FdSc Surf Science degree
Newquay University Centre Cornwall College - 15 September 2025
2 Years
Full-time
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/
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 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
Start your application
| Course type | University |
| Apply now via UCAS | |
| Tuition Fees: £9250.00
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 12025-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.