How the Course Works
This degree is part of a larger portfolio of five courses covering different specialism in sport. The initial two-year foundation curriculum is about gaining a foundation in the core areas of Sport and Exercise Sciences and so all five of these courses cover the same curriculum. In those first two years we’ll give you an introduction to core aspects of each course so you can decide where you want to specialise. This means you’ll learn what you want to focus on, and your degree will suit your own interests and career aspirations. And, of course, we’ll advise you every step of the way.
If you want to work in this industry or continue your studies but haven’t worked out exactly what you want to do, this is a great way to start. Our two-year foundation approach means you can keep your options open until you’ve learnt more about what really interests you.
In those first two years we’ll give you an introduction to core aspects of each course so you can decide where you want to specialise. This means you’ll learn what you want to focus on, and your degree will suit your own interests and career aspirations. And, of course, we’ll advise you every step of the way.
Having gained two years of knowledge and discovered your own specialist area, in year three you choose from one of these pathways:
Your chosen course will be reflected in your degree title e.g. BSc (Hons) Strength & Conditioning
Remember, you only need to apply for ONE course, as the first two years are the same for everyone.
Shape your own learning journey
It’s all about flexibility. The first two-year common curriculum means you can keep your options open until you know which area you want to focus on. Don’t worry, our academic team will give you advice and full support when it comes to choosing what to specialise in.
Whichever specialist path you decide on, by the time you graduate you will:
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Understand how to analyse the core issues behind your chosen subject
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Have developed analytical and problem-solving skills, useful in any work environment
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Have learned to work both independently and as part of a team
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Be able to critically evaluate evidence, arguments, and assumptions and reach sound judgements
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Have learned applied professional standards, ethics and responsibilities, including good decision-making
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Developed excellent communication and digital skills so you can share your knowledge effectively across a wide range of audiences
Learning and assessment
You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, practical laboratory classes, seminars/tutorials and independent study. The practical laboratory classes offer the chance to learn relevant scientific techniques firsthand and provide an opportunity to engage in research by designing experiments and collecting and analysing data.
The assessment strategy is aimed at developing a variety of skills that are valued by employers. The majority of assessment is by innovative coursework-related submissions, such as lab reports, essays, oral and poster presentations, portfolios, reflective logs, practical tests.
Exams form only a small percentage (approximately 15%) of the overall assessment.
Accreditation
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
This degree programme is recognised by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), which identifies university courses designed to prepare students for the NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer® (NSCA-CPT®) and NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) qualifications.
International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association
This degree programme is also accredited by the International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association (IUSCA), an acknowledgement that the programme supports the advancement of education in Strength and Conditioning and has established a profile of skills that employers value in university graduates. This is the only degree programme in Scotland to hold the approval of both of these external and independent organisations.