Sport and Exercise Science BSc
Waterford Campuses, Ireland
BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science
South East Technological University (SETU)
Sport and Exercise Science
Program Overview: BSc in Sport and Exercise Science at SETU
The BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science at South East Technological University equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to evaluate sport and athletic performance from biomechanical, physiological, and psychological perspectives. Graduates will be capable of working with athletes and coaches on an ongoing basis to improve performance, health, and well-being.
The programme emphasises the traditional sports science disciplines of biomechanics, physiology, and psychology, as well as newer applied sports science disciplines including strength and conditioning, sports nutrition, and team performance analysis. Students benefit from access to three human performance laboratories, a high-performance gym, DEXA body composition analysers, and advanced performance analysis software.
This four-year honours degree is offered through the Exercise Sciences Common Entry Route at SETU's Waterford campus. Students complete a common foundation in the first two years before specialising in Sport and Exercise Science, gaining both theoretical depth and hands-on practical experience throughout the programme.
Key Program Highlights
- REPS Ireland accreditations in Fitness Instruction, Group Fitness Instruction, and Personal Training built into the programme after Year 2
- 300-hour supervised work placement in a sport and exercise science environment with national and international placement opportunities
- Access to three human performance laboratories, DEXA analysers, Dartfish and Nacsport performance analysis software, and Powerlab data acquisition systems
- Final-year research dissertation allowing students to experience the full research process under expert supervision
Curriculum and Modules
The curriculum is structured across four years, beginning with a broad foundation in exercise sciences during the first two years before progressing into specialist Sport and Exercise Science modules. Students develop interdisciplinary skills through engaging lectures, practical laboratory sessions, and applied fieldwork experiences.
Provides a comprehensive understanding of the musculoskeletal system and human movement patterns. Students learn to analyse anatomical structures and their roles in sport and exercise performance.
Explores the mechanical principles underlying human movement in sport and exercise contexts. Students learn to apply biomechanical analysis techniques using motion capture and force measurement technologies.
Examines the body's physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise. Topics include cardiorespiratory function, energy metabolism, and the physiological basis of training adaptations.
Focuses on the design and implementation of strength and conditioning programmes for athletes across various sports. Students develop practical skills in programme design, periodisation, and performance testing.
An advanced module integrating biomechanical analysis with sports medicine principles. Students learn to assess injury risk, evaluate movement dysfunction, and apply evidence-based interventions.
Elective and Specialist Modules
Admission Requirements
Entry to the BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science is through the Exercise Sciences Common Entry Route. International applicants should ensure they meet the academic and language requirements outlined below. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary school education with results equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate
- Minimum SubjectsAt least six subjects including Mathematics and a laboratory science subject are recommended
- NFQ LevelQualification equivalent to NFQ Level 5 or above
- QQI-FET ApplicantsFull QQI-FET Level 5 award with at least three distinctions for consideration
- Pathway EntryStudents select the Sport and Exercise Science pathway within the Exercise Sciences Common Entry programme
English Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 5.5
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for current equivalent score requirements
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for current equivalent score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
SETU offers several scholarship and funding opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These awards are designed to recognise academic excellence and attract talented students from around the world. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application procedures.
SETU International Academic Excellence Scholarship (IAES)
50% to 100% tuition fee scholarshipA competitive scholarship for exceptional international non-EU students, evaluated based on academic merit and a holistic assessment of the applicant's profile. Awards are limited in number per region and are automatically renewed each year subject to meeting academic requirements.
SETU International Student Entry Awards
7% to 30% tuition fee reductionAvailable to self-funding non-EU students pursuing full-time on-campus programmes. The award level depends on the chosen programme, academic credentials, and English language attainment. Students are automatically considered upon receiving a programme offer.
Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES)
Full tuition fee waiver plus EUR 10,000 stipendA prestigious national scholarship for non-EU/non-EEA students studying in Ireland, with 60 places awarded across all Irish higher education institutions each year. Contact Uni4Edu for application guidance and eligibility details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science at SETU are well-prepared for diverse careers in sport performance, health promotion, and exercise science. The programme's strong industry connections and practical placement experience ensure graduates are job-ready, with SETU staff and alumni actively involved in supporting elite athletes at Olympic and Paralympic level.
Potential Career Roles
Example Employers and Placement Partners
Rankings and Recognition
South East Technological University is Ireland's newest technological university, established in 2022 through the merger of Waterford Institute of Technology and Institute of Technology Carlow. As a relatively new institution, SETU is building its presence in global ranking tables while already earning recognition for graduate employability and industry-focused education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Sport and Exercise Science | REPS Ireland | Accredited Programme |
| Engineering and Technology | Engineers Ireland | Top 5 in Ireland |
| Social Care | Global Rankings | Top 150 |
| Business Management | Global Rankings | Top 200 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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