Strength and Conditioning Science BSc (Hons)
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Strength and Conditioning Science BSc (Hons)
Overview
The Strength and Conditioning Science BSc (Hons) program at St Mary's University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of strength and conditioning. The program is accredited by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and meets the requirements of the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA).
Course Content
The program covers a range of topics, including:
- Anatomy
- Neuromechanics
- Physiology of Exercise
- Functional Anatomy
- Research Methods
- Skill Acquisition
- Sports Biomechanics
- Physiology of Training
- Neuromechanics of Human Movement
- Strength and Conditioning in Practice
Modules
- Introduction to Research
- Fundamentals of Strength and Conditioning Techniques
- Field Based Movement Techniques
- Introduction to Strength Training Techniques
- Physiology of Exercise
- Functional Anatomy
- Research Methods
- Skill Acquisition
- Sports Biomechanics
- Physiology of Training
- Neuromechanics of Human Movement
- Strength and Conditioning in Practice
- Research Project
- Organisation of Training
- Science in the Workplace
- Return to Play
- Applied Sport and Exercise Physiology (optional)
- Experimental Biomechanics (optional)
Teaching Methods
The program is taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, practicals, labs, problem-solving sessions, computer-based sessions, and peer teaching. Class sizes range from 40 to 60 students per year.
Assessment Methods
Assessment methods include DVD production, Excel programming, oral presentations, laboratory reports, website design, essays, practical vivas, and written exams.
Entry Requirements
- Standard offer: 112 UCAS points
- Contextual offer: 96 UCAS points
- GCSE: Grade 4/C or above in English, Mathematics, and Science
- International requirements: Check country-specific pages for equivalents
- English language requirements: IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any section (or equivalent)
Fees and Funding
- Home tuition fees: £9,535 per year
- International tuition fees: £17,100 per year
- Additional costs: Vary depending on optional modules and projects
- Scholarships: Available to undergraduate students
- Living costs: Vary depending on accommodation options and personal circumstances
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Strength and Conditioning Science BSc (Hons) program can pursue careers in:
- Strength and conditioning coaching
- Sports science
- Rehabilitation
- Academia
Research Areas
The program is part of the University's research areas in:
- Business and law
- Communications, humanities, and social policy
- Education and teaching
- English and creative arts
- Human and applied sciences
- Theology and ethics
Facilities
Students have access to the University's state-of-the-art facilities, including:
- 5,000-square-foot Performance Education Centre
- Biomechanics Laboratory
- Exercise Physiology Laboratories
Student Support
The University offers a range of support services, including:
- Academic support
- Career services
- Student wellbeing
- Chaplaincy
- Safety and security
International Reputation
St Mary's University is internationally recognized as a front-runner for strength and conditioning education. The program has a strong reputation for producing highly skilled and knowledgeable graduates who are in high demand by employers.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Program:
Strength and Conditioning Science BSc (Hons)
University:
St Mary's University, Twickenham, London
Duration:
3 years
Start Date:
September
UCAS Code:
C607
Points:
112 - 96
Description:
This program prepares students to become coaches for sports performers by teaching them how to physically train athletes and apply their knowledge in the workplace. It covers anatomy, neuromechanics, and practical coaching experience.
International Recognition:
- Accredited by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), making graduates eligible for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) qualification in the USA.
- Meets the requirements of the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA).
- Internationally recognized as the front-runner for strength and conditioning education.
- Introduction to Research
- Fundamentals of Strength and Conditioning Techniques
- Field Based Movement Techniques
- Introduction to Strength Training Techniques
- Physiology of Exercise
- Functional Anatomy
- Research Methods
- Skill Acquisition
- Sports Biomechanics
- Physiology of Training
- Neuromechanics of Human Movement
- Strength and Conditioning in Practice
- Research Project
- Organization of Training
- Science in the Workplace
- Return to Play
- Applied Sport and Exercise Physiology
- Experimental Biomechanics (optional)
Year 1:
Focuses on foundational knowledge and practical skills with over 140 hours of practical teaching.
Years 2 & 3:
Build upon the foundation and delve deeper into specialized areas. Students can choose optional modules to tailor their learning.
Teaching Methods:
A combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, practicals, labs, problem-solving sessions, computer-based sessions, and peer teaching.
Class Sizes:
Range from 40 to 60 students per year.
Assessment:
- Methods reflect industry-valued skills and include DVD production, Excel programming, oral presentations, lab reports, website design, essays, practical vivas, and written exams.
- Feedback provided within 15 working days, following university policy.
Teaching:
- Conducted on the beautiful and historic Twickenham campus.
- Diverse teaching methods supported by a strong staff network.
- Year 1 includes 50 hours of coaching from staff.
Careers:
- Graduates acquire highly valued transferable skills like resilience, critical thinking, and communication.
- Career Services support students with job and postgraduate opportunities.
- Potential career paths include:
- Strength and conditioning coaching
- Sports science
- Rehabilitation
- Academia
Other:
- The program offers a range of scholarships and bursaries.
- Opportunities for research involvement.
- London campus provides access to various cultural and social activities.
- Home: £9,250
- International: £16,320
- Please note: these fees are annual and may increase in line with inflation each year subject to the Government's review of Higher Education Funding.
