MSc Coaching Science in Sport
Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 90)
In this MSc programme you will learn about the cutting-edge science that underpins diverse aspects of coaching, e.g. tapering and peaking to optimise performance, the coach-athlete relationship, performance and notational analysis in sport. You will also undertake original research of your own on a topic that is relevant to you. Critical evaluation of academic knowledge and its practical application is a distinctive feature of this advanced programme.
Good practice in sports coaching is fundamental at all levels and ages for athlete development and success. This programme is intended for sports coaches, coach developers/educators and those working in closely related fields, to extend their scientific knowledge and understanding of the coaching process.
We value and encourage our students to be autonomous learners. We expect them to share their own experience with faculty and peers, as well as critically reflect on their own practice in order to enhance their existing knowledge and skills.
We aim to provide a learning environment that facilitates the comparison and contrast of theories and ideas from a range of relevant disciplines in order to integrate them into personal coaching practice.
In this programme we use a blend of the most innovative teaching and learning approaches and assessment strategies, such as seminars, laboratory-based experiential learning, web-based interactive learning, case-studies, group work, etc. These are informed by the world-class research carried out by our faculty in addition to the prestigious guest speakers.
Who should apply?
Full Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. Yes
Part Time option suitable for:
Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. No
Course Description
Programme modules will be delivered on Thursday evenings (18:00-21:00) and Fridays (10:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:00) across both academic semesters (September-December and February-May). The 'Research Methods and Applied Statistics' module in the second semester and the 'Dissertation' module in the third semester will enable students to choose a relevant research topic, which will be carried out over the summer months. The submission date for dissertation is generally set for the end of July.
Part-time students are required to take three modules in year 1, and three in year 2. In each year, students may choose whether to take two modules in semester 1 and one module in semester 2 or vice versa. Students are required to take modules in the opposite pattern in year 2 (modules will run at the same times irrespective of year) in order to complete all six of the required modules.
Programme Outcomes
On completion of this programme students should:
1. Be able to integrate the scientific, socio-ethical and psychological dimensions of sports coaching in order to develop new insights into this area of knowledge
2. Be able to make use and integrate the current and emerging technologies in sports coaching practice
3. Be able to develop a training plan and organise training sessions to maximise the learning experience and impact of those athletes with whom they will interact, but also reflect on social and ethical responsibilities associated with this process
4. Show advanced levels of essential skills such as written and verbal communication, digital literacy, numeracy and problem solving in ill-defined contexts
5. Demonstrate specialised skills of analysis, enquiry, critical reflection, evidence based practice and leadership and use these to enhance their own professional practice
6. Be prepared to undertake a career in sports coaching by understanding organisational life, skills required to succeed in this environment and its overall complexity
7. Engage in original and novel practice, also by taking responsibility for continuing professional development, to fully meet the needs of their athletes, at all levels of ability and talent, and contribute to their overall development