Sport Science and Mathematics BSc (Hons)
- Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
- Typical Offer: 112 - 120 UCAS tariff points
- UCAS Code(s): CG6C (full-time); 35O0 (sandwich)
- Start Date(s): September 2024
- Duration: Three years full-time / four years with placement
- Study Mode(s): Full-time / Sandwich
- Campus: Clifton Campus
Introduction:
We’ll give you the mathematics skills to unlock the complexities of sport. It’s a powerful combination. You’ll develop the building blocks of mathematics – algebra, calculus and statistics while exploring sports psychology, physiology and biomechanics.
In your final year, you’ll have a choice of options from both the sport and the mathematics sides of your course. The modules you choose and your choice of project allow you to create your own pathway that reflects your individual interests.
We know that the best learning happens when you get to apply it. That’s why you’ll be getting hands-on in our sport science labs as well as specialist mathematics facilities to put your knowledge and theory to the test.
Foundation Year
We offer BSc (Hons) Sport Science and Mathematics (with foundation year) which you can apply for if you don't meet the entry criteria for this course. See our course page for foundation modules.
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Every year we offer a number of short research scholarships in one of our research teams. This is a great opportunity for you to further your interests and contribute to the academic activities of the mathematics department. -
Our students have recently formed a Mathematics Society, and you’ll have the opportunity to take part in regular events hosted on campus. And of course, there are plenty of sporting clubs and societies that you can get involved in too. -
100% of our BSc (Hons) Sport Science and Mathematics (FT) students were in highly skilled roles 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020/21). -
Top 20 in the UK for teaching quality in Mathematics (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024)
What you’ll study
Elite athletes around the world increasingly rely on sophisticated mathematical data to assess, enhance and improve personal performance and the performance of essential sporting equipment. From the analysis of human movement to the ways in which the body responds to exercise, a thorough understanding of applied mathematical techniques is essential. If you have an interest in mathematics and its application in sport science, then you ‘ll really enjoy exploring this specialist area.
In Years One and Two you’ll study both Sport Science and Mathematics modules. In Year Three, you’ll select either a Mathematics pathway or a Sport Science pathway depending upon your own interests and preferences.
Who will teach me?
Dr James Hind, Lecturer
"I recently won several HESTEM grants to work with the Nottingham Girl's High School on final year maths education projects and to build employability skills into our maths course. Local, national, and global companies have helped us to make sure that our students leave with the skills, abilities, and confidence to excel in the jobs market.
"As a team our research focus includes biological mathematics, statistics, and computational modelling, but we also encompass financial analysis, cryptography, and many other fields."
Calculus (20 credit points)
In this module you’ll study methods of differentiation and integration, from the fundamental principles, to integrating and differentiating complicated functions. Ordinary differential equations will be looked at and in combination with material you’ll learn how to solve these new types of equations.
Data Analysis (20 cp)
This gives you an introduction to important statistical ideas and their application using modern software. You will explore data analysis, probability, statistical inference and statistical modelling.
Introduction to Linear Algebra and Computation (20 cp)
Studying Linear Algebra gives you a great base knowledge you’ll use in many modules during your course. Concepts include complex numbers, vectors and matrices. Using mathematical software packages you’ll focus on computational and numerical methods that can be used to find approximate solutions to problems that cannot be solved analytically.
Introduction to Sport and Exercise Physiology (20 cp)
This module considers the foundations of key human systems (both anatomical and physiological) and their responses and adaptations to sport and exercise.
Foundations in Sport and Exercise Psychology (20 cp)
Examine the psychological consequences of engaging in sport and exercise, as well as the mental factors that impact on quality sport and exercise experiences.
Introduction to Human Movement Science (20 cp)
Learn about the theoretical and practical aspects of biomechanics relevant to understanding the motion of the human body and the forces generated or experienced by the human body.
Differential Equations (20 cp)
Extend your knowledge of calculus, differential equations and linear algebra, and gain an introduction to difference equations, the Eigen problem and transform methods.
Probability and Statistical Inference (20 cp)
Refine your statistical inference and modelling knowledge and develop essential computational and IT skills.
Mathematical Enterprise (20 cp)
In this module you’ll work in small teams to develop a plan for a new business or enterprise, using your mathematical skills to showcase the viability of your venture. This module is run in conjunction with Nottingham's Creative Quarter and you’ll work with several local businesses to create business plans.
Applied Sport and Exercise Physiology (20 cp)
Through both theoretical and practical study you will learn how the body’s structures and functions are altered by bouts of physical exercise, and how these concepts can be applied to training.
Practical Applications in Sport and Exercise Psychology (20 cp)
This module introduces the concept of evidence-based practice and frameworks of assessment, intervention and evaluation, to address issues in sport, coaching, social and exercise psychology.
Analysis of Human Movement for Sport (20 cp)
Building on the biomechanical principles studied in Year One, you will develop the skills required to explain measurable human movements and forces using biomechanical theories.
Optional year-long work placement. If you are not taking a placement, you will progress directly to your final year in year three.
Core modules
Experimental Design and Machine Learning (20 cp)
In this module you’ll be introduced methods of experimental design and their application in industrial and commercial situations. You’ll learn the methodology and techniques to design, conduct and analyse an experiment before applying statistical analysis to your results.
Project and Professional Skills (40 cp)
Immerse yourself in a substantial mathematics project with dedicated support and supervision. The project will showcase your skills, knowledge, and problem-solving abilities. You’ll also take part in activities to explore your career options after graduation.
Performance, Skill and Expertise in Sport (20 cp)
This module outlines how human movement and motor programs are initiated, controlled, learned, taught and performed.
Optional modules - choose one:
Numerical Analysis and Dynamical Systems (20 cp)
Develop your knowledge of numerical methods with an emphasis on numerical optimisation techniques, advanced methods for the numerical solution of ordinary differential equations and the application of methods to non-linear problems.
Stochastic Processes (20 cp)
Extend your understanding of probabilistic modelling to include stochastic processes and learn advanced techniques for investigating the behaviour of stochastic processes.
Medical Statistics and Financial Modelling (20 cp)
You’ll study statistical techniques appropriate for medical and financial data, including the analysis of survival data and dealing with large complex datasets.
Optional modules - choose one:
Strength, Power and Endurance for Sport and Exercise (20 cp)
This module typically focuses on six topics related to applied exercise physiology and strength and conditioning research.
Advanced Topics in Sport and Exercise Psychology (20 cp)
Students will become familiar with selected areas such as motivational climate, athletic identity, mental toughness, psychology of injury and morality in sport. The emphasis will be placed on current primary research.
Human Movement Science for Sport (20 cp)
This module addresses, in the context of biomechanics, how to improve and / or optimise human performance and understand how it can be affected by or result in dysfunction.
Physical Activity for Health (20 cp)
This module will cover elements such as general principles of exercise testing and prescription, paediatric conditions, geriatric conditions and gender specific conditions.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
How you’re taught
Every week you’ll attend lectures, seminars, practical sessions and workshops. This includes surgery sessions where you’ll meet with your lecturer in small groups to discuss any problems or work through challenging topics.
The rest of your time will be spent carrying out independent study such as reading textbooks and lecture notes, and working on exercises.
Contact hours
Year 1 - lectures/seminars/workshops (32%) and independent study (68%)
Year 2 - lectures/seminars/workshops (28%) and independent study (72%)
Year 3 - lectures/seminars/workshops (19%) and independent study (81%)
A placement year may be taken between year 2 and year 3 of study
How you’re assessed
We want you to graduate with a range of transferable skills, so all of the Mathematics modules have two or three assessment components that help you to demonstrate your knowledge in a variety of ways. As well as traditional exams and in-class tests, you’ll complete assignments, group projects and give presentations. In your final year, you’ll also complete your final project with the support of your personal tutor.
- Year 1 - coursework (48%), written (44%), and practical (8%)
- Year 2 - coursework (48%), written (44%), and practical (8%)
- Year 3 - coursework (53%) and written (47%) and practical (0%)
A placement year may be taken between year 2 and year 3 of study
Careers and employability
Your career development
This course will enable you to develop and apply a range of essential, transferable management skills that are greatly respected by employers.
Our recent graduates have secured roles at companies including:
- Synergy Health plc
- NHS
- BT
- Northampton Saints Rugby Club
- West Bromwich Albion
- Santander
- David Lloyd
They have gone into a wide variety of job roles including:
- Graduate Trainee Manager (corporate strategy)
- Respiratory Physiologist
- Assistant Performance Analyst
- Academy Match Analyst
- Lecturer in Biology and Health Nutrition
Many graduates also choose to undertake further study on one of our Masters-level courses or MPhil and PhD research degrees.
Excellent placement opportunities
NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. Increasingly, employers want to recruit graduates who have real-world work experience. That’s why all of our courses, across every subject area, offer you a work experience opportunity. Our experts help build and support your future with a range of career programmes and events.
On this course, after your second year, you will have the opportunity to take a year's work placement (sandwich placement). This will give you the chance to gain vital experience and put your knowledge into practice. You're also twice as likely to secure a graduate job within six months if you take a work placement.
Our recent students have taken placements across a wide range of companies including DeVere Group, Cooper Parry and IBM. They secured varied roles such as Trainee Wealth Assistant, Business Analyst and Auditing Assistant.
You'll be supported and assessed throughout your placement year and will write a reflective report and diary at the end of your placement. When you successfully complete your placement, you will be eligible to receive an additional award of a Diploma in Professional Practice.
Find out more about work placements.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Campus and facilities
The University has a wide range of sporting and health related facilities. We offer:
- sports coaching
- sports injury clinics
- fitness suites
- specialist facilities
- more than 40 sports clubs.
Sport, exercise and health physiology laboratories
These are fully equipped with specialist facilities that provide a high-quality, dynamic learning environment to cater for different types of exercise testing and physical activity.
British Olympic Association (BOA) Approved Environmental Chamber
The Environmental Chamber has been used by Olympic athletes for acclimatisation to extreme competition environments. It enables us to simulate climates anywhere in the world, from Everest to Egypt.
Biomechanics and Performance Analysis Laboratory
The Biomechanics and Performance Analysis Laboratory includes isokinetic and isometric dynamometers for assessment of force produced by muscle groups of the body. You will also have access to a 3D camera motion analysis system.
The School also features IT, sports psychology and management suites used for:
- match analysis
- statistical analysis
- nutritional analysis
- coaching analysis.
Entry requirements
- Standard offer: 120 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications including A-level or equivalent Maths grade C
- Contextual offer: 112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications including A-level or equivalent Maths grade C
- GCSE English and Maths grade C / 4
Contextual offers
A lower offer may be made based on a range of factors, including your background (such as where you live and the school or college you attended), your experiences and individual circumstances (you may have been in care, for example). This is called a contextual offer and we get data from UCAS to make these decisions. NTU offers a student experience like no other and this approach helps us to find students who have the potential to succeed here but who may have faced barriers that make it more difficult to access university. Find out how we assess your application.
Other qualifications and experience
We may also consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for year one entry, or beyond the beginning of a course where applicable, for example, into year 2. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route.
Meeting our entry requirements
Hundreds of qualifications in the UK have UCAS tariff points attached to specific grades, including A levels, BTECs, T Levels and many more. You can use your grades and points from up to four different qualifications to meet our criteria. Enter your predicted or achieved grades into our tariff calculator to find out how many points your qualifications are worth.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
- 120 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications including A-level or equivalent Maths grade C
- GCSE English and Maths grade C / 4
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
Undergraduate preparation courses (Foundation)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Foundation courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
Advanced standing (starting your undergraduate degree in year 2 or 3)
You may be able to start your undergraduate course in year 2 or 3 based on what you have studied before. This decision would be made in accordance with our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Fees and funding
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and funding pages will answer all your questions.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service.
Tel: +44 (0)115 848 2494
Additional Costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core text books, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential text books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs. Placement opportunities are available in the UK and overseas. Travel grants and Erasmus funding may be available to help fund international travel costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs approximately £20 - £50. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Other
Students will require a basic scientific calculator for use in examinations (e.g. Casio 83 or 85 series, approximately £15).
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year that you are at the University. The level of tuition fees for the second and subsequent years of your undergraduate course may increase in line with inflation and as specified by the UK government. See our fees.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
What do the course fees cover?
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core text books, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential text books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs. Placement opportunities are available in the UK and overseas. Travel grants and Erasmus funding may be available to help fund international travel costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs approximately £20 - £50. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Other
Students will require a basic scientific calculator for use in examinations (e.g. Casio 83 or 85 series, approximately £15).
How to apply
Ready to join us? Then apply as soon as you can. Just click the Apply button at the top of the page and follow the instructions for applying. Make sure you check the entry requirements above carefully before you do.
Writing your application and personal statement
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. So include all of your qualifications and grades, including resits or predicted grades.
Your personal statement is a really important part of your application. It’s your chance to convince us why we should offer you a place! You’ve got 4,000 characters to impress us. Make sure you use them to show how your skills and qualities are relevant to the course(s) you’re applying for. For more hints and tips, take a look at our page on how to write a good personal statement.
Keeping up-to-date
After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU on our Your Application page. Good luck with your application!
You can apply for this course through UCAS. If you are not applying to any other UK universities, you can apply directly to us on our NTU applicant portal.
Application advice
Apply early so that you have enough time to prepare – processing times for Student visas can vary, for example. After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Writing your personal statement
Be honest, thorough, and persuasive – we can only make a decision about your application based on what you tell us:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
The University's commitment to delivering the educational services advertised.