BSc (Hons) Physical Activity and Health with a Year Abroad
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- C63A
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Launch your career in Physical Activity and Health at UEA, where scientific knowledge and real-world issues meet to shape your learning. Seamlessly integrate theory with embedded placements, industry insights, and empirical research. Tailor your path to address global physical activity and health challenges, graduating ready to shape a healthier, more active world.
For expertise in physical activity and health, choose UEA's School of Education and Lifelong Learning, where practical experience and research knowledge converge. You’ll encounter our staff’s comprehensive grasp of national and global issues in physical activity and health. We're committed to nurturing your personal and professional growth, empowering you to realise your potential and carve out your future career.
Deepen your academic experience by seeing physical activity and health from a different perspective. With global learning opportunities in Europe, Asia, Australasia and North America, you can immerse yourself in new cultures and stand out to prospective employers by establishing new connections all over the world, adding new skills and experiences to your CV.
UEA's SportsPark, a premier facility for health and physical activity promotion, is at the heart of our Active Campus. Enrich your studies with off-site trips to the North Norfolk Coast, Thetford Forest, and local health and physical activity providers. Benefit from collaborations with organisations like Active Norfolk, making UEA your destination for studying physical activity and health.
Elevate your career with our top-ranked program, which holds nationally accredited awards and the UEA Award for enhanced employability. You can follow in the footsteps of our graduates to a career as a physical activity and health promotion officer, social prescriber, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist, or pursue postgraduate studies. Unleash your potential at UEA.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
On this course you’ll get an insight into how other countries and cultures approach physical activity and health by spending a year studying abroad. You can study at one of our partner universities in Europe, Asia, Australasia and North America.
Your time abroad will be an invaluable academic and cultural experience, one that most students consider to be the highlight of their time at university. It will also demonstrate your adaptability and resilience to future employers.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Study and Modules
Structure
We operate a common suite of Year One modules in our Physical Education, Sport and Health (PESH) cluster, which means you’ll have the opportunity to transfer to one of the following courses after Year One, if you have discovered an alternative career route:
- BSc Physical Education, Sport, and Health
- BSc Physical Education
- BSc Sports Development
Through a series of core PESH modules in Year One, you’ll explore the fundamental principles underpinning the study of Physical Education, Sport and Health. You'll discover how the human body responds to sport and physical activity participation and examine the parameters of fitness and the principles of training both for the enhancement of general health and well-being and for elite athletes. You’ll be introduced to the role of sport and exercise psychology and learn how we acquire and develop motor skills.
Whatever your academic background, you’ll be supported to develop your own professional identity in PESH and further enhance your learning skills, giving you a smooth transition into higher education.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll take part in large group interactive lectures where you’ll be tasked with working on your note-taking skills and ability to share ideas in front of an audience.
Lectures will be followed by small group seminars of up to 25 students. Seminars are often skills-based, with the aim of putting theory into practice. In sessions, you’ll actively engage in individual and group tasks, working to discuss ideas and solve problems. Seminars are also an excellent opportunity to build confidence in presenting.
Independent Learning
You are encouraged to be self-motivated in your learning and eager to take ownership of your progress. Alongside your taught sessions, some lecturers may ask you to complete preparatory or post-session tasks, building on theories, concepts, and issues introduced in formal sessions. These may require you to work independently and/or with your peers in groups. You’ll need to be curious and have an ability to go above and beyond to succeed in your studies.
Academic support
To make sure you get the most from your studies and to help you reach your full potential our Learning Enhancement Team, based in the Student Support Service, are on hand to help in the following areas:
- Study skills (including reading, note-taking and presentation skills)
- Writing skills (including punctuation and grammatical accuracy)
- Academic writing (including how to reference)
- Research skills (including how to use the library)
- Critical thinking and understanding arguments
- Revision, assessment and examination skills (including time management).
We actively seek and welcome students with disabilities, as we work to support the sector with a more diverse and representative workforce. If you have additional needs, such as sensory impairments or specific learning difficulties, please talk to our Student Support Services about how we can help.
Student-Athletes
If you are an aspiring student-athlete, UEA+Sport can support you in your journey to achieve your highest potential both academically and on the sporting field. For further details, visit our UEA+Sport section of our website.
Assessment
You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways across the three years to prepare you for a career in Physical Activity and Health, or for further study/research. Assessments are varied and you’ll be continually challenged by the type and approaches. Assessment work is often self-directed, and you’ll have scope to choose the topics you focus upon as you develop expertise in areas of interest to you. To support a smooth transition to higher education, you’ll be introduced to a broad range of assessment types. These may include exams, conference presentations, professional portfolios with observational work and written coursework.
You’ll experience several formative (practice) opportunities before you submit any summative (graded) work so that you can benefit from feedback to improve your learning. Some lecturers may decide to provide written feedback, and others, verbal – this depends on the type of assessment set. The School of Education and Lifelong Learning aim to provide feedback within 20 working days of the assessment deadline.
Structure
As you progress into Year Two, you’ll study a combination of core and optional modules that will explore different aspects of the physical activity and health landscape; including physical activity participation in relation to different population groups, psychology, and behaviour change.
Hands on research and experience in physical activity and health form part of a core module and will become the building blocks of your Year Three Dissertation research project. You’ll receive an overview of common research methods used in the field, learnt via a blend of practical sessions and lectures. The experience element of this module will support you in undertaking an extended work placement with a local organisation of your choice, within the sector of physical activity and health.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
As you begin to specialise as a physical activity and health practitioner, you’ll take part in smaller lecture groups, with like-minded students. You’ll build closer relationships with key lecturers who are experts in their fields.
Small group seminars will continue, with the aim of improving your study skills. These include team-working and communication, academic reading and writing skills, higher order thinking (critical analysis, synthesis and evaluation) and understanding the link between theory and practice.
There may be field trips and external guest speakers involved in modules, providing insight to guide your continued career exploration.
Through a sector-related work placement, you’ll be supported to develop knowledge, competencies and attributes that are readily transferable into future work settings.
Assessment
You’ll continue to be assessed in a variety of ways in the second year of your course.
You’ll be assessed by coursework related to your core, compulsory and optional modules. These may include essays, reflective portfolios, group projects, presentations, designing creative resources, research proposals and even more innovative forms of assessment such as podcasts.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our partner universities in Europe, Asia, Australasia, or North America. During your time abroad, you’ll learn about physical activity and health from a different set of experts and in a different cultural context, expanding your understanding of the global importance of physical health.
For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
During your year abroad, you’ll be taught by the experts at one of our partner universities, expanding your array of teaching and learning techniques and providing a global context for your study of physical activity and health.
Assessment
During your time abroad, you’ll be assessed by the teaching and research experts at our partner university.
Structure
Arriving in your final year, you’ll be equipped with the skills to plan, conduct and complete an original piece of research, in an area you are passionate about, under the supervision of a lecturer with expertise in your area of interest. You’ll get the chance to collect and analyse data and will turn those findings into a substantial research report.
You’ll also choose from a range of modules to complement or extend your previous study and future career aspirations.
By the end of Year Four, you’ll have mastered a range of employability, professional, and personal skills, to help you shape a healthier, more active future for all.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Lectures and small group seminars again form an important part of your study. Activities will be mostly discussion-based, constructed from your own wider reading and research.
Alongside this, you’ll take ownership of your learning through the completion of an independent research project. This will involve significant levels of self-study; including literature searches, data collection and critical writing drafts.
There is an optional final year industry placement. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to transfer academic and vocational learning into a work-related setting, and vice versa, with a view to improving your employability and critical reflective practice.
Assessment
In your fourth year, you’ll continue to be assessed using a variety of methods to support multiple forms of learning.
Your final year is again assessed by coursework. These may include practical demonstrations, essays, presentations, and designing creative resources. Video production and writing funding bids will be assigned to help you build employability skills. For your dissertation, you’ll work closely with a supervisor who will provide you with formative feedback throughout the process.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Additional GCSE Requirements
We also require GCSE grade C or 4 in Science.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
Contextual offer: BBC
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM
Contextual offer: DMM
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Extended Diploma: DDM
Contextual: DMM
Diploma: DD plus B at A level.
Contextual: DD plus C at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A level.
Contextual: D plus BC at A level.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Health, Healthcare Science or Science
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAABB
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade C or grade 4.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Additional GCSE Requirements
We also require GCSE grade C or 4 in Science.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
ABB
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Extended Diploma: DDM
Diploma: DD plus B at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A level.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You are eligible for reduced fees during your year abroad. Further details are available on our Tuition Fee webpage.
Extra costs, related to items such as your travel and accommodation during your year abroad, will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
You’ll graduate as a skilled and confident advocate for all forms of physical activity participation and health promotion. You’ll be well placed to enter a range of organisations including local authorities, Active Partnerships, the NHS and the care sector. In addition, many of our graduates decide to continue their studies with postgraduate courses such as Education, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Health, Sports Science, Social Work or a Master’s by Research.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Health/physical activity promotion officer
- Social Prescribing (local authority or GP support)
- Fitness and exercise instructor and/or business owner
- Community physical activity development
- Educational training and development
- Public Health
Discover more on our Careers webpages.