Mental Skills & Mental Health in Sports & Exercise

Key programme benefits to future students

Provide a learner-focused and connected curriculum to enable students to develop their capacity to think critically and acquire a broad set of attributes as identified by the UL as knowledgeable, proactive, innovative, responsible, articulate and collaborative. Extend the traditional remit of sport psychology by focusing on performance restoration, resilience and mental health, rather than exclusively targeting performance enhancement.



Enhance the understanding of mental health challenges in sport contexts using a positive psychology approach. Develop a multidisciplinary mode of graduate enquiry coupled with an ethical scientist-practitioner basis.



This degree runs parallel to the existing programme which aligns to the Psychological Society of Ireland accreditation requirements. The purpose of this degree is to offer a pathway for those seeking to upskill on topic areas relating to mental skills and mental health in sport and the degree is not a qualification in psychology. It offers a grounding in research and application for those who seek further training to pursue roles that don’t explicitly require a qualification in psychology (e.g., sports coaching, sports management etc.).

Autumn Modules

• Performance Psychology

• Wellbeing and work

• Motor Cognition

• Understanding Action

• Exercise Psychology & Mental Health



Spring Modules

• Psychological Skills Training

• Professional Competencies

• Professional Practice and Ethics

• Applied Positive Psychology

• Research Dissertation Development



Summer Modules

• Research Dissertation

Entry to the programme will be based on the result of a written application with appropriate references (no interview required). Applicants require a minimum 2.2 Level 8 honours degree (NFQ or other internationally recognised equivalent) in the domain of sport science, psychology, sports coaching or sport management. RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) entry will be available for those without a related degree. Applicants must also satisfy the English Language Requirements of the University. Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet one of the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application). Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following: TOEFL – 580 (paper based) or 90 (internet based)



What to include with your application:

Qualification transcripts and certificates,

A CV (Curriculum Vitae),

Scanned copy of any membership of psychological societies and CPD workshop attendance,

A copy of your birth certificate or passport

A Supporting Statement

If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice

If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:

• English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts

AND

• English language competency certificate

Preparing your Application:

1. Research your programme: Each postgraduate programme at University of Limerick is unique. Explore your course content, duration, fees, and entry requirements on ul.ie.



2. Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the course you are interested in. This usually includes your undergraduate degree award, subject specialities, English language proficiency (for non-native speakers), and any specific requirements for the course.



3. Prepare Documents: Gather all the necessary documents. This typically includes your academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, and references. If English is not your first language, you’ll also need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency.



4. Online Application: Once you are ready to apply, visit your postgraduate programme page on ul.ie/gps and use the Apply Now button to access UL’s online application system. You will need to create an account if you are a new user.



5. Complete the Application: Fill in the application form with all the required details. This will include personal information and academic history.



6. Upload Documents: Upload all the necessary documents that you prepared earlier. Make sure they are clear and legible.



7. Submit Application: Review your application thoroughly to ensure all information is correct and then submit your application. The application fee for your postgraduate application is €50. This includes an option to choose a second choice.



8. Track Your Application: After submission, you can track the status of your application through the online application system.



9. Interview: Depending on the programme, you may be invited for an interview. This could be in person or online.



10. Acceptance: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer email from the university. You will need to accept this offer to secure your place.



Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and places offered to successful candidates. This means that it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible to increase your chances of securing a place.



Please note that these steps are a general guide and the exact process may vary depending on the specific programme and your individual circumstances. Always check the University of Limerick website or contact the postgraduate admissions department for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

1 year full-time, on-campus.

Autumn

Graduate careers

Sports Coaching and Sports Management.