Sports and Exercise Therapy BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Undergraduate

Student putting plasters on another students thigh

On our Society of Sports Therapists accredited course, we aim to create independent practitioners grounded in musculoskeletal therapy, exercise physiology, treatment, and rehabilitation knowledge with an emphasis on performance underpinned by sports science principles.

Course option

Degree with foundation year

Year of entry

2025-26 2026-27

Location

CU Coventry (Coventry) and
Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years full-time
5 years sandwich

UCAS codes

BCDF

Start date

September 2025
November 2025

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

Course overview

Our degree with foundation year could be the stepping stone you need to achieve your goals. The foundation year aims to prepare you for degree-level study and is a great way to build the confidence, skills and knowledge needed to succeed on your degree course.

Foundation year

The foundation year course offers an introduction to your chosen subject and helps you develop the necessary skills for degree-level study. In addition, you will also explore key skills such as research methods, scientific fundamentals and promotion techniques.

Degree

The design of our accredited degree develops you into an independent practitioner set for the healthcare, sporting, and practice-based environments.

You will learn how to manage a range of clients from the young to the elderly, from the sedentary, to the elite independent and team-based sporting populations.

You will be guided and supported in your studies by expert academic practitioners who continue to work clinically within the discipline, alongside active research involvement. This ensures you will have access to a wide range of professional networks and links throughout the industry.
You will benefit from outstanding facilities and the opportunities to work at local, national and international events with elite and community-based sports people (subject to availability).
On graduation, you will be 'practice ready' and able to start your career as a Sports and Exercise Therapist working in sporting, healthcare or community settings.

Rated Gold Overall

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2025

Why you should study this course

Foundation year

Supports you to gain the academic skills required for degree-level study.
Provides a grounding in key areas of biosciences.

Degree

You will get the opportunity to study in the multi-million-pound Alison Gingell building with specialist sports therapy suite, physiology and biomechanics laboratories and industry-standard equipment⁴.
You will explore the structure and function of the human body and how to employ a variety of therapy techniques including massage, soft tissue manipulation and exercise programmes. This will be expanded to include joint mobilisation techniques and management of acute emergency situations. In addition, you will have the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills in the application of scientific disciplines such as psychology and nutrition to your clients.
Your dedicated lecturers continue to work with international, national and local athletes as well as within successful private practices, and look to support and develop you into the next generation of Sports and Exercise Therapists (staff subject to change).
Our students have provided support at the World and British Transplant Games and have worked with a variety of elite sports teams including Wasps RFC, Coventry City Football Club, and Coventry Blaze Ice Hockey Team.

Accreditation and professional recognition

The Society of Sports Therapists

On successful completion, you should be eligible for full membership of The Society of Sports Therapists (SST) (additional costs, SST requirements and a minimum of 200 clinical experience hours apply) allowing you to be able to practice as a Sports Therapist in a wide variety of settings.

Coventry University welcomes Birmingham City Women FC

The squad of 24 players visited the university’s Alison Gingell building for midseason strength testing.

Find out more

Someone sat in a chair to test their strenght with a staff member helping beside the equipment

The practical elements of the course are really helpful – how hands-on the course is. The amount of contact hours and support here is really good.
Matt Searles, Sport and Exercise Therapy BSc (Hons) graduate, 2021

A student treating a student on a hospital bed with another student looking on.

What you'll study

Modules studied in year one aim to provide the scientific knowledge underpinning therapeutic techniques. This includes understanding human anatomy and the involvement of complex structures in understanding the body’s movement. You will cover the science of exercise through our bespoke biomechanics and strength and conditioning modules as we develop your understanding of their applications within the rehabilitation pathway.

Modules

Professional Skills in Sports and Exercise Therapy - 20 credits

The module aims to develop the study skills required to promote an evidence-based approach to therapy practice. A focus will be placed on developing a range of written, verbal and digital platform skills to enable communication to scientific and non-scientific audiences. You will explore scientific method, research design and how to manage, explore, analyse and interpret different types of information. In addition, the ability to manage your own time effectively in order to balance life, work and university demands will be developed in this module.

Compulsory

Soft Tissue Therapy - 20 credits

The aim of this module is for you to develop your practical skills and knowledge in the application of soft tissue therapy. You will be taught a range of soft tissue techniques, utilising your understanding of anatomy and movement to increase the range of movement and extensibility of a muscle. Through this module, you will develop your theoretical knowledge of soft tissue technique concepts and integrate them into practical treatments on a participant.

Compulsory

Foundations of Anatomy - 20 credits

Good anatomical knowledge is essential in effective management of sports injuries and therefore this module provides the foundation of the Sports and Exercise Therapy BSc (Hons) course. This module will challenge students to observe, describe and locate anatomical landmarks, be able to assess and test muscle function, develop your palpation and handling skills essential for professional practice. This module integrates the understanding of applied anatomy linking the theoretical knowledge of anatomy to the analysis of human function.

Compulsory

Biomechanics for Sports and Exercise Therapists - 20 credits

The aim of this module is for Sports and Exercise Therapy students to understand the form and function of biological tissues and their relation to human movement. You will develop a knowledge base of the underpinning principles regarding fundamental biomechanical principles and tissue form and function. Through the module, you will learn to assess movement patterns, understand the principles that increase potential risk of injury, and be able to relate this to common themes within a sporting context and within the general public.

Compulsory

Principles of Strength and Conditioning - 20 credits

The aim of this module is for Sports and Exercise Therapy students to develop their understanding of the fundamentals of exercise science. You will obtain an appreciation for the fundamental physiological concepts that are essential for everyday activities as well as in sport. You will learn how to undertake a series of scientific labs and practical workshops which aim to put theory from the lectures into practice. This module sets the foundation for being able to test and evaluate key physiological measures whereby in the second year you will then be able to apply interventions targeted to improve these systems.

Compulsory

Functional Anatomy and Injuries - 20 credits

The aim of this module is for you to be able to assess clients who present with mechanical problems. This module builds upon the foundations of Anatomy modules in semester 1 where you will learn various skills and techniques that can be applied when assessing injuries and dysfunctional patterns. This module develops knowledge of anatomical structures and orthopaedic assessments to carry forward when considering areas such as injury management, rehabilitation protocols and return to full function criteria further in the course.

Compulsory

In year two you will have the opportunity (under supervision) to utilise your skills in the on-site massage clinic, open to the public, and will be taught joint manipulation techniques. You will be taught how to assess and manage injury, and how to employ rehabilitation programmes. In addition, exercise physiology is taught, which is focused on sporting performance and how Sports and Exercise Therapists can support and enhance athletic function. Preparation for the final year project begins with a focus on designing and analysing research investigations.

Modules

Functional Rehabilitation - 20 credits

The aim of this module is for you to develop and deliver appropriate and comprehensive rehabilitation programmes to a variety of client groups; with consideration of various factors such as age, gender and general health. The module will involve you integrating therapeutic exercise interventions for clients with dysfunctional movement patterns using examples from real life situations.

Compulsory

Trauma Management - 20 credits

The aim of this module is to enable you to recognise and develop your skills needed to be able deal with a trauma situation whether in sport or other situations. Theoretical components will be taught alongside practical application to allow a deeper understanding within a case study environment. All skills will be underpinned by the awareness of the pathophysiological processes, and signs and symptoms of common conditions associated with sport and exercise. On completion of this module you should be able to create and conduct a thorough risk assessment with an emergency action plan (EAP) in a variety of uncontrolled settings.

Compulsory

Manual Therapy - 20 credits

This module aims to explore manual therapy and the application for use as a Sports and Exercise Therapist. Throughout the module, you will explore and evaluate various manual therapy techniques that can be applied to the central body and peripheral limbs. You will then be able to undertake clinical assessments with clinical reasoning then apply appropriate manual therapy interventions to target the cause of the presentation.

Compulsory

Applied Rehabilitation of a Client - 0 credits

This assessment-only module brings together the taught elements from the Functional Rehabilitation module and the Manual Therapy module. Here you will integrate your knowledge and skills to assess and apply a range of appropriate techniques to address the clinical presentation.

Compulsory

Performance Rehabilitation and Conditioning - 20 credits

The ability to progress an athlete's rehabilitation program for successful reintroduction back into sport is an important attribute for a Sports and Exercise Therapist. Therefore, this module aims to explore a range of athletes from a variety of sporting populations and competitive levels, challenging you to devise and undertake progressive rehabilitation strategies with the aim of reintroducing the athletes back into sport. Throughout this module, you will consider the role of a Sports and Exercise Therapist and how they are required to work alongside other professionals, covering a range of topics that influence success of the athlete’s return to performance.

Compulsory

Research in Sports and Exercise Therapy - 20 credits

This module aims to enhance analytical skills allowing you to develop a deeper understanding of research skills related to Sports and Exercise Therapy. You will explore qualitative and quantitative approaches to research with focus on critical analysis leading to problem solving and discovery. These skills will enable you to construct appropriate research design to explore novel insights in the field of sports and exercise therapy. Furthermore, the application of scientific and non-scientific communication will be developed supporting you in the dissemination of research.

Compulsory

Clinical Preparation - 20 credits

Working within a clinical setting is a fundamental requirement of being a Sports and Exercise Therapist. This module will prepare you for being an effective clinical therapist through developing your knowledge and understanding of the roles and responsibilities of working within a clinic. The module will expose you to a wide range of clinical topics and populations, where you will critically evaluate a range of treatment modalities and develop your proficiency in their application. This module's aim is to prepare you to work effectively within the third year Sports and Exercise Therapy clinics and document your clinical experience hours towards gaining accreditation under the Society of Sports Therapists.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement² can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Modules

UK Work Placement - 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement - 0 credits

This module<sup>2</sup> provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

In the final year, you will help to run the university’s Sports Therapy Clinic under the supervision of staff. You will also have the option of sourcing your own placement² at an external clinic with the approval of course leads. Over the year, you will build a portfolio of evidence of clinical competency to fulfil post-graduation requirements for registration with the SST*.
You will learn the importance of screening and profiling in order to enhance your rehabilitation strategy with consideration for nutritional and psychological aspects of their needs. You will have the chance to design and undertake a research project.

*Please see the accreditation and professional recognition section and the SST website for further information on requirements.

Modules

Clinical Practice - 20 credits

The aim of this module is to introduce you to working within a professional clinical environment where you will be able to manage your time and organise the clinic effectively². As a Sports and Exercise Therapy student you will be exposed to the concepts of clinical reasoning and evidence-informed practice when assessing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders. You will develop your clinical skills through practical experiences with clients supported by tutors within the clinical environment. You will also experience taking on the role of a clinic manager, where you will apply your communication skills, organisational skills, timekeeping, record keeping and leadership skills.

Compulsory

Project Development - 20 credits

The knowledge and understanding of the scientific research process developed in the second year of study will be applied by you to create a research question within a chosen topic area. An independent research study will then be designed and communicated in the form of a critical literature appraisal and portfolio. This assessment will showcase, amongst other things, your ability to seek and identify relevant information, develop research question(s) and make evidence-based informed judgments. These are all key graduate level skills desired by employers as they are often representative of an individual’s ability to perform work-based tasks such as write reports, develop business cases and conduct audits. In addition, this module provides the opportunity for you to evaluate and practice specific practical skills and methods relevant to your proposed research. You will also gain valuable experience in exploring ethical and health and safety issues, including completing appropriate documentation, surrounding your proposed research. The module provides an opportunity for you to develop skills and behaviours that foster graduate attributes such as valuing difference, agile/adaptable thinkers, collaborative communicators, motivated contributors and socially mindful.

Compulsory

Screening and Profiling - 20 credits

The aim of this module is for you to be able to identify and reason how and why sport injures may occur and what can be done to reduce the risk of injury. This module will introduce you to the concepts and models of injury causation and the analysis of an athlete's needs based on research literature around epidemiology. You will practically explore and critically evaluate the benefits of screening and profiling tests and develop an ability to devise an injury risk management strategy for an athlete.

Compulsory

Clinical Experience - 20 credits

This module has the aim of evolving you into becoming an independent Sports and Exercise Therapy practitioner. Your clinic experience will continue working actively with supervisors; however, a greater emphasis will be placed on developing your clinical reasoning and interpretation as well as individualised intervention plans for each client. Over the semester, you will work both independently as well as learn to take a leading role within your clinical team. Clinical sessions will provide the opportunity for you to gain the experience in identifying causes, risk reduction, diagnosis, investigation and management of the common injuries and dysfunctions that arise as a result of daily activities and through sport and exercise. Student learning for this module will also be supported by external placement opportunities that allow you to obtain the minimum of 200 clinical experience hours to gain accreditation for the Society of Sports Therapists (SST)².

Compulsory

Independent Research Project - 20 credits

Within this module, you conduct, analyse, interpret and communicate, via a scientific research paper and oral presentation, a scientific investigation in a specialised area of sport and/or exercise. You are expected to demonstrate an ability to work independently and show high levels of organisational skills throughout all phases of your work. Once analysed, data must be presented and critically evaluated in light of the current literature. In addition, you will reflect critically on day-to-day experiences of conducting research. You are expected to behave professionally when interacting with research participants, students and module staff at all times. The module provides an opportunity for you to develop skills and behaviours that foster graduate attributes such as valuing difference, agile/adaptable thinkers, collaborative communicators, motivated contributors and socially mindful.

Compulsory

Effective Multidisciplinary Practices - 20 credits

The aim of this module is to allow you to critically evaluate and develop solutions to complex, inter-related, multi-faceted issues that may be encountered when working to return an individual back to full capacity. This module will develop your appreciation of the biopsychosocial consideration of working with clients alongside the demands placed upon them when progressing to return through rehabilitation. You will gain a greater insight into the role of a Sports and Exercise Therapist in returning individuals to full fitness, and further develop your understanding of the multidisciplinary approach to facilitate an appreciation of all aspects of rehabilitation and return to play. The module will engage you in a wide range of debates and problem-solving exercise(s) using examples from real-life issues.

Compulsory

The foundation year offers an introduction to your chosen subject and supports you to develop the skills required for degree-level study.

Modules

Introduction to Health and Disease - 30 credits

This module introduces how ill health and diseases develop and their effects on cellular systems, organs, organ systems and homeostatic control mechanisms at a chemical/molecular level.

As well as exploring the relationship between pathophysiological changes to the structure and function of body systems and the most common causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence, you will also consider the inter-relationships between specific health issues and how they impact on homeostatic control, and therefore cause key signs and symptoms.

We will also cover epidemiology, risk factors and preventative strategies. Emphasis is placed on understanding the key pathophysiological changes that accompany a particular health issue or disease, and on the physiological and biochemical basis of current and possible future therapies.

Compulsory

Foundation of Anatomy and Physiology - 30 credits

Here, we focus on physiological systems in the human body and how these systems interact to create a steady state (homeostasis). An introduction into the basic anatomical structures of the main biological systems in the human body is explored, while observing the function and purpose of these systems and how they help to regulate homeostasis.

Compulsory

Introduction to Cell Biology - 30 credits

This module is designed to provide you with the cell biology knowledge and skills required for a successful transition to year one study in bioscience disciplines. The material covered is at a level corresponding to pre-university qualifications such as A levels in the UK. The module provides a foundation of knowledge in cell biology, and there is a strong emphasis on the application of the subject in bioscience contexts.

You will examine the facts, principles and concepts of cell biology such as the key molecular components of cells and organelles, as well as their function, and genetics. You will progress to developing the skills required to use this knowledge and will also learn to understand scientific methods, advances in technology relevant to cell biology and their effects on society.

You will also bring together knowledge and understanding of how different areas of cell biology relate to each other and other areas of bioscience.

Compulsory

Foundation of Chemistry - 30 credits

Foundation of Chemistry aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills of chemistry to progress to degree-level study. The material corresponds to A level qualifications in the UK.

The module provides a foundation of knowledge and understanding of the main branches of chemistry. You will be introduced to the major aspects of chemical terminology, as well as a range of organic and inorganic materials, and physical chemistry. You should also develop an understanding of scientific methods, and the link between theory and practical experiments, as there is a strong emphasis on the practical application of the subject, in the context of biosciences.

You will bring together knowledge of how different areas of chemistry relate to each other and other areas of bioscience, and the use of chemistry in society.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

We have lots of practical sessions, a lovely sports injury clinic and my lecturers not only help in the teaching setting but also with my own injuries.
Urszula Dabrowska, Sports and Exercise Therapy BSc (Hons) current student, 2021

Female student strapping another students ankle

How you'll learn

To guide you through your learning journey your lecturers will utilise a range of teaching and learning techniques to enhance your path to becoming an independent practitioner.

The foundation year is focused on applied learning through a blend of lectures, tutorials and online learning. There are no end-of-year exams.

The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 20 credit module requires a total of 200 hours study. This is made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours:

Teaching hours vary each semester, year of study and due to module selection. During your first year you can expect 15-18 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend optional sessions including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study:

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learnt and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning:

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

The foundation year will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module and may include:

essays
group work
presentations
reports
projects
coursework.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

In the first year where you ground yourself in subject theory, interactive lead lectures enable you to participate in the learning journey supported by asynchronous tasks enabling you to undertake further learning in your own time. As our course is practical in nature, we introduce practical sessions from day one combining demonstration techniques and content focused tasks. Through these practical sessions, you develop your soft skills that enhance your information gathering ability, and apply your treatment techniques working individually through working in pairs and as part of a group of students.

Through the massage clinic and sports therapy clinic your educators adopt a more learner-centred approach to your teaching that encourages participative methods including discussions and case studies where peer to peer learning and problem solving is undertaken.

Sports therapists need to be able to see and assess the patient's body in order to provide effective treatment. Therefore, in order to study sports therapy, you may need to remove some clothing in some cases (i.e., when acting as the client). However, it is important to note that modesty and privacy are prioritised throughout using towels as screens and covers.

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours:

Guided and independent study:

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learned and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning:

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. The assessment methods may include:

formal examinations
essays
group work
presentations
reports
projects
coursework
individual assignments.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

International experience opportunities

Our sandwich degree option allows a full-year work placement, which can be taken abroad, or you can undertake a study-year abroad². Past students in our college have been successful in securing places in Spain, France, Canada and the US. The Society of Sports Therapists (SST) also runs a travelling scholarship scheme for student members, which enables successful applicants to work abroad in various clinics or educational establishments. (Subject to additional costs. For further requirements and eligibility please visit the SST website.)

We also try to ensure there is an international perspective to course content and have previously visited the World Transplant Games in Argentina and participated in collaborative online international learning (COIL) projects with places such as Hong Kong.

Please note that all international experience opportunities may be subject to additional costs, competitive application, availability, and meeting applicable visa and travel requirements, and are therefore not guaranteed².

You can go straight from uni and be successful in work. It is a competitive environment but if you work hard, are dedicated and passionate, it can be done.
Matt Searles, Sport and Exercise Therapy BSc (Hons) graduate, 2021

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

64 UCAS tariff points. All foundation courses require GCSE maths and English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards, and at least one A2 level or a BTEC equivalent qualification.

Additional information

The course will include working with children and vulnerable adults. You will be asked to declare any convictions on your application. Having a criminal conviction may not exclude you from joining the course but we may not be able to facilitate placements for applicants who have convictions for violent offences or offences against children or vulnerable adults. A criminal conviction may also mean that full professional membership to The SST is not possible. Guidance on Criminal Convictions and DBS Processes 1 If you have any concerns regarding a criminal record, please contact the course leader before applying for the course.

Other qualifications and experience

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team who will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.

Contextual offers and Fair Access Scheme

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme, you could automatically receive a contextual offer that may be up to 24 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme.

Got higher grades? Have you considered direct entry to the degree without foundation year?

Fees and funding

Foundation year

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£9,535	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

Degree

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£9,535 per year	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2027/28 will pay £1,500 if they are paying UK fees, or £1,800 if they are paying international fees.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2027/28. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

Applies to degree only:

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

Foundation year funding

In order to receive funding for degree with foundation year courses, you will need to complete a four-year degree programme which includes the integrated foundation year, otherwise you may be responsible for your foundation year fees. For further information, please refer to the 'Tuition Fee Loan' details in the 'Funding your undergraduate course' section of our 'Fees and finance' page.

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathways Programme for additional options.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Our foundation years are taught at CU Coventry’s Mile Lane building, a short walk from the city centre. You’re part of the university from day one, so during your foundation year you’ll have access to the wider facilities at Coventry University. Once you successfully complete your foundation year, you'll transfer over to studying your chosen degree at Coventry University, where you'll be taught on campus in the relevant academic buildings.

Located on our Mile Lane campus, you will have access to our Library and Learning Services (LLS), fully equipped seminar rooms and IT suites⁴. You can also take advantage of reading rights in Coventry University’s Lanchester Library, make use of sport centre facilities and receive full membership to Your Students' Union.

Two students walking outside with the CU Coventry building behind them.

Mile Lane

The campus is home to an on-site library with bookable one-to-one academic writing service and library support sessions, fully equipped seminar rooms, open-access study areas, a café and an IT suite. Our labs contain industry-standard equipment so that you learn using the same equipment as many industry professionals.

The Hub

At The Hub you'll find the Health and Wellbeing Centre, the Students’ Union and Square One (which provides entertainment from quiz nights to live music), the Spirituality and Faith Centre, Tank Studio, Careers Office and a fantastic food court.

Lanchester Library

Coventry University’s Lanchester Library is usually open 24/7 in term-time, and has 1,400 study spaces, including group and silent areas. It also currently offers more than 550 computers and an additional 120 free-to-loan laptops.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

The degree is delivered at Coventry University main campus, primarily in the Alison Gingell building⁴.

You will benefit from the outstanding facilities for sport and exercise sciences in the purpose-built Alison Gingell building, including sports and exercise therapy clinic, extensive sport and exercise science laboratories, gait analysis track and 3D motion capture software.

Two male students checking a female students arm

Sports Therapy Clinic

The Sports Therapy Clinic is run by final year Sports Therapy students under the supervision of qualified staff with second year students providing a supervised massage clinic twice a week.

female running on a treadmill with a mask wired up to a machine

Strength and Conditioning Suite

Our multi-purpose suite is equipped with multiple Olympic lifting platforms, a 20m gait analysis track, an anti-gravity treadmill and a 3D motion capture system.

Careers and opportunities

Accreditation from the Society of Sports Therapists means that on graduation you will be qualified to work as a sports therapist with professional teams, clubs or private clinics. Alternatively, you can access appropriate additional training to support professional football and rugby (additional costs, competitive application, availability and meeting any applicable visa requirements may apply).

The course includes a substantial amount of sport science, which can allow you the opportunity to move into other career options upon graduation, such as management or service delivery in sport and leisure centres. If you are more interested in the medical and health applications of exercise science, you could go on to work within cardiac and other rehabilitation teams within the NHS, or with local councils within sports development or exercise for health schemes.

Past graduates from this course have gone on to work at high levels of professional and semi-professional sports such as football, rugby and transplant sport. Other graduates have gone on to lead successful careers within private practice, both owning and working within a range of therapy clinics nationwide and internationally.

A proportion of past graduates have also utilised their skills within the NHS in rehabilitation departments.

Graduates have also continued with postgraduate study on courses, including our:

Where our graduates work

Graduates have also gone to work as clinicians with practices such as Swan Physio Ltd, Body Logic Health, and as sports therapists for teams such as Wasps, Watford FC and Aston Villa FC, Nottingham Forest FC, Kidderminster FC, Peterborough United FC, Coventry United Ladies FC, QPR FC.

Further study

We have a range of postgraduate courses that graduates would be well prepared to progress onto, enabling them to gain specialist skills relating to development of teaching, sporting potential or lifelong physical activity. Our PGCE courses allow entry to teaching careers and our more specialist MSc programmes in sport provide opportunities for graduates to develop skills in a more specific area of study.

You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

The opportunities which were offered to us throughout the course were amazing. We had the opportunity to work in two onsite clinics throughout the second and third year, to cover pitch side first aid at different sporting events, the chance to volunteer at the Coventry Marathon, international trips and a choice to do a placement year in which I managed to get a year-long internship at WASPS RFC. Having these opportunities at Coventry University gave me the chance to develop further and gave me the confidence to become the best Sports Therapist I could be.
Poppy Headland, Sports and Exercise Therapy BSc (Hons) graduate, 2021

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Two students sat at a desk working on a laptop

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Phoenix+ brings you together with other students to learn, experience and develop essential knowledge and skills. Whatever destination you choose, it's about preparing you for life after university.

Learn more about Phoenix+

How to apply

BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Apply via UCAS

C85

Institution code

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time students can apply for this course through UCAS. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If this course has a part-time option you will need to apply directly to the university.

Apply via the portal

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

International students

International codes:
CHLSU256I

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International mini guide for an overview of study options and why you should study with us.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

ioadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Study location

The Foundation Year study route will be delivered by CU, part of the Coventry University Group, for and on behalf of Coventry University.

If you choose to study at CU Coventry for your Foundation Year, then your learning will be based at CU Coventry, Mile Lane, Coventry. Subject to meeting progression requirements you will then transition to the relevant Coventry University subject building for your progression degree.

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2025/26. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2024/2025 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2025/2026 contract will apply for the 2025/2026 intake. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

Your next steps

Student life

Accommodation

Fees and funding

Sports and Exercise Therapy BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Course overview

Foundation year

Degree

Rated Gold Overall

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

Why you should study this course

Foundation year

Degree

Accreditation and professional recognition

The Society of Sports Therapists

Coventry University welcomes Birmingham City Women FC

What you'll study

Modules

Modules

Modules

Modules

Modules

How you'll learn

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours:

Guided and independent study:

Online learning:

Assessment

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours:

Guided and independent study:

Online learning:

Assessment

International experience opportunities

Entry requirements

Additional information

Other qualifications and experience

Contextual offers and Fair Access Scheme

Fees and funding

Foundation year

Degree

Foundation year funding

*Irish student fees

**This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathways Programme for additional options.

Facilities

Mile Lane

The Hub

Lanchester Library

Sports Therapy Clinic

Strength and Conditioning Suite

Careers and opportunities

Where our graduates work

Further study

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How to apply

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Your next steps

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