SPORT AND EXERCISE BSc (Hons) Degree (Top-Up)

Level 6
Higher Education
Newry Campus
The Open University

Overview

Degree subject to DfE approval

The BSc (Hons) Degree Top-Up delivered by SRC and validated by The Open University, examines both the theoretical and practical application of sport and exercise through a wide range of modules aiming to develop individuals academic and professional potential. This course will develop knowledge and critical understanding of the areas associated with sport from levels 4 and 5 and will provide student's with a balance between the development of vocational skills necessary for employment and the knowledge necessary for academic progression and lifelong learning.

Throughout the course, students will delve deeper into the scientific principles and practical applications of sport and exercise. They will build upon their existing knowledge and explore advanced topics in areas such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports psychology, and sports nutrition. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence athletic performance, health, and well-being.

The programme is designed to provide a stimulating and supportive learning environment. Students will benefit from the expertise of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and industry practice. They will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, exercise facilities, and equipment to enhance their practical and research skills. The course is structured to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Typically, weekly contact hours are scheduled for a minimum of 12 hours per week per semester, with an additional independent study of approx. 60-160 hours per module depending on the credit value. Student workload usually includes 2 assessments (a combination of coursework and/or examination) per module. There is an expectation that the student will undertake self-study hours off campus to enable them to fully achieve the course of study.

Further information on Open University regulations can be found at this link or below.

Programme Specification

SRC HE Attendance Guidelines

SRC OU Admissions Guidelines

SRC OU Assessment Handbook

SRC OU Extenuating Circumstances Procedures

SRC OU RPL Guidelines

SRC Student Protection Plan

SRC Regulations for Validated Awards

SRC Level 6 Descriptors

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to the course, is evidence that the learner or apprentice is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft Teams) and will play an important role in the selection of all courses.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course.

Applicants must have successfully completed a Foundation Degree in Sport or a Level 5 in a closely related discipline with a pass mark of 55% or above in level 5 modules
Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language. For entry to this programme, applicants should have attained a C grade in GCSE English language and a C grade in GCSE Maths (or equivalent).

The College’s Admissions Policy reflects the expectations of the UK Quality Code May 2023. Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. The list of acceptable qualifications for equivalency to English and mathematics for Ulster University is available from the following link: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements#eng. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

The entrance criteria above may change subject to awarding body regulations. The College reserves the right to enhance the entrance requirements where demand exceeds the number of available places. In addition, where places remain available the College reserves the right to offer places to candidates with a profile less than that listed above.

Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Procedure.

For further detail on our entry requirements please review our Admissions Policy & Criteria.

Modules Year 1 include:

Advanced Nutrition for Sport & Exercise
Advanced Reflective Sports Coach
Advanced Physiology for Athletic Development

Modules Year 2 include:

Research Project
Advanced Contemporary Issues in Disability Sport

Student workload usually includes 2-3 assessments per module (a combination of coursework/practical assessments and/or examination). There is an expectation that the student will undertake self-study hours off campus to enable them to fully achieve the course of study.

Where the exam/awarding body fee is listed as TBC in the full fee breakdown, the information has not yet been released by our partner awarding bodies for 25/26. This fee will be updated as soon as it becomes available.

Fees displayed for each course represent fees to be charged for year 1 of each programme. Please note that fees may increase in year 2 or 3 of the course. Read more in our Fees Policy at https://www.src.ac.uk/about-us...

Please note mandatory field trips will need to be paid in advance with estimated approximate cost of £50 per year. (1st Semester Induction week £35) (2nd Semester- pre Easter £15). PE/Sports Kit: SRC Pack (T-Shirt x 2 and Shorts x 1) estimated £50. Additional Kit available.

Other optional employability courses on offer to students to avail of may include:

Level 2 Gym Instructors (approx. £150) (2nd Semester - May)
Level 3 Personal Training (approx. £200) (2nd Semester - June)
Level 2 Kettlebells (approx. £75) (1st Semester - October)
Level 2 Circuit Training (approx. £75) (1st Semester – October)
Level 3 Sports Massage (approx. £215) (2nd Semester - June)
Sports First Aid (approx. £35) (2nd Semester - May)
Coaching/Referees Awards (i.e. GAA, Volleyball, Dodgeball etc.) and Child Protection (approx. £35-£60) (1st Semester - December)

Please note if a student chooses to undertake work placement within a school setting, they may be subject to an Advance AccessNI check. The cost incurred by this will be covered by the College.

Students who have completed the BSc (Hons) Degree in Sport and Exercise may progress to another institution to complete programmes such as

MSc Sports Coaching and Performance
MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology
MSc Sport and Exercise Nutrition
MSc Strength and Conditioning
PGCE

Upon successful completion of the Sport and Exercise BSc (Hons) Degree (Top-Up), graduates will be equipped with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a variety of career paths in the sport and exercise field. They may find employment opportunities in: