Sport and Exercise Science (with Placement Year)

Explore human potential in facilities used by Olympians with our Sport and Exercise Science degree

The Sport and Exercise Science degree at St Mary's University prepares you for a dynamic career in sport, exercise, and health-related fields, by blending rigorous academic knowledge with hands-on professional skills.

Our comprehensive curriculum covers human anatomy, exercise physiology, and the social influences on performance, providing a holistic understanding of the field. With access to world-class facilities and guidance from experts in Sport and Exercise Science, you'll gain both the theoretical insights and practical experience needed to excel in your chosen career path.

Our vibrant and exciting programme is endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Scientists (BASES). Many of our staff are also active professional BASES members.

Shape your career

It's no wonder 96% of SMU graduates are in employment, vocation, or further study within 15 months of graduation (HESA, 2024).

Share world-class facilities with Olympians

You will share our world-class facilities with Olympians, other students, and the community. Some of our facilities include:

• environmental chamber

• performance education centre

• strength and conditioning facility

• specialist physiology laboratories

• biomechanics laboratories.

Hear from our students

James Akhurst, Sport and Exercise Science student – “This program offers great opportunity for practical application, the structure of the course links theory-based lectures, to real-world laboratory testing.”

Modules

Year 1 – Provides a foundation in all aspects of Sport Science, as well as the contexts in which they may be applied. The first foundations of research and investigation are also laid at this stage, as are the study skills necessary for degree level work.

Year 2 - You are required to probe more deeply into relevant theory and practice in order to understand the context of Sport Science and to develop skills of investigating and reporting. The key disciplines identified by BASES are all offered, as well as opportunities for interdisciplinary study and work experience.

Year 3 - Advanced issues and research are explored through theoretical, practical, and laboratory work. You will take greater responsibility for constructing a specialised programme according to your interests and you will have the opportunity to undertake an extended research project under the supervision of a member of staff with relevant expertise. The focus throughout is on applied sport science.

About the Placement Year

A placement year enables you to undertake a year of experience in an organisation between your second and final year.

It will enable you to:

• apply the knowledge and skills you gain from your course in a work setting

• build your commercial awareness and insights into organisations and industries you might want to work in

• develop your professional skills through company training, networking skills and confidence in the workplace

• get some great experience for future job applications or even land a graduate job.

Support from St Mary’s every step of the way

Securing a placement can really help you develop your job search skills and the Employability Service placement and Careers Teams can support you to find and apply for available opportunities.

Please note: in the event that you cannot secure a placement you will be able to transfer onto the three year version of your degree programme.

Why St Mary’s?

You will gain skills and support to make a positive impact – for yourself and for others – through high-quality teaching, real-world experience, and a community that lifts each other up. Our campus is a London oasis – blending city energy with open green spaces to think, connect, and grow.