Research in the School of Sport, Health and Exercise Science

The scientific excellence of the School’s academics (all of whom are research active) is regularly recognised by research accreditation exercises such as the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) and Research Excellence Framework (REF).

Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences Highly Rated for Outstanding Research

1st in Wales and 7th in the UK (Research Excellence Framework 2014)

In a joint REF 2014 submission with Cardiff Metropolitan University, the School of Sport, Health and Exercise was recognised as being the best in Wales.We were also ranked 7th in the UK for research quality and research power (which takes account of the volume as well as the quality of research) within the Sports Science sector (Times Higher Education, December 2014). This result confirms the ongoing high quality of the School’s research and improves on the previous Research Assessment Exercise in 2008 where we were ranked 8th in the UK.

As well as securing a higher national ranking, 100% of the research material submitted was rated as either world-leading or internationally excellent. Research areas covered a broad range of areas including Enhanced Coaching and Training practices in sport, health, and military practices worldwide and research into public policy on sport and physical activity.

Head of School Professor Tim Woodman expressed his delight at the news: "I'm not at all surprised to see Sport, Heath and Exercise Science continue our upward trajectory within the UK sector. Our research here is indeed world-class and, as our current students will testify, that research is used to inform our teaching. The high Impact score for our research is particularly pleasing, because in this School we really pride ourselves on doing research that makes a difference”

Tim continued: ”On the back of our recent very strong NSS results for where we were ranked first in Wales and 4th in the UK, we see the 2014 REF results as confirmation of our position as a School and a University that offers the best combination of a world-leading academic school along with a great student experience"

What does this mean for our students?

All of our research activities and professional links lead to new, revised and state-of-the-art content being included in all our teaching, contributing to the the development of one of the UK’s best degree programmes. Many students choosing to study Sports Science at Bangor will have the opportunity to get directly involved with these exciting and world leading research processes.

The University's REF results and summary table can be accessed here.