Sport Science (Sport Coaching) Foundation Degree (FdSc) Level 5 (full-time)
This course will provide you with a specialist work-related programme of study that covers the key knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to work in the sport, health and fitness industry as a qualified sports coach. The Foundation Degree is a University of Bedfordshire (UoB) Award.

Ryan da Nobrega chose Bedford College to take his first steps towards a dream career in the sports industry and is now enjoying great success…
Ryan has been a keen footballer since he was 14 and knew he wanted to study sport after finishing school. Having explored options at his local sixth form, he enrolled on to the Sport Level 3 Extended Diploma at Bedford College. “The tutors really sold the course to me when I came to an open day,” says Ryan.
“I was quite shy when I started at College, I always had the desire to do well but lacked the confidence. College really helped me to progress.” After finishing his Level 3, Ryan moved on to the Sports Science and Sports Coaching Foundation Degree, and then completed a third year at the University of Bedfordshire. Ryan continued his studies further and completed his Masters Degree in Sports Performance – focussing on strength and conditioning, coaching, performance analysis and other areas in which to improve athletes in their sport.
Ryan completed various work placements coaching in local schools during his time at College. “I’d watched people coaching others and realised that I also wanted to give something back. Some of my tutors were coaches outside of College, so they helped me to develop my technique.” Ryan is currently working at Luton Town Football Club where he has completed his FA Youth Award and is working towards the UEFA B licence in football coaching.
“I am looking for my next stage of development, I have contacted many clubs around the country and have also got offers to coach in America and other destinations starting in 2018.”
Ryan - Sport Science (Sport Coaching) Foundation Degree
Entry requirements
You will need:
- At least 48 UCAS points (BTEC: Pass Merit Profile) from a Level 3 course (A-Level, Level 3 Diploma or BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in a relevant subject area) studied over a two year period.
- GCSE grade A*-C or Level 2 equivalent in English and maths.
We welcome applications from mature students who will be considered individually on experience rather than qualifications.
Course content
During this course you will study a range of topics, including:
Year 1
- Employment in the Sports Industry
- The Fundamentals of Sport and Exercise Psychology
- Functional Anatomy and Physiology
- Coaching for Participation
Year 2
- Management and Supervision in the Sports Industry
- Psychology of Sport, Exercise and Health
- Exercise Physiology
- Coaching for Development
Assessment methods
Continuous assessment, practical assessment, coursework and presentations.
Further study and career options
You can progress on to a third year top-up course, delivered at the University of Bedfordshire, to achieve a BSc Sport degree. Utilising the knowledge gained from this course you could also go in to employment in the sports coaching, fitness, health and performance industries.
Additional information
Clothing will cost approximately £30. To enrol on this course you must apply through the University & Colleges Admission Service (UCAS) using the institution code BEDF B23 and the course code C612. Visit www.ucas.com or call us on 01234 291000 for more information.