Sports & Exercise Science

Sports and Exercise Science includes the study of the body's responses to exercise and the adaptations that occur in response to regular exercise. Sports and Exercise Science also includes the role that regular modest levels of physical activity can play in maintaining health.

Why Aberdeen?

• The course at the University of Aberdeen is based on a strong curriculum in physiology, biochemistry and nutrition
• The degree scheme covers the scientific basis that underpins athletic performance, and the role of scientific support in preparing the athlete for competition
• Sports science courses complement those in the basic sciences and allow students to place their knowledge in the context of the sports performance and physical activity for health
• Many scientific disciplines contribute to the sports and exercise sciences, including physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, psychology, anatomy and biomechanics
• The final year includes a ten-week, full-time research project that gives a good insight into the realities of academic research. Opportunities occur from time to time to undertake projects in applied research activities

Programmes

Accreditation

A number of organisations, including the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences, offer professional accreditation in this field. Accreditation for those offering sports science support to athletes requires a period of supervised postgraduate experience, while research accreditation requires a demonstration of competence. Graduates are eligible to apply for accreditation in either category.

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

First Year

Students take level 1 courses in Chemistry, Medical Sciences and Sports Science plus additional courses selected from the science programme and other areas.

Second Year

Further expansion of Sport and Exercise Science courses develop the degree area and cover issues relating to the elite athlete, the recreational exerciser and exercise for health. Additionally, courses are taken in Physiology and Biochemistry, combined with courses delivering key skills applicable to Sports Science.

Third Year

Students study Integrative Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Nutrition & Biochemistry of Exercise and also continue their studies in Sports Science.

Fourth Year (Honours)

Students continue with advanced studies in Exercise and Sport Physiology and complete the year by undertaking a laboratory or library-based research project.

Teaching and Assessment

In the early years, teaching involves attendance at lectures, practicals and tutorials. In the later years a rather greater proportion of students’ time is taken up with private study involving writing essays and reports and also in laboratory or library work relating to specific projects. The final year incorporates the preparation and presentation of a research-based thesis.

Careers

Sports and Exercise Science is a fast-growing discipline that offers an opportunity to combine an interest in the biological sciences with a career in a field related to sport or physical activity. Many students will continue in research posts, where the intensive project work in the Honours year provides particularly valuable experience. Others will go on to a more vocational medical related MSc in, for example, physiotherapy or dietetics; or a postgraduate qualification in teaching PE or biology. Additionally, exercise and sport scientists are able to apply knowledge of biological sciences to the design and evaluation of exercise and health programmes for participants ranging through cardiac rehabilitation patients, recreational exercisers and Olympic athletes.

Graduates find employment in many areas of Biomedical and human-based science subjects allied to medicine and also in the sport and leisure sectors where their understanding of the basis of human performance adds to their other skills.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Sports and Exercise Science.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB*
A Levels - BBB*
IB - 34 points, 5 at HL*
ILC - BBBB* 
*Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/Science subjects.

Advanced Entry Advanced Highers ABB, A Levels ABB or IB 34 points (6 at HL), including Biology and Chemistry, one of which must be at A-grade.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide