BSc (Hons) Sports Studies with Psychology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Hertfordshire

Program Overview

This three-year degree combines the science of sports studies with core psychological principles to explore how mental processes affect athletic performance, wellbeing, and motivation. Ideal for students interested in sports psychology, coaching, or health promotion, the course integrates theory with practical applications in sport and exercise settings.

Curriculum Structure

Year One
You will study foundational modules such as Introduction to Sports Studies, Foundations of Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology for Sport, and Research Methods. This year provides essential knowledge of both physical and psychological factors influencing sport.

Year Two
Core topics include Applied Sports Psychology, Exercise Physiology, Developmental Psychology, and Sport and Society. You’ll learn about motivation, behaviour change, and social influences on sport and exercise participation.

Year Three
In the final year, you undertake an independent research project and study advanced modules such as Performance Psychology, Health and Wellbeing, and Coaching and Leadership. These modules prepare you to apply psychological principles to enhance athletic performance and promote mental health.

Placement Option:
Students have opportunities for work placements or volunteering in sports clubs, community organisations, or health settings to gain practical experience.

Focus Areas:
Sports psychology, exercise physiology, coaching, motivation, mental health, research skills.

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will understand the psychological and physiological aspects of sport, develop skills in research and applied psychology, and be prepared for careers in sports coaching, fitness training, or further study in sports science or psychology.

Professional Alignment:
While the course is not specifically accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), it provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study in sports psychology or related fields.

Reputation & Facilities:
The University of Hertfordshire offers excellent sports facilities, including gyms, sports halls, and labs equipped for physiological and psychological testing, along with strong links to local sports organisations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This interdisciplinary degree combines sports science with psychology, helping students understand both physical performance and the mental factors that influence it.

Key hands-on learning experiences include:

  • Access to sports science labs equipped for biomechanics, exercise physiology, and performance analysis
  • Practical workshops in sports psychology techniques, motivation, and mental skills training
  • Opportunities for placements with sports clubs, fitness centres, or health organisations
  • Use of digital tools for data analysis, including SPSS and performance tracking software
  • Final-year research project exploring topics at the intersection of sport and psychology

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates develop skills suited for careers in sports coaching, psychology support roles, fitness management, and health promotion.

Typical roles include:
Sports Psychologist Assistant, Performance Analyst, Fitness Coach, Health Promotion Officer, Rehabilitation Specialist

Career and academic support includes:

  • University’s Careers and Employability Service providing tailored advice on placements and graduate roles
  • Networking events with sports and health industry professionals
  • Preparation for postgraduate study in Sport Psychology, Coaching, Physiotherapy, or related fields

Further Academic Progression

Many graduates continue with MSc courses in Sport Psychology, Exercise Science, Physiotherapy, or related disciplines, supported by Hertfordshire’s academic resources and professional links.

Program Key Stats

£15,975
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


73 %

Eligibility Criteria

BBC - BCC
3.0 - 3.3
26 - 28
60 - 70

1210
28
6.0
72

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Assistant sports psychologist
  • Sports coach or performance analyst
  • Sports development officer
  • Health and fitness coach
  • Exercise rehabilitation specialist
  • Community sports coordinator
  • Human resources or organisational development roles
  • Public sector or local government roles in sports and recreation
  • Teaching assistant or educational support roles
  • Research assistant or analyst in sports or psychology-related fields

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