Psychology of Sport, Exercise and Physical Activity Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

Why do some athletes thrive under pressure while others struggle? What motivates people to start exercising and maintain healthy habits? How can psychology be used to enhance performance, support wellbeing, and encourage positive behaviour change?

This degree explores the fascinating relationships between the psychological factors affecting sport, exercise, and physical activity. Combining psychological theories with contemporary sport and exercise science, the course helps you understand how thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and social influences affect performance, participation and wellbeing.

You'll study all of the core areas of psychology required for BPS professional accreditation while also developing specialist knowledge of sport and exercise psychology. Through this combination, you'll gain a broad understanding of human behaviour alongside insight into the psychological factors that influence sport performance, physical activity and health-related behaviour.

The course explores topics such as motivation, confidence, wellbeing, behaviour change, learning, performance enhancement and approaches to support participation in physical activity across the lifespan. You'll examine how psychological principles can be applied across a variety of settings, from competitive sport and coaching environments to community health and wellbeing initiatives.

You'll investigate how psychology can help individuals adopt, maintain, and enjoy physical activity throughout their lives. Our course has also been commended by the BPS for the real-world assessment range and the support we provide students in their academic journeys.

You'll develop skills in research design, data analysis and critical evaluation, culminating in an empirical research project that allows you to investigate an area of interest in greater depth.

This British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited course, provides an important foundation for students wishing to pursue professional psychology pathways following graduation.

By graduation, you'll have developed a strong understanding of psychological science, alongside specialist expertise in sport and exercise contexts, preparing you for careers and further study across sport, health, wellbeing, coaching, physical activity promotion, and psychology-related fields.

By studying at the University of Northampton, you can be sure that:

At UON, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027\*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost\*\*, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day.

Northampton Employability Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ \
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and t&cs apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits