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Study Sport at Heriot-Watt

Why choose sport at Heriot-Watt University?

We offer innovative and practice-based undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses in sport and sport-related areas.

  • We are ranked 1st in the UK for undergraduate and 1st in Scotland for postgraduate employability (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2024).
  • Our degrees combine cutting-edge research with practical learning to prepare you for success in the sport and exercise industries.
  • Learn from experienced academics and industry professionals to gain knowledge directly applicable to real-world challenges.
  • You’ll benefit from and have access to our specialist facilities and equipment as well as facilities within Oriam, Scotland’s Sports Performance Centre. Oriam is a leading centre of sporting excellence, research collaboration and community engagement. It supports athletes, coaches, researchers, and students in their pursuit of greatness in sports performance and provides a platform for innovation and development in the field of sports science.

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

Our undergraduate Sport and Exercise Science degree offers a comprehensive foundation in the science behind athletic performance and physical health. Combining cutting-edge research with practical application, this programme prepares students for dynamic careers in sport, fitness, health, and rehabilitation sectors.

Our programme is centred on the following:

  • Science-Driven Approach: Gain in-depth knowledge of biomechanics, physiology, and psychology applied to sport and exercise.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access our advanced labs and training environments, designed to support your learning and research.
  • Hands-On Experience: Engage in practical sessions and placement opportunities to build real-world skills in sport science and health promotion.
  • Supportive Community: Learn from experienced academics and join a vibrant community of students passionate about sport and exercise.

Find out more about  BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

Having the Oriam centre on campus where lots of athletes train is really motivating – you’re training and studying in the same place professionals choose to. Heriot-Watt has been the perfect place to study and play sport. If you’re serious about sport and want a university that gets that, then this is the place you need to be

Jenna Penman

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

MSc International Sport Management

Our postgraduate International Sport Management degree is designed to equip students with the expertise and industry insights needed to excel in the global sports sector. The programme blends advanced academic knowledge with real-world application, preparing graduates for leadership roles in sport organisations worldwide.

Our programme is centred on the following:

  • Global Perspective: The degree emphasises international sports management trends and practices, offering a global outlook essential for success in this dynamic industry.
  • Industry Connections: Benefit from our partnerships with leading sport organisations, providing access to valuable networking opportunities and practical case studies.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Study full-time or part-time to fit your schedule.
  • Career Development: Develop strategic skills in sports governance, event management, financial planning, and sustainability, ensuring you are well-prepared for a range of contemporary roles in sport management.

Find out more about MSc International Sport Management

I’ve always wanted to work in sport. When I found out about the International Sport Management programme, everything just fell into place. I really like how closely we work with the academics, diving into real-world issues and how they relate to the industry. Plus, the chance to learn from world renowned guest speakers has really opened my eyes to what’s possible in sport.

James Taylor

MSc International Sport Management

MSc Sport Psychology

Our MSc Sport Psychology programme is designed to explore the psychological principles that underpin athletic performance and well-being. This degree equips students with the theoretical knowledge and applied skills necessary to support athletes, teams and organisations in achieving their goals.

Our programme is centred on the following:

  • Specialised Focus: Develop expertise in key areas like performance enhancement, mental health in sport and psychological resilience.
  • Practical Application: Gain hands-on experience through case studies, workshops and applied practice opportunities.
  • Research-Led Learning: Benefit from cutting-edge insights delivered by leading academics and practitioners in sport psychology.
  • Professional Pathway: This degree aligns with the requirements for British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation, setting you on the path to becoming a registered sport psychologist.

Find out more about MSc Sport Psychology

The facilities, the expertise, and the chances to really get stuck in – they’ve all played a huge part in my development academically and personally. This programme isn’t just about learning and developing here, it is all about preparing us for what comes next. So, if you’re serious about your future in sports, Heriot-Watt is the place to be

Harry Woolven

MSc Sport Psychology