Set the pace for a successful future in sport coaching with our inspiring Foundation Degree.
Gain a major advantage by taking a foundation year as part of a four-year study programme to achieve your BSc (Hons) qualification
BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching and Development with Foundation Year provides an opportunity for individuals who want a change of career or want to explore a new subject
Enjoy an exciting learning experience through specialist voluntary work placement opportunities
Learn from expert tutors who work with amateur and elite athletes in sports ranging from athletics and cycling to golf and martial arts
Make the most of our exceptional sports facilities in our specialist sports centre
Through practical learning, this course aims to meet the growing demand – regionally and nationally – for sports coaches with strong practical experience and recognised qualifications.
Foundation Year - helping you to achieve more
Including a foundation year as part of your four-year study programme will give you a head start in your academic and professional life. The foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence – with extensive support from our expert staff – before you advance to stage one of your honours degree. It could also be beneficial if you are planning a career change and want to get to grips with aspects of subjects which are new to you.
Our degrees with a foundation year are continuous, meaning that you won’t need to apply again once you have successfully completed the first year.
Fostering personal and sporting potential
Our theory-into-practice philosophy will enhance your coaching knowledge, skills and behaviours. This will provide you with the underpinning principles and practical skills needed to plan, deliver, analyse and evaluate athlete performance. By engaging with such activities you will be prepared to enhance individual and sporting potential.
Themes such as individual training prescription, pedagogy (how people learn), performance analysis, and effect of sport on society and sports development in practice will be covered throughout the programme.
Engaging opportunities
There are plenty of opportunities to apply your knowledge throughout your course. You’ll gain insights into a range of applied settings from group coaching to individual performance development. Opportunities are also available to get involved in projects aimed at increasing sport participation and physical activity within different communities.
Voluntary and paid coaching positions have been secured by students with sports clubs during their studies. Coaching in the USA has also been arranged as summer work by other students.
A highly experienced team
Our teaching team has a wealth of coaching experience, along with extensive contacts across the industry. They work with a range of sports professionals and organisations as consultants and advisors, which keeps their teaching up to date and relevant.
We have links with professional bodies at both regional and national levels, this includes the British Association of Sports and Exercise Sciences, the Institute for Sports, Parks and Leisure and key sports governing bodies like British Cycling and The Football Association.
Such partnerships add an extra dimension to your studies, including inspirational masterclasses from experts in both participation and performance sports. Notable guests have included representatives from Chelsea, Fulham and Liverpool Football Clubs, British Cycling, Sale Sharks, Cheshire East Sport Development Unit and the English Institute of Sport.
State-of-the-art facilities
Our Derby campus is the perfect setting for a stimulating learning experience in sport. A main hall, fitness gym with strength and conditioning area, studios, squash and badminton courts, an internal climbing wall, sprint track, changing rooms, treatment rooms and a café are all included in our new £10.8m Sports Centre. The award-winning Sports Centre complements our existing facilities for example our floodlit all-weather pitches and tennis courts. Specialist equipment is also made available to students such as our sports performance analysis software, our 3D motion analysis equipment, and physiological testing equipment.
This module will introduce students to a variety of key psychological studies and topics. Through these studies and topics, students will develop their knowledge and understanding of the scope of psychological research and the methods employed by those researching different aspects of human nature within an education and childhood context.
This module aims to develop an understanding of why and how research is conducted within science disciplines. Students will develop a working knowledge of both quantitative and qualitative data handling skills through the use of Excel and other appropriate software. Introductions to formulating and operationalising research questions and hypotheses will be included along with an exploration of the rationale behind applying different research methods for different purposes and the ethical considerations linked to these.
This module aims to develop the study skills essential for study at university and facilitate the transition into Higher Education. The module will help student understand university systems and processes, the study skills they require to succeed and the role they have in their own learning.
This module provides an introduction to the fundamental ‘art’ of sport and exercise disciplines. Students will gain an understanding of the broad range of qualitative based subject disciplines attributed to sport and exercise and begin to develop an appreciation of the skills required to work within the diverse sport and exercise field.
This module focusses on the ‘art’ of sport and exercise to ensure a grounding knowledge for all. Students will learn of the different roles a sport and exercise professional may take on and the skills attributed to each in order to be successful.
This is a level 2 module. The module is oriented towards providing students with sufficient English skills to enable them to engage confidently with level 4 modules.
This module will provide students with a theoretical understanding of physiology and anatomy of the relevant body systems.
Fundamental anatomical and physiological concepts will be explored for a range of body systems in relation to what these systems consist of and how they function. The concepts of health and disease will be introduced as the range of body systems are explored.
The module will incorporate both theoretical and practical learning to enable students to apply their knowledge of the human body.
This module will provide students with a theoretical understanding of physiology and anatomy of the relevant body systems. Fundamental anatomical and physiological concepts will be explored for a range of body systems in relation to what these systems consist of and how they function.
The concepts of health and disease will be introduced as the range of body systems are explored. The module will incorporate both theoretical and practical learning to enable students to apply their knowledge of the human body.
This module provides you with an introduction to the study of sociology. It is intended to encourage an understanding of core sociological theories, and to foster an awareness of sociological issues and phenomena. It is designed to develop your appreciation of how we evaluate the social world.
This module will focus on the application of skill acquisition theories in the coaching practice. Students will develop an understanding of how principles such as feedback, attentional focus and the environment can inform session design and delivery; with the view to enhancing both athlete learning and performance.
Student’s practical skill development will centre upon their ability to enhance performance through the application of skill acquisition principles. Students will be taught via a variety of lectures and seminars as well practical coaching sessions. The module will also provide students with the opportunity to engage with PDP activities related to the role of the coach within the sporting industry.
Academic and Applied Skills for Sport and Exercise
This module is taught in two parts: Academic skills and research skills. The academic skills component provides students with grounding in the key skills needed to be successful at undergraduate study; including, literature searching, literature review, academic writing, referencing, and presentation skills. The research skills component gives students an introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methods, including descriptive statistics.
Students will learn how to collect and interpret data using a range of approaches including questionnaires, interviews and experimental methods. The emphasis on the module is to develop student’s confidence in engaging with academic literature including the associated terminology.
Personal Development Planning (PDP) will be embedded into the program with a series of “step-to-success” workshops which will support students in their professional development . Students will be required to engage with the PDP programme by collating hours in a Sport and Exercise based placement in addition to participation in associated activities in an area related to sport.
Most of the delivery will be based on seminar sessions wherein students will be given structured tasks which will be completed individually or in groups. Delivery and assessment will provide students with the opportunity to engage and explore their own area of interest with respect to the associated academic literature.
The role of psychology is an increasingly important and recognised aspect of participation and performance in sport and exercise contexts. This module examines various personality and social-psychological factors that impact upon participation and performance.
The module offers a range of sport and exercise psychology topics focusing on three main areas: 1) Individual participants in sport and exercise, 2) Strategies for performance enhancement, and 3) Groups, group processes, and intergroup relations. For each topic, theories and research evidence are applied to practical examples.
Knowledge of how the different parts of the body function during physical activity is necessary to understand how humans can take part in sport and exercise.
This module examines the basic physiology of the relevant body systems. What these systems consist of, how they function and how they respond to an acute bout of physical activity will be considered. In addition to building core knowledge of sport and exercise physiology, students will acquire a set of core skills in the laboratory. This module underpins the subsequent study of sport, exercise and health, and is therefore important preparation for modules at Levels 5 and 6.
This module introduces students to the process of sports development planning and investigates the links that this has with local and national government policies within the UK.
Students will consider the issues and approaches which are employed in order to develop new and existing sites for sport and recreation purposes. Sport’s evolution is closely associated with patterns of work and leisure, prevailing religious beliefs and class divisions. By understanding the development and formulation of sport policy and its articulation through sport development students will appreciate sport’s position in the 21st century as a driver for social change.
The aim of this module is to introduce and review principles of coaching and leadership. A large component of this module is devoted to work based learning, delivered in the form of practical sessions. Students will therefore be required to demonstrate knowledge and understandings related to underpinning principles and apply them to the coaching context.
This module builds upon the knowledge and skills developed in the level 4 Research and Academic Skills module. The module is designed to prepare students for their dissertation at level 6. Students will conduct a systematic literature review in a topic area related to their degree, in order to develop a coherent research question.
Particular emphasis will be given to developing a robust rationale for the research question proposed based on a critical review of existing literature. Furthermore, students will propose a research methodology based on the rationale developed.
The overall focus of the module is on the process of “doing research”, and this will reflect in the delivery methods used. As such, students will be encouraged to explore the suitability different methodologies with respect to the research question asked. There will be the opportunity within sessions for students to critically review literature, and peer review research proposals. In addition to developing a research rationale and design for a proposed research project, students will undertake a range of in-class assessed qualitative and quantitative data analysis tasks using SPSS, including inferential statistics.
The Steps-to-Success programme will be implemented in this module, in conjunction with the employability and careers office, The focus will be placed on graduate schemes, teacher training, networking, job applications and masters programmes. Students will be required to engage with the Professional Development Planning (PDP) for Sport and Exercise programme by collating hours in a Sport and Exercise based placement in addition to participation in associated activities in an area related to sport.
Module learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Develop a coherent research question based on a review of the associated academic literature
Provide a robust rationale for the research question proposed based on academic literature
Develop a suitable research methodology for the proposed research question
Analyse and interpret quantitative and qualitative data gathered from a range of research methods used in sport and exercise
Demonstrate evidence of Professional Development through engagement with PDP and Sport and Exercise placement
Module content
The module will focus on the following topic areas:
Research proposal writing
Literature (critical) review
Research question rational
Research methodology (quantitative and qualitative)
This module introduces technique analysis and the focuses on the scientific principles which underpin this process. The module will develop student’s understanding of the collection and evaluation of technique analysis data and explore dissemination methods that are representative of real world practice.
To enhance student understanding of the appropriate use of contemporary technologies in sports analysis the module will also focus on the use of field-based methods of time-motion analysis (TMA) and mobile applications.. The module will also examine measurement issues associated with these technologies and the applied nature of this module will provide an opportunity for students to enhance their practical skills.
The aim of this module is to develop knowledge of the process of entrepreneurship and the environment in which the process takes place when developing a small business. It will also enable the student to assess the skills required to make an informed decision when developing their own ventures. Or alternatively, to be more entrepreneurial within existing organisations or as a partner of another organisation. It will also enable them to reflect on the journey within the context of personal development.
This module will focus on the practical application of sport development interventions to improve and enhance community development around aspects such as increasing participation, improving social inclusion, disability participation and health. Students will gain an understanding of how sport can be used as vehicle to address wider issues within the community.
Attention will be paid to how current government agenda affects the delivery of sport at a local, community level and how this affects the design and implementation of a sport development intervention. Students will gain an understanding of how to write and submit a funding bid to gain financial resources for the delivery of a proposed project. As part of the PDP provision, students will also have the opportunity to engage in professional development through applied projects with local sporting organisations and clubs.
This module will focus on developing the student’s understanding of concepts and issues related to models of athlete development with particular attention paid to the notions of ‘long-term athlete development’ and ‘physical literacy’.
Students will gain insight into the social, psychological and physical development of young children and adolescents and how sport development interventions are tailored towards the individual participant in both a participation environment. In addition to the theory covered, students will gain experience in applying the related theory into practical sport development sessions throughout the semester that are designed to meet the needs of young children and adolescents to promote lifelong participation. Focus will be given to the delivery of physical education and sport in youth sport settings in a participation in environment.
The module is designed to give students an understanding of the concepts and practice of training and fitness. It will develop their awareness of training principles, the need for analysis of fitness requirements for specific sports, and the evaluation of sports performance. As part of the PDP provision, students will have the option to work with individual athletes in a “real-world” context.
This module provides a framework for the development of “lifelong learning” skills appropriate to all areas of professional practice; including objective setting, planning, negotiating, implementing, demonstrating and reflecting. The emphasis in this module is on the analysis and evaluation of the work completed within the organisation. This module also gives students an opportunity to relate their academic knowledge to the work environment.
Students need to be aware of the commercial realities and external factors that influence the success of an organisation. This module provides opportunities for students to acquire an understanding of contemporary issues that may impact on industrial and professional practices relevant to a career within their chosen discipline.
During this period of work experience, students can gain a deeper appreciation of the responsibilities arising from both corporate and individual responses to such issues, thus enabling them to relate to the wider world when exploring a personal direction for potential career development.
Contemporary Issues in Sport Management and Development
This module’s aim is to provide students with a critical understanding of contemporary issues, and address current and topical issues, associated with the sports management and sport development sectors, whilst establishing strong links between theory and practice. Its main purpose is to enable students to reflect and appraise the sports management and development industry, in relation to their principles and practices.
The independent studies module provides students with the opportunity to reflect and build upon their subject knowledge and expertise by conducting an in-depth investigation; requiring a systematic and significant application of both acquired research skills and understanding.
The investigation may adopt a variety of frameworks, typically dependent upon a combination of both the discipline and topic in question. The rationale being to avoid limiting the students to the traditional empirical research format; instead empowering them to select an investigatory design that is best suited to the conduct, completion and presentation of the study in focus e.g. an industry report or an individually focused / institutionally targeted case study etc.
Irrespective of the study framework, all work requires students to apply critical scrutiny and analysis to a diversity of appropriate theories, concepts and procedures. Such work will inevitably relate to a field of study deemed appropriate by a specialist in the area. The module offers the opportunity to develop an in-depth critical understanding alongside the refinement of both their subject and research skills.
Students will develop their understanding of kinesiology and its importance in the context of coaching practice and skilled movement. Students will be provided the opportunity to appreciate and evaluate the elemental and pervasive role that human movement plays in athletic function, development and performance enhancement.
The module aims to develop the student’s ability to consider human movement principles, exploring the essence and purpose of movement through both qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis. Furthermore students will be exposed to a critical and experiential consideration of the techniques and practices coaches have at their disposal; in addition to the multi-disciplinary approaches and influences that can enhance and manipulate movement characteristics of athletes.
This module builds and implements knowledge and skills acquired in Coaching and Skill Acquisition, Principles and Practice of Training and Sport Performance Analysis.
The module is designed to give students an understanding of the concepts and practice in elite sports development. It will give students an awareness of what is increasingly becoming a significantly specialist branch of sports development.
It considers the way in which elite sports systems require a specifically focused developmental approach that often required the involvement and alignment of a number of key stakeholders in the development process. The module will investigate whether high performance sport is still a natural extension or culmination of the sports development curriculum, which specialist requirements this aspect of sport commonly has and what the role of the coach is within this development structure.
The module will introduce elite sports development as a concept and look at examples in the United Kingdom. The module will look at the social impact on the development of these development programs and analyse the efficacy of a number of programs International elite sports development will also be analyse and comparisons drawn to development programmes in the UK. The module will also look at the driving factors around the development of elite sports development programs and trends related to government intervention.
This module will provide students with an opportunity to develop themselves as practitioners progressing their coaching, teaching and communication skills. In particular students will focus upon their ability to apply pedagogical theory to the planning and delivery of practical coaching sessions with disabled performers; whilst also furthering their commitment to and engagement in the process of reflective practice.
Rather than coach their peers, students will work in groups to plan, deliver and evaluate a number of coaching sessions with participants who exhibit a range of learning, sensory and physical disabilities. The planning, delivery and content of the coaching sessions will be informed by a variety of physical, psychological and sociological theories, concepts and evidence. As part of the PDP provision, students will have the opportunity to engage in the practical delivery of coaching sessions to disability learners.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Open Days
Register your interest for a future Open Day and we'll be in touch as soon as we are able to welcome you on campus.
You'll learn through a combination of lectures, interactive tutorials, seminars, and workshops. There will be a significant amount of practical teaching and learning experiences throughout the course, enabling students to develop their practical skills and application of theory to practice. Students will be encouraged to work individually and as part of a group to gain skills relevant to the world of coaching and sport development employment.
Assessment
Assessments will include a combination of theoretical and practical assignments, such as individual written reports, individual and group presentations, and individual and group practical coaching assessments. This variety will enable learning and assess necessary skills required for future employment. Although there are some exams, a large proportion of the assessment includes of presentations and written assignment. This form of assessment will prepare you for the real word in which you will be required to write reports and present the findings in both a coaching and sports development career.
Personal academic tutoring
Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.
GCSE Maths and English are preferred, however if you don't have these qualifications you will be able to undertake Maths and English at L2 as part of your course of study.
IELTS
6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area)
Interview / Audition
N/A
Portfolio
N/A
Alternative entry qualifications:
BTEC - MPP
Pass Access to HE Diploma 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 and 15 at Level 2.
We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.
Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.
Fees and funding
2020/21 Fees
Full-time
Part-time
UK/EU
£9,250 per year*
N/A
International
£14,045 per year
N/A
* The fees stated above are for the 2019/20 academic year; fees for 2020/21 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. We will update this information as soon as it is available.
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.
Understanding the theory behind coaching and performance and applying this to real-world situations will enable you to graduate as a confident and independent development coach. As a graduate you will be equipped to start careers within sport coaching both nationally and itnernationally, sport management, talent identification and health promotion.
For entreprenuerial minded students, the module on small business planning will give you basic knowledge around bid writing, marketing and strategic planning to support you in venturing into sport coaching or business alone.
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Additional costs and optional extras
We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
Included in your fees
To welcome you to our team, you’ll receive a University of Derby, Sport and Exercise Science t-shirt
If a DBS check is needed for the purposes of a module or programme related work placement, this is included in your fee if done via the University
We will contribute to or pay the full cost of additional qualifications which are arranged by us. For other additional qualifications you’re interested in, we may contribute to or fund these but this is at the Sport department’s discretion
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
Two bound copies of Independent Study (dissertation) - approximate cost is £12
Travel to placements - cost varies depending on your placement venue of choice
Optional costs not included in your fees
You may wish to purchase optional textbooks or e-books to support your studies - costs for these are dependent on your choice
To support your studies, you may want to invest in additional qualifications such as pitch-side first aid and safeguarding - costs will vary depending on your choice
Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
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