For those who feel a degree will enhance their long-term employment prospects, why not make use of your love of the water and study an area that motivates you? A new BSc. Watersports Science course at Portsmouth focuses on the science of performance in the aquatic environment, combined with developing an understanding of how watersports are managed and regulated. Related fields of study, such as coaching, navigation and meteorology are also included and some of the practical elements may be undertaken on an overseas study trip leading to appropriate RYA qualifications.

The course will appeal to anyone interested in how watersports such as sailing, canoeing, and diving are underpinned by science. The 3-year course is being developed by former RYA national coach Ben Oakley to start in September 2002. It will fuse the existing scientific expertise within the University, such as its international reputation in the physiology of survival/cold water immersion, with the advantage of Portsmouth’s Solent location. The city already hosts a vibrant programme of international maritime events and there are numerous nearby sailing venues and marine businesses which will be studied, but which may also offer recreation / part-time work opportunities for students. Contact.details: 02392 848484 www.port.ac.uk/sportscience

Interested in a career in yachting? Check out Yachting World, February 2002 for the ultimate guide to making a living out of sailing