills suites, classroom lectures and small-group practicals. Assessment is by practical demonstration, written assignments, case reports and reflective portfolios. A key feature is supervised practice: students undertake clinical placements in a range of settings such as university clinics, community health services, private practices and sports clubs, allowing consolidation of hands-on skills and professional behaviour.

Research methods and evidence-based practice are embedded throughout the degree to develop the ability to appraise and apply current literature to clinical decision-making. Optional modules or project work enable specialism in areas such as strength and conditioning, advanced manual therapy, or sports injury prevention, culminating in a final-year research project or professional portfolio.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed A-levels, an appropriate BTEC or equivalent level 3 qualification, with a preference for science- or sport-related subjects such as biology, sports science or health and social care. Practical experience in a sports or healthcare environment is advantageous and may be requested at interview or on application.

GCSE-level passes in English and mathematics (or equivalent) are generally required. Mature applicants and those with relevant vocational qualifications or significant practical experience are encouraged to apply; selection may include an interview and/or practical assessment to demonstrate communication skills and manual dexterity.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles in sports rehabilitation, sports therapy, rehabilitation support or musculoskeletal care in a variety of settings, including private clinics, community health services, performance centres, professional and amateur sports clubs, and fitness facilities. Many graduates work as self-employed practitioners or within multidisciplinary teams supporting athlete care and injury prevention.

The degree also provides a route into further study and professional development: graduates commonly progress to postgraduate qualifications in areas such as physiotherapy, sports medicine, strength and conditioning, or research-based masters programmes. Ongoing professional registration or membership with relevant bodies and completion of recognised post-graduate routes may be required for specific regulated roles.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers dedicated sports and clinical facilities, including skills labs and therapy clinics where students gain supervised hands-on experience. Teaching is delivered by staff with clinical and research experience in musculoskeletal care and sport, and the programme emphasises strong links between academic study and workplace practice.

Students benefit from placement support and local partnerships that provide diverse clinical learning environments. Hull’s campus and regional sporting networks offer opportunities to work with community sport, performance programmes and healthcare providers, helping build professional contacts. The university’s focus on employability, small-group practical teaching and applied assessment strategies makes it well suited to those aiming for a career in sport rehabilitation and related clinical fields.