phd in sports science uk

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Sport and exercise science PhD

We welcome students to the University of Brighton to study Sport and exercise science PhD based in specialist laboratories with expert supervision and a supportive research community.

We offer PhD study in both full and part-time modes and welcome students with significant professional experience, who are able to use and share the career skills they have developed, as well as those who have recently completed first degrees and wish to take advantage of their academic momentum.

Our specialist laboratories provide facilities where supervision by experienced experts will structure and develop your project in one of our specialist areas: Environmental Extremes, Exercise for Health and Well-being, Expertise and Cognitive Neuroscience, Fatigue and Exercise, Genomics. 

Our international level of research excellence influences policy and engages communities. We hope that through our research and innovation, communities are inspired and supported to engage in safe and effective exercise for better health, wellbeing and performance.

Much of our work has real-world application and staff are well-connected to a variety of sporting and health organisations such as the Great Britain Paralympic team (Dr Gary Brickley and Professor Nick Webborn), GB swimming and the English Institute of Sport, World Anti-Doping Association (WADA), International Olympic Committee (IOC), the International Sports Medicine Federation (FIMS), the fire service, fall prevention and cardiac rehabilitation programmes, and industrial partners such as Bodychillz Ltd and Crossbridge Scientific Ltd.

Many of our graduates continue in academia, becoming lecturers or post-doctoral researchers. Other jobs include physiologist at the English Institute of Sport (EIS) and clinical physiologists.

Apply to 'sport, service Management & tourism' in the portal

Key information

Our sport and exercise laboratories are all accredited by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) and include:

• A molecular genetics laboratory with biobanking;
• Two human physiology laboratories (immunology, endocrinology, haematology, biochemistry);
• A biomechanics laboratory with motion analysis equipment, various EMG systems and an immersive screen;
• Two exercise physiology laboratories where aerobic/anaerobic endurance, power and strength assessments as well as body composition, cardiac and pulmonary screening can be carried out;
• An environmental laboratory with purpose-built environment chamber where we can simulate different climates by controlling the temperature (-20 to +50°C) and relative humidity (20 to 95 per cent), and a 1.13m x 1.13m x 1.5m water immersion tank;
• A research-based laboratory with an hypoxic chamber measuring 35.84 m3 (3.2m x 4m x 2.8 m) can decrease the fractional concentration of inspired oxygen from 20.93% (normoxic) to 11% enabling the simulation of altitudes up to an equivalent of ~5000m.

As a Sport and Exercise Science PhD student at Brighton you will benefit from:

• a supervisory team comprising two or sometimes three members of academic staff. Depending on your research specialism you may also have an additional supervisor from another School, another research institution, or an external partner from government or industry.  
• desk space and access to a computer in a space specifically designed for research students. There are a range of facilities on the Eastbourne campus including various catering options.
• access to a range of electronic resources via the university’s Online Library, as well as to the physical book and journal collections housed within the Queenwood Library and other campus libraries.

Academic environment

It is today well accepted that exercise is beneficial to physical health, mental health, and well-being. The fitness industry is booming in the UK and exercise-based programmes such as cardiac rehabilitation or fall prevention programmes are spreading across the Nation. Olympic Games every four years inspire all generations to engage in sport, with more and more sport scientists involved with athlete’s or team’s preparation.

In this context, if you join our research team as a postgraduate research student, you will join us to address the challenge of happier, healthier and fitter living, using exercise as a critical vehicle. As a Sport and Exercise Science PhD student you will be based in the School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences. You may also join one of our Research Excellence Groups or Centres of Research Excellence :

Our school has a dynamic and vibrant research community of around 20 part-time and full-time PhD students in Sport and Exercise Science. PhD students form an integral part of our school and take an active role in a range of intellectual and social activities.

Our postgraduate research students value what may be seen as a small-size PhD provision: each student receives personal attention and guidance throughout their doctoral study. The close mentorship process forms the foundations of a successful research degree, and subsequent career. Our PhD students rapidly become members of our academic team with various opportunities to contribute to the life of our department: consultancy projects, world-leading collaborative research, seminars, journal clubs, engagement within our community, teaching, etc.

Our community of PhD students also has a vibrant social life through which our postgraduate research students build life-long relationships. The Brighton Doctoral College offers a training programme for postgraduate researchers, covering research methods and transferable (including employability) skills. Academic and technical staff also provide more subject-specific training.

Our specialist sport and exercise science laboratories:

Environmental Extremes Laboratory (Lead: Dr Neil Maxwell)

Our internationally renowned research addresses the challenges of environmental extremes on human health and function. We develop and evaluate interventions using basic and applied scientific methodologies to influence health, occupational activity and human performance practice and policy. Individuals with and without disease (e.g. elderly, breast cancer survivors, type 2 diabetics) engaging with physical activity are informed from our research how to embark in safe and effective exercise in environmental extremes and reduce the risk of illness. Occupationally, we work with fire instructors and have conducted product testing to support industry. We investigate how to optimise sporting performance in environmental extremes.

Exercise for Health and Well-being Laboratory (Lead: Associate Professor Peter Watt)

The research within this lab encompasses a range of methods and applications, from cell and molecular approaches to whole body measures and application. At the cellular level we are particularly interested in stem cell responses to exercise and application to health and injury recovery. The group has also experience and opportunities for research into lifestyle modifications such as exercise and nutritional interventions in special populations (e.g. elderly; sedentary; physically disabled, heart conditions or overweight).

Aim of interventions may be either to reduce health risks in these populations or to optimise health and assist performance and recovery, with some work conducted with paralympians more specifically.

Some recent work has focussed on tendinopathies; cardiac damage and marathon running; mindfulness eating, eating disorders and exercise; acute and chronic effects of exercise on metabolism and health.

Expertise and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory (ExCeL) (Lead: Dr Nick Smeeton)

Researchers within ExCeL examine human performance and learning, motor behaviour and its sub-areas of skill acquisition and expert performance, cognitive and behavioural neuroscience, and psychophysiology. Current research projects investigate cognition in gait and locomotion; sensory processing in exercise, the development and improvement of expert performance; and practice, training and acquisition/learning. They conduct this work across a range of domains, including sport and exercise; education; and medical.

Fatigue and Exercise Laboratory (Lead: Dr Jeanne Dekerle)

We are specifically interested in the mechanisms of fatigue during exercise and want to understand better the physiological and behavioural limitations to exercise. Our findings give exercise scientists, clinicians or other practitioners evidence for the development of robust science-based interventions such as effective training programmes or ergogenic aids. These may be to enhance human exercise tolerance or more broadly to improve overall physical fitness.

Our group also seeks to explore the relationship between physical exercise, psychophysiological stress and well-being. We see physical exercise as a potent stressor to human homeostasis for long-lasting beneficial effects on human health. More specifically, we want to understand better how exercise can treat chronic physiological dysfunctions in some populations (chronic fatigue, mental health, musculoskeletal conditions).

Our work finds impact in the areas of health, sport and wellbeing.

Genomics laboratory 

Our laboratory is set up to apply systems biology approaches to anti-doping research (with particular reference to the detection of recombinant human erythropoietin, blood doping and testosterone) and to the field of sport and exercise science and medicine in general. Other active projects include the Sub2 marathon project and the Athlome Project , with the aim to promote clean, high performance marathon running, and to characterise the genomic/transcriptomic/proteomic landscape of human performance in both health and disease. Our recent research is funded by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Some of our supervisors

Dr louisa beale.

I have supervised/am supervising PhDs in the following areas:-

• Exercise cardiology
• Detraining and muscle function
• Heat sensitivity in breast cancer survivors
• High intensity interval training
• Women’s decisions to exercise in pregnancy

Dr Jeanne Dekerle

I have supervised five PhD students to completion, and I am currently supervising another five PhD students. I have also been looking after the wider community of PhD students for four years (2017-21) when I was the ‘Postgraduate Research Coordinator’ for my school. I therefore understand very well PhD processes, the main milestones of a PhD journey, and the specific professional and personal development needs PhD students have. I offer strong support to my students and love working with them. Students joining the Fatigue and Exercise research lab benefit from peer support with regular meetings to discuss science, bespoke research projects, or recent publications in our field, in addition to the entitled PhD supervision support.

If you are interested in the following areas, do not hesitate to contact me:

• Exercise intensity domains, anaerobic capacity, and neuromuscular fatigue
• Perceptions (particularly fatigue and effort) and exercise tolerance / behaviour
• The interaction between physical training and both perceptual and neuromuscular fatigue
• Multiple sclerosis, long-covid, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

Dr Anastasiya Khomutova

My research and supervisory interests cover Sport and Exercise Psychology, with particular focus on cultural sport psychology (immigrated athletes and coaches, culturally diverse sport teams, acculturation and adaptation in a new environment), as well as athletes' well-being (safeguarding, coach-athlete relationship). I currently lead an international research project on behalf of FEPSAC, which investigates career trajectories of sport psychology graduates in Europe.

Dr Neil Maxwell

Dr Neil Maxwell has a strong history of supporting PhD students in the Environmental Extremes Lab and he sees the research students as integral to the lab's vision and success moving forward. 

His priority is for new PhD students to align to the existing research themes, but he is open to new ideas and lines of research enquiry. For information from the Doctoral College on the PhD programme, details of our graduates and supervisors and the application process itself, please follow the link here.

Within the Environmental Extremes Lab, Neil helps to ensure the research students have the opportunity to:

• work within dynamic and supportive research teams, often that includes collaboration with external partners
• present and participate in seminars (NB. One of our more experienced PhD students leads the seminar programme)
• receive funding to cover the cost of presenting at one national and one international conference during their PhD registration
• contribute to the environmental extremes taught modules within the undergraduate and postgraduate degrees
• take part in meetings, activities and events that link to the public, communities and, or industry
• join research funding bid teams to develop skills on sourcing external grants
• be part of a vibrant research student community that is very supportive, works hard, but has fun as well!

Look at the career map that shows our PhD students' career destinations, many of whom Neil supervised.

Dr Alan Richardson

At present i am currently looking to help supervise students interested in the following projects:

• Remote monitoring of recovery from critical illness rehabilitation.
• Exercise and physical activity for prehabilitation
• Real time health and performance evaluation of athletes during mass participation endurance activities. 
• Evaluating the consequence of exposure loads for occupational and health based applications.

Dr Nicholas Smeeton

Nick supervises PhD students in the area of motor control, experimental psychology and cognitive and motor neuroscience. He is happy to be contacted to discuss potential projects on clinical exercise science, rehabilitation and sports and expert performance. There would be particular benefit to potential PhD students if their proposed programme of research fitted Dr Smeeton’s research interests.

For further supervisory staff including cross-disciplinary options, please visit research staff on our research website.

Making an application

You will apply to the University of Brighton through our online application portal. When you do, you will require a research proposal, references, a personal statement and a record of your education.

You will be asked whether you have discussed your research proposal and your suitability for doctoral study with a member of the University of Brighton staff. We recommend that all applications are made with the collaboration of at least one potential supervisor. Approaches to potential supervisors can be made directly through the details available online. If you are unsure, please do contact the Doctoral College for advice.

Please visit our How to apply for a PhD page for detailed information.

Sign in to our online application portal to begin.

Fees and funding

 Funding

Undertaking research study will require university fees as well as support for your research activities and plans for subsistence during full or part-time study.

Funding sources include self-funding, funding by an employer or industrial partners; there are competitive funding opportunities available in most disciplines through, for example, our own university studentships or national (UK) research councils. International students may have options from either their home-based research funding organisations or may be eligible for some UK funds.

Learn more about the funding opportunities available to you.

Tuition fees academic year 2024–25

Standard fees are listed below, but may vary depending on subject area. Some subject areas may charge bench fees/consumables; this will be decided as part of any offer made. Fees for UK and international/EU students on full-time and part-time courses are likely to incur a small inflation rise each year of a research programme.

Contact Brighton Doctoral College

To contact the Doctoral College at the University of Brighton we request an email in the first instance. Please visit our contact the Brighton Doctoral College page .

For supervisory contact, please see individual profile pages.

Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences PhDs

By undertaking a PhD at Loughborough, you will be joining the number 1 ranked university in the world for sport related subjects (QS World University Rankings 2017-2023).

The quality of research across the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences has seen Loughborough University ranked 1st in the UK for research power (GPA x volume) in Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.

Our internationally renowned academic staff have expertise in a wide variety of areas, ensuring our diverse research portfolio covers: biomechanics, cellular and molecular biology, coaching, economics, medicine, nutrition, pedagogy, physiology, psychology, sociology, sport management, and more.  

Our current PhD opportunities

Our current PhD opportunities are listed below, these projects already have a specified topic and allocated supervisor. Discover more about the project, funding and how to apply by clicking on the opportunity that sparks your interest.

PhD Motivational dynamics during endurance performance

Campus: Loughborough

Department(s): Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences

Study mode: Full-time

Start date: April 2025

Funding status Self-funded

Can't find what you're looking for? Register for email alerts and we'll notify you when opportunities become available in your chosen research area.

Why study a research degree with us

Excellent facilities.

Benefit from more than 50 dedicated research and teaching laboratories for the study of exercise physiology, DNA analysis, muscle function, disability sport, nutrition, sleep and recovery, and more.

Your personal development

Receive support from at least two academic supervisors with different, but related, research expertise, and work with a range of academic staff and students through research forums, seminars and involvement in research groups.

Access to the experts

Benefit from expertise at: the Leicester Biomedical Research Centre; the National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine; the Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport; and The Centre for Lifestyle Medicine and Behaviour.

A vibrant community

Join our thriving PhD population of around 220 full-time and part-time UK and international research students, and be surrounded by elite athletes, sports organisations and national governing bodies on campus.

Meet our supervisors and researchers

Postgraduate research opportunities at the World No.1 University for Sport-related subjects

Meet Professor Stacy Clemes

Stacy Clemes, Professor of Active Living & Public Health in the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences talks about her research, which centres around encouraging people to sit less and move more.

Doctoral research graduate

I hope the research I am involved in helps to improve health and wellbeing for the benefit of all by increasing understanding of the role of physical activity in facilitating healthy weight control and the prevention of chronic disease.

Loughborough University has helped me to become an independent researcher and enabled me to make my transition from sports biomechanics to public health research.

Further information

For further information about funding and writing your research proposal, please see our dedicated web pages below.

Your journey into research

Funding your research

Create your own research proposal

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• PHD Sport and Physical Activity
• Sport and physical activity

Sport and Physical Activity

Study for a research degree in our Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre which undertakes world-class, multidisciplinary applied research and innovation with real-world impact.

Everything you need to know...

What is the fee.

Home: £4,786 per year International/EU: £17,205 per year

How long will I study?

Where will i study.

Collegiate Campus

When do I start?

October 2024 February 2025 May 2025

Course summary

• Develop specialist research knowledge and skills  
• Complete an independent research programme
• Acquire a range of high-level transferable skills
• Supervision by active researchers
• Benefit from joining a vibrant Postgraduate research community

You’ll receive research methods training and develop specialist research skills equipping you to undertake an independent programme of research. You’ll receive supervision from a team of active researchers working within our Sport & Physical Activity Research Centre.

The impact of our research is recognised as world leading or internationally excellent in the recent Research Excellence Framework 2021.

How you learn

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

As a postgraduate research student, you’ll follow an independent programme of study under the supervision of a team of leading academics with extensive experience of undertaking high quality research and academic scholarship. Supervision principally takes place through regular meetings, either face to face or using remote communication, between postgraduate research students and their supervisory teams. Our policies and support structures ensure that supervision is of the highest quality.

You’ll have access to a wide range of training opportunities to help you work towards your research degree. These include:

• A programme of university wide doctoral training sessions.
• A programme of workshops and research support sessions delivered by the Health Research Institute postgraduate research team.
• Specialist research training and skills development relevant to your research project.
• A range of research seminar series provided within the HRI and across the university.
• Peer discussions and support as part of a post graduate research community.
• Multiple opportunities to present your work at local, national and international conferences.
• Financial support to attend academic conferences, networking opportunities and training events.

Course leaders and tutors

Joseph Stone

I teach on a range of degree programmes in Sport and Exercise Science, teaching on modules in Performance Analysis, Motor Skills and Biomechanics

Applied learning

You’ll be part of an active research community in the Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre (SPARC) , the Health Research Institute and the wider university. Your research will be closely aligned with one of the research groups within SPARC. These are:

• Sport Industry Research Group
• Sports Engineering Research Group
• Physical Activity, Wellness & Public Health
• Sport & Human Performance

Our research is delivered with national and international partners and collaborators and is one of the largest sport and physical activity research clusters in the UK. We are proud to work with organisations such as Sport England, UK Sport, Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), International Tennis Federation, Federation of International Football Association (FIFA), Adidas, Team GB Olympic and Paralympic athletes and teams, English Institute of Sport, The London Marathon, Parkrun and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club.

We also work extensively with the health sector and charities delivering interventions and evaluations to a range of diverse populations and contexts. These organisations include the National Health Service (NHS), Department of Health, Sheffield Health and Social Care, Public Health England, Yorkshire Cancer Research, Macmillan Cancer Research, The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society, and British Heart Foundation as well as industry partners such as Westfield Health.

There are multiple opportunities for you to be involved in a wide range of academic activities including teaching and knowledge exchange over the course of your programme, enabling you to further expand and enhance your knowledge and skills acquisition.

Future careers

Research degrees are a vital qualification for most academic careers. The research training and the high-level transferable skills you’ll acquire are highly desirable across all sectors and will be a valuable asset whatever your career.

You study at Collegiate Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

Collegiate campus

Collegiate Campus can be found just off Ecclesall Road, a bustling student district.

Collegiate Campus map | Campus facilities  

Collegiate Crescent Sheffield S10 2BP

Collegiate library

Collegiate Library can be found just off Ecclesall Road. It's open 24 hours a day, every day.

Equipment and facilities

You’ll have access to excellent facilities and learning resources as well as a dedicated postdoctoral office space which promotes vibrant discussion and collaboration.

You’ll also have access to our state-of-the-art specialist equipment which supports a wide range of research activities. The equipment is located on the Collegiate Crescent campus and within the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre  which is part of the Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park.

Find out more about our research facilities here

Entry requirements

All students, additional information for eu/international students.

All applicants should hold a strong undergraduate degree (2.1 or above) and/or a relevant masters qualification (or expectation of the same).

All applicants must submit a completed postgraduate application form including a 1500 word research proposal.

You are encouraged to find out more about our staff and their current research to inform the development of your research proposal and to ensure it aligns with our research themes. Before submitting your proposal, please contact the member(s) of staff listed against the relevant research theme.

Applicants are required to give a short 10–15 minute presentation followed by an interview. Interview panel members will include the head of research degrees for the relevant research area or centre, a local postgraduate research tutor and a prospective director of studies.

Where English is not your first language, you must show evidence of English language ability to the following minimum level of proficiency: an overall IELTS score of 7.0 or above, with at least 6.5 in each component or an accepted equivalent. Please note that your test score must be current, i.e. within the last two years.

If you are an International or non-UK European student, you can find out more about the country specific qualifications we accept on our international qualifications page.

For details of English language entry requirements (IELTS), please see the information for 'All students'.

Fees and funding

Home students, international students.

Our tuition fee for UK postgraduate research students starting full-time study in 2024/25 is £4,786 per year. An additional bench fee may also be charged for this course, depending on the nature of your project and requirements for specialist facilities. Information on whether a bench fee is chargeable can be provided by the relevant Research Institute, and will be confirmed in your offer letter.

If you are studying an undergraduate course, postgraduate pre-registration course or postgraduate research course over more than one academic year then your tuition fees may increase in subsequent years in line with Government regulations or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) published fees. More information can be found in our terms and conditions  under student fees regulations.

Our tuition fee for International/EU postgraduate research students starting full-time study in 2024/25 is £17,205 per year. An additional bench fee may also be charged for this course, depending on the nature of your project and requirements for specialist facilities. Information on whether a bench fee is chargeable can be provided by the relevant Research Institute, and will be confirmed in your offer letter.

Doctoral student loans

Up to £25,700 available to help you while you study a postgraduate doctoral course.

Additional course costs

This link allows you to view estimated costs associated with the main activities on specific courses. These are estimates and, as such, are only an indication of additional course costs. Actual costs can vary greatly depending on the choices you make during your course.

Legal information

Any offer of a place to study is subject to your acceptance of the University’s Terms and Conditions and Student Regulations .

How do I apply?

You apply for this course via our online application form.

• Apply for February 2025
• Apply for May 2025
• Apply for October 2024

You can also use the application form above to apply for future years of entry.

Not ready to apply just yet?

Why not come to our next open day? Open days are the perfect place to talk to staff and students, visit our campuses and get all the information you need. Alternatively, feel free to ask us a question.

Why choose us?

We are Gold rated in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) for the outstanding quality of our teaching and student outcomes

Join more than 1,500 students at our nationally-renowned Academy of Sport and Physical Activity

Learn in cutting-edge sports facilities, including our £6m sports park and a satellite campus at the English Institute of Sport

Where next?

Find out more about Sheffield Hallam's postgraduate opportunities and community.

Come to an open day

You can chat to teaching and admissions staff, view our facilities and learn more about your funding options.

Sign up for updates

Receive emails about postgraduate study, including application reminders and alerts for open days.

Information for international students

Information for international students including entry requirements by country and funding.

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• Schools & departments

Sport, Physical Education and Health Sciences PhD

Awards: PhD

Study modes: Full-time, Part-time

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Sport, Physical Education and Health Sciences

Introduction to Postgraduate Study at the University of Edinburgh

Join us online on 25 September to learn more about Scotland, the city of Edinburgh and postgraduate study at the University.

Find out more and register

Research profile

Why edinburgh.

The University of Edinburgh is ranked first in Scotland for research power in Education and Sport (Times Higher Education, REF 2021) and we offer the largest concentration of researchers in education in a Scottish university, meaning you will be supported by and collaborate with leaders in the field.

Our research activities cover a wide range of aspects relating to sport, physical education and health sciences.

Moray House School of Education and Sport staff provide supervision on a wide range of topics within the fields of:

• physical education
• sport management
• sports science
• social and cultural significance of sport
• health sciences

Many opportunities also exist for interdisciplinary research.

Research Thematic Hubs

With over 250 research staff and students, we have a vibrant and expanding research community with a broad portfolio of academic disciplines gathered within seven broad research themes with permeable boundaries. These thematic hubs are:

• Advanced Quantitative Research in Education
• Children and Young People
• Digital Education
• Language, Interculturality and Literacies
• Social Justice and Inclusion
• Sport-Related Research
• Teacher Education, Curriculum and Pedagogy

Research community

As a postgraduate research student you will join a vibrant Graduate School community with over 150 research students. There are also several opportunities for optional training and development throughout your studies.

Research students are encouraged to attend and actively engage with the activities of School research thematic hubs, which include seminars, meetings and workshops. In addition, several academic and social events for research students take place throughout the year.

We organise an annual series of around 25 training, talks and seminar events, as well as the student-led ‘Interweaving’ conference for research students and staff.

Programme structure

The PhD is a substantial piece of independent research which makes a contribution to the state of existing knowledge in the field.

The PhD programme is designed to take three years full-time or six years part-time. The programme is examined by submission of a thesis of up to 100,000 words and by oral examination.

Application

You are encouraged to contact a potential supervisor to discuss your research project before making a formal application.

You may start your studies with us either on 1 October or 10 January of a year.

Find out more about compulsory and optional courses

We link to the latest information available. Please note that this may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.

Training and support

Students following the PhD degree are normally supported in their research by two supervisors.

The first of these will be a member of staff who has expertise in the general area of your proposed research topic and the second will be another expert in the field who may come from within the School, University or a field of practice.

Most students who are accepted begin a period of research leading to a PhD; however, the first year of this degree is probationary and progression to year two is dependent on satisfactory progress.

We offer a number of courses in research methodologies, which you are encouraged to take during your first year.

You will work closely with your supervisors, who are recognised experts in the field. All PhD students pursue an individually tailored programme of research training agreed with their supervisors.

Our PhD programmes provide core training in the research skills necessary to flourish at doctoral level and beyond.

PhD by Distance option

The PhD by Distance is available to suitably qualified applicants in the same areas as our on-campus programmes.

The programme allows students who are unable to commit to basing themselves in Edinburgh full time to study for a PhD from their home country or city, however, this is not intended to be a fully online distance learning programme.

For further information on the PhD by Distance option (including criteria for eligibility, required application form and how to apply) please visit the School website:

• Moray House School of Education and Sport PhD by Distance

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a related subject is normally required.

Normally also a postgraduate degree with a 60% overall grade point average and 60% in the dissertation, or its international equivalent.

You must also submit a research proposal that fits well with our staff expertise.

We may also consider your application if you have other qualifications or substantial experience; please contact us to check before you apply.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 176 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 62 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

Fees and costs

Tuition fees, scholarships and funding, featured funding.

Moray House School of Education and Sport funding for postgraduate research students

Research scholarships for international students

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Postgraduate Admissions
• Phone: +44 (0)131 650 4086
• Contact: Admissions Office
• Deputy Director of Postgraduate Research, Dr Darío Luis Banegas
• Contact: [email protected]
• Moray House School of Education and Sport
• Old Moray House
• Holyrood Campus
• Programme: Sport, Physical Education and Health Sciences
• School: Education and Sport (Moray House)
• College: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

Select your programme and preferred start date to begin your application.

PhD Sport, Physical Education and Health Sciences - 3 Years (Full-time)

Phd sport, physical education and health sciences - 6 years (part-time), application deadlines.

We encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application. If you are also applying for funding or will require a visa then we strongly recommend you apply as early as possible.

• How to apply

You must submit one reference with your application.

You must also submit a detailed research proposal using the following template:

Research Proposal template

Guidelines on writing your research proposal

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

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• Postgraduate Research Programmes
• School of Engineering and Applied Sciences Postgraduate Research Courses
• Sport and Exercise Postgraduate Research Courses

Sport and Exercise Science, Ph.D. / M.Phil.

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Research Excellence Framework 2021

Key Course Details

Course Overview

Start dates: PhD/MPhil - 1st October, 1st January, 1st April & 1st July.

Sport and Exercise Science research at Swansea University takes place in the Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) research centre.

Research activity in Sport and Exercise Science is in three main areas:

• Elite Sports Performance
• Exercise Medicine and Health
• Sports Ethics, Integrity and Governance

With our flourishing research environment Swansea University provides an excellent base for your research as a PhD or MPhil student in Sports Science. Recent PhD's include:

• The use of ischemic preconditioning as a strategy for preconditioning, training and recovery within elite sport performance
• Development and evaluation of a support programme for parents of elite youth athletes
• Novel methods of conceptualising and measuring physical activity in children using 3D printing
• Investigating the Measurement of Physical Activity and its Impact on Quality of Life in Youth with Cystic Fibrosis
• Theories of justice and fair play in tennis
• Optimising motivation for exercise based video games: A needs based perspective
• Examination of the prevalence of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes risk in a workplace-based setting

Entry Requirements

Qualifications

MPhil:  Applicants for MPhil must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) in Sports Science or similar relevant science discipline. See -  Country-specific Information for EU and International Candidates .

PhD:  Applicants for PhD must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) in Sports Science or similar relevant science discipline. See -  Country-specific Information for EU and International Candidates .

English Language

IELTS 6.5 Overall (5.5+ each comp.) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found  here .

We welcome applications by prospective students from around the world and look for evidence of previous study that is equivalent to the entry requirements stated above. The Postgraduate Admissions Office are happy to advise you on whether your qualifications are suitable for entry to the course you would like to study. Please email  [email protected]  for further information.

As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.

Reference Requirement

As standard, two references are required before we can progress applications to the College/School research programme Admissions Tutor for consideration.

Applications received without two references attached are placed on hold, pending receipt of the outstanding reference(s). Please note that any protracted delay in receiving the outstanding reference(s) may result in the need to defer your application to a later potential start point/entry month, than what you initially listed as your preferred start option.

You may wish to consider contacting your referee(s) to assist in the process of obtaining the outstanding reference(s) or alternatively, hold submission of application until references are sourced. Please note that it is not the responsibility of the University Admissions Office to obtain missing reference(s) after our initial email is sent to your nominated referee(s), requesting a reference(s) on your behalf.

The reference can take the form of a letter on official headed paper, or via the University’s standard reference form. Click this link to download the university reference form .

Alternatively, referees can email a reference from their employment email account, please note that references received via private email accounts, (i.e. Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail) cannot be accepted.

References can be submitted to [email protected] .

How you are Supervised

Your supervisor will:

• Help you develop your research plan in the early stages of your PhD
• Advise on research aims and objectives and suggest relevant training or skills courses
• Provide direction in terms of relevant literature and sources
• Give guidance on gathering, recording and analysing data
• Supervise your written work, providing constructive criticism and ensuring you keep to deadlines
• Support and advise you when it comes to presenting papers at conferences, publishing your work and attending your viva (the final oral examination of your thesis)

Welsh Provision

Tuition fees, ph.d. 3 year full time.

Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time

M.Phil. 2 Year Full Time

M.phil. 4 year part time.

Tuition fees for years of study after your first year are subject to an increase of 3%.

You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page .

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page .

International students and part-time study: It may be possible for some students to study part-time under the Student Visa route. However, this is dependent on factors relating to the course and your individual situation. It may also be possible to study with us if you are already in the UK under a different visa category (e.g. Tier 1 or 2, PBS Dependant, ILR etc.). Please visit the University information on Visas and Immigration for further guidance and support.

Current students: You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page .

Funding and Scholarships

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study.

Government funding is now available for Welsh, English and EU students starting eligible postgraduate research programmes at Swansea University. To find out more, please visit our postgraduate loans page.

To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

Academi Hywel Teifi at Swansea University and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol offer a number of generous scholarships and bursaries for students who wish to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. For further information about the opportunities available to you, visit the Academi Hywel Teifi Scholarships and Bursaries page.

Additional Costs

Access to your own digital device/the appropriate IT kit will be essential during your time studying at Swansea University. Access to wifi in your accommodation will also be essential to allow you to fully engage with your programme. See our dedicated webpages for further guidance on suitable devices to purchase, and for a full guide on getting your device set up .

You may face additional costs while at university, including (but not limited to):

• Travel to and from campus
• Printing, photocopying, binding, stationery and equipment costs (e.g. USB sticks)
• Purchase of books or texts
• Gowns for graduation ceremonies

How to Apply

Once you have identified a topic area within which you would like to work, we recommend that you submit a research proposal and discuss this with an Admissions Tutor for the subject area before making an application. You can email  [email protected]  to express your interest in a PhD or MPhil Sports Science.

Apply online and track your application status for the PhD or MPhil Sports Science at  www.swansea.ac.uk/applyonline

If you're an international student, find out more about applying for the PhD or MPhil Sports Science  www.swan.ac.uk/international/students/apply

Suggested Application Timings

In order to allow sufficient time for consideration of your application by an academic, for potential offer conditions to be met and travel / relocation, we recommend that applications are made before the dates outlined below. Please note that applications can still be submitted outside of the suggested dates below but there is the potential that your application/potential offer may need to be moved to the next appropriate intake window.

October Enrolment

UK Applicants – 15th August

EU/International applicants – 15th July

January Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th November

EU/International applicants – 15th October

April Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th February

EU/International applicants – 15th January

July Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th May

EU/International applicants – 15th April

EU students - visa and immigration information is available and will be regularly updated on our information for EU students page.

PhD Programme Specification

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision , either before or after enrolment.

Programme Summary

This PhD in Sports Science at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 100,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The PhD is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva voce). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences. There may also be opportunities to develop your teaching skills through undergraduate tutorials, demonstrations and seminars.

Programme Aims

This PhD programme will provide doctoral researchers with:

• The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
• Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
• Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

• Entry and confirmation of candidature
• Main body of research
• Thesis and  viva voce  examination

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 3 years duration full time (6 years duration part time). Doctoral researchers may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.

Doctoral researchers for the PhD in Sports Science are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The maximum word limit is 100,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination ( viva voce ).

Doctoral Researcher Supervision and Support

Doctoral researchers will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ Department/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the doctoral research journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the doctoral researcher to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre). 

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme, doctoral researchers should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

• Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of research through the development of a written thesis.
• Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research or other advanced scholarship. 
• Disseminate new knowledge gained through original research or other advanced scholarship via high quality peer reviewed publications within the discipline.
• Apply research skills and subject theory to the practice of research.
• Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised. 

Attitudes and values

• Conceptualise, design and implement a project aimed at the generation of new knowledge or applications within Sports Science.
• Make informed judgements on complex issues in the field of Sports Science, often in the absence of complete data and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience.
• Apply sound ethical principles to research, with due regard for the integrity of persons and in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
• Demonstrate self-awareness of individual and cultural diversity, and the reciprocal impact in social interaction between self and others when conducting research involving people.

Research Skills

• Respond appropriately to unforeseen problems in project design by making suitable amendments.
• Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media and events, including conference presentations, seminars and workshops.
• Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.
• Develop the networks and foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
• Implement  advanced research skills to a substantial degree of independence.
• Locate information and apply it to research practice.

Skills and Competencies

• Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent environments.

Progression Monitoring

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the Doctoral researcher is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the doctoral researcher’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the doctoral researcher’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. 

Learning Development

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors ( https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/undertake-research-with-us/postgraduate-research/training-and-skills-development-programme/ ).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable doctoral researchers to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating. There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the Department of Engineering and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the  doctoral researcher in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the Department of Engineering is developing a research culture that aligns with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies, for example embedding the HEA fellowship for postgraduate research students.

Research Environment

Swansea University’s research environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia.  

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself.

Postgraduate students in the Department of Engineering will have access to the University’s on-site library, open 24 hours a day, state-of-the-art laboratories, a year-round programme of seminars and talks, advanced computing technology and dedicated postgraduate student work rooms. The Department has developed some of the University’s strongest links with industry at a Wales, UK, and International level, and has established itself as a leader in engineering development, working in partnership with such blue chip companies such as TATA, Rolls-Royce, Airbus, BAE Systems and HP. Students can expect to benefit from close working relationships with industry experts and in many cases, gain valuable experience through industrial placements.

Career Opportunities  

Having a PhD demonstrates that graduates can work effectively in a team, formulate, explore and communicate complex ideas and manage advanced tasks. Jobs in academia (eg postdoctoral research, lecturing), education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. Examples include administrators, counsellors, marketing specialists, and researchers.

The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

MPhil Programme Specification

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in  course provision, either before or after enrolment.

This MPhil in Sports Science at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 60,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The Masters is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences.  

This Masters programme will provide students with: 

• Thesis and viva voce 

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 2 years duration full time (4 years duration part time). Students may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.

Students for the Masters in Sports Science are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The maximum word limit is 60,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

Supervision and Support 

Students will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ Department/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the student journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the student to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre).

• Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge through the development of a written thesis.
• Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research or other advanced scholarship.  
• Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised.
• Make informed judgements on complex issues in the field of Sports Science often in the absence of complete data and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience. 
• Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media.
• Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and academic enquiry.
• Develop the foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
• Implement independent research skills.
• Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and initiative in complex situations.

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the student is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the student’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the student’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. 

Learning Development  

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable students to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the Department of Engineering and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the student in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the Department of Engineering is developing a research culture that will align with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies, for example embedding the HEA fellowship for postgraduate research students.

Research Environment  

Swansea University’s Research Environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Department of Engineering

As a postgraduate student you will have access to our on-site library, open 24 hours a day, state-of-the-art laboratories, a year-round programme of seminars and talks, advanced computing technology and dedicated postgraduate student work rooms. The Department has developed some of the University’s strongest links with industry at a Wales, UK, and International level, and has established itself as a leader in engineering development, working in partnership with such blue chip companies such as TATA, Rolls-Royce, Airbus, BAE Systems and HP. As a student you can expect to benefit from close working relationships with industry experts and in many cases, gain valuable experience through industrial placements.

Career Opportunities

Having a Master of Philosophy degree shows that you can communicate your ideas and manage tasks. Jobs in academia, education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. 

Recommended pages

• Undergraduate open days
• Postgraduate open days
• Accommodation
• Information for teachers
• Maps and directions
• Sport and fitness

PhD by Distance Learning

The University of Birmingham's College of Life and Environmental Sciences now offers PhD by Distance Learning.

This means that wherever you are in the world, you may now be able register with the University of Birmingham for your Doctoral qualification but undertake the majority of your studies in your home location.

Why study by distance learning? 

The main advantage of studying by distance learning is the flexibility. Financial and practical implications of moving closer to the campus make distance learning a more feasible option and could allow you to combine study with other commitments, including work and family.  Similarly, your research could be related to your area of residence and therefore moving would be detrimental to your capacity to carry out the research.

Is the distance learning route for you? 

The distance learning route to PhD study is not for everyone.  You have to have a very clear idea of your project and be able to motivate yourself.  Undertaking PhD study off campus can sometimes be quite isolating, so the ability to proactively seek out connections from within relevant research communities is important.  This route is well-suited to those who have a research project associated with their work or particular interests and where resources are available locally, over via the internet, to support your research e.g. appropriate archives and data collections.

How will I be supported? 

You will receive the same level of support and supervision as on-campus students.  The only difference is that supervisory sessions will take place via audio and visual communication services such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person.

What is the cost?

We charge an annual tuition fee which is the same as our standard on-campus PhD but includes:

• Economy class flights to and from Birmingham for the compulsory two-week campus visit in September
• Accommodation at the University for the compulsory two-week campus visit in September
• Economy class flights to and from Birmingham at the end of the study period for the three-day PhD viva examination
• Accommodation at the University for the three-day viva examination

How often will I need to be on campus?

Although you may be able to undertake the majority of your study at an off campus location, you will be fully funded to make one compulsory visit to the University per year of study.  This will enable you to meet your supervisory team, undertake intensive research skills training and make a start on your doctoral studies. You will then be invited to attend the University for annual ‘in-person’ meetings which give you the opportunity to interact with other doctoral students both socially and academically, undertake important progress meetings and carry out necessary training. You will also generally be required to be present on campus for your viva voce.

Am I eligible?

Before we can offer you a place it is important that you have agreement from your potential supervisor and that they are satisfied that you will be able to undertake the PhD on an off campus basis. This may mean that slightly different entry requirements apply, such as English language and more extensive research skills training. Agreements will also need to be reached regarding some of the more practical aspects of undertaking the PhD in this way (for example attendance requirements, suitability of the chosen residency etc). It is important that arrangements are discussed early so that all parties involved know what to expect and to ensure you are able to successfully complete your studies. 

Can I study by distance learning anywhere?

Distance Learning courses can be undertaken from anywhere in the world, including the UK. 

However, it is worth noting that supervisory sessions for Distance Learning students will take place via audiovisual communications, such as Skype or Facetime, rather than in person. 

While we have found that these 21st Century methods have proved popular, for those applicants who would prefer to visit the campus for face-to-face meetings with their supervisor, the traditional part-time study option may be more appropriate. 

How to apply?

Find the programme that you wish to apply for in our course finder and click on the 'Apply' button. 

As part of the application process, we will ask you to provide evidence to demonstrate that you have the time, commitment, facilities and experience to study for a PhD by Distance Learning. Please be prepared to provide evidence, and details, of the following:

• Examples of your postgraduate research experience and ability to work independently e.g. papers/presentations at professional and academic conferences or publications in professional journals or previous completion of an independent research project, etc. 
• Full reasons (academic and personal) for registering for the distance learning mode of study rather than by standard full or part-time on-campus options. In particular, how you will be able to carry out your project in your chosen location. 
• Access to local library facilities (where needed)
• Access to IT facilities
• Access to communications, including e-mail, and audiovisual communication media e.g. Skype and Facetime
• Access to facilities to support any study-related disability (where appropriate)

Please visit the course finder for a full list of subject areas available to study via distance mode.

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Course type

Qualification, university name, phd degrees in sports and movement science.

23 degrees at 19 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

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Related subjects:

• PhD Sports and Movement Science
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• PhD Sports and Recreation

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Sport and Exercise Science PhD

Canterbury christ church university.

Recently completed or current PhD student theses Interventions to improve Running Economy (RE) in trained runners; Intervention to reduce Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,872 per year (UK)

Sport and Exercise Sciences PhD

Anglia ruskin university.

Pursue original research in physiology, psychology, biomechanics or coaching/pedagogy, in highly equipped surroundings with an Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 2.5 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 3 years Part time degree: £2,392 per year (UK)
• 3.5 years Part time degree: £2,392 per year (UK)

PhD Health and Exercise Sciences

University of essex.

Within our multidisciplinary School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, we offer research supervision in all areas of staff Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 7 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

PhD Sport, Health and Exercise Science

University of hull.

About our programmes Research in Sport, Health and Exercise Science aims to enhance understanding of practices and processes that support Read more...

• 5 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Bangor University

Research Areas Sport and Exercise Sciences, with research interests in Sport psychology/human performance Stress and performance Read more...

Sport and Exercise Science & Sports Therapy - PhD

University of kent.

The School of Sport and Exercise Sciences provides an excellent environment for undertaking your PhD. We have an active group of both Read more...

Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences PhD

Brunel university london.

Research profile Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences at Brunel hosts a vibrant community of researchers with expertise in both natural and Read more...

• 6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

PhD Sport and Exercise Science

Aberystwyth university.

The Department of Sport and Exercise Science at Aberystwyth University performs research in the sport and exercise sciences, and provides Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)

PhD Postgraduate research opportunities in Sport and Exercise Science

Liverpool john moores university.

Excellent research opportunities await at the School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, enabling you to work at the forefront of Read more...

Psychology, Sport and Health Sciences PhDs (Distance Learning)

University of portsmouth.

If you're looking to take your skills into postgraduate research, our research degree programmes can help you achieve your ambitions. Our Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)
• 3 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Sport and exercise science PhD

University of brighton.

We welcome students to the University of Brighton to study Sport and exercise science PhD based in specialist laboratories with expert Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,796 per year (UK)
• 7 years Part time degree: £2,398 per year (UK)

Sport and Exercise Science MPhil/PhD

University of worcester.

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in Sport and Exercise Science. Our Research School has Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,950 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,475 per year (UK)

Sports Science, PhD

Swansea university.

Sport and Exercise Science research at Swansea University takes place in the Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Read more...

• 6 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Psychology, Sport and Health Sciences PhDs and MPhils

Sport business phd, loughborough university.

The Institute for Sport Business seeks to deliver research with a real-world impact in an era of significant social, economic and Read more...

PhD Research Sport and Health Sciences

University of exeter.

Our research is broadly established around the following topics Physical Activity and Health Across the Lifespan Human Movement Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,900 per year (UK)
• 8 years Part time degree

Sports and Exercise Sciences PhD

Lancaster university.

The PhD in Sports and Exercise Science is an excellent opportunity to pursue your research career in this domain, while increasing your Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree

University of Sunderland

A PhD is “probably the most internationally transferable qualification” according to the Higher Education Policy Institute. You will Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £3,681 per year (UK)
• 4 years Distance without attendance degree: £3,681 per year (UK)
• 4 years Full time degree: £4,500 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £3,681 per year (UK)

eSports PhD

Abertay university.

Abertay’s Sport and Exercise Sciences Division has expertise in women’s sport equity; sedentary lifestyle risk factors; exercise and Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,829 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,415 per year (UK)

1-20 of 23 courses

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Our research is broadly established around the following topics:

• Physical Activity and Health Across the Lifespan
• Human Movement Science
• Integrative Physiology
• Food and Nutrition
• Children's Health and Exercise

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Top 30 in the world for Sports-related subjects

QS World University Subject Rankings 2024

Top 5 in the UK for Sports Science

4th (joint) in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024

1st in the UK for world-leading research in Sports Science

Research Excellence Framework 2021 based on 4* research submitted to UoA24 Sport and Exercise Sciences, Leisure and Tourism

Research overview

Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Exeter has a long-standing and international reputation for leading research in the field. Our   world-renowned academics   are recognised for their groundbreaking and innovative work within the academic community, and are also highly sought after by leading sports professionals and teams. 

Our friendly, intimate academic community provides a truly supportive environment for our staff and students that fosters a vibrant research culture. We are continually evolving to ensure we remain at the forefront of pioneering research areas, but without losing the inclusive atmosphere that allows our academics to truly flourish. We have also enhanced our academic team with additional research staff who are distinguished worldwide for their studies.

We attract significant funding from UK Research Councils (including MRC, EPSRC, ESRC, and Royal Society), The National Institute of Health Research (Health Technology Assessment) the commercial sector (including Glaxo Smith-Kline, Unilever and Kellogg’s); and from sporting bodies (including UK Sport, UK Athletics, Manchester United Football Club and the Rugby Football Union).

Our research students have:

• presented their work to international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals prior to graduation;
• won numerous international and national awards for research excellence;
• all moved into full-time employment on graduation;
• work in universities all over the UK as well as in Australia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Mexico, Portugal, Singapore and the USA.

Normally a strong background in the field of study at undergraduate level or an MSc in a related subject that would underpin the knowledge required to conduct independent research as an MPhil/PhD student. This would usually require a good 2:1 BSc degree for UK students.

You can start in September, January or April but we strongly encourage a you to enrol in Term 1 in September as induction events are focused around this start date. However, we do permit MSc by Research/MPhil/PhD students to enrol either at the start of Term 1, Term 2 or Term 3 (see the   University's term dates ), or on the 1st of any other month except August, September and October.

Requirements for international students

If you are an international student, please visit our  international equivalency pages  to enable you to see if your existing academic qualifications meet our entry requirements.

English language requirements

International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2 : view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country .

Fees and funding

Tuition fees per year 2024/25

• Home : £4,786 full-time;   £pro-rata part-time
• International : £27,500 full-time

For those studying for more than one year, our fees are expected to increase modestly in line with Consumer Price Inflation measured in December each year. More information can be found on our   Student Finance webpages .

Tuition fees per year 2023/24

• Home : £4,712 full-time; £pro-rata part-time
• International : £25,000 full-time

For those studying for more than one year, our fees are expected to increase modestly in line with Consumer Price Inflation measured in December each year. More information can be found on our Student Finance webpages .

Current available funding

Supervision.

You can expect:

• High-quality research supervision to develop and nurture your potential
• A tailored supervision approach to help best suit your requirements
• Accessible supervisors who are enthusiastic about working directly with postgraduate research students
• Regular timetabled meetings with your supervisor
• 'Open door' policy to all postgraduate students - instant access to world-leading researchers who will share their expertise and ideas with you
• Regular meetings with your supervisory team, other members of your research group, and mentors

Find a supervisor

Located on the historic St Luke's Campus, Sport and Health Sciences at Exeter occupies three buildings: the Richards Building,   Haighton  and Baring Court. Each building houses several teaching and research laboratories, and computer suites.

Teaching labs

The   teaching labs  are predominantly used for practical classes and individual data collection activities for dissertations and are equipped with: Lode cycle ergometers, Monark cycle ergometers, Biodex isokinetic dynamometer, Woodway treadmills, Non-motorised treadmill, Cortex on-line gas analyser, Capillary blood sampling analysers used in exercise testing, Bioelectrical impedance analysers for body composition analysis, Anthropometrical equipment, ECG analysers and blood pressure monitors.

Exercise physiology

The   exercise physiology labs   include: exercise physiology, blood analysis, DEXA, body composition, vascular physiology, MRI simulation, muscle strength laboratory, magnetic resonance centre, magnetic stimulation Unit, biomechanics laboratories, psychology laboratories.

Biomechanics laboratories

Biomechanics research aims to improve our understanding of injury mechanisms of the lower limb, identifying ways to reduce the incidence of injury and aid rehabilitation. The School has   three biomechanics laboratories ; two for motion analysis and one a dedicated gait analysis lab.

Psychology laboratories

The   psychology laboratories   contain treadmills, cardiorespiratory monitoring equipment, cycle ergometers and computers. Simulated sports performance environments for activities such as basketball and golf enable the study of 'visuomotor control and learning' using sophisticated eye-tracking technology.

Sports facilities

There are extensive sports facilities across both the St Luke's and Streatham campuses. Visit the   University Sports website   for full details.

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Streatham Campus in Exeter

The majority of students are based at our Streatham Campus in Exeter. The campus is one of the most beautiful in the country and offers a unique environment in which to study, with lakes, parkland, woodland and gardens as well as modern and historical buildings.

Find out more about Streatham Campus.

St Luke's Campus in Exeter

Located on the eastern edge of the city centre, St Luke's is home to Sport and Health Sciences, the Medical School, the Academy of Nursing, the Department of Allied Health Professions, and PGCE students.

Find out more about St Luke's Campus.

Penryn Campus near Falmouth, Cornwall

Our Penryn Campus is located near Falmouth in Cornwall. It is consistently ranked highly for satisfaction: students report having a highly personal experience that is intellectually stretching but great fun, providing plenty of opportunities to quickly get to know everyone.

Find out more about Penryn Campus.

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SUBJECT LEAGUE TABLE 2025

Sports Science examines how exercise affects the human body and promotes health and wellbeing. It's often combined with academic subjects like Anatomy, Chemistry, Engineering, Physiology and Psychology. The best Sports Science universities in the UK are ranked below, including courses on Sports Coaching and Sport Technology. Using this Sports Science league table you can explore the top universities for Sports in the UK, and then filter the results by what you find most important. You can search by region, entry standards, student satisfaction, graduate prospects, and more. This will then help you to choose the right course and university for you.

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• IN CLEARING Loughborough University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES University of Bath VIEW COURSES University of Glasgow VIEW COURSES Durham University VIEW COURSES University of Birmingham VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of East Anglia UEA IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES GET PROSPECTUS University of Exeter VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Aberdeen IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES University of Leeds VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Lancaster University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES University of Nottingham VIEW COURSES King's College London, University o... 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• 77% 82% 80% 77% 75% 90% 77% 80% 72% 93% 81% 79% 77% 84% 82% 69% 80% 78% 82% 78% 74% 89% 82% 82% 81% 83% 79% 84% 83% 82% 78% 77% 78% 80% 77% 80% 78% 78% 78% n/a 75% 76% 78% 79% 80% 79% 82% 79% 79% 85% 80% 76% 83% 84% 75% 79% 79% 78% 80% 71% 79% 79% 86% 83% 77% 80% 80% 87% 78% 76% 82% 85% 75% 83% 79% 81% 74% 87% 70% 84% 77% 79% 88% 69% 75% 82%
• 88% 91% 89% 87% 91% 76% 95% 73% 88% 83% 87% 92% 82% 83% 81% 83% 85% 79% 84% 85% 76% 73% 73% 73% 78% 59% 86% 61% 70% 78% 83% 80% 74% 72% 75% 63% 91% 81% n/a 69% 77% 80% 77% 80% 80% 63% 80% 81% 75% 55% 62% 80% 70% 63% 69% 77% 58% 65% 63% 69% 66% 65% 65% 63% 70% 65% 77% 70% 71% 75% 26% n/a 69% 76% 61% 53% 66% 63% 61% 67% 73% 61% n/a n/a n/a n/a
• 88% 84% 83% 79% 82% 80% 78% 79% 76% n/a n/a n/a 78% 83% 74% 64% 74% 75% 75% 73% 74% 80% 73% 78% 71% 68% 68% 90% 73% 81% 71% 71% 76% 70% 67% 78% 62% 68% 76% 77% 72% 74% 74% 79% n/a 74% 72% 72% 68% 66% 70% 60% 61% 70% 74% 81% 69% 64% 69% 65% 68% 63% 63% 68% 79% 63% 71% 72% 67% 55% 78% 64% 60% 57% 68% 66% 64% 70% 67% 64% 60% 65% n/a 68% 57% n/a

This table was updated on 24 May 2024. 

Read the  University and subject tables methodology  to find out where the data comes from, how the tables are compiled and explanations of the measures used. 

All measures used to compile the tables are available on the full table view. Maximum scores for the measures: 

Overall score: maximum score of 1000 

Entry standards: no maximum score  

Student satisfaction: maximum score of 4 

Research quality: maximum score of 4 

Continuation: maximum score of 100 

Graduate prospects – outcomes: maximum score of 100 

Graduate prospects – on track: maximum score of 100 

The following institutions have courses in this subject but insufficient data to be included in the ranking:  

• - Bristol, University of the West of England
• - Health Sciences University (formerly AECC University College)
• - Heriot-Watt University
• - UCL (University College London)
• - University of Plymouth

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We have 10 Sport & Exercise Science (football) PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

Sport & Exercise Science

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Sport & Exercise Science (football) PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

Exploring the impact of the menstrual cycle on the well-being of female soccer players through innovative monitoring systems, phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Developing an interrelated bottom-up understanding of the issues experience by women football players by listening to the stories they want to tell (ref: SF24/HLS/SER/COOK)

Self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

MRes - Exploring Return-to-Sport Decision-Making Following Injury: A Survey of Practice in Male and Female Football Teams Competing Across the Professional Pyramid of a Single Football Association (SAS0196)

Biomarkers associated with motor neurone disease and dementia development after concussion in females and males: bandd., targeting and developing psychosocial skills in youth academy football players, sustainable management of community sport organisations, mres - the impact of personalised fifa player cards on exercise motivation and physical performance in youth football players: an exploratory gamification intervention (sas0194), mres sport, exercise and health science (project id sas0202), bridging the gap: investigating the professional landscape of applied performance analysts in sports performance analysis, effects of combining cognitive and exercise training on older adults' cognitive and physical performance.

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