Undergraduate study

Undergraduate study 

UWS distinguishes itself by offering a balanced blend of academic rigor and practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the sport and exercise sector.

The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) offers a complimentary suite of degree programmes that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application to facilitate world and work ready graduates. A key strategy to success being a common first year and ongoing opportunities to narrate your own degree programme through sophisticated optional modules and exceptional placement opportunities to excel in a diverse employment market. 

Our programmes are developed with experts in the relevant fields, and include extensive links with professional bodies, excellent facilities, and teaching from staff who have experience of working with major sporting organisations. 

Professional recognition

We have worked with the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) to achieve endorsement against industry professional standards for our sport programmes – see course entries for details.

Our BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science / BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science (Physical Activity and Health) programme is also endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES).

Placement experience

We have worked with the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) to achieve endorsement against industry professional standards for our sport programmes – see course entries for details.

Our BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science / BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science (Physical Activity and Health) programme is also endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES).

Career Prospects

UWS sport graduates build careers in the commercial fitness and leisure industry; in professional sports coaching; specialist sports development; and also practice as exercise scientists. Other employment prospects include Exercise and Health Development Officer; Active Schools Co-ordinator; Health Promotion Officer; and Lifestyle Officer. 

Our programmes also prepare you for postgraduate study leading to employment as a physical education teacher.

Industry expertise

Our academics are experts in their field, many with international profiles in science, health and sport, and experience with professional sports teams and organisations such as NHS Scotland, the Scottish Football Association, the Scottish Rugby Union, Scottish Rowing and Scottish Cycling.

The course was excellent at matching theory to applied experience. Studying at UWS, I felt like a confident practitioner, even before I was a practitioner.” 

Jeffrey Webster, BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching graduate and Sport Psychology Consultant  

The placement I undertook was vital to my career. I wouldn’t have the job I have now if it wasn’t for the time I spent there during my studies.”

Craig Mowatt, BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science graduate and Head of Academy Sports Science & Medicine at Motherwell Football Club