Sport, Physical Education and Coaching Science BSc

Summary

This degree programme offers you the opportunity to examine the theory and practice of physical education, sport and coaching science across education, leisure and community sectors. You will gain skills that will enable you to contribute positively to partnership enterprises within sport, coaching, education and community contexts.

Key facts

UCAS code: C6L4

Duration: 3 years

Start date: September 2013 (Check to see if this course is receiving applications for September 2012)

Places available: 70

Applications in 2011: 750

Entry requirements

Number of A levels required: 3

Typical offer: ABB

Required subjects and grades: Preferably PE, Sports Science or Sports Studies

General Studies: not accepted, but a good performance may be taken into account if you fail to meet the requirements of the offer

Additional information:

Other qualifications are considered – learn more about entry requirements

A satisfactory Criminal Records Bureau check and ISA registration are required from accepted candidates before registration for the programme

International students:

International Baccalaureate Diploma: 32–34 points

Standard English language requirements apply
Learn more about international entry requirements

Contact details

Admission Enquiries
Email: sportpedagogyadmin@contacts.bham.ac.uk

Admissions Tutor: Dr Lesley Phillpots 
Tel: +44 (0)121 415 8390
Email l.a.phillpots@bham.ac.uk 

Admissions Tutor: Frank Herold
Tel: +44 (0)121 414 8061
Email: f.a.herold@bham.ac.uk

How to apply

Apply through UCAS at www.ucas.com 
Learn more about applying

Fees and funding

Standard fees apply
Learn more about fees and funding

Scholarships
Learn more about our scholarships and awards

Sport Scholarships

For talented student athletes wishing to reach their sporting potential sports scholarships are available. For more information visit:: http://www.sport.bham.ac.uk/scholarships/

Undergraduate Research Experience scheme

The University of Birmingham Undergraduate Research Experience scheme offers financial support for undergraduates to undertake work experience or a research placement in the summer vacation. The scheme is open to all first-, second- and penultimate-year undergraduate students. It is also open to final-year undergraduate students who are in the process of applying for, or who have already applied for, a place on a postgraduate programme at the University of Birmingham for the 2012-13 academic year.  Closing date is 17 February 2012

Programme overview

This degree programme offers you the opportunity to examine the theory and practice of physical education, sport and coaching science across education, leisure and community sectors. You will gain skills that will enable you to contribute positively to partnership enterprises within sport, coaching, education and community contexts.

You will study a range of topics including sport, coaching science, physical education and physical activity, as well as increasing your knowledge, understanding and awareness of significant national and international sport related bodies.

The degree also involves study of physiology, psychology, sociology, coaching and physical activity, which offer insights into the development and interaction of diverse groups in sport, coaching, school and community contexts.

A unique aspect of this course is the blend of theory and practice throughout the programme. This is evident in the range of applied teaching and coaching modules on offer. There is also the opportunity to experience a residential trip to the University’s Raymond Priestley Outdoor Centre in Year 1. For more information about the Centre visit: http://www.sport.bham.ac.uk/raymondpriestley/

First year

  • Sport Science in Pedagogy 
  • Academic Skills for Studying Sport
  • Outdoor and 'Adventurous' Activities
  • Introduction to Sport Policy and Management
  • Teaching and Coaching: Games and Athletics
  • Introduction to Sport Pedagogy

Second year

  • Sport Science in Movement
  • Sport Development
  • Research Methods in Sport Pedagogy
  • Development of Teaching and Coaching: Gymnastics and Dance
  • Innovation and Professional Practice in Sport
  • Volunteering in Sports Contexts: Preparing for Employment

Students are offered the opportunity to study a Module outside the Main Discipline (MOMD). An MOMD is a module in a subject which is not normally a part of the student's main degree programme but which may be taken for additional credit to enhance their study. This is available to replace any year 2 module except Research Methods in Sport Pedagogy. 

Third year

  • Sport Science in Professional Practice
  • Politics and Sport
  • Dissertation or Extended Essay
  • Applied Teaching and Coaching: Swimming
  • Sociology of Sport: Equity and Inclusion
  • Physical Activity, Health and Well-Being

Plus a Module outside the Main Discipline (MOMD) option

Teaching and assessment

Assessment involves both practical and theoretical assignments, group and individual presentations and examinations. In the final year students complete a dissertation that focuses upon a topic covered within the degree programme.

Career opportunities

This programme aims to educate a new type of sport/PE/coach professional who is capable of contributing to the growing trend for partnership enterprises in this field. On completion of the degree, you will be well equipped for a career in teaching, coaching, leisure management, sports development, postgraduate studies, as well as the armed forces or any graduate-entry profession.

Links 

Download details of the Outdoor Activity Trip (PDF 33KB, opens new window)

Back to top

Apply now

Employability

Future Careers

 http://www.as.bham.ac.uk/careers/

We have dedicated Careers and Employability advisers who we encourage you to see from your first year with us.
Graduates from Sport, Physical Education and Coaching Science have a wide range of career options and provide you with excellent transferable skills which are applicable to a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors. Transferable skills include:

  • written communication developed through writing essays;
  • oral communication skills gained through reasoned debates during seminars and presentations;
  • ability to work as part of a team, through collaborative group work;
  • research and analytical skills with the ability to judge and evaluate information;
  • organisational and time management skills by prioritising tasks to ensure academic, social and work commitments are completed on time;
  • negotiation, informally with peers and formally with staff;
  • problem solving;
  • IT skills.

Sport, Physical Education and Coaching Science graduates are attracted towards careers in education such as teaching, community and youth work or other public sector occupations such as social work, police, housing and probation.

Job roles directly related to the degree include (post graduate or further professional training may be needed):

  • PE or Primary teaching
  • Sports Coach
  • Community Sports Coach
  • Fitness Instructor
  • Outdoor education
  • Leisure management
  • Education management
  • Social Care

Job roles indirectly related may include:

  • Recruitment Consultant
  • Finance Officer
  • Accountancy
  • Journalism

Personal Skills Award

 http://www.as.bham.ac.uk/psa/

The University of Birmingham offers a Personal Skills Award to enhance your employability when you graduate. Many students participate in clubs and societies and volunteer in the local community. The University’s Personal Skills Award accredits this, putting our graduates a step ahead. 

Volunteering

http://www.guildofstudents.com/content/188475/get_involved/volunteering/

The University of Birmingham in partnership with the Guild of Students encourages students to volunteer:
We have over 150 different volunteering opportunities for students to get involved in. You can volunteer on a regular or one-off basis, with one of our 30 student-led volunteering projects or with local charities and voluntary organisations. You can even set up your own project!

All volunteers registered with the Guild receive a volunteer induction where we prepare you for your volunteer experience.
We also provide specialised training including Child Protection and First Aid.   
We provide advice, guidance and support before and during your volunteering.
We offer free Criminal Record Bureau checks to those volunteering with a Guild project.
To recognise the contribution volunteers make to the Guild and to the community, we offer certificates, prizes, awards and
volunteering celebration events.

Volunteering opportunities within sport at the University

 http://www.sport.bham.ac.uk/volunteers/

Volunteering is your opportunity to gain experience in sport, enhance your employability or give something back to your sport. It’s the chance to develop transferable life skills such as confidence, communication and leadership while achieving the personal satisfaction of supporting others to access sport and physical activity.

The UBSport PasSPORT scheme offers a world of opportunity both on campus and in the local community. We have opportunities in sports clubs, after school clubs, University sport clubs and activities and local, regional and national events. In return for your volunteering, we can provide support to help you access training and development opportunities and recognition for your volunteering.

Paid Internship in the School of Education

The School of Education have introduced a paid internship for 3 months for an outstanding graduate from the School of Education to pursue a research project and work closely alongside an academic mentor. The University are developing more internships for Graduates in partnership with the Careers and Employability Service.

Post Graduate opportunities in the School of Education

The School of Education has a small number of post graduate scholarships available in addition to those available through the University. These enable our students to have the opportunity to take PhD’s – Doctorates and opens up further avenues for them.

Modules

All module outlines are indicative and may be subject to change

Year One

Sport Science and Pedagogy

This module will offer an introduction to key concepts and knowledge required by movement professionals through a mixture of theory and practical delivery. The module will focus on theories of motor learning, sport psychology and exercise physiology and how they underpin pedagogical practice.

Assessment
 600 word written assignment (30%); Practical exam (25%); Two hour exam (45%)

Teaching method

  • Group lectures
  • Practical
  • Small group problem solving

Academic Skills for Studying Sport

This module will introduce, develop and focus students’ academic skills for successful study and assessment in Higher Education within the field of Sport Pedagogy. Students will explore and develop key skills around tasks such as: academic information searching and gathering; critical reading; essay writing; essay planning and development; referencing and using sources; managing time effectively; communication skills; employability and career planning. The use of ICT as a means of supporting study techniques will also be developed. There will be an opportunity for students to focus upon their own learning and their own skills. Specific parts of the module contents will also be embedded within other first year modules, as formative tasks.

The module is also designed to introduce and give students a grounding in the basic principles of research methodology.  The module will introduce students to the traditions of qualitative and quantitative research as well as the considerations required when planning and reviewing an appropriate methodology (e.g. ethics; sampling and data analysis).

Assessment
 3 hour exam (100%)

Teaching Method 

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Online tasks

Outdoor and ‘Adventurous’ Activities

The module introduces students to the theoretical underpinnings of working with young people as individuals and as part of a group in an outdoor adventurous activities context. Students through their residential experience will be introduced to the knowledge and skills that will enable them to analyse and evaluate the role of outdoor and adventurous activities as a medium for personal development and group management.

Assessment
 2,000 word essay (67%); 1,000 wordpersonal learning diary (33%)

Teaching Method

  • Large group lectures
  • Small group problem-solving activities

Introduction to Sport Policy and Management 

The module will introduce students to key aspects of sport and leisure management policy in the UK. It will develop students’ knowledge and understanding of key government policies focusing upon community, elite and school sport. Students will be introduced to the fundamental issues associated with the management of sport and will examine the ‘place’ of sport and leisure within British society.

Assessment 
Group presentation (25%); 2,000 word essay (75%)

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Online tasks

Introduction to Sport Pedagogy

Students will be introduced to the concept of pedagogy in physical education, sport and youth sport and will increase their knowledge and understanding of historical and sociological frameworks that have shaped values, beliefs and behaviours in these fields.
 
Historically, key ideologies will be studied in terms of their effects on the development of physical education and modern sport in England, for example Athleticism, Victorianism and Imperialism. Resultant gender relations of the time, and their effects in shaping PE and Sport will be studied through specific examples, such as the role of sport in the boys’ public schools and the start of vocational training for teachers in the women’s specialist PE training colleges. The significance of historical study in understanding current contexts will permeate this element of the module.
 
Students will be introduced to sociology as the study of human beings and the societies they form. Theories will be selected from the range applied in the field, for example: critical, interactionist, figurational, body and identity theories and will be used to increase understanding of how researchers have approached questions related to the actions of key stakeholders in physical education and sport.
 
The historical and sociological frameworks will be combined with education theory to introduce the three dimensional concept of pedagogy. A critical analysis of physical education and sport will be undertaken focussing on the interrelated dimensions of pedagogy: knowledge in context, learners and learning, and teaching/coaching. The implications of being a professional in physical education and youth sport contexts will be analysed.

Assessment
1,000 word assignment (25%); Two hour exam(75%)

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Student led presentations
  • Seminars

Teaching and Coaching: Games and Athletics

The aim of the module is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of contemporary aspects of teaching and coaching, an appreciation of the theories and research that underpins effective professional practice, an understanding of the complex process of learning, and knowledge and skills to design, deliver and evaluate a practical games lesson/ training session. Lectures and tutorials, supported by guided reading, will be used to introduce and explore the key concepts and theories. Practical sessions will be designed to further expand students’ understandings of the theory and practice in teaching and coaching. Seminars will be offered to enable students to reach deeper levels of understanding of the module content.

Assessment
2000 word essay (70%); one hour exam (30%)

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Practical
  • sessions
  • Seminars

Year Two

Sport Science in Movement

This module will build on knowledge of motor learning, sport psychology and exercise physiology established in the Year one Sport Science and Pedagogy module. The module will be organised around the same key themes as the Year one module but with more depth in theories and concepts, and a stronger focus on putting theory into pedagogical practice.

Assessment
1000 word case study (30%); 500-word small-group movement analysis assessment (20%); Two-hour exam(50%)

Teaching Method

  • Large group lectures
  • Practical
  • Small group problem solving

Sport Development

This module focuses upon policy, process and practice in sports development. It will develop students’ knowledge and understanding of youth sport development, community sports development (social inclusion and health), elite sport development and sporting events.

Assessment
Two hour exam (75%); Group Presentation: (25%)

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Practical Sessions

Research Methods in Sport Pedagogy

The module will build on the Year 1 module from an applied theoretical perspective. The module will examine different methodologies and provide students with an opportunity to critique existing empirical material. Students will also be able to focus progressively on methods they will need for their final year dissertation or independent study, such as interview techniques; designing of quantitative questionnaires; data analysis (both quantitative and qualitative) and the development and completion of ethics forms. Students will also examine the process of data collection; management; interpretation; analysis and presentation through the use of case studies.

Assessment
 Qualitative data analysis task 1,000 words (25%); Computer based statistics exam (25%); Multiple Choice/ Short answer exam (25%); 1000 word Research Proposal (25%).

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • IT practical’s
  • Online tasks

Development of Teaching and Coaching: Gymnastics and Dance

This module is designed to enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of the aesthetic activity areas of gymnastics and dance in educational, coaching and community contexts. Through theory and practice, students explore and critically analyse aspects of pedagogical theory (e.g., differentiation, assessment) and apply these in practice. Practical sessions, lectures and seminars will be designed to further expand students’ understandings of the theory and practice in teaching and coaching.

Assessment
 Two 1000 word portfolios, one for dance and one for gymnastics (70%); one hour exam (30%)

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Practical sessions

Innovation and Professional Practice in Sport

The module adopts a model-based approach to sports instruction. Drawing from theories of learning, students will be encouraged to consider critically a range of instructional models (e.g. TGFU, Sport Education) and how these might be applied. A model based approach offers a framework within which to consider pedagogical approaches to sport, and students will be expected to identify, plan, adapt and apply teaching/ coaching models to a variety of sporting contexts.

Assessment
 2000 word essay (70%); 1000 word reflective journal (30%)

Teaching Method

  • Large group lectures
  • Practical
  • Small group problem solving

Volunteering in Sport Contexts: Preparing for Employment

The aim of this module is to enable students (in pairs) to work alongside (assist) established professionals in real-life professional environments in order to: a) develop an in-depth understanding of relevant career pathways and the requirements/ expectations of the selected fields; b) enhance their communication, interpersonal and other work-related and personal skills; c) apply existing knowledge in practice; d) learn how to become ‘reflective practitioners’ by bridging theory and practice in meaningful ways; and e) gain an invaluable experience of the recruitment process. This experience is expected to improve students’ employability prospects. This module requires developing partnerships with local schools and other sport-related organisations in order to be able to monitor students’ activities.

Assessment
 Two 1500 word essays (50% each)

Teaching Method  

  • Lectures
  • Seminars

Year Three

Sport Science in Professional Practice

This module draws together the knowledge and skills gained in the preceding Sport Science in Movement and Sport Science in Pedagogy modules.
 
Students will undertake a minimum of 40 hours volunteering work with University Birmingham Sport’s scientific support team. This work will form the basis of the case-studies that they submit. Students will work with a sports team/ individual to support performance in a multidisciplinary manner.
 
As part of the support work students will experience a range of different sporting environments and situations which will provide them with excellent experience in the field and enhance their employability.

Assessment
 Two 2,000 word case-studies (50% each)

Teaching Method

  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • Group work
  • Field work

Dissertation

The module will facilitate achievement of an in depth investigation into a topic selected by the student from the fields of Physical Education, Sport and Coaching Science. 

Assessment
 7000-10 000 word Dissertation (100%)

Teaching Method

  • Self enquiry supported by personal tutorials

Extended Essay

The module will act as an optional module to the final year dissertation. The module will allow students to undertake a tutor negotiated literature review based upon a question. Students will be expected to work independently (but with supervisory support) to create a clear rationale for the needs of the study; an appropriate data search strategy and a clearly designed and appropriately sectioned report.

Assessment
 5,000 word literature based independent study (100%)

Teaching Method

  • Self enquiry supported by personal tutorials

Applied Teaching and Coaching: Swimming

Students will be involved in practical and theoretical sessions as they increase their knowledge and understanding of principles and practice in the activity area of swimming. They will examine national curriculum key stage requirements, issues of safety, analysis of water confidence skills, stroke improvement techniques and other aquatic skills. Through reciprocal and small group teaching they will develop skills of planning, observation and analysis, teaching and evaluating of swimming. In addition students will undertake a practical coaching situation for a sustained period of time. The practical situation is contextualised within the broader structures of the Swimming Governing Bodies in terms of breadth of provision and teacher/ coach development schemes. The students will undertake weekly planning, teaching and evaluating tasks, alongside reflection on their personal and professional development emerging through this module.

Assessment
 Practical Teaching/ Coaching (50%); 1500 word essay 1,500 words (50%)

Teaching Method

Theory and practice pool-based swimming, observation, analysis and inclusion of a block of supervised practical coaching experience.

Sociology of Sport: Equity and Inclusion

The module will be issues based and will build on the introduction to sociological theories in year one, for example functionalist, interactionist, figurational, critical, hegemony and body theories. Students will be involved in sociological analysis of: 1) issues of talent identification and participation development from the perspectives of key stakeholders, e.g. children, parents and coaches, and 2) issues of equity and social exclusion e.g. ‘race’, gender, disability and ethnicity. Theoretical analysis will be used to further develop depth and breadth of understanding of these issues and implications for teachers and coaches.

Assessment
 1,500 word essay (50%); Exam (50%)

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Group work and tasks

Physical Activity, Health and Well-Being

The module will provide students with the knowledge to acquire a critical understanding of Physical Activity. Students will examine the nature and aspects of Physical Activity and the place of the subject within the wider educational and community context. It will provide a breadth of understanding in the fields related to psychosocial and environmental determinants drawing from published research data. Students will have the opportunity to study research related to determinants to physical activity participation from a variety of age groups (children; adolescents; adults; older adults) and ethnic backgrounds (religious and cultural factors that affect participation) and socio-economic status. In addition theory related to environmental determinants (society; locality; family structure) will be explored.

In addition it will provide knowledge and understanding of issues related to promotion of Physical Activity in schools and in the community; and it will provide research evidence on current intervention based schemes/ programmes to enhance participation in children and adolescents. Furthermore, it will provide breadth of understanding of physical activity and well- being from various perspectives; more particularly the effects of Physical Activity and exercise to mental health patients; and to patients with communicable/ non-communicable diseases.

Assessment
 1,000 word essay (40%); Two hour exam (60%)

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Group work
  • Videos
  • Guest speakers

Politics and Sport

This module explores the key issues and controversies of sport in contemporary society. The study of sport cuts across many critical issues in the study of society, culture and politics and this will be reflected in the module: core themes include the meaning of sport in society, approaches to the study of sport (taken from Political Science, Sociology etc.) the commercialisation of sport (in particular sponsors, owners and promoters), global sport (e.g. Olympic Games), the instrumentalisation of sport for political purposes (including studying Germany, the UK, China, Russia, the USA, gender, race, class and sport, cultural differences in attitudes towards and participation in sport and the interface of media and sport.

Assessment
 Two 4000 word essays (50% each)

Teaching Method

  • Lectures
  • Seminars

Below are a small selection of SPECS students who have representative honours

Isobel ChristiansenIsobel Christiansen – SPECS Yr1

 I represent England at women’s football at under 15, 17, 19, 20 and current under 23 level.
Leavi OshungbureLeavi Oshungbure – SPECS Yr1 

I have played for Leicestershire and Rutland for the last couple of years and last year had the chance to captain the team. I was also involved with the English Schools football team last year.

The reason why I chose the SPECS course is because I believe it is an ideal stepping stone to becoming a PE teacher.
Matthew PaceyMatthew Pacey – SPECS Yr1

I currently play hockey for Wales.

I have always enjoyed both playing and studying sport. The course has advanced my subject knowledge and further developed my coaching capabilities.
Chris PerrinChristopher Perrin – SPECS Yr1

For the last 2 years I competed at the English Schools track and field finals in the 1500m. This season I am currently 2nd place overall in the U20 UKA cross country challenge series. During the summer of 2011 I won the Staffordshire Senior Men tennis doubles championship.
William ByasWilliam Byas – SPECS Yr2
I currently play hockey for England Under 21s.

I chose to do SPCES at the University of Birmingham due to it being the most attractive course and the one that suited most out of all the others I considered. The most advantageous thing about it is that it isn’t just an ordinary course and it provides me with so many great opportunities. It is a great course and I would recommend it to anyone.
James LauderJames Lauder – SPECS Yr2

I represented England at under 15, 17 and 19 in in Badminton and still play in European and National tournaments in Mens and Mixed doubles. I am currently ranked in the top ten in England Doubles and I am a UBS Scholar.

SPECS has helped me develop a great understanding of coaching/teaching and learning. The course is a great balance of sports science and pedagogy and really helps me with my sport and extra activities.
Peter fozardPeter Fozard – SPECS Yr2
I have represented Surrey and the London/South-East region throughout the Junior age groups in Squash ... U15, U17 and U19, with my highest ranking being within the top 20.

I chose to study SPCES because I always wanted to study an area of sport and this particular course’s structure suited my needs perfectly. It has a good mix of practicals and theory lectures as well as covering sport topics that interest me – namely sport development and marketing.
Carl ButcherCarl Butcher – SPECS Yr3
I represent England Development Men in Volleyball.

I chose the SPECS course as I have always seen myself as a PE Teacher or sports coach and the course has been specifically designed to meet all of those needs, so Birmingham was an obvious choice, both to excel in a degree at a top quality university and to accommodate my sporting ambitions within volleyball.