Up and down the country, the need for sport grows forever more. It’s a fair necessity of inclusive competition anyone can enjoy. There truly is a sport suited to everyone’s desires. It comes as no surprise then, that popular university options catered to the greater recognised sports aren’t enough.
Here’s where the university courses provided by Nottingham Trent, Birmingham and Cornwall college come into play. They provide the same sport science essentials as, let’s say, a football course, but provide links for different sports that would otherwise be far reached.
Although these courses sound very closed off and specific, you’ll find that they provide you with a wide breath of knowledge.
Let’s take a look at which obscure sports have been woven into U.K education.
EQUINE SPORTS SCIENCE – BSc
First up, courtesy of Nottingham Trent University we have all things related to equestrian sports science.
This course takes things like nutrition, healthcare, biology, management and ethics, applying them to the world of horses. A 3-year course with an option of a placement year during the 2nd and 3rd year. This’ll take you to a multitude of opportunity, gaining experience staying in the UK or trading it for the sun-soaked backdrop of Australia.
Features direct links to The Jockey Club and BETA (British Equine Trade Association), so you can start networking in this trade very easily with limited experience.
The course is supplied by Nottingham Trent but you’ll be studying at the Brackenhurst campus. You can choose to house yourself in the ever-busy city or seek calm and tranquillity in the rural and nature brushed areas surrounding the campus.
Features an array of horses, all different ages and experiences so you can ride and research depending on what area you’re in. There’re open pens for practicing equestrian and more closed off areas with holes for observing when testing hypotheses.
Post-graduation you’ll have built up your professional network and the tools needed to venture into many different areas. These include management type jobs like stable manager and transportation specialist. Or would you be providing performance and nutritional care to a future Aintree winner.
Entry requirements
- C or above in maths and English at GCSE level
- Either an A-Level in a science subject or a BTEC in a science module
- (or) a 112 UCAS points tariff of an A-Level or equivalent standard in any of the following science modules; biology, chemistry, physics and sports science
- Accept international qualifications from all over the world
- English language requirements can be obtained by completing course provided or by submitting an IELTS grade as proof
SURF SCIENCE – FdSc
Next sees us down at the south west shores of Cornwall for a particular course that “surfs up” all kinds of intrigue.
If you’re thinking this course is more of a pastime than a study then you’ll be pleased (or absolutely disappointed) to know that no surfing takes place on campus or within teaching hours. Only taking practical use on the Basque country field trip, even then it’s optional.
This course existing in Cornwall wasn’t by chance. Being cited the home of surfing in the UK ever since four Aussies came across with their surfboards 60 years ago, Fistral beach has never glanced back.
You’ll be taking in much more than their legacy, as focus shifts to cultural and environmental impacts. Things like Beach and oceanic welfare, applying generalised sports science and even manufacturing your own surfboard.
You’ll be based at Newquay college throughout the duration of this university course.
Having a network of trusted Landlords, securing accommodation shouldn’t be an issue with a wide range of different properties to choose from. The town is compact, with nothing too much a trek away. You can make half a day of going to the beach, seeing the zoo and marine animals before rounding it off at the pub.
Being College taught means facilities are a little limited with most being off site partnered organisations, like the marine life centre previously mentioned.
On site are learning centres with mentors ready to assist your learning in any way they can, via explanation, seeking information and general computer aid.
Careers branching off this course can see you leaning to surfboard retail, environment conservation and even becoming a coach through the sports science package it delivers.
Entry requirements
- 64 UCAS points in level 3 science related courses
- C or above in English, maths and Science at GCSE level
- (or) Level 2 functional skills in Numeracy and literacy
GOLF MANAGEMENT STUDIES -BSc
Our last stop on this inclusive trio of sport courses takes us to England’s second city. Industrial powerhouse of its time: Birmingham.
Famed for its diversity and being a huge trading hub makes it no surprise that a golfing course ranks on its university’s prospectus. Showing once again anything can be taught or sold in this bustling city.
A 3-year course will see you delve into the world of clubs and Caddys whilst appreciating the wider sporting picture.
The course tees off at Edgbaston campus with one day a week spent at the PGA national training academy, The Belfry. This provides practical education with certified professionals in an immaculate setting. Setting the tone of what’s expected from you should you achieve that role yourself.
The campus resides in a suburb of Birmingham city centre. Being only 30 minutes away by walking makes it very accessible from the city-based accommodation the university provides.
Whilst being a very golf centric course, you can walk away from graduation with skills and knowledge beneficial to many sectors, event planning and marketing being a couple. It also has the holy grail for anyone wanting a career in golf: direct links to the PGA, with post graduates being able to apply for a membership.
Many have gone on to host professional events and even take part in a few major Masters competitions. Others can see their journey turn to coaching, retail and even trades outside the golfing sphere.
Entry requirements
- Golfing ability not a prerequisite
- Those who wish to be professional Golfers will need a handicap of 4.4 – 6.4
- 3 A-Levels in accepted modules
- (or) BTEC extended diploma at D* in 3 accepted modules
- (International students) require 6,6,5 at higher level with a lowest points threshold of 32
- Standard English requirements apply
