Studying Applied Sport and Exercise Science at Robert Gordon University will give you the confidence and ability to succeed in the sport and exercise industry. This course is based on the sciences that underpin human performance in a variety of areas from competitive sport to general health.
The course content is designed specifically to meet the National Occupational Standards for exercise and fitness so you can be confident upon graduation that you have gained the essential skills and experience highly sought after by employers. We aim to prepare you for accreditation by leading governing bodies in your chosen field of specialism. If you are a talented athlete there is also the opportunity to apply for the RGU SPORT scholarship scheme to help develop your talent whilst you study.
2nd in Scotlandfor overall student satisfaction in Sport and Exercise Sciences
(NSS 2023)
Excludes colleges, small, specialist and private providers
2nd in Scotlandfor student satisfaction in Sports Science
(CUG 2025)
Year 1
You will study the foundations of sports and exercise science including Anatomy and Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Sport Psychology and Biomechanics. In addition you will also be taught a range of independent study skills required for future study.
Year 2
You will apply the foundations of year 1 in a variety of different areas such as exercise programming and health improvement so that you are able to assess and improve health, fitness and performance.
A work placement in year 2 will provide you with the opportunity to apply the knowledge developed in years 1 and 2.
Year 3
You will look at wider applications of sports science, in terms of its use in a variety of different populations from those with chronic conditions to elite athletes. Work placements and research are a key part of year 3.
Year 4
You will bring your studies together, taking a more critical look at a variety of different topics. In addition you will focus on a preferred area in your research project which forms a large part of your final year.
Student stories
Hear from our students and graduates about their experiences studying this course:
Our sustainability commitment
Exercise, sport and physical activity are fundamental to human sustainability. Underpinned by extensive scientific research, the BSc (Hons) Applied Sport and Exercise Science (ASES) is designed to develop knowledge, skills and competency in exercise, sport and physical activity for health and performance reflecting the environmental demands of the contemporary workplace and positively impacting long-term health through sustainable interventions.
This course is committed to United Nation's Sustainability Goals 3, 4, 10 and 17. Find out more on the United Nations website.
Events
We have on campus and virtual events to help you find out more about study, student experience and future career paths.
Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our course and module disclaimer for more information.
Detailed module informationActivity Summary
- Lectures, Tutorials & Practical Sessions- 30-40 students per group, 14 hours per week
- Project Supervision - 1:1 supervision, 6 hours of 1:1 support
How long is a BSc (Hons) Applied Sport and Exercise Science course?
An Applied Sport and Exercise Science degree can be successfully completed in 4 years, in which the opportunity to receive the necessary skills are obtained.
Independent Study
Independent study is an integral part of studying for the degree with approximately 50% of your time being allocated to independent study in Year 1 increasing to around 80% in Year 4. This independent study is directed by the teaching staff who also help you develop your study skills.
Staff Delivering on this Course
The staff members teaching on the course have a range of different areas of subject specialism covering all the key elements of sport and exercise science. They have many years of experience in both practice and research within the sport and exercise science domain.
All staff possess a certificate in Higher Education Learning and Teaching. In addition, all academic staff are encouraged to work towards a Higher Education Academy Fellowship.
Some teaching sessions may also be delivered by visiting lecturers or colleagues from practice.
Assessment
Typically students are assessed:
Year 1
- 2 written exams lasting 2 hours
- 2 practical skills assessments
- 2 written assignments
Year 2
- 1 written exam lasting 2 hours
- 3 practical skills assessments
- 2 written assignments
- 1 oral assessment
Year 3
- 4 written assignments
- 3 oral assessments
- 1 practical skills assessment
Year 4
- 2 written assignments
- 2 oral assessments
- 1 dissertation
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
- Academic writing
- Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
- Maths and statistics
- English language
- Information technology support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
Placements
There are two placements: One in Year 2 (4 weeks) and one in Year 3 (6 weeks).
In Year 2 we arrange a four week placement for you. Typically this is with Sport Aberdeen and more specifically the Active Schools team.
In Year 3 you will undertake a 6 week placement which is arranged by you and can be in any area related to sport and exercise science. Previous placements have included roles in performance sport, sports development, sport administration, teaching, health, and personal training.
Placements at RGUJob Prospects
There are a range of opportunities available to graduates in both sport and exercise, or transferring the skills developed on the course to another profession. In the future you could be working with elite athletes, or working in community sports hubs supporting grassroots sports.
Additionally, previous graduates have developed in to roles in, primary or secondary teaching, universities, or other higher education institutions. Graduates have also developed in to roles in the health sector, as health promoters or cardiac rehabilitation specialists for example.
Is Applied Sport and Exercise Science a good career choice?
Previous BSc Applied Sport and Exercise Science graduates of Robert Gordon University have gone on to pursue the following careers:
- Performance sport
- Sports Development
- Sport Administration
- Postgraduate study
- Personal training/coaching
- Community outreach
- Clinical exercise specialist
What entry requirements are needed for a BSc (Hons) Applied Sport and Exercise Science course?
Standard Entry Requirements
Entry to Year 1
- SQA Higher: BBBB to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English) and two sciences (Maths counted). English and Maths required at National 5 grade B or above if not held at Higher.
- GCE A Level Year 1 entry: BCC to include English or a subject requiring the use of English and 2 sciences (Maths counted). English and Maths are required at GCSE grade 6 or above if not held at A-level.
- Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: H2H2H3H3 to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English) and two sciences (Maths counted). English and Maths are required at grade O2 if not held at Higher.
- IB Diploma Year 1 entry: 28 points to include Higher Level English (or a written subject requiring the use of English) and two sciences (Maths counted) all at Higher Level grade 5. Standard Level English and Maths required at grade 4 or above if not held at Higher.
Entry to Year 2
- GCE A Level: BBB to include Human Biology, Physics and PE. English and Maths are required at GCSE grade 6 or above if not held at A-level.
- IB Diploma: 30 points to include Higher Level English (or a written subject requiring the use of English) and two sciences (Maths counted) all at Higher Level grade 5. Standard Level English and Maths required at grade 4 or above if not held at Higher.
Minimum Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for widening access applicants are:
Entry to Year 1
- SQA Higher: BBC to include English or a written subject requiring the use of English, and two Sciences at B (Maths counted). English and Maths required at National 5 B if not held at Higher.
Alternative Qualifications
We welcome applications from those with equivalent qualifications to those stated, including SVQs/NVQs, access programmes, Foundation Apprenticeships and overseas qualifications. Applications from students with non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis.
Applicants from Partner Colleges
A relevant HND will be considered for entry in to Year 3 of the course. For students with a HND Fitness Health & Exercise or HND Coaching & Developing Sport we require a B in HNC Graded Unit (GU1) and an A in HND Graded Unit (GU2). Entry will be subject to an interview selection process.
Advanced Entry
All other applicants who are interested in applying for advanced entry will be considered on an individual basis.
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Academic Year 2025-2026
Scottish Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
Year 2 | £1820 | |
Year 3 | £1820 | |
Year 4 | £1820 |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £7220 |
Year 2 | £7220 | |
Year 3 | £7220 | |
Year 4 | £7220 |
International Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £16980 |
Year 2 | £16980 | |
Year 3 | £16980 | |
Year 4 | £16980 |
Academic Year 2024-2025
Scottish Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
Year 2 | £1820 | |
Year 3 | £1820 | |
Year 4 | £1820 |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £6930 |
Year 2 | £6930 | |
Year 3 | £6930 | |
Year 4 | £6930 |
EU Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £6930 |
Year 2 | £6930 | |
Year 3 | £6930 | |
Year 4 | £6930 |
International Students
Full Time
On Campus | ||
---|---|---|
Over 4 years | Year 1 | £16490 |
Year 2 | £16490 | |
Year 3 | £16490 | |
Year 4 | £16490 |
Additional Costs
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Student Funding
If you are a Scottish resident, you may be eligible for funding and should apply to SAAS for funding.
Students from other parts of the UK should visit the appropriate website:
Scholarships and Financial Awards
You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
Any questions?
Get in touch with our Student Admissions Service and we'll do our best to help.