BSc (Hons) Sports Development

Key details

BSC (HONS) SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

Start Year

2023

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Science

UCAS course code

C620

Entry Requirements

ABB

Duration (years)

Train for a record-breaking career in sports participation, sports coaching, performance sport or sport and physical activity development at one of the UK’s best university sports facilities.

You’ll learn how to link theory with practice whilst enjoying the extensive sporting facilities at UEA. You will hone your skills as a development practitioner within the highly regarded School of Education and Lifelong Learning with an embedded placement and research experience as part of the course.

Our BSc Sports Development is ranked 6th for Sports Science by 'The Guardian University Guide 2023'.

About

In your first year, you’ll explore the key areas underpinning the study of physical education, sport and fitness, and sport and physical activity development. Through core modules in the areas of psychology, physiology, skill acquisition and health, you’ll discover factors influencing the performance, participation and development of individuals within physical education, sport and physical activity settings. You’ll also gain delivery-specific knowledge across a range of games activities.

We attract students from a range of academic backgrounds, so the module Academic and Professional Practice is designed to facilitate a smooth transition into higher education study for everyone, and will enable you to test out your preferences through observational work.

We operate a common suite of Year 1 modules in our Physical Education, Sport and Health cluster, which means you’ll have the opportunity to transfer to one of the following courses after Year 1:

BSc Physical Education, Sport and Health
BSc Physical Education
BSc Physical Activity and Health

In your second and third years, you’ll study a combination of compulsory and optional modules covering different aspects of the sport and physical activity development landscape.

In your final year, you’ll also complete a research project under the supervision of a lecturer who’s actively engaged in research. This is a great opportunity to delve into an area you’re passionate about. You’ll get the chance to collect and analyse data, turning those findings into a substantial research report. This will help you demonstrate a wide range of applicable workplace skills.

You’ll also have the opportunity to pursue a range of nationally accredited coaching and officiating awards alongside the set curriculum. All of these will enhance your employability and widen your horizons.

We have support from an excellent careers adviser who will support you with your personal development and applications into relevant sector roles.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways across the three years that will prepare you for a career in the sector or further research. Exams play a small part in Year 1 and the course is coursework based thereafter.

You will be introduced to a broad range of assessment types to support your transition into higher education, this includes exams, conference presentations, professional portfolios with observational work and written coursework.

Structure

Core modules cover topics including psychology, physiology, skill acquisition and fitness and training.

You’ll take the compulsory module Academic and Professional Practice. This will smooth your transition into higher education, whatever your academic background, and give you the opportunity to undertake sports-industry-based observational work.

Teaching and Learning

We have a high ratio of academic staff to students, and throughout your studies you'll benefit from our small-group teaching, lectures and practical work across a wide variety of sport and physical activities.

You’ll take part in large group interactive lectures where you will be tasked with working on your note taking skills and ability to share ideas in front of an audience. This will then be followed by small group seminars of between 15-25 students that may be classroom or practical based, with the aim to put theory into practice. This will involve working in groups, discussing ideas, solving problems, taking notes and presenting or delivering.

Independent Learning

You will be asked to complete preparatory reading and tasks and bring these with you to sessions through all years of the course. You'll also be required to submit formative (practice) work so that lecturers can give you feedback, before you submit your summative (graded) work for marking. You’ll be expected to be self-motivated in your learning and eager to take ownership of your progress. Alongside your taught sessions, you'll be required to work independently and with your peers in groups, reading and researching around the areas that are introduced in the formal sessions. You will need to be curious, and have an ability to go beyond the bare minimum to succeed in your studies.

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Assessment for Year 1

Compulsory Modules

HEALTH, FITNESS AND TRAINING

Code EDUP4003B

Credits 20

This module allows you to examine the parameters of fitness and principles of training and your application to the enhancement of sporting performance, health and well-being in the community.

SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY

Code EDUP4005B

Credits 20

This module will introduce you to the fundamental principles underpinning the psychology of sport and exercise and will allow you to understand their role and importance in influencing participation and performance in sport and exercise settings. You will develop an understanding of a range of interpersonal, intrapersonal, and situational factors that underpin and influence participation, performance, and behaviour in sport and exercise settings; understand why and how psychology may be used to improve sport and exercise participation and performance; and be able to apply knowledge of psychological processes to influence and understand participation and performance. You will gain an introduction to the study of individual, group, and situational factors that influence participation and performance. These include: arousal, stress and anxiety; attributions; motivation; morality; the coach-athlete relationship; peer relationships; leadership; and group dynamics.

THE ANATOMICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL BASIS OF HUMAN MOVEMENT

Code EDUP4008A

Credits 20

In this module, you will focus on the scientific principles of human movement – the application of theory to practice and the consideration of movement principles in anatomy, physiology and biomechanics. You will develop your ability to promote performance in physical education, sport and health through managing the application of human movement knowledge in specific applied settings.

ACQUIRING AND DEVELOPING SKILLS

Code EDUP4007A

Credits 20

Are skilful individuals born that way or do they learn their skills? This module will introduce you to how we acquire and develop motor skills and will allow you to understand some of the factors that influence key processes. When we acquire skills, we must be motivated to learn. Therefore, this module will also explore different theories of learning. We will investigate why and how we are motivated to learn and how we attend to and remember significant information. Effective skills teaching is dependent upon the recognition and understanding of the stages that are passed through by the learner. What to include in skills practice is crucial. This module will therefore introduce you to proven strategies that teachers and coaches can use to optimise the learning process. For example, types of guidance, different practice regimes and transfer of learning.

PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREATIVITY IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SPORT AND HEALTH

Code EDUP4009B

Credits 20

In this module you’ll examine the main principles and concepts associated with Games activities. This will involve the detailed analysis and critical evaluation of the structural, strategic and technical components of Games; through which you’ll develop subject knowledge of Games activities.

ACADEMIC PRACTICE IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Code EDUP4010A

Credits 20

This module will provide you with both an introduction to studying at higher education (HE) level and a foundation for lifelong learning. It will support you with the development of successful basic and academic study and research skills in the context of the sector and how to report on evidence in the context of your future employment. The focus will be on developing study skills and techniques to help you meet both your immediate and long-term study needs. You will engage with a range of key theoretical perspectives and contemporary issues and adopt a critical enquiry based approach to the exploration of key aspects of physical education, sport and health. You will develop as educators within a community of learners, building on the assets you bring to the learning process and developing the academic competencies and practices appropriate for higher education. You will develop specific academic study and research skills: locating, interpreting, analysing and critically evaluating an extensive range of relevant information sources.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.

Assessment for Year 2

You’ll undertake a placement as part of your assessment work and begin to develop your research proposal. You will create educational resources and complete reports using local data as well as written coursework and group work.

Compulsory Modules

HIGH PERFORMANCE SPORT

Code EDUP5021B

Credits 20

This module will examine the essential processes and required practice that determine a nation’s and individual sports success. It will include consideration of social and cultural elements. It will allow students the opportunity to acknowledge the significance of the leadership and management of process, development of world class facilities, talent identification and the role of the workforce. The overall perspective will be considering the essential features of how a high performance system and pathways operates in a range of focused sports.

RESEARCH AND EXPERIENCE IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SPORT AND HEALTH

Code EDUP5001Y

Credits 40

This module will provide you with an introduction to different approaches to carrying out research in the sector, as well as some commonly used quantitative and qualitative research methods. You will address the relative strengths and weaknesses of each method alongside its suitability in different research situations. You will engage in a number of practical sessions where you will design and run your own data collections and carry out appropriate analyses. The module will also introduce you to the process of designing a research project. This will require you to reflect on your personal research interests so that you can design a study that could be carried out for your dissertation in year three. To aid students with focus on industry linked research ideas, students will be awarded for carrying out sector related experience alongside developing research ideas. This may be professional development activity including (but not limited to) workshops, qualifications, conference attendance, physical placements, and observational experiences that must be logged and reflected upon.

PARTNERSHIPS IN SPORT PROVISION

Code EDUP5017A

Credits 20

You’ll develop an understanding of the nature and purpose of sports development within its historical and current landscape. You’ll complete the module with a thorough understanding of where sports development and community sport originates and the contribution it makes to the government’s agenda. You’ll critically analyse the various national, regional and local partners who make up this landscape and explore the career opportunities that exist within this sector. Learning Outcomes: a. Show an appreciation of the range and structure of provision for sports activities in the UK; b. Assess the effectiveness of a range of providers in promoting and delivering sport in the community; c. Understand the functions and characteristics of sporting activities in the context of national politics; d. Explain and critique contemporary developments in sport and the implications for diverse communities, organisations and individuals. e. Review multi agency approaches in their direction and critique national strategies; f. Understand the inter-connection between selected industrial sectors of sport (public, private and voluntary); You’ll build up a picture of the PE and sport development spectrum from birth to life-long participation, including performance, volunteering, coaching and governance infra-structure across the East Region and the UK. A review of sport policy will take place, examining the implications and differences of delivering the governments sports agendas. Focus will also be on the reflection of the marketing of physical activity to adults and young people, drawing on national campaigns and initiatives. Provision across the public, private, voluntary and commercial sectors will be explored in relation to the nature of provision and the markets served.

Optional A Modules

(40 credits)

ATHLETIC AND AQUATIC ACTIVITIES

Code EDUP5006B

Credits 20

In this module you’ll develop knowledge, skill and understanding of the fundamental principles of Athletics and Aquatics from both a conceptual and contextual perspective. You’ll focus on the importance of body preparation, skill learning and progression.

PSYCHOLOGY OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND HEALTH

Code EDUP5007B

Credits 20

Develop your understanding of the key psychological correlates and consequences of health-enhancing physical activity and sedentary behaviour, exploring the theoretical underpinnings of this area of study.

POLICY AND PRACTICE IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Code EDUP5014B

Credits 20

This module will introduce you to macro level policy and micro level practice in relation to the delivery of compelling high quality physical education and school sport. You will explore the emergence and rationalisation of physical education policy and national strategies such as the National Curriculum, Physical Education, School Sport and Club Links Strategy (PESSCL/PESSYP), physical literacy and accredited qualifications. You will study contemporary physical education practice within the context of tradition and philosophies associated with the delivery of the subject. You will explore safe practice and risk assessment in relation to the delivery of high quality physical education and off-site outdoor and adventurous activities. The theory-practice interface is also contextualised through a range of case studies, applied through a series of organised educational visits. You will be required to have UEA DBS clearance BEFORE the module starts.

SCIENCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Code EDUP5019A

Credits 20

This module aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of key concepts underpinning critical sociological enquiry in physical education, physical activity, and health by examining the way in which contemporary policies and practices of physical education, physical activity, and health influence conceptions of 'the body', 'ability' and 'health'. This module considers opportunities for and barriers to developing greater equity and inclusion in physical education, physical activity, and health.

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Code EDUP5020A

Credits 20

In this module you’ll be introduced to the theoretical underpinnings of good practice in physical education teaching, and you’ll explore the fundamental subject specific teaching skills required for the effective delivery of physical education in schools.

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Important Information

Assessment for Year 3

In Year 3, you’ll undertake your dissertation project under the supervision of an active researcher, undertake field work, and assess using practical demonstrations of your understanding of movement concepts. Written coursework is undertaken including funding bid application writing.

Compulsory Modules

DISSERTATION

Code EDU-6004Y

Credits 40

The aim of this module is to introduce you to and/or enable you to further develop a range of educational research methods for conducting educational enquiry, and planning, conducting and completing a piece of original educational research. You will utilise knowledge gained from other modules on: BA Education; BSc Physical Education; BSc Physical Education, Sport and Health; BSc Sports Development; BSc Physical Activity and Health programmes. You will focus on the formulation of viable research questions, designing a suitable research project, gaining an understanding of research ethics, conducting small scale research and writing it up in the form of a dissertation. Learning Outcomes: a) To critically appraise underlying principles or approaches to the study of Education and Physical Education, Sport and Health; b) To develop the ability to plan, conduct and complete independent educational enquiry.

SPORT, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

Code EDUP6019A

Credits 20

This module develops a critical understanding of the interrelationship between sport, culture and society. You will explore how sport informs, and is informed by historical, political, educational, and socio-economic factors in UK and in a global context. You will explore the relationship of sport to society and the construction of meaning and identities, especially in relation to age, class, gender, mental health, race, ethnicity, ability and sexuality. You will also explore how sport can be used as a force for advocacy for different groups and the impact of those strategies.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

OUTDOOR AND ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES

Code EDUP6013B

Credits 20

The Outdoor and Adventurous Activities (OAA) module is designed to develop an understanding of the value and importance of OAA in contemporary society, improve physical performance in the outdoors, and develop the necessary skills to effectively plan and lead an OAA trip. The module is designed to support the subject knowledge of OAA, both within and beyond the Physical Education National Curriculum.

AESTHETIC ACTIVITIES

Code EDUP6021B

Credits 20

In this module you’ll explore the fundamental principles of Gymnastics and Dance activities from a conceptual and contextual perspective. You’ll develop your subject knowledge, skills and understanding through practical skills and performance.

ANALYSIS AND CLASSIFICATION OF SPORT

Code EDUP6022B

Credits 20

This module focuses on the analysis and classification of sport – relating theory to practice. You will acquire practical and theoretical knowledge, skills and understanding of performance analysis, and develop an appreciation of the classification systems for sport, through a structural, strategic and technical perspective.

Optional B Modules

(40 credits)

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNITY PRACTICE

Code EDU-6003Y

Credits 20

This module aims to provide opportunities for the student to transfer academic and vocational learning into a work-related setting, and vice versa to bring work-place skills and issues into the academic and vocational learning environment. Thus, the module should help to develop good evidence based working practices, and enhance associated knowledge and competency based skills, with a view to improving both student employability and critical reflective practice. It is expected that students should complete a minimum of 120 hours’ voluntary work experience as part of this module in the approved setting. Students will be required to apply for a module place. Places will be allocated on suitability of the placement sought. Roles sought must be voluntary. They must also provide the student with a role of significant responsibility that can be mentored, (not merely the shadowing of professionals in the related sector or delivery of tasks that the student would have access to deliver outside of this placement)

OUTDOOR AND ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES

Code EDUP6013B

Credits 20

HEALTH, WELLBEING AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PROMOTION

Code EDUP6020A

Credits 20

In this module, you will analyse the concepts, principles and context underpinning health and physical activity promotion. Consideration is given to health, activity and fitness status of adults and young people, including exercise guidance for different population groups. You will review and examine the role of PE in health and physical activity promotion, and you will assess intervention research evidence for the promotion of physical activity and assess the role of different agencies in the provision and promotion of health and physical activity. You will complete an intervention strategy for your chosen target group based on national research and present your findings in your coursework.

AESTHETIC ACTIVITIES

Code EDUP6021B

Credits 20

ANALYSIS AND CLASSIFICATION OF SPORT

Code EDUP6022B

Credits 20

PSYCHOLOGY OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Code EDUP6023A

Credits 20

In this module you will: 1) Develop your understanding of the key psychological factors that influence pupils’ participation and engagement in PE. 2) Consider the role of the teacher and the learning environment from a psychological perspective. 3) Explore the theoretical and practical issues underpinning this area of study.

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Important Information

Entry Requirements

A Levels

ABB If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.

T Levels

Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Acceptable subjects are: Health, Healthcare Science, Science.

BTEC

DDM excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. Please note we do not accept three individual BTECs.

Scottish highers

AAABB

Scottish highers advanced

BCC

Irish leaving certificate

3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3

Access course

Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3

European Baccalaureate

75%

International Baccalaureate

32 points

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics, English Language and Science at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.

Additional entry requirements

UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.

We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.

We are interested to hear from students who are not sure they will meet the A Level requirements, but who have relevant sector related qualifications, performance sport athletes or voluntary work.

Important note

Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.

Placement provider information

There may be limitations to placement activity for students under the age of 18 due to the professional nature of some of our partner environments. This can be mitigated around, including the opportunity to undertake professional development activity which is not age restricted.

Social and Community engagement

Students under the age of 18 are not permitted to compete in the national British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) league system and may be restricted from joining some sports clubs until the time that they turn 18. Some sports clubs' social events may be restricted from U18 attendance due to their nature.

Physical Testing volunteering

There are some opportunities on the course to act as a demonstrator in laboratory environments and our ethical approval may restrict the ability for U18s to take these roles. Observational roles are always available.

If you are under 18 you may wish to consider deferring. If you would like to discuss this please contact the Admissions Team.

International Requirements

We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.

INTO University of East Anglia

If you do not meet the academic and/or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA, offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of the following preparation programme:

International Foundation in Pharmacy, Health and Life Sciences

Students for whom english is a foreign language

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):

IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.

If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:

Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA

Academic English at INTO UEA

Interviews

Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.

Gap year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.

Intakes

This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.

September 2023 opportunities. Discover more

Great Lengths

Without access to adequate facilities and lessons Britain is on course to become a nation of non-swimmers.

LEARN MORE >

PGCE

Read about our PGCE Teacher Training courses.

LEARN MORE >

What's included in your fees

Explore some of the benefits included as part of your UEA learning package.

FIND OUT MORE >

Course Reference Number: 6774173

BSc (Hons) SPORTS DEVELOPMENT