School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences

Undergraduate study

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Man adjusting oxygen mask on a runner

Harnessing science to improve health and sport

The science behind sport and physical activity is becoming increasingly important, and it’s not just for professional athletes.

We’re here to ensure that you will have the skills and knowledge to get the best out of athletes, sports people, and those rehabilitating after injury or illness.

Whether you’re interested in the science behind sports and exercise, or keen to help people recover from injury, our undergraduate degrees will set you up for a rewarding career in your field of interest.

From the basics of physiology through to the psychology of coaching, our expert staff will guide you through your course, assisted by time in our specialist labs


Explore our undergraduate courses
Why choose our School
  • 92% our School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences graduates are in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes 2023)
  • We are 19th in the UK for Physiotherapy in the Complete University Guide 2023.
  • We are 16th for physiotherapy for overall positivity score (National Student Survey 2023, English Broad Discipline Institutions)

What can you study?

Research-guided teaching, studying abroad in Australia, and the application of knowledge within the Human Performance Unit. These are some examples of the multitude of experiences that have facilitated my learning and academic development as an undergraduate student. It has been a tremendous experience to be in a department dedicated to helping each and every student achieve an excellent degree, with broad employment and further study prospects.
Marie Winter BSC Sport and exercise Science
Essex Rebels player, Claire Paxton
Sports scholarships and bursaries

The University of Essex is committed to supporting and developing high performance athletes. Find out whether you could be eligible for a sports scholarship or bursary, plus a range of additional benefits too when you join the University of Essex.

Explore the full offer

Graduate stories

The course really demonstrated to me the importance that science has on sporting performance. The combination of classroom teaching with practical laboratory sessions was essential, as it allows you to become active with the learning and how the objectives apply to athletic situations. 
Matthew Ross BSc Sport and Exercise Science