FdSc Surf Science degree

Course information

If you are passionate about surfing and the surfing environment and want to pursue a career in the surf industry, then this unique course is for you.

Newquay is where surf culture started and blossomed in the UK and this history 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, our strong industry links provide many opportunities for students to connect, engage, work alongside and be inspired by the big players within the industry. Although practical surfing is not part of the course, this surf rich location provides plenty of opportunities to practise your surfing on some of the best beaches in Europe. Whilst a healthy interest in aspects of surfing is important, you do not need to be a competent surfer to apply.

This academic programme is taught by passionate, authentic lecturers and industry experts with a love for preserving the environment in which they work and play. You will learn through lectures and practical workshops that are all contextualised to surfing or the surf industry. Some of the industry experts who deliver on the programme are Ben Skinner at Skindog Surfboards, author and filmmaker Dr. Sam Bleakely, Brad Rochfort at FCS and Dr. Jamie Marshall of the International Surf Therapy Organisation, Steve Bowens of H2O Training amongst other exciting guest lecturers. You will also be taught in our classroom located on one of the most renowned surfing beaches in Europe, Fistral.

This interdisciplinary programme covers myriad themes such as Surf Culture, Anatomy and Physiology, Biomechanics, Coaching, Wave Mechanics, Coastal Processes, Surfboard Anatomy, Design and Manufacture, Surf Media, Performance Psychology, Ecology and Coastal Protection, Business, Industry and Sustainability, Events and the Value of Surfing to Society.

You will also have the opportunity to gain subsidised, world recognised ‘tickets’ of your choice, for example, surf coaching (ISA level 1 and 2), surf judging (ISA) or lifesaving awards. You will also get an opportunity to design and shape your own bespoke surfboard from concept through to realisation with a world-renowned shaper, surf the breaks of Northern Spain and Southern France on the annual Basque Country fieldtrip, learn photography and videography skills, run events, learn business management skills, develop products, be a member of a thriving Surf Life Saving Club all alongside exploration of the surf industry to discover where you will eventually fit in.

In short, this course is unlike any other in the UK and Europe, it enables you to develop your passion for surfing. With a FdSc Surf Science you'll be well prepared for graduate level employment within the surfing industry.

FdSc Surf Science is available with part-time options upon request.

This course is also offered with a Science Gateway option if you would like to study Surf Science but don’t have the right qualifications or grades to do so. Click here to find out more - https://www.cornwall.ac.uk/courses/fdsc-surf-science-with-science-gateway/  

What You Will Learn

(Note there is some flexibility in order or modules studied, in addition some module titles and content may change.)

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

Entry Requirements

64 UCAS Points in subjects at Level 3;

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.

Work Experience

You will be required to complete 100 hours of external, voluntary based work experience alongside the main FdSc course. This can be in any area of the surf industry that you choose. Many of our students gain work experience through networking with industry links but it will be up to you to confirm your placement(s).

Assessment

Mix of coursework, exam, test and practical

Progression

BSc Marine Sports Science (final year top up)


BSc Environmental Resource Management (final year top up)

Newquay University Centre Cornwall College

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

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Newquay University Centre Cornwall College

Newquay University Centre Cornwall College Open Day

• 11 Jan 25
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