MRes Sport and Exercise Science

The MRes Sport and Exercise Science at Hartpury University is a research-focused postgraduate degree designed for students seeking advanced expertise in sport science, exercise science and athletic performance research. The programme combines advanced research training with practical application, enabling students to investigate real-world challenges faced by athletes, coaches, sports organisations and performance practitioners.



Students benefit from access to world-class facilities including Human Performance Laboratories, Biomechanics Laboratories, Sports Academies and professional sporting environments. Research projects may be conducted in collaboration with employers, professional clubs, governing bodies or Hartpury's own high-performance sports programmes.



The programme develops expertise in research design, statistical analysis, critical evaluation and scientific communication while allowing students to specialise in areas aligned with their professional interests and career goals.



Research areas may include:





  • Sport and Exercise Physiology




  • Sports Nutrition




  • Sports Psychology




  • Biomechanics




  • Strength and Conditioning




  • Performance Analysis




  • Sports Coaching




  • Physical Education




  • Physical Activity and Wellbeing




  • Athletic Performance Development





Graduates gain valuable research, analytical and practical skills that support careers in professional sport, applied sport science, research, education and doctoral study.



Key Modules



Compulsory Modules





  • The Research Process (15 Credits)




  • Applying Sport and Exercise Research (30 Credits)




  • Extended Postgraduate Research Project (90 Credits)





Optional Modules





  • Applied Practice in Strength and Conditioning




  • Conditioning for Physical Performance




  • Contemporary Issues in Performance Analysis




  • Performance Analysis within the Coaching Process




  • Performance Profiling and Testing for Athletes




  • Planning and Monitoring for Athletic Training




  • High Performing Environments




  • Postgraduate Industry Placement Experience




  • Strategic Leadership in Sports Management




  • Digital Media and Marketing




  • Sports Coaching Modules




  • Sports Management Modules





Career Outcomes



Graduates may progress into careers such as:





  • Sport Scientist




  • Performance Analyst




  • Strength and Conditioning Coach




  • Sports Researcher




  • Exercise Physiologist




  • Sports Development Officer




  • Human Performance Specialist




  • Sports Consultant




  • University Lecturer




  • Research Assistant




  • PhD Researcher




  • High Performance Practitioner





This programme also provides an excellent pathway into doctoral research (PhD) and advanced professional practice within elite sport and exercise science sectors.


Program Requirements
  • Academic Requirement:

    • 2:1 Honours Degree in a related subject.

    • 2:2 Honours Degree may be considered individually with relevant research project experience.

    • Suitable backgrounds include:

      • Sport Science

      • Exercise Science

      • Strength & Conditioning

      • Sports Coaching

      • Performance Analysis

      • Physical Education

      • Human Performance

      • Biomechanics

      • Physiology

      • Nutrition

  • ELP Requirement:

    • IELTS Academic Overall 6.5

    • Equivalent PTE, TOEFL or approved English qualification accepted.

  • Special Requirement: Relevant research project experience preferred. Students complete an independent research project (90 credits). Research can be undertaken with employers, sports organisations or Hartpury Sports Academy partners. Access to Human Performance Laboratories, Biomechanics Labs and Performance Sports Academies. Optional industry placement opportunities available. Suitable preparation for PhD progression.
Key Facts
  • CAS Deposit: 50% on First year tuition fee
  • Annual Tuition Fee: 20,625 – £21,725
  • Course Duration: 1 year full-time; part-time options available
  • Credentials: Master Of Research (mres)
  • Intakes: September 2026
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