Program Overview

The Doctor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at Northumbria University is a research-based program that aims to provide a qualification which will act as a route to BPS chartered status and HCPC practitioner psychologist registration via a doctorate award. This course is dual accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), aligned with industry standards.

Course Information

• Level of Study: Research
• Mode of Study: 5 years Part Time
• School: Sport Exercise and Rehabilitation
• Location: City Campus, Northumbria University
• City: Newcastle
• Start: October 2026
• Fees: Fee Information
• Modules: Module Information

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) provide the foundation for progression to doctoral level. Both elements must be successfully completed before candidates can progress to the 360 L8 credits (Professional Practice and Research).
• Additional requirements:
  • A 1000 word research proposal, outlining your area of research.
  • Applicants should demonstrate (in their personal statement or research proposal) that they have access to a suitable pre-determined placement, or work-related opportunities (paid or voluntary) in a relevant field, and in a safe and secure environment access to appropriate populations to be able to meet the programme outcomes.
  • Applicants will be required to attend an (online) interview.
  • Be a member of the BPS and its Division of Sport and Exercise Psychology (DSEP).
  • An Enhanced Disclosure Barring Clearance Certificate.

Fees and Funding

• UK Fee in Year 1: TBC
• International Fee in Year 1: £13,515
• Please note, this programme is not eligible for the Doctoral Loan.
• Further information can be found on the Government website.
• Click here for UK and International Scholarship, Fees and Funding information.

Modules Overview

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

• 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, you can simultaneously achieve both a Doctoral level qualification and a professional qualification that legally confers your fitness to practice in the field of sport and exercise psychology.

• Teaching and learning strategies and assessments have been specifically designed to create opportunities for you to develop and evidence the key competencies required by the BPS and HCPC.
• The doctorate is designed to help you grow as a skilled researcher-practitioner, blending academic research with real-world application.
• It also opens pathways to potential academic careers if desired.
• You’ll develop practical skills like problem-solving, professional judgement, ethical decision-making, creative thinking, and advanced research techniques, all tailored to address real challenges in your field.

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. Access to this broad range of staff will provide you with the opportunity to choose from a varied selection of research topics and methods to suit your personal and professional interests.

Facilities

As a Doctor of Sport and Exercise Psychology student at Northumbria, you may have access to facilities related to your chosen specialism and research type, be that qualitative, quantitative or both. This may include specialist laboratories and interview spaces.

• Postgraduate students may also have access to the Research Commons on City Campus. This is a dedicated space designed to foster interdisciplinary networking, collaboration, and digital scholarship for postgraduate research students and academic staff.
• Facilities include individual study areas with PCs, Macs, and dual-screen monitors, as well as collaborative spaces and consultation rooms, and a central hub with soft seating and research reference collections. Drop-in sessions with library staff may provide expert support on topics like copyright, scholarly communication, and reference tools.

---

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.

---

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:

Offers a range of services to businesses, including education and training, research and consultancy, and business events.

Research:

Conducts ground-breaking research in various fields, including computerised society and digital citizens, cultural and creative industries, energy materials and systems, and microbial biotechnology.

About Us:

Provides information about the university's strategy, staff, partnerships, student and alumni profiles, leadership and governance, academic departments, and university services.

Alumni:

Offers a range of benefits and services to alumni, including networking opportunities, events, and volunteering opportunities.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Accommodation:

Offers a variety of on-campus accommodation options for students.

Life in Newcastle:

Provides information about the vibrant city of Newcastle, where the university is located.

Support for Students:

Offers a range of support services to students, including careers advice, mental health support, and financial assistance.

Students' Union:

Provides a platform for student representation and engagement.

Northumbria Sport:

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

---

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.

---

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:

Offers degree apprenticeships in partnership with businesses.

---

Other:

News and Events:

Provides information about the latest news and events at the university.

Social Media:

Maintains a presence on various social media platforms.

Online Shop:

Offers a range of Northumbria University merchandise.

Governance:

Provides information about the university's governance structure and policies.

Useful Links:

Provides links to various resources, including contact information, payment information, and equality and diversity policies.