Sport - Return to Study Entry Programme
Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-07-01 | - |
2026-07-01 | - |
Program Overview
Sport - Return to Study Entry Programme
Overview
The Sport - Return to Study Entry Programme is a free, part-time course designed for individuals aged 21 or older who are passionate about a career in sports but lack the formal qualifications for a degree. The programme is delivered online over six weeks and prepares students to apply for a relevant degree programme.
About Return to Study
The Return to Study programme is designed for individuals who want to change careers but do not have the necessary entry qualifications. The programme helps students develop the knowledge and skills required for university study, including academic writing, research, and presentation skills. Students will also gain confidence and interpersonal skills, and learn what it would be like to study an undergraduate degree.
Routes into a Degree
There are two options for progression into a degree programme:
- Return to Study: By completing this programme, students may be eligible for entry into Year 1 of our sports-related programmes. It may also qualify students for foundation year entry. Entry for either is subject to successful completion of the Return to Study programme.
- Foundation Year: Completing a foundation year can provide entry into Year 1 of our sports-related programmes, as long as students complete the foundation year at the required level.
Why Study with Us
- This free programme helps prepare students for study on one of our sports-related degree courses.
- Students will be supported and assessed against the entry requirements and will then be eligible to apply for a foundation year or Year 1 of one of our sports-related degree courses.
- The programme takes a multidisciplinary approach to introduce students to various sport-related disciplines and provides a foundation in university study skills required for success.
Important Information
- This course is only available to UK students.
What You'll Do
- Learn about the key concepts important to the theory and practice of a wide variety of sports-related courses.
- Develop the academic and research skills required for university study.
- Gain confidence and interpersonal skills, and learn what it would be like to study an undergraduate degree.
Related Courses
- Football Studies (with Foundation Year), BSc (Hons)
- Football Studies, BSc (Hons)
- Outdoor Adventure Leadership (with Foundation Year), BA (Hons)
- Outdoor Adventure Leadership, BA (Hons)
- Physical Education & Sport (with Foundation Year), BA (Hons)
- Physical Education & Sport, BA (Hons)
- Sport Business Management (with Foundation Year), BSc (Hons)
- Sport Business Management, BSc (Hons)
- Sport Coaching (with Foundation Year), BSc (Hons)
- Sport Coaching, BSc (Hons)
Upcoming Events
- Preston Open Day - Sunday 17 August
- Preston Open Day - Sunday 12 October
- Preston Open Day - Saturday 22 November
View the Course Facilities
- Strength and Conditioning Suite
- Sport Analysis Suite
- Sports Physiology Laboratory
- Sports Biomechanics Laboratory
- Biosciences Laboratories
- Nutrition and Health Laboratory
- Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre
- Sports arena
- Student Centre
- The Library (Preston Campus)
Future Careers
Graduates from our courses progress into careers in a wide variety of settings, including:
- Sports coaches
- Fitness instructors
- Laboratory technicians
- Performance nutritionists
- Teaching (Schools, Colleges, and Universities)
- Leadership roles in the outdoors industry
- Community nutritionists
- Exercise physiologists
- Sports therapists
- Health coaches
Entry Requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this course. We'll assess your application based on a personal statement which you must submit as part of your application. This programme is only available to UK/home students.
Personal Statement Advice
If you need help creating your personal statement, our team can help. Make your application stand out from the crowd.
Fees and Funding
This programme is free of charge. However, if you are continuing to a full-time degree, we recommend considering the cost involved. Think about any existing financial commitments and explore the different modes of study, support, and financial options that exist.
Learning and Assessment
This course is taught online. We'll support you to develop the skills needed for the teaching and learning methods used in higher education.
Sessions are on Wednesdays 6pm – 8pm and Saturdays 9am – 11am.
Completion of the course will require:
- 90% attendance at taught sessions
- Completion of five study skills sessions (self-guided)
- Submission of a personal statement and an academic recommendation for progression
Pathways
During the programme, you'll be able to apply to study a foundation year or undergraduate degree course. These include a wide variety of sports-related courses we currently offer.
For progression to Year 0:
- Football Studies (with Foundation Year), BSc (Hons)
- Outdoor Adventure Leadership (with Foundation Year), BA (Hons)
- Sports Business Management (with Foundation Year), BSc (Hons)
- Physical Education & Sport (with Foundation Year), BSc (Hons)
For progression to Year 1:
- Football Studies, BSc (Hons)
- Outdoor Adventure Leadership, BA (Hons)
- Sport Business Management, BSc (Hons)
- Sports Coaching, BSc (Hons)
- Sport & Exercise Science, BSc (Hons)
- Physical Education & Sport, BA (Hons)
Entry to these courses is dependent on successful application, interviews, and other entry requirements. Please note there is no guarantee of progression onto these programmes.
University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
Overview:
University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is a public university located in Preston, Lancashire, England. It is a large and diverse institution with a strong focus on providing high-quality education and research opportunities.
Services Offered:
UCLan offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Programs:
Undergraduate, postgraduate, degree apprenticeships, postgraduate research, professional development, and short courses.Student Support:
Accommodation, student life, student support, welcome and arrival information, cost of living support, and parents and carers guide.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including information on tuition fees, English language requirements, scholarships, and how to apply.Business and Enterprise:
Support for businesses, including degree apprenticeships for employers, recruitment opportunities, training and development, and support for SMEs.Research:
Research and Knowledge Exchange Institutes, Research and Enterprise Service (RES), postgraduate research, and academic development for research and enterprise.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCLan provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. The university offers a wide range of student clubs and societies, sports teams, and social events. Students can also access a variety of facilities, including libraries, gyms, and cafes.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse Academic Programs:
UCLan offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.Strong Focus on Employability:
The university has a strong focus on preparing students for the workplace, with dedicated career services and industry partnerships.Vibrant Campus Life:
UCLan provides a lively and supportive campus environment with numerous opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities.Global Opportunities:
The university offers a range of international study opportunities and partnerships.Affordable Education:
UCLan offers competitive tuition fees and a variety of financial aid options.Academic Programs:
UCLan offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
Arts, Humanities, Business, Law, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Medicine.Postgraduate Programs:
Master's degrees, PhDs, and other postgraduate research programs.Degree Apprenticeships:
A combination of work and study, leading to a university degree.Professional Development and Short Courses:
Courses designed to enhance skills and knowledge for professionals.Other:
UCLan has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. The university is actively involved in research and initiatives aimed at addressing global challenges.