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BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science course preparation

To help you feel prepared for your BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science studies, we’ve gathered together a range of course related activities including suggested reading, useful websites and some great things to do right now. Read on to find out more.

Suggested reading

You’ll be given lots of information about which textbooks to read and introduced to the University Library, as well as the many ebooks we have for you to access, when you begin your studies in September.

In the meantime, here are some suggested books you may like to read before starting your degree. We don’t recommend rushing out to buy texts before you arrive. But, if you can pick some up second hand, borrow from a library, or access online, we suggest the following:

  • KENNEY, W.L., WILMORE, J., and COSTILL, D., 2021. Physiology of Sport and Exercise. 8th edition. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics
  • MCGINNIS, P.M. 2020. Biomechanics of Sport and Exercise. 4th Edition. Champaign IL: Human Kinetics
  • O’DONOGHUE, P., 2012. Statistics for Sport and Exercise Studies: An Introduction. London: Routledge
  • WEINBERG, R.S. & GOULD, D., 2023. Foundations of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 8th Edition. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics

We’d also recommend looking at any study skills books that will help prepare you for work at university level.

Useful websites

For sports coaching related jobs:

For ideas on what else you can do whilst at university:

Catch up on the latest sports news

It’s important to keep up to date with what is going on in the sports industry. Think more broadly than simply sports results:

Kit and clothing requirements for your course

Kit must be worn for all practical and laboratory sessions. You may have an opportunity to purchase programme specific clothing on your arrival at university and details for this will be provided during Induction Week. In the meantime, you’ll need to bring:

  • a plain t-shirt/polo shirt
  • plain shorts or tracksuit bottoms
  • a good pair of training/running shoes suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Fashionable footwear is not suitable for practical sessions.

You’re also welcome to bring your own personal playing equipment but all standard teaching and sports materials will be provided.

Things to do over summer

Here are some activities that you can be doing during the next few weeks to prepare you for the start of the course:·

  • Keep up-to-date with current sporting events and/or issues within the context of sport and exercise science
  • Work on theoretical areas where you feel you lack knowledge
  • Get fit for practical participation, if you are not already.

Use the drop down boxes for more summer activities.

Research task
Watch a webinar or read a blog
Listen to a podcast

Meet your programme leader