Program Overview

Overview

The University of Essex offers a Professional Doctorate in Sport and Exercise Science, which is a specialist qualification for those in or aspiring to senior professional appointments in practice, education, or management in sports therapy. This course aims to provide a unified approach to theory and practice within a professional context, allowing students to develop their skills in both the workplace and university environment.

Course Details

• Course: Sport and Exercise Science
• Start date: October 2026
• Study mode: Part-time
• Duration: 5-6 years
• Location: Colchester Campus
• Based in: School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences

Entry Requirements

UK Entry Requirements

• A relevant Master's degree or equivalent
• Currently registered with a relevant professional body
• Two years of post-qualifying experience in a relevant senior role
• Attendance at an interview/Skype interview for acceptance
• Acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department

International & EU Entry Requirements

• A wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries are accepted
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5, or equivalent, with a minimum score of 5.5 in all other components

Structure

• The course can be studied flexibly between 5-6 years
• Decisions about the duration of the study period are based on individual need, professional commitments, and funded support
• The course includes the development of two portfolios and the study of taught modules at the University
• A 40,000-word dissertation on a relevant topic is required

Fees and Funding

• Home/UK fee: Ł2,619 per year
• International fee: Ł11,813 per year
• Fees will increase for each academic year of study
• Scholarships, bursaries, or discounts may be available to help with the cost of the course

Research Areas

• The School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences has a proven track record of excellence in teaching, research, and applied sports science
• Research areas include sports performance, cardiac health, and childhood wellbeing

Specialist Facilities

• The Essex Sport Arena, a state-of-the-art Ł12-million development
• Facilities include a sports hall, labs for sports therapy training, a sports therapy clinic, and dedicated physiotherapy labs
• The Human Performance Unit (HPU) provides educational and coaching services, health-related exercise programs, and athlete testing

Career Prospects

• The course provides doctoral preparation that integrates professional expertise and academic rigor
• Graduates will gain the skills necessary to make a significant contribution to local and national health and social care provision
• The course facilitates self-development, critical reflection upon practice, and expert decision-making in complex, multi-professional environments

Related Courses

• MPhil Sport and Exercise Science
• PhD Sport and Exercise Science
• MSc (by Dissertation) Sport and Exercise Science