Physical Activity, Health and Wellbeing

Course overview

Research shows that more people are inactive causing problems for individuals, healthcare, and the economy. This Physical Activity, Health and Wellbeing degree helps you understand various health issues caused by inactivity, discovering how diseases and poor diets can be addressed. Supported by experienced academics and industry practitioners you will use the latest research in physical activity, nutrition, and psychology, learning how to help people become healthier.

You’ll have the opportunity to work with athletes to develop exercise programmes and conduct dietary analysis to help them to perform to their best. You will also be introduced to the impact of sports psychology to improve their resilience and focus.

This course also helps you develop the practical skills for careers working with the public and clinical groups, while helping you build professional knowledge and real-world experience. Learn about mental health, diet, and exercise in various settings, and discover how to create and apply strategies to improve mental and physical health and encourage positive changes.

These methods follow professional standards from the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) and Association for Nutrition (AfN). Once you have completed this programme you will be able to register as a Nutritionist with the AfN, opening up work opportunities within performance and nutrition.

We offer a range of work placements and job opportunities on campus and across the North West. You will gain hands-on experience in our modern sports science labs, Wellness Centre gym, Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre and Sports Arena. In the Wellness Centre gym, you’ll work with people who have long-term health conditions, and work directly with local partner organisations within the field of health and wellbeing. This experience will ensure you gain the experience and connections to succeed in performance, fitness, health, and much more.

Why study with us

• Get taught by expert industry-active coaches, researchers and academics on this professionally endorsed degree. We work closely with CIMPSA and the AfN.

• You can also earn industry-recognised qualifications to support your career. These include Level 2 and 3 in Gym Instruction, Personal Training, and Exercise Referral.

• Gain industry experience with exciting opportunities to work with top sports teams, organisations and clubs. These include Wigan Warriors, Heartbeat NWCC, Blackburn Rovers Women FC, Preston North End and more.

What you'll do

• You will study a range of topics covering psychology, physiology, nutrition, exercise and physical activity. This will make you a well-rounded exercise specialist.

• The course is delivered using a range of teaching and learning methods. These include lectures, workshops, seminars, practical sessions and work experience.

• You’ll be able to earn while you learn by working within our Wellness Centre. Here you will deliver health checks, nutritional analysis and fitness programmes to staff, students and the general community.

Future Careers

Our programme will prepare you for the workplace, with a strong focus on the practical skills you'll need for a successful career. Potential career paths include social prescribing, education, public health, roles within the NHS, and self-employment.

This degree is for those who are enthusiastic about working in the field of sport, health, fitness and health promotion. Potential careers include:

• Exercise Physiologists

• Physiotherapists

• Dietitians

• Gym Instructors

• Community Wellbeing Advisors

• Personal Trainers

• Exercise Referral Specialists

• Health Navigators

Some have even used this degree as a springboard for a career in the armed services or police force.