Strength & Conditioning - Galway

Strength and conditioning is the application of scientific principles in order to understand and enhance sport and exercise performance and health and well-being.



The course is designed to provide students with an evidence-based understanding of the scientific method in the context of strength and conditioning. Key areas of study include physiology, coaching, psychology, nutrition and metabolism with a focus on the practical application of strength and conditioning.



In the past decade, there has been a marked growth in the career opportunities available for sport and exercise scientists, S&C coaches and individuals who are multi-disciplined in health, fitness and well-being.



In combination with a growing demand for S&C coaches, there is a demand for providing appropriately qualified and accredited individuals to undertake such roles.



The Master of Science in Strength & Conditioning, therefore, seeks to provide students with an opportunity to study at postgraduate level, to develop their knowledge of sport and exercise science and to increase their skills in applying such knowledge in a sport and exercise setting.



ATU Galway has recently been recognised as a National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognised Program (ERP 2020-2023).



The ERP recognises and distinguishes schools with standardised, approved strength and conditioning or personal training curricula in undergraduate and graduate settings designed to prepare students for the NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer® (NSCA-CPT®) and NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) certifications.



Who Should Apply?

This programme is suitable for those seeking to develop their knowledge of sport and exercise science and to increase their skills in applying such knowledge in a sport and exercise setting.

In the past decade, there has been a marked growth in the career opportunities available for sport and exercise scientists, S&C coaches and individuals who are multi-disciplined in health, fitness and well-being.

Year 1



Semester Module Details Credits Mandatory / Elective



1 Strength & Conditioning Science and Application 05 Mandatory

1 Psychology – Coaching and Motivation 05 Mandatory

1 Exercise Physiology, Nutrition and Human Performance 05 Mandatory

2 Applied Sport Technology 05 Mandatory

2 Strength and Conditioning Theory and Practice 05 Mandatory

2 Research Methods 05 Mandatory



Year 2



Semester Module Details Credits Mandatory / Elective



1 Research Project 60 Mandatory

Students must have a minimum of a 2.2 in an honour’s degree in any science or related health-discipline. Students with Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) may also be considered for entry, however, they may be required to complete prerequisite assessments prior to acceptance.

Application Closing Date 15th August 2025

18 months full-time, blended delivery.



Study Hours

10 hours of online lectures per week in Semester 1 as well as lab days on campus and at least 25 hours per week engaging in self-directed learning.



On-Campus Attendance

The number of contact days on this programme vary in each semester. Semester 1 generally has 7 contact days, Semester 2 generally has 5 contact days, and the requirement for contact days at ATU Galway City in semester 3 will vary depending on the individual independent research project.



Note: Check programme Examination and Assessment requirements, as they may involve examinations to be taken on campus.

Start Date September 2025