Physical Education and Sport BA (Hons)

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The University of Northampton’s degree in Physical Education and Sport BA degree explores the ways that sport, physical education and physical activity are organised across schools and local communities. During this Sport Education course, you are encouraged to think critically about current and historical practice in sport and physical education and reflect on your own experiences. A strong emphasis is placed on the application of theory to understanding real-world issues such as barriers to participation, performance pathways, coaching and teaching practice and government influence on sport. You will use this understanding in completing your assignments, these can take the form of essays, presentations, practical assessments, and posters.

This Physical Education degree allows you to study key disciplines within sport and physical education such as pedagogy, inclusive practice and physical development. It also includes an opportunity to undertake a work placement at a local sport or physical education provider. We have lots of partnerships with our local schools and large sporting organisations such as Northampton Saints, Northampton Swim Club, Northamptonshire Sport and Northampton Town Football Club.

On this PE degree, we offer a range of enrichment opportunities that will allow you to develop your skills, knowledge and understanding ready for graduating. These change regularly but in the past have included, coaching qualifications, volunteering, first aid, outdoor and adventurous activities, and student ambassador work.

Ranked 2nd in the UK for Sport & Exercise Sciences in the National Student Survey 2024*

*Calculations are based on Office for Students (OfS) data from the average positivity score across all NSS questions for this subject area across all modes and levels at UK Universities

21st for Satisfied with Teaching for Education –The Guardian University Guide 2025 (Education League Table)

Entry Requirements

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• You will be required to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check on admission in order to go out on work placement, which is a mandatory part of the Sports Education course.

• Admission to this foundation physical sport course is normally:

  • DEE at A Level or,
  • MPP at BTEC/Cambridge Technical or,
  • Pass (D or E) at T Level

  We welcome applications from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications.

  However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course you wish to study.