Department of Anthropology | MSc Physical Activity, Health and Society

MSc Physical Activity, Health & Society at Durham University

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Explore the physiological, psychological, social, and political role of physical activity in society and how we might use physical activity to improve equity.

Regular physical activity provides significant benefits to health, both mentally and physically, as well as improving fitness and wellbeing. However, currently in the UK around 34% of males and 42% of females are not active enough to maintain good health*.

The MSc explores the vital role of physical activity in society, from policy and public health to the spaces and places that enhance, shape and curtail movement. It is suitable for those with a background in traditional sport and exercise sciences, as well as those with a social sciences, anthropological, natural sciences, humanities or a broader disciplinary background.

The course is delivered by a multidisciplinary team of experts in the Department of Sport & Exercise Sciences in conjunction with the Department of Anthropology. The team delivers a cutting-edge curriculum built on our expertise in physical activity and sport inequalities and associated research methods.

You will undertake three core modules which critically examine key challenges associated with physical activity to improve health and wellbeing, tackle health inequalities and social injustice.

Learning is further developed by five additional optional modules which you can tailor to your interests. Two or three of these are based on Aspects of Health as Influenced by Physical Activity and Wider Social, Anthropological and Life Sciences, with the remaining modules focused on Advanced Quantitative & Qualitative Research Methods. You will also complete an MSc dissertation in a related subject, under the guidance of a supervisor.

Durham University offers an outstanding sporting environment with exceptional opportunities for participation in sport as well as related activities within the University and the local community. During your time with us we encourage you to be proactive members of our community and to develop wider interests alongside your studies.

*Office for Health Improvement and Disparities

We have an outstanding track record of supporting our postgraduate students to progress into careers of their choice. Tailored support includes access to Durham’s award-winning Researcher Development Programme; specialised skills and methods training (e.g., data visualisation, project management) and opportunities for embedded research placements.

The varied nature of our postgraduate programmes opens the door to a wide range of careers from academic roles and industry-based research and development to health service practitioners, roles in applied sport science support, and in national and international health policy and governance.

Our PhD students have graduated into a range of UK and internationally based roles, including academic, policy and governance, and industry-based positions. Our taught and research Masters programmes provide a springboard to PhD scholarships, or to employment within a range of industries including sport development, management and public health.

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