FdSc Surf Science degree – Part Time
Newquay University Centre Cornwall College - 15 September 2025
Spread over upto 5 days per week for 3 years as infill on the full time course
Part-time
Course information
If you are passionate about surfing and want to pursue a career in the surf industry, then this is the course for you.
FdSc Surf Science is delivered in one of the most beautiful and appropriate locations in the UK, Newquay, in the stunning county of Cornwall where there are countless surfing beaches, to suit all levels and styles, all on your doorstep. Newquay is where surf culture started and blossomed in the UK and has moulded Newquay into the self-proclaimed surf capital of the UK. Newquay and the South-West is where most of the surf industry has developed and continues to thrive, providing many opportunities for students to connect and engage with the big players within the industry.
This is an academic programme and although practical surfing is not part of the course, the surfer friendly location provides plenty of opportunities to surf on some of the best beaches in Europe. So, whilst a healthy interest in some aspect of surfing is helpful, you do not need to be an excellent surfer to apply.
You will learn through practical examples, demonstrations and active practice in workshops, lectures, guest lectures, work placements and optional field trips. There will be several opportunities to engage with industry professionals throughout the programme and to complete a work placement in an area of your own interest.
There are regular guest speakers and lecturers who help to further engage with you about the many different aspects of the surfing sector. Speakers in the past have included Rob Barber, Dave Reed, Tony Butt and Ester Spears.
During the first year of FdSC Surf Science, you will explore the basic key areas of Culture of Surf and Sport, Surf Practice and Physical and Geographical Influences on Surfing. This programme also gives you an introduction to Media and Events, Scientific Techniques and Production Methods and Materials. The first year will also provide you with the opportunity to start developing your professional skillset in Key Professional Skills module.
In your final year, you’ll expand your understandings of Ecology and Management of the Coastal Environment, Sociological and Psychological Perspectives of Surfing, Scientific Aspects of Health, Fitness and Nutrition in Sport and Surf Businesses. In addition, you will have allocated time to complete your Application of CAD in the Surf Industry and Individual Research Project module.
This course not only covers underpinning knowledge in sports science, the environment, the surf industry, media and events and culture. You will also get an opportunity to shape your own, personal surfboard from concept through to completion, with a world-renowned surfer and shaper, surf the breaks of Northern Spain and Southern France on the annual Basque Country fieldtrip, where you will gain world recognised ‘tickets’ in coaching, judging and lifesaving which will enhance your chances of employment.
The course is taught by passionate, authentic lecturers who contextualise modular content to the sport, recreation and industry of surfing all with a love for preserving the environment in which they work and play.
In short, this is a unique course and unlike any other in the UK and Europe, which allows you to take your surf passion one step further. With a FdSC Degree in Surf Science you'll be well prepared for roles in the surfing field. There are many routes you can take with this programme that can lead to a career in environmental sustainability, event management and surfing retail.
First year modules include:
Skills for Scientific Success
Surf Training
The Surfing Environment
Surfboard Development and Design
Surf Media and Application
Surf Culture
Second Year Modules include:
Individual Research Project
Performance Psychology and Coaching
The Environment and Surfing
Surf Industry in Practice
Surf Events
Surfing in Society
Cs/4-5s at GCSE in English, Maths and preferably Science.
If not in English and Maths then Level 2 Functional Skills in Literacy and Numeracy.
Newquay University Centre Cornwall College
Newquay University Centre Cornwall College is a small but vibrant campus specialising in university level courses focussing on the environment. For over 20 years, we have inspired hundreds of students to make that all-important difference, using their passion as a guide. Our dedicated higher education campus is home to the marine science, zoology and surf stars of the future.
Championing #generationrestoration, this campus may be small, but its students and staff have a big impact on our planet and its future wellbeing. Likeminded individuals come together to undertake international, award-winning research, meaning when their incredible time at Newquay is done, they move onto fantastic and important careers.
It’s why you should definitely consider Newquay University Centre Cornwall College for your #careercollege experience.
Find out more about studying at Newquay
Find out more about our Newquay campus
Events
Newquay University Centre Cornwall College Open Day
Adult University- Dates
11th January 2025, 11:00am - 1:00pm
21st June 2025, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Open Event at Duchy College Rosewarne
16-19 Adult Apprenticeship- Dates
18th January 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
15th May 2025, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Related Topics
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| Course type | University |
| Apply now | |
| Tuition Fees: £6166.00
Per academic year for UK students. Detailed information can be found in our Financial Support Section. Financial support for University students |
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Course Code 12026-NQY-25
Courses listed on this website are indicative of the subject, nature and level of study. The College reserves the right to alter specific qualifications titles, awarding bodies and levels of qualification, which can change in year. Any cost may also vary, based on personal funding eligibility. The Cornwall College Group reserves the right to withdraw any course listed at any time.