Sport Studies: University of Southampton

Course Description

The BSc (Hons) Sport Studies programme at the University of Southampton addresses various aspects of sport. It explores sport as a social entity in relation to its historical, cultural, political and economic contexts. The foundation of human performance is explored through a study of physiology, psychology, motor development and biomechanics leading to an understanding of how the body and mind work in relation to physical activity, sport and health. The management and development of sport are explored through units concentrating on such issues as policy, strategy and finance. Coaching and teaching of sport are covered through units emphasising coaching theory and sports pedagogy.
The management and development of sport are explored through units concentrating on such issues as policy, strategy and finance.

Compulsory units in year one ensure that all students engage in all these areas, and provide a strong foundation for the rest of the programme. In years two and three, compulsory units maintain the scientific, social and research strands, while optional units allow students to specialise in either teaching/coaching or management strands, with further specialisation in science or socio-historical areas in the final year. Tutors help students decide on their options in line with each student’s aspirations and interests.

Both management and teaching/coaching professions require you to have a strong understanding of the health and fitness aspects of sport. These are covered through compulsory units, which also give you the opportunity to enter into a health and fitness vocation. Hence you will be prepared to contribute professionally to the future direction of sport.

Through this programme, aim to:

• Develop your understanding of adaptations and human responses to sport, exercise, and physical activity
• Develop your understanding of the role of sport in society, and its derivation and development
• Provide opportunities for you to develop areas of vocational expertise in health and fitness, and in either management or coaching and teaching
• Develop your skills in using appropriate academic, critical, reflective, investigative, and transferable skills which are essential to a range of employment sector

Course content

• Sport science (exercise physiology, exercise psychology and human movement analysis)
• Sociology/history of sport
• Business/management of sport (including economics, politics, finance and marketing)
• Sport and the law
• Sport development
• Physical activity and health
• Research methods
• Coaching theory and concepts

Entry requirements

• A levels: BBB
• IB: 32 points, 15 at higher level
• Intake: 60
• Average applicants per place: 8

Main University Contact

• Postal Address: University of Southampton
  University Road
  Southampton
  SO17 1BJ
• Tel: +44 (0)23 8059 5000
• Fax: +44 (0)23 8059 3131
• Email: admissns@soton.ac.uk
• Website: http://www.soton.ac.uk