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An image to illustrate the BSc (Honours) Sport and Exercise Science degree.
Sport and exercise performance is driven by science and this degree puts the study of the human body and mind at the heart of your learning. You’ll explore the core disciplines of biomechanics, physiology and psychology, helping you make sense of how people move, think and perform. You’ll investigate real-world case studies, analyse data and apply the scientific principles required to optimise performance, improve health and reduce injury risks. Along the way, you’ll build the valuable skills needed to work with athletes, equipping you with the expertise and confidence to influence performance and pursue a rewarding career in the sector.
We also offer a Diploma of Higher Education in Sport and Exercise Science (W97), which has the same structure as the first two-thirds of this degree. Similarly, our Certificate of Higher Education in Sport, Fitness and Management (T05) corresponds to the first third.
This sport and exercise science degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
Stage 1 introduces the key scientific ideas that underpin sport, exercise and physical activity. You’ll explore topics such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and psychology, alongside coaching practice, motivation, and leadership, to understand what drives results. Using real-world examples and interactive activities, you’ll start applying theory to your own experiences and everyday situations. This stage builds a broad foundation in sport and exercise science and helps you develop the study skills and confidence needed for more advanced learning.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Active bodies: introducing the study of sport and exercise (E114)60Oct
Working effectively in sport and exercise (E129)60Oct

Stage 2 develops your knowledge in the three core disciplines of sport and exercise science: physiology, biomechanics and psychology. You’ll explore advanced topics including strength and conditioning, athlete monitoring, psychological skills training and movement analysis. You’ll work with real data, complete complex applications, and begin to make connections across disciplines. This stage deepens your scientific understanding while strengthening your ability to apply evidence-based approaches in sport, exercise and health settings.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Sport and exercise psychology in action (E235)60Oct
Applied sport and exercise physiology and biomechanics (E239) - planned for 2027
60Oct

Stage 3 brings together your learning by focusing on the psychological aspects of athletic development and examining contemporary issues in physiology and biomechanics. You’ll analyse current debates, evaluate emerging research, and apply scientific principles to real-world challenges in sport and exercise. This stage builds your expertise, critical thinking and professional confidence, preparing you for further study or a career within the sport and exercise science sector.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study both of the following:
Athletic development: a psychological perspective (E312)60Oct
Contemporary approaches in applied physiology and biomechanics (E316) - planned for 2028
60Oct

By studying this degree, you’ll:
You’ll be supported by personal tutors, high-quality materials, and opportunities to apply your learning in practical contexts.
You’ll be awarded a BSc (Honours) Sport and Exercise Science upon successful completion.
Your honours classification (first, upper second, lower second or third class honours) will depend on the grades you gain at Stages 2 and 3. 
You'll also have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our Academic Regulations or contact us.
You can achieve this degree in as little as three years and have a maximum of 16 years to complete it. Our module-by-module approach gives you the flexibility to complete your qualification at a pace that works best for you.
You can complete this degree in three years by studying at a pace equivalent to full-time. That’s similar to a student at a campus-based university.
You can complete this degree in six years by studying part-time. That’s roughly half the rate of a student on a full-time course at a campus-based university.
At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.
As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.
Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:
Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.
Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.
For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.
See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.
Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:
Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
You don’t need experience of working in sport and fitness prior to starting this qualification. However, you’ll find the modules and assignments much easier and more fulfilling if you can draw on employment (paid or unpaid) experience.
If you’ve studied at university level before, you may be able to transfer the academic credit you've been awarded towards an OU qualification. This could save you time and money by reducing the modules you need to study.
It’s not just university study that can be considered; you can also transfer study from a wide range of professional or vocational qualifications, such as HNCs and HNDs.
You should apply to transfer credit before registering, at least four weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where, and when, and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.
For more details and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

6 years
£4,088*
A degree is worth 360 credits. The fee per year is based on studying one 60-credit module per year for 6 years.
£24,528*
Our qualifications cost less than equivalent-level qualifications offered at campus-based universities.
Compare the cost of studying at the OU with other campus-based universities in England.
Honours Degree
Honours Degree
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£29,370
£29,370
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£24,528
£24,528
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£4,842
£4,842
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£19,580
£19,580
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£16,352
£16,352
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£3,228
£3,228
Certificate of Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£9,790
£9,790
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£8,176
£8,176
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£1,614
£1,614
Qualification
Qualification
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
Honours Degree
Honours Degree
£29,370
£29,370
£24,528
£24,528
£4,842
£4,842
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education
£19,580
£19,580
£16,352
£16,352
£3,228
£3,228
Certificate of Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
£9,790
£9,790
£8,176
£8,176
£1,614
£1,614
*Based on maximum chargeable fees for the 26/27 academic year.
**The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to the part-time fee limit, as set out in section 5 of the University's Fee Rules.
Your course fees cover your tuition, assessment and study materials, but there are still a few additional costs that can come with studying. For this qualification, you'll need:
*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to a fee limit, as set out in the University's Fee Rules.

Over 85% of our students in England fund their studies with a Tuition Fee Loan, meaning they pay nothing upfront.
Repay in monthly instalments while you study.
Pay for each module with a debit or credit card in one quick, simple payment.
More than 1 in 10 OU students are sponsored by their employer.
Combine your payment options to fund your studies the way you want.
If you’re a serving member of the British Armed Forces (or you’ve recently left), you may be eligible to use ELCs to cover up to 100% of your course fees.
You may be eligible for:
The sport and exercise science sector requires individuals with well-developed skills for working in multi-disciplinary teams, including strong motivation and communication skills to foster positive relationships. This degree will enhance your career potential and provide opportunities to develop valuable skills that employers seek, including:
You will develop analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills and be able to reflect on both your own and others’ practices, applying scientific evidence-based knowledge to practical situations.
The BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science is an excellent choice for enhancing your career prospects in exercise, sport performance, health and research. It’s also valuable for those self-employed in the sport and exercise sector or wishing to advance their careers within any of the three core disciplines of sport and exercise science. This qualification can serve as a stepping stone into careers in areas such as strength and conditioning, sport and exercise psychology, performance analysis, and sport and exercise nutrition.
Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline, particularly in business, finance, management consultancy and the public sector. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.
Studying with the OU is an enriching experience that broadens your horizons, develops your knowledge, builds your confidence and enhances your life skills.
Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice – including online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service, as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.
In the meantime, if you would like to research this qualification and explore its potential career paths, we’ve compiled a list of relevant job titles as a starting point. Please note that some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.
Credit transfer: apply by 13/08/2026
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Our prospectus will help you explore your course options, get a feel for life as an OU student, and register for study.
Request a prospectus
Credit transfer: apply by 13/08/2026
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