Applied Sport Science PhD/MSc (Research)
Develop advanced expertise in real-world sport and exercise science through applied, research-led PhD study, combining interdisciplinary science with direct engagement in sport performance environments.
- PhD: 3-4 years full-time; 5 years part-time;
- MSc (Research): 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time;
Overview
Our PhD in Applied Sport Science at the University of Glasgow offers a distinctive opportunity to conduct research that directly impacts performance, health and human function in real-world settings.
This programme is designed for students who want to move beyond traditional laboratory-only approaches and engage with applied environments, including sport, clinical and occupational contexts.
Key features
- Applied, real-world focus - conduct research in collaboration with sports organisations, health partners, and performance environments.
- Interdisciplinary supervision - work with leading researchers across physiology, health, epidemiology and human performance.
- Strong pathway progression - ideal for graduates of sport and exercise science, physiology or related disciplines seeking a clear route to doctoral-level applied practice.
- Research with impact - opportunities to contribute to projects aligned with elite performance in real world environment.
- Study in Glasgow - located in one of the UK’s leading research-intensive cities with access to diverse populations, sporting infrastructure and health partnerships.
This programme reflects a growing demand for doctoral-level expertise in applied sport and exercise science, preparing graduates for careers in academia and high-performance sport.
Applied Sport Science brings together expertise across the College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences to address key challenges in sport performance.
Human Performance
- Exercise physiology and adaptation
- Psychology interventions in sporting environments
- Fatigue, recovery, and performance optimisation
- Cardiometabolic responses to training and activity
Applied Performance in Real-World Settings
- Athlete monitoring and performance analysis
- Translating laboratory findings into field-based practice
- Collaboration with sport and performance organisations
Also see Sport Science
Study options
PhD
- Duration: 3/4 years full-time; 5 years part-time
Individual research projects are tailored around the expertise of principal investigators.
Entry requirements
A 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent.
English language requirements
Fees and funding
Fees
2026/27
- UK: £5,238
- International & EU: £33,210
Prices are based on the annual fee for full-time study. Fees for part-time study are half the full-time fee.
Irish nationals who are living in the Common Travel Area of the UK, EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status, and Internationals with Indefinite Leave to remain status can also qualify for home fee status.
Alumni discount
We offer a 20% discount to our alumni on all Postgraduate Research and full Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes. This includes University of Glasgow graduates and those who have completed a Study Abroad programme, Exchange programme, International Summer School or Erasmus programme with us. This discount can be awarded alongside most University scholarships. No additional application is required.
Possible additional fees
- Re-submission by a research student £540
- Submission for a higher degree by published work £1,355
- Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed £350
- Submission by staff in receipt of staff scholarship £790
Depending on the nature of the research project, some students will be expected to pay a bench fee (also known as research support costs) to cover additional costs. The exact amount will be provided in the offer letter.
Sanctuary Scholarship
The University of Glasgow Sanctuary Scholarship has been created to support applicants with Refugee or Asylum Seeker status who are currently living in the UK.
Support
Graduate School
The College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences Graduate School provides a vibrant, supportive and stimulating environment for all our postgraduate students.
Our aim is to provide a research training environment that includes:
- provision of excellent facilities and cutting edge techniques
- training in essential research and generic skills
- excellence in supervision and mentoring
- interactive discussion groups and seminars
- an atmosphere that fosters critical cultural policy and research analysis
- synergy between research groups and areas
- extensive multidisciplinary and collaborative research
- extensive external collaborations both within and beyond the UK
- a robust generic skills programme including opportunities in social and commercial training
Our excellent facilities and dedicated staff will equip you with training complementary to a range of career options, and you can tailor your study pathway to the precise aspects that suit your objectives.
How to apply
Identify potential supervisors
All postgraduate research students are allocated a supervisor who will act as the main source of academic support and research mentoring. You must identify a potential supervisor supervisor from the College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences and contact them to discuss your research proposal before you apply. Please note, even if you have spoken to an academic staff member about your proposal you still need to submit an online application form.
Research projects
If you are interested in a research project listed above, please include the title on your application.
Gather your documents
Before applying please make sure you gather the following supporting documentation:
- Final or current degree transcripts including grades (and an official translation, if needed) – scanned copy in colour of the original document.
- Degree certificates (and an official translation, if needed): scanned copy in colour of the original document.
- Two references on headed paper and signed by the referee. One must be academic, the other can be academic or professional. References may be uploaded as part of the application form or you may enter your referees' contact details on the application form. We will then email your referee and notify you when we receive the reference.
- MVLS cover letter must be completed and uploaded with a copy of your CV.
Contact us
If you require assistance before you apply: mvls-gradschool@gla.systa-s.com
After you have submitted your application: Admissions Enquiries form
Our research environment
Induction
- Getting started with PGR development: how postgraduate researchers are welcomed into our community