Applied Sport and Exercise Science

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.

Activity 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.

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.

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.