Sport Coaching and Physical Education

Sport coaches and physical education professionals work in a wide range of careers.

As a graduate, you can consider teaching roles in schools and colleges, coaching at community or performance level, and performance (notation) analysis for sport teams or athletes. There is the opportunity to move towards the area of sport development where there are a broad range of themes to focus on (e.g. mental health, physical activity, and minority groups). Through studying with us you can also shape your learning experiences by taking opportunities in the wider health, fitness and leisure industry. Some of our graduates have gone on to work as:

• Physical Education Teacher (Primary/Secondary)
• Youth/Adult Sports Coach
• Community Sports Coach
• Sports Development Officer
• Strength and Conditioning Coach/Personal Trainer
• Coaching Business Owner
• College/University Lecturer
• Performance Analyst

Graduation doesn’t need to be the end of your time with us, of course. You might decide to stay at ARU and study a postgraduate degree such as MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology or MPhil, PhD Sport and Exercise Sciences. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

Employability and personal career development

Our Sport Coaching and Physical Education course indicates that 100% of graduates are in employment or further study (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024) and ARU is ranked in the top 10% in the country for graduates in employment or further study. Plus 5th in the country for graduates who are employed as managers, directors, or senior officials 15 months after graduating. We are also in the top 10% in the country for graduates who agree they are using what they learnt during their studies.

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships in local schools and sports clubs or volunteering. It’s a great chance to make professional connections. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.