Program Overview

Introduction to the Clinical Exercise Physiology MSc

The Clinical Exercise Physiology MSc at the University of Birmingham combines exercise science and healthcare to prevent and manage chronic conditions. This program prepares students for a future as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist in healthcare settings, enabling them to use exercise to prevent and manage chronic conditions.

Course Overview

The Clinical Exercise Physiology MSc provides students with the knowledge and hands-on experience to transform lives through exercise. With world-class facilities, cutting-edge research, and extensive clinical placements, this course offers a unique pathway into healthcare.

Course Structure

The Clinical Exercise Physiology MSc is designed to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, including research-informed teaching, practice-based learning, scenario-based assessments, and clinical placements.

Course Highlights

The Clinical Exercise Physiology MSc course at the University of Birmingham stands out with its unique blend of in-depth academic teaching and extensive clinical experience. Students benefit from practical placements across various healthcare settings, working directly with patients to apply research-informed exercise interventions.

Teaching Methods

The course is taught through a blend of individual and small-group learning, using a variety of teaching methods like lectures, practical sessions, and clinical placements. Students also engage in independent study, case-based learning, and peer-to-peer reflections.

Module Information

The course comprises the following compulsory modules, each designed to provide students with essential knowledge and skills in clinical exercise physiology:

• Clinical Exercise Physiology Project | 60 credits
• Clinical Exercise Physiology practice-based education placement | 0 credits
• Exercise Programming & Delivery for Clinical Conditions | 30 credits
• Health Assessment, Professional Practice and Intervention Evaluation | 30 credits
• Motivation and Behaviour Change Theory and Application | 30 credits
• Pathophysiology for Clinical Conditions | 30 credits

Teaching Staff

The program is led by experienced professionals, including:

• Dr Katie Hesketh, Programme Lead
• Professor Sam Lucas, Professor of Cerebrovascular, Exercise & Environmental Physiology
• Dr Joanna Richards, Associate Professor in Clinical Exercise Physiology
• Dr Tom E. Nightingale, Lecturer in Exercise Physiology
• Dr Richard Powell, Assistant Professor in Clinical Exercise Physiology

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham, students will need to meet the general entry requirements, as well as those specific to the course. This includes:

• A 2:1 Honours degree in sport and exercise science or other relevant biological science that contains a substantial element of exercise physiology.
• English language requirements: IELTS 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any band.

Fees and Scholarships

The tuition fee for the Clinical Exercise Physiology MSc is £11,250 for full-time students. The University of Birmingham offers various scholarships, including the Birmingham Masters Scholarships, which award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Application Process

To apply for the Clinical Exercise Physiology MSc, students will need to submit their application and supporting documents online. The application deadline for UK and non-visa requiring applicants is 28 August 2026.

Career Opportunities

The Clinical Exercise Physiology MSc opens up diverse career opportunities for graduates, including roles as Clinical Exercise Physiologists in healthcare settings, health promotion, rehabilitation, research, and fitness industries. Clinical Exercise Physiologists are now eligible for professional registration with the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS).

Related Courses

Related courses offered by the University of Birmingham include:

• Sport and Exercise Medicine (Dubai) MSc / PGDip
• High Performance Sport MSc

Student Experience

At Birmingham, students have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life. The University offers a range of accommodation options, exciting activities to get involved in outside of studies, and all the support and advice needed.