In Focus :UCFB - What Is The Best Sports Degree For Me?

When applying for a place at UCFB, students often ask the same question: “What is the best sports degree for me?”

While the answer will naturally differ for each individual, a decision can be made by taking similar factors into account.

Here, we categorise a number of different elements for you to consider in order to help find the best sports degree to suit you.

What is your dream job in the sports industry?

The first, and most important, thing to ask yourself is “what role would I love to work in within sport?”

You might not yet have the desired answer, but it is something that can be achieved with a little deliberation.

Do you want to work in more of a hands-on role, possibly in coaching or psychology? Or do you see your future in more a business-focused role, perhaps within the business, media or finance sectors of sport?

What kind of lifestyle are you looking for?

The decision to apply for a particular degree doesn’t solely rest on the programme’s modules or what job title you could eventually occupy, though.

If you have aspirations to work in sports media you’ll have to work flexibly; media professionals are required to cover a wide range of sporting fixtures and events, which regularly involves working both weekends and evenings.

Alternatively, if you have aspirations to become a football coach or P.E teacher, then be prepared to work extensive hours.

BA (Hons) Sports Business & Coaching graduate Josh Arnold said: “Hard work is most important. Being willing to put in the hours, even when it gets tough and maybe going beyond what’s expected of you, but if you’re willing to come in and do your best all the time that is really crucial. I love coming to work every day. Doing a six-day week doesn’t bother me because I love what I do.”

Do you already have any experience from within the industry?

Another factor that could potentially sway your decision is whether you have any existing experience within the sector, or not.

If you have already tried your hand at taking a coaching session but realised it might not be right for you, then applying for a place on our Sports Business & Coaching degree probably wouldn’t be a wise move.

However, on the flip side, if you enjoyed a particular work placement in sport that went well, then you might want to consider applying for a degree in that field.

Whatever degree you decide to apply for, gaining work experience is a crucial aspect of perfecting your CV. Former Brighton & Hove Albion manager, Gus Poyet, said: “Today in the world of any business, and football is a business, your CV and your studies are very, very important. Before even knowing who you are, or your face, they always look at your qualifications and where you’ve been, or if you have some experience.”

As a world-first in sports higher education, UCFB offers a variety of different pathways for students looking to forge a career in the industry.

Click here to view our unique football and sports degree programmes.