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Sport Science and Mathematics (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
- UCAS Code(s): CG01
- Start Date(s): September 2023
- Duration: Four years full-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time
- Campus: Clifton Campus
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Entry Requirements:
More information
Introduction:
We know that people come onto a foundation year from a wide range of backgrounds and ability levels. That’s why in your first year you’ll work through the basics, building up solid foundations of understanding and practical applications of mathematics through supporting science modules.
By the end of your first year, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to really excel at your BSc degree in the second year. You’ll learn by taking part in a series of projects both individually and in a group. This really helps to develop your problem-solving and creative thinking skills.
The flexibility means that we can support you if you want to move on to one of our other mathematics courses in your second year.
Our Sport Science and Mathematics degree are current and relevant to the needs of the business. Our close links with the industry mean that, if you wish, you’ll have the opportunity to take up job placements with some of the world’s leading companies.
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Every year we offer a number of short research scholarships to 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 by the local branch of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications. -
Top 20 for student satisfaction in Mathematics (National Student Survey, 2022)
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.
After your foundation year, you’ll study both Sport Science and Mathematics modules. In your final year, you’ll select either a Mathematics pathway or a Sport Science pathway depending on 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."
Dr Reuben O'Dea, Lecturer
"I am currently pursuing research in mathematical modelling of biological tissue growth. Specific research interests include the influence of mechanical stimuli on tissue growth in bioreactors; multiscale aspects of tissue growth; and fluid dynamics. Techniques employed include asymptotic and numerical methods."
Placement Year
An optional placement year is available, this will typically take place after Year Three, and you will return to campus for your final year in Year Five.
Introductory Mathematics
This module provides an introduction to important mathematical ideas, including Algebraic rearrangement, Trigonometry, Vectors, Descriptive Statistics, Integration and Differentiation. You’ll gain an understanding of ideas that form the basis of later, more specialised, developments and you’ll be able to solve simple but realistic mathematical problems.
Intermediate Mathematics
This module aims to provide the link between Introductory Mathematics and degree level Mathematics. You’ll cover more complex topics such as the chain rule and integration by parts, the generalisation of vectors to matrices, the approximation of numerical series, logic and probability, complex numbers and mathematical proof.
Foundation Science
In this module, you’ll cover topics in Physics and Chemistry including exchange, transport and conservation of energy and inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. The aim of this module is to provide a sound scientific foundation for the study of engineering or mathematics at the undergraduate degree level.
Computational Mathematics
A hands-on introduction to ideas and skills which cross Mathematics, Physics and Computing. Using software such as Excel and Matlab, you’ll learn about mathematical ideas like matrices and the consideration of how physical systems can be represented mathematically.
Practical and Professional Skills
This module aims to provide a link between the theoretical modules in the course and their practical implementation. The professional skills aspect will help you with interpreting coursework requirements, exam and revision techniques, note taking and referencing. The practical sessions will cover a variety of topics that require you to make use of the scientific principles and mathematical techniques that you’re learning in the other modules on the course.
Mathematical Methods
This module aims to consolidate and extend your previous knowledge of calculus and linear algebra, with emphasis on the underlying intuition of the techniques.
Data Analysis
Gain 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 Numerical Methods
Learn about important numerical methods for solving mathematical problems and develop computational skills using specialist mathematical software packages.
Introduction to Sport and Exercise Physiology
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
Examine the psychological consequences of engaging in sport and exercise, as well as the mental factors that impact quality sport and exercise experiences.
Introduction to Human Movement Science
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.
Mathematical Enterprise
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.
Probability and Statistical Inference
Refine your knowledge of statistical inference and statistical modelling and further develop essential computational and IT skills.
Analysis of Human Movement
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.
Applied Sport and Exercise Physiology
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
This module introduces the concept of evidence-based practice and frameworks of assessment, intervention and evaluation, to address issues in sport, coaching, and social and exercise psychology.
Optional modules
Differential Equations and Modelling
Extend your knowledge of calculus, differential equations and linear algebra, and gain an introduction to difference equations, the Eigen problem and transform methods.
Numerical Methods for Ordinary Differential Equations
You will further develop your computational and professional skills and enhance your knowledge of specialist numerical software packages.
Sport Science Pathway
Core modules
Applied Human Movement Science for Sport
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.
Sport Project and Dissertation
The final year project gives you the opportunity to demonstrate and document your skills, knowledge and understanding of sport science, and show your planning, organisation and problem solving abilities.
Communicating Science and Technology
This module will be of interest to you if you are considering a career in teaching and / or want to develop your portfolio of transferable skills.
Optional modules - choose one of the following modules:
Numerical Analysis and Dynamical Systems
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.
Applied Statistics
Extends your experience of statistical techniques by applying them in a range of contexts. Practical issues are highlighted.
Stochastic Processes
Extend your understanding of probabilistic modelling to include stochastic processes and learn advanced techniques for investigating the behaviour of stochastic processes.
Quantum Computing and Cryptography
This module provides an introduction to the theory of cryptography and quantum computation. These topics will build on and extend your knowledge and understanding of key mathematical ideas that were introduced in the earlier years of the course.
Plus one module from:
Advanced Topics in Sport and Exercise Psychology
Students will become familiar with selected areas such as motivational climate, athletic identity, mental toughness, psychology of injury and morality in sports. The emphasis will be placed on current primary research.
Environmental Sports Physiology
This module outlines some of the physiological adaptations that occur when the human body is exposed to an extreme environment.
Physical Activity for Health Science for Sport
This module will cover elements such as general principles of exercise testing and prescription, paediatric conditions, geriatric conditions and gender specific conditions.
Strength, Power and Endurance for Sport and Exercise
This module typically focuses on six topics related to applied exercise physiology and strength and conditioning research.
And one module from:
Linear Systems
Continue your studies in linear algebra and differential and difference equations.
Statistical Modelling
This module will help you to recognise and understand methods of analysis for medical and financial data, including the analysis of survival data and large, complex datasets.
Computational Statistics and Data Analysis
Explore topics from computational statistics and statistical models relevant to modern applications, with an emphasis on developing solid conceptual understanding of these methods through applications.
Optimisation
An optimisation is the art of optimal decision-making under constraints. This module introduces you to optimisation, focussing on the theoretical foundations of the subject, as well as the practical modelling aspects, and the algorithm analysis and design.
Mathematics Pathway
Core modules
Professional Mathematics Skills
Project in Mathematics
The final year project gives you the opportunity to demonstrate and document your skills, knowledge and understanding of mathematics, and show your planning, organisation and problem solving abilities.
Applied Human Movement Science for Sport
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.
Optional modules – choose one of the following modules:
Applied Statistics
Extends your experience of statistical techniques by applying them in a range of contexts. Practical issues are highlighted
Numerical Analysis and Dynamical Systems
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
Extend your understanding of probabilistic modelling to include stochastic processes and learn advanced techniques for investigating the behaviour of stochastic processes.
Quantum Computing and Cryptography
This module provides an introduction to the theory of cryptography and quantum computation. These topics will build on and extend your knowledge and understanding of key mathematical ideas that were introduced in the earlier years of the course.
Plus one from the following:
Advanced Topics in Sport and Exercise Psychology
Students will become familiar with selected areas such as motivational climate, athletic identity, mental toughness, psychology of injury and morality in sports. The emphasis will be placed on current primary research.
Environmental Sports Physiology
This module outlines some of the physiological adaptations that occur when the human body is exposed to an extreme environment.
Physical Activity for Health Science for Sport
This module will cover elements such as general principles of exercise testing and prescription, paediatric conditions, geriatric conditions and gender specific conditions.
Strength, Power and Endurance for Sport and Exercise
This module typically focuses on six topics related to applied exercise physiology and strength and conditioning research.
and one module from:
Linear Systems
Continue your studies in linear algebra and differential and difference equations.
Statistical Modelling
This module will help you to recognise and understand methods of analysis for medical and financial data, including the analysis of survival data and large, complex datasets.
Computational Statistics and Data Analysis
Explore topics from computational statistics and statistical models relevant to modern applications, with an emphasis on developing a solid conceptual understanding of these methods through applications.
Optimisation
And optimisation is the art of optimal decision-making under constraints. This module introduces you to optimisation, focussing on the theoretical foundations of the subject, as well as the practical modelling aspects, and the algorithm analysis and design.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
How you’re taught
You’ll spend between 14 and 16 hours every week in lectures, seminars, practical sessions, and workshops. This includes up to four 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.
How will I be 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, and group projects and give presentations. In your final year, you’ll also complete your final project with the support of your personal tutor.
Contact hours
Year 1 - lectures/seminars/workshops (30%) and independent study (70%)
Year 2 - lectures/seminars/workshops (32%) and independent study (68%)
Year 3 - lectures/seminars/workshops (31%) and independent study (69%)
Year 4 - lectures/seminars/workshops (19%) and independent study (81%)
A placement year may be taken between year 3 and year 4 of study
How you’re assessed
Year 1 - coursework (60%), written (40%) and practical (0%)
Year 2 - coursework (48%), written (44%) and practical (8%)
Year 3 - coursework (48%), written (44%) and practical (8%)
Year 4 - coursework (53%), written (47%) and practical (0%)
A placement year may be taken between year 3 and year 4 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.
Placements
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 third 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 Lab
The Biomechanics and Performance Analysis lab include isokinetic and isometric dynamometers for the 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
- 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent
- GCSEs – Maths grade B/6 and English C/4
To find out what qualifications have tariff points, please use our tariff calculator.
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.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
- 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent
- GCSEs – Maths grade B/6 and English 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 textbooks, 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 textbooks, 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 of 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 for 2023 entry.
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 textbooks, 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 textbooks, 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 of 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.