Sport Coaching and Sport Development (Top-Up)

This course is delivered by a highly motivated and well-qualified team of academics and practitioners who will support you in developing a critical understanding of key areas in sport coaching and sports development. You will learn about the fitness aspects of coaching and personal training along with social and contemporary aspects of sport from a UK and global perspective. Additionally, there is an exploration of the issues surrounding physical education is schools today which is especially useful for prospective teachers or coaches working in a school setting.

Led by our team of experienced educators you’ll develop your practical and theoretical competencies in both field and academic settings. This will help you to critically understand and operate within the sport industry setting.

A key aspect of the course is a one-day per week placement, where you’ll develop your skills through real life experience. Your placement will be highly valued by employers.

We have a wide range of placement partnerships in place, typically in the sports development, sports coaching, PE teaching and leisure club sectors. You’ll have the flexibility to make your own placement host arrangements, depending on your needs.

Throughout the course you will be developing a self-selected piece or work where you will either pursue an area of research of interest to yourself or develop a product that you have identified as needed within the sport industry. For most students this is the highlight of their educational achievements.

You’ll need to undertake a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) screening -formerly CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check - before going on placement.

From your first day to your graduation day and beyond, University of Staffordshire will help you build your future career.

Recently named University of the Year (Academic Employability Awards 2026, Graduate Futures Institute), employability is embedded across the student experience.You’ll be involved in real-world projects and activities that develop your professional practice. You’ll also make connections that open doors through employer partnerships and industry mentoring opportunities.

Expect lots of hands-on learning too. You can travel from crime scene to courtroom in simulation spaces – and bring topics to life with AI and VR-powered technology.

You’ll also get personalised support, with your own academic mentor. Staffordshire prides itself on offering an inclusive, welcoming environment. With more than 70 clubs and societies, and a brand new Student Village, there’s a community waiting for you. Click Call University to secure your place at University of Staffordshire today.