Program Overview

The Doctor of Sport and Exercise Psychology (DSportExPsy) at Northumbria aims to provide a qualification which will act as a route to BPS chartered status and HCPC practitioner psychologist registration via a doctorate award.

Program Details

• Level of Study: Research
• Mode of Study: 3 years Full Time, with other options available
• School: Sport Exercise and Rehabilitation
• Location: City Campus, Northumbria University
• City: Newcastle
• Start: October 2026
• Fees: Fee Information available, with UK Fee in Year 1: TBC and International Fee in Year 1: £22,525

Entry Requirements

Standard Entry

• Applicants should normally have a BPS accredited MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology plus the 30-credit taught bridging element (SP7029 Planning Professional Practice and Research).
• Additional requirements include:
  • A 1000 word research proposal outlining the area of research.
  • Access to a suitable pre-determined placement or work-related opportunities in a relevant field.
  • Attendance at an online interview.
  • Membership of the BPS and its Division of Sport and Exercise Psychology (DSEP).
  • An Enhanced Disclosure Barring Clearance Certificate.

Modules

• Year one: SP7029 - Planning Professional Practice & Research (Core, 30 Credits)
  • The taught module delivers learning on critiquing professional development practices, contextualising research within professional practice, developing and planning applied research, structured reflection for self-assessment, and the general planning of training and development.

Careers and Employability

Upon successfully completing this course, students can achieve both a Doctoral level qualification and a professional qualification that legally confers fitness to practice in the field of sport and exercise psychology.

• The doctorate is designed to help students grow as skilled researcher-practitioners, blending academic research with real-world application.
• It opens pathways to potential academic careers if desired.
• Students develop practical skills like problem-solving, professional judgement, ethical decision-making, creative thinking, and advanced research techniques.

Staff

The tutors involved in this course are highly experienced, BPS Chartered and HCPC registered practitioners.

• Staff are also research-active across the Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation and Psychology subject areas.
• Research supervisors are normally allocated to reflect both the student's interests and the expertise of the university’s staff.

Facilities

As a Doctor of Sport and Exercise Psychology student at Northumbria, students may have access to facilities related to their chosen specialism and research type.

• This may include specialist laboratories and interview spaces.
• Postgraduate students may also have access to the Research Commons on City Campus, a dedicated space designed to foster interdisciplinary networking, collaboration, and digital scholarship.

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Overview:

Northumbria University is a research-intensive, business-focused, professional university with a global reputation for academic quality. It is known for its commitment to unlocking potential for all and empowering innovators, visionaries, and changemakers to transform lives and make a remarkable impact on the world.

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Services Offered:

Study:

Offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including foundation years, flexible learning options, and continuing professional development courses.

International:

Provides support for international students, including English language programs, international events, and information on entry requirements.

Business:

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Research:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Students' Union:

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Northumbria Sport:

Offers a wide range of sports facilities and activities for students.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Research-intensive:

Conducts ground-breaking research that is responsive to the needs of the community.

Business-focused:

Prepares students for the challenges of the modern workplace.

Global reputation:

Has a strong international reputation for academic quality.

Vibrant campus life:

Offers a wide range of student life activities and support services.

Located in Newcastle:

Situated in a vibrant and historic city with a thriving cultural scene.

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Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

Offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in various fields.

Postgraduate:

Offers a range of postgraduate programs, including Masters degrees and research degrees.

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships:

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Other:

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