A Narrative Review of Undergraduate and Postgraduate Strength and Conditioning Courses in the United Kingdom

Abstract

The growing popularity of strength and conditioning (S&C) has led to increased S&C degree courses in the United Kingdom (UK). A degree in S&C or associated discipline is a common requirement for obtaining a professional S&C certification and employment as a S&C coach. However, limited research has comprehensively reviewed undergraduate and postgraduate S&C degrees in the UK, which this study aimed to do. A search for S&C degrees was conducted via the United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) and Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) directories. All course information, including module titles, was extracted. Course information was assessed using frequency analysis and module titles via open coding. As of July 2023, 20 undergraduate and 29 postgraduate courses were identified. Entry requirements for undergraduate degrees ranged from 80–120 UCAS points and a 2:1–2:2 degree classification for postgraduate degrees. Non-academic entry was widely offered for postgraduate degrees. Undergraduate degrees were all three years (except for Scotland), and postgraduate courses were one year. Almost half of undergraduate S&C degrees were considered ‘multidisciplinary’ and inclusive of other topics (e.g., BSc S&C with rehabilitation). Tuition fees for undergraduate degrees ranged from £8,950–£9,250 (UK)/£12,000–£16,380 (international), and for postgraduate degrees was £6,531–£13,000 (UK)/£6,531–£28,100 (international). Half of undergraduate degrees could be completed part-time or full-time, with most postgraduate degrees providing this option. All undergraduate degrees were delivered in person, while some postgraduate degrees offered a distant learning option. Over half of the undergraduate degrees offered a foundation year. Placement modules were compulsory for all except one undergraduate degree and included to a lesser extent at the postgraduate level. A quarter of undergraduate degrees offered a placement sandwich year. The most common modules at the undergraduate level focused on anatomy and physiology, S&C, biomechanics and movement analysis, research, and academic and professional skills. The least common modules were motor learning and control, business, and sociology. Differences were observed with postgraduate degrees, given an increased focus on modules associated with research, S&C, and academic and professional skills. No postgraduate degrees had modules for performance analysis or health and fitness. This information can help higher education providers to evaluate, revise, and develop S&C courses; awarding associations to further enhance recognition and accreditation pathways for S&C degrees; potential employers to tailor job descriptions and specifications to align with graduate capabilities; and prospective students to gain insight into each course, thus informing their course choice(s).