You will fully explore the fundamentals of physical education; applied practical skills, child development, pedagogical skills, sport policy and practice, performance and analysis. Practical and academic studies analyse the effects of exercise on the body and a range of physical activities experienced at all levels, from elite athletes through to children.

Degree Content

This degree programme provides the transferable skills required to work in either the public, private or voluntary sectors. Through our unique Complementary CurriculumTM, you will have the opportunity to gain National Governing Body qualifications in a variety of sports. Work placement opportunities exist within local schools and colleges, sports clubs and societies, and community groups, to enable the development of practical skills and teaching capabilities.

National incentives have been instrumental in linking schools with sports clubs and encouraging sporting habits for life, investing funding in organisations and projects to create more opportunities for young people to play sport and to nurture and develop talent. This is therefore a pertinent time to pursue opportunities within the field of physical education.

UCFB degrees fall under three subject benchmark statements – General business and management (2007); Hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism (2008); and Psychology (2010). Visit the QAA website to access each of these benchmark statements.

Download the BA (Hons) Physical Education Programme Specification.

* Subject to validation.

First Year

  • Physical Activity for Health
  • The Theory of Coaching
  • Anatomy & Physiology of Human Movement
  • P.E. & Sport Pedagogy

Second Year

  • Classroom & Behaviour Management
  • Talent Identification
  • Research Methods
  • Nutritional Management of an Active Lifestyle
  • Additional qualifications embedded include:
    • FL2 Fitness Instructor Qualification
    • Award in Education & Training
    • F.A Level 2
    • Prozone

Third Year

  • Expressive Movement
  • High Performance Coaching
  • Dissertation
  • Working with Children & Disabilities / Skill Learning

* Modules listed above may vary depending on changes to the syllabus.

Applications are welcomed from students with a genuine passion and ambition to work in the football and sports industries.

The minimum academic requirement for this degree course is a 280-320 UCAS Tariff point score.

Other minimum requirements

Applicants will normally have achieved one of the following:

  • A minimum of 2 A Levels or equivalent
  • International Baccalaureate (minimum of 24 points)
  • A National Diploma or Certificate in an appropriate subject at Distinction level
  • An Advanced GNVQ in an appropriate subject at Distinction level
  • An Access Course: minimum of 60 credits, including at least 45 at Level 3
  • An equivalent level 3 qualification

Applicants should have a strong GCSE profile, including English at Grade C, or equivalent and Maths at Grade C (specifically for Football Business & Finance, Sports Business & Sports Law and Sport Psychology).

Other qualifications, including overseas, may be considered. Applicants for whom English is a second language should have achieved IELTS 6 or equivalent for entry into Level 4.

We also welcome applications from mature students who may not possess the above qualifications but may have relevant experience.

All applicants will be expected to demonstrate a specific interest in their preferred area of study and should have a commitment to engaging with the subject through the academic programme and our complementary curriculum involving high profile guest speakers, master classes and short course opportunities.

Entry with advanced standing

Students are normally expected to start at Level 4, but can be admitted to any level of the course which is considered suitable, after portfolio review and interview, using the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS). Under this arrangement, a student may apply to have previous academic credits or other learning or experience taken into consideration. Such applications are considered by the Faculty CATS committee and must be supported by the Academic Department.

Scholarships & Bursaries

A limited number of scholarships and bursaries are available for 2015. Visit the undergraduate scholarships and bursaries page for more information.

If you have any further questions regarding entry requirements, please contact us at admissions@ucfb.com.