Sports Science with Foundation Year

This module will provide a firm grounding in both testing and prescription principles applied in sport and exercise science contexts. You will develop a holistic view of the different aspects that contribute to performance in sport and exercise, and transfer to general health and wellbeing, and determine how best to test for changes in fitness level via the application of appropriate testing and methodologies. Fitness testing and exercise prescription forms the basis of study in the areas of sports science, exercise, nutrition and health. The assessment for this module will be a written examination. 

This module has been designed to promote a positive and supportive transition from further to higher education, focusing initially on the importance of wellbeing to successful study.  The module will provide a firm grounding in the key skills required to be able to read, write and present in the academic world.  You will embed your learning through a series of large and small group activities using a problem-based approach.  Small group work will allow for regular, tailored feedback specific to small group tasks and group dynamics with a focus on your future chosen vocation. Following the completion of the module, you should feel very prepared for your journey at level 4 and beyond.

This module will provide a firm grounding in the key applied sciences needed to study for a degree in a range of professions. You will be provided with a focused review of key biological, biomechanical and anatomical principles, allied to key applications in the vocational setting. A grounding in these applied sciences will ensure you are able to cope with the transition to level 4 studies. The assessment for this module will be a two-hour multiple choice exam.

Introduction to Exploring Evidence will build on the knowledge and understanding acquired in trimester one and will prepare you for your Level 4 studies and beyond. You will consider what is meant by scientific evidence, exploring the many different types and effective methods of searching for evidence. You will be introduced to the concept of appraising evidence and handling data.

Through small group work, tutorials and peer feedback you will apply your learning to a clinical or practical scenario that you observe in your chosen discipline.

This module will introduce you to the concepts that underpin physical and mental health.  It will ask the questions of ‘What is mental health?’ and ‘What is physical health?’.  By looking at different models of mental health and how the body functions physically the  module will focus on examining the relationship between maintaining good mental and physical health, the impact of this on health and wellbeing and how to promote this in your own life and when working with others.  Mental and physical health are closely linked and by studying both areas together you will learn to appreciate the relationship between the two.  This is a 40 credit module which runs across two trimesters and assessments for the module will build on each other, creating a theme throughout the year.

Investigate the function of major organ systems and how they regulate homeostasis. Using cutting-edge lab equipment, you will develop practical skills to analyse physiological adaptations as true physiologists do in the world sport and exercise science.

Gain a fundamental understanding of energy metabolism and nutrition in human performance. This module provides a strong foundation for advanced study in metabolism, energetics, and nutrition.

This module covers key training principles for sports performance and health. You will study exercise prescription, movement analysis, and foundational anatomy. You will explore the development of cardiovascular fitness, strength, power, speed, and flexibility, applying these principles to enhance athletic performance.

This module introduces you to the field of sports science and the competencies required as a Sport Scientist. You will be introduced to the concepts of research in sports science through hands-on practical experience. This module will also develop your academic, personal and professional skills to facilitate a successful progression through university and into employment in sports science.

Explore key psychological theories related to motivation, confidence, and individual differences in sport. You will examine how psychological factors influence performance and apply research to real-world sporting contexts.

Learn core principles of mechanics and biomechanics, collecting and analysing movement data to optimise human performance. You will learn how to collect, analyse, and interpret basic biomechanical data in relation to sports performance and understand the application of these principles to optimising human performance.

Build on first-year foundations to explore the acute and chronic physiological responses to exercise. You will examine cardiovascular, respiratory, muscular, metabolic, and neuroendocrine adaptations and assess factors that limit performance through practical, lab-based experience.

This module provides you with an applied understanding of the theoretical principles of training to enhance athletic performance.

Develop essential research skills for both academic and professional contexts. You will learn to design studies, critically evaluate evidence, and apply statistical analysis to interpret research outcomes through both theoretical and practical sessions.

Gain a strong theoretical and applied understanding of sports nutrition. This module explores the principles of nutritional strategies, from recreational athletes to elite performers, ensuring optimal fuelling for performance and recovery.

Apply biomechanics and performance analysis concepts to assess and improve sports performance. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, you will gain hands-on experience in data collection and analysis.

This module will focus on psychological assessment and strategies for athletes. You will explore key needs analysis methods used to understand athletes’ psychological needs. Additionally, you will examine psychological strategies that athletes can apply to enhance their mental performance and overall athletic success.

Undertake an independent research project on a topic of your choice, working closely with a supervisor. You will develop expertise in research design, data collection, analysis, and synthesis, demonstrating critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for professional practice.

Gain practical experience in a vocational setting, applying sport and exercise science theories to real-world challenges. You will develop transferable and industry-specific skills, enhancing your employability while reflecting on evidence-based practice.

This module aims to provide you with the knowledge and expertise to actively practice the discipline of Performance Analysis within an elite setting. You will utilise industry standard equipment to assess, monitor, review and improve performance in athletes/teams. You will use multiple methods to increase performance productivity in your clients.

This module will provide you with an extended understanding of the principles governing the training of elite athletes focusing on the application of the latest research to a real-world environment.

This module will provide you with a critical understanding of physiological and environmental factors that influence exercise performance for a diverse range of athletes and people engaged in physical activity, including special populations. You will also learn to present and demonstrate the principles of test construction and methods of assessing physical performance and develop the ability to interpret data pertaining to physical performance.

Explores advanced psychological topics that are considered as current or emerging themes within port. This module focuses on critical thinking in relation to psychological themes, theories, research, and interventions. You will critically appraise the current state of sport psychology to suggest applied and theoretical implications and avenues for future research that would advance the discipline of sport psychology.

This module will provide you with a critical understanding of physiological and environmental factors that influence exercise performance for a diverse range of athletes and people engaged in physical activity, including special populations. You will also learn to present and demonstrate the principles of test construction and methods of assessing physical performance and develop the ability to interpret data pertaining to physical performance.

This module will evaluate the use of nutritional strategies to maximise adaptation to training as well as before, during and after sport and exercise events. You will then examine the importance of individualising nutritional strategies for specific clients/athletes, and practice the skills necessary to translate sports nutrition principles into practical professional advice in a range of sporting settings.

Looks at how athletes modify technique and movement skills for performance and injury prevention and how this can be assessed using video-based technology.