Keele University

What you'll study

The programme provides an integrated grounding in the biological, mechanical and behavioural sciences that underpin human movement and physical activity. Teaching blends lectures, small-group seminars, laboratory practicals and field-based assessment.

• Core scientific modules: exercise physiology, muscle physiology, cardiovascular and metabolic responses to exercise, and environmental physiology.
• Movement and mechanics: biomechanics, motion analysis, strength and conditioning principles, and motor control.
• Behavioural and applied modules: sport and exercise psychology, motivation, adherence to physical activity, and coaching science.
• Research and professional skills: research methods, statistics for sport and exercise science, data collection and analysis, and scientific communication.
• Practical experience: laboratory techniques (e.g. VO2 testing, force platform analysis), performance testing, case studies and applied projects with opportunities to work with local clubs, gyms or community health providers.
• Independent project: a substantial final-year research project or dissertation that develops research design, data collection and critical interpretation skills.
• Optional placement year: many students take an optional placement or work-based learning year to gain professional experience in sport, fitness, public health or coaching settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a science-based secondary education background. Keele considers a range of qualifications from UK A-levels, BTEC Nationals, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, the International Baccalaureate and equivalent international qualifications.

• Typical offers include A-levels with at least one science or physical education subject, or a related BTEC National Diploma in sport or science.
• Applicants without traditional science subjects are considered if they can demonstrate relevant experience and a strong scientific aptitude.
• Admission may require evidence of practical experience or engagement with sport, exercise or community health (for example coaching, volunteering or work placements).
• International applicants need to meet Keele's English language requirements and provide equivalent academic qualifications.
• All applicants are assessed on academic achievement, references and the quality of their personal statement; interviews or admissions tests are used in some cases.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of roles across sport, health and exercise sectors or for further professional training. The degree emphasises practical and research skills valued by employers and postgraduate programmes.

• Typical job roles include sports scientist, strength and conditioning coach, performance analyst, fitness and health promotion officer, exercise referral specialist and coaching roles.
• Graduates often progress to postgraduate study such as MSc Sport and Exercise Science, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, clinical exercise physiology or specialist coaching and strength and conditioning qualifications.
• Other pathways include community and public health roles, performance support within clubs and governing bodies, research assistant posts, or entrepreneurship within the fitness and wellness industry.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based experience with strong practical facilities and an emphasis on hands-on learning. Students benefit from dedicated sport and exercise laboratories, biomechanics and physiology equipment and access to the university sports centre.

• Applied facilities: purpose-designed labs for exercise testing, biomechanics and performance analysis, enabling students to develop practical, research-grade skills.
• Integrated learning: interdisciplinary teaching that links theory to practice, with opportunities for fieldwork and community engagement.
• Placement and partnership opportunities: local and regional partnerships with clubs, health providers and industry that support placements and employability.
• Small-group teaching and research supervision: supportive supervision for final-year projects and close contact with academic staff actively engaged in sport and health research.