Sports, nutrition and movement courses
Sports, nutrition and movement courses focus on improving health, performance and wellbeing through physical activity, diet and human movement. As an international student, studying these subjects abroad allows you to access advanced facilities, expert teaching and hands-on learning opportunities in world-class environments.
Whether you want to become a sports coach, nutritionist, exercise physiologist or researcher, these programs offer dynamic, science-based training with real-world impact.
All related subjects
Top 10 universities for sports-related subjects
| University Name | 2025 Ranking | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Loughborough University | 1 | Loughborough, United Kingdom |
| The University of Queensland | 2 | Brisbane City, Australia |
| The University of Sydney | 3 | Sydney, Australia |
| University of Toronto | 4 | Toronto, Canada |
| University of British Columbia | 5 | Vancouver, Canada |
| The University of Melbourne | 6 | Parkville, Australia |
| University of Florida | 7 | Gainesville, United States |
| University of Birmingham | 8 | Birmingham, United Kingdom |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | 9 | Ann Arbor, United States |
| University of Alberta | 10 | Edmonton, Canada |
Why study sports, nutrition and movement abroad?
Studying abroad helps you learn how different countries promote health and fitness through sport and nutrition. You’ll have access to cutting-edge labs, gyms and training centres, as well as support from professionals in the field.
Many universities offer placements with sports teams, hospitals, fitness centres or wellness organisations. These experiences help you apply what you learn in real-world settings and build practical skills.
You’ll also gain strong communication, leadership and problem-solving skills, which are all qualities that are highly valued in both sport and health industries. By studying overseas, you’ll build an international perspective and expand your career options across countries and sectors.
Types of sports, nutrition and movement programs
There are a wide range of programs depending on your career goals and personal interests.
Sports science and performance
These programs explore how the body works during exercise and sport. You’ll study anatomy, biomechanics, training science and injury prevention. Many courses include lab work and practical training. Study options include:
- Sports Science
- Strength and Conditioning
- Athletic Training
- Human Performance
Nutrition and dietetics
These programs focus on how food affects health, energy and wellbeing. You’ll learn about nutrients, metabolism and how to design diets for individuals or groups. Some programs include clinical or public health placements. Degrees may include:
- Nutrition Science
- Dietetics
- Sports Nutrition
- Public Health Nutrition
Exercise and movement sciences
These degrees examine how movement affects the body and mind. Courses often include practical work in fitness, rehabilitation or special populations. You could study:
- Exercise Physiology
- Kinesiology
- Physical Activity and Health
- Rehabilitation Science
Coaching and sport management
If you’re interested in leadership roles in sport, these degrees combine physical training with psychology, education or business. Possible options include:
- Sports Coaching
- Sport and Exercise Psychology
- Sport Development
- Sport Management
Careers in sports, nutrition and movement
These degrees lead to exciting careers in health, education, sport and fitness. You might work with athletes, patients, schools, businesses or communities.
Graduates of sports science often work as performance analysts, strength coaches or fitness trainers. Nutrition graduates can become registered dietitians or work in wellness and food industries. Those in movement and exercise fields may work in rehabilitation, health promotion or active ageing.
There are also opportunities in research, public health, education and international development. Many graduates choose to continue with postgraduate study or professional certification, especially for clinical or specialist roles.
For more detailed information about the career options within the fields, take a look at our individual subject guides:
- Nutrition
- Sport and Exercise Science
- Strength and Conditioning
As global interest in health and fitness grows, so does the demand for skilled professionals in sports, nutrition and movement. Studying abroad gives you the training, insight and experience to improve lives, whether through performance, recovery or everyday wellbeing.