Sport - Elite Sport Performance

Are you keen to make a difference to the prospects of those at the top tier of sport and performance? During this four-year part-time programme you’ll learn how to question practice and develop evidence-based solutions to workplace challenges.



This interdisciplinary course is a mix of research and lectures, where you’ll develop your own bespoke learning journey. Modules are designed to support professional development and encourage you to consider what underpins your practice and career trajectory. You’ll also gain an understanding of research methodologies and skills, and apply these to your own work.



Benefit from a blended-learning approach

Lectures are delivered online, while two on-site learning blocks allow you to share practice, present your research, and network with peers and faculty. Throughout your study, you’ll be encouraged to challenge methods, push boundaries and seek evidence-based approaches relevant to your own practice. Previous students have included coaches, sport scientists, allied health professionals, and performance directors from the highest levels of sports and performance nationally and internationally.



As a graduate and expert in your research area, you can apply your knowledge and skills to your current work or pursue leadership roles in your field, both nationally and internationally.



Programme Structure

The programme comprises both research and taught elements.

Modules 1 - 4 comprise modules (60 ECTS) that critically reflect on theories and practice of sport performance, develop an advanced understanding of research methodologies and skills, and provide students an opportunity to relate this knowledge and understanding to their own applied and professional context.



Module 5, the DProfElite (Sport) Thesis (180 ECTS), involves the completion of a research project and thesis.



The taught elements of the programme will be delivered using a blended learning strategy, with delivery being undertaken using a combination of online and face-to-face.



Supporting the blended learning approach, two ‘on-campus’ learning blocks will be a feature of the students’ learning journey and will offer opportunities for assessment, sharing of practice, face-to-face teaching and networking amongst the student cohort.



Throughout the modules, as is typical of doctoral level study, students will engage in independent study of relevant issues and ideas raised during the module. Participants will be expected to engage in reading and critical review of literature relevant to the module and their own performance area.

Reflecting the nature of the Professional Doctorate in Elite Performance (Sport), candidates must be working in an area of professional practice, where they have reasonable experience of that profession, and an opportunity to contribute significantly to the performance within/of that profession. Evidence that may be provided to support this include:





1. Holding a position or role in the promotion of sport performance

2. Professional qualifications in the domain





Professional Doctorate in Elite Performance (Sport) specific requirements:



Candidates will be expected to hold a primary Level 9 qualification (NFQ or equivalent) in an area of sport and performance. Those who do not meet this entry requirement will be considered on a case by case basis only.



In line with DCU policy, students who do not have the appropriate level of academic attainment for direct entry may apply for access via the Recognition of Prior Learning process (RPL). RPL applicants will be required to demonstrate that their learning is comparable in terms of academic level training and assessment (all decisions will be consistent with DCU PG regulations. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL. For more information on RPL see here.



Candidates applying through RPL will be shortlisted for interview.

4 years part-time.

Careers

Graduates of the Professional Doctorate in Elite Performance (Sport) will have established their authority in their area of doctoral research by making a domain-specific contribution at the forefront of professional practice.



Graduates will be prepared to take leadership roles in their domain which will allow them influence the way in which their profession is approached both nationally and internationally. Graduates will gain a formal academic recognition of their professional development and standing that exemplifies the specific contribution made to extending knowledge and professional practice in sport performance.