Sport, Exercise & Performance Psychology

Key programme benefits to future students
This MSc programme seeks to equip candidates with a sound understanding of theory and research and develop core competencies and professional skills across a range of key domains including performance psychology, exercise and mental health, professional issues and ethics, and research design.

The core aims of the programme are to create an outstanding and distinctive learning experience through innovations in teaching, instilling a scientist practitioner approach across both sport and exercise contexts, and highlighting the role of ethical considerations in practice.

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 University as knowledgeable, proactive, innovative, responsible, articulate and collaborative.

Key Fact: The core aims of the programme are to create an outstanding and distinctive learning experience through innovation in teaching.

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

Applicants for a Master’s programme must normally have a first or second class Level 8 honours degree (NFQ or other internationally recognised equivalent) in a relevant or appropriate subject, or equivalent prior learning that is recognised by the University as meeting this requirement.

Entry will be based on the result of a written application and appropriate references. Applicants must have an academic qualification that is recognised as satisfying at least the minimum qualifications of Graduate Membership of PSI.

Entry to the programme will be based on the result of an online application and appropriate academic references. There will be no interview.

What to include with your application
Qualification transcripts and certificates,
English language qualification(s) if English is not your first language
Certified English translation of your transcripts/certificates where the original transcripts are in a language other than English,
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

English Language Requirements
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:

Matriculation examinations from European countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved
Irish Leaving Certificate English –Ordinary Level Grade D or above
TOEFL – 580 (paper based) or 100 (internet based)
IELTS – Minimum score of 6.5 with no less than 6 in any one component.
English Test for English and Academic Purposes (ETAPP) – Grade C1
GCE ‘O’ level English Language/GCSE English Language – Grade C or above
Cambridge Assessment English - Certificate of Proficiency in English - Grade C / Certificate in Advanced English Grade B
GCE Examination Boards – Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations – Grade C / Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate – School Certificate Pass 1-6 / University of London Entrance and School Examinations Council – School Certificate Pass 1-6

Results in examinations other than those listed above may also be accepted as meeting our English language requirements. Contact the International Education Division for advice.

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
The MSc in Sport, Exercise and Performance psychology, the first programme of its kind at university level in Ireland, aims to prepare students for a range of employment opportunities across the four tracks identified by the American Psychological Association, Division 47 Sport and Exercise Psychology.

• Teaching/research in sport sciences
• Teaching/research in psychology
• Clinical/Counselling services to various populations including athletes
• Health promotion and working with clients but not necessarily athletes