Masters Degrees (Sport And Exercise Psychology)

This Professional Doctorate in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University is designed to meet the requirements for BPS Stage Two training in Sport and Exercise Psychology and will lead to eligibility for registration with the HCPC. The course provides quality supervision and is underpinned by high-grade research activity.

•This professional doctorate is available to study full time (2 years) and part time (4 years)
•It has been designed to meet the requirements for British Psychological Society Stage 2 training in Sport and Exercise Psychology and the Standards of Education and Training of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
•Study in the award-winning Tom Reilly Building Building
•Look forward to career opportunities in Sport and Exercise Psychology professional practice and promotion, as well as education, teaching and research.

Sport and Exercise psychology is an exciting new discipline with growing opportunities for qualified professionals.

To become a Sport and Exercise Psychologist, you must have the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership from the British Psychological Society and fulfil a number of requirements.
•Stage 1 training involves the satisfactory completion of an accredited Masters programme (we also offer this Masters at LJMU)
•Stage 2 training includes two or more years spent acquiring a range of supervised skills connected with professional skills, interventions, consultancy, research, teaching and training (as facilitated through this course)

The programme is underpinned by a strong focus on equipping future Sport and Exercise psychologists for a range of professional scenarios.

The programme can be studied full or part time. Full time students must be enrolled for a minimum of two years to meet statutory training requirements. For part time students this is adjusted pro rata.

In keeping with the nationally agreed curriculum competences for Sport and Exercise psychologists, you will be developing your skills in teaching and training (education and dissemination), research, consultancy and demonstrating that you have the generic professional skills needed to qualify as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist. This is achieved through your own work-based learning experiences, taught sessions on the programme and extensive supervision.

Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Planning Training in Sport and Exercise Psychology
Introduces the core elements of the Professional Doctorate training programme and requires you to plan your training.
Sport and Exercise Psychology Professional Practice
The relevant ‘Stage 2’ practitioner competences are developed and demonstrated in this module.
Reflection in Sport and Exercise Psychology
Requires you to reflect and meta-reflect on your training across the Stage 2 competencies.

Further guidance on modules

The information listed in the section entitled ‘What you will study’ is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification.

Read less

The MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology (BPS Stage 1) seeks to provide you with an opportunity to develop advanced knowledge of the discipline and to increase your skills in applying such knowledge in the context of sport performance and exercise for health and wellbeing.

The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) as a recognised stage 1 qualification for those wishing to pursue a career as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist whilst also fulfilling the requirements for graduates wishing to pursue professional training through the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES).

By studying a Chichester you will have the opportunity to become involved in the wider research and consultancy work of the department which include Sport and Exercise Psychology academics and consultants.

The Sport & Exercise Psychology MSc is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

It is a one-year full time (with part time routes available) programme of study designed for graduates from either Psychology or Sport and Exercise Sciences who are seeking to gain professional recognition through the BPS Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology (QSEP).

Graduates would therefore practice as an Accredited Sport & Exercise Scientist.

The MSc will also act as a suitable postgraduate qualification for those seeking research positions and other professions.

Within the past decade there has been a marked growth in the career opportunities available for sport and exercise psychologists (eg, working with individual athletes or clubs, teaching in further and higher education and health promotion).

Coupled with such growth has also been an increased need for appropriately qualified and accredited individuals to fill such positions.

The British Psychological Society (BPS) has developed procedures for the accreditation of suitably experienced individuals that stipulate the possession of a relevant form of postgraduate qualification.

Similarly BASES require applicants for Supervised experience to also have a postgraduate qualification in a specialist discipline.

The MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology therefore seeks to provide students with an opportunity to study at a postgraduate level to fulfill the initial requirements for BPS and BASES accreditation, to develop their specialist knowledge of the psychology and to increase their skills in applying such knowledge in both sporting and exercise populations.

Home tuition fees for 2017

1 Year full-time including dissertation £5670.00

There is an Alumni Discount of 10% for students applying within five years of completion of an undergraduate course at Chichester.

Overseas fees for 2017 are £12,360.00

Our facilities
Over the past few years, we have redeveloped both of our campuses so that you have the best facilities available as you study for your degree. We pride ourselves on the quality of the learning environment we can offer our students. All of our facilities are designed for academic teaching, research, British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) competitions and for your social/recreational use throughout the week and weekends.

The world-class Tudor Hale Centre for Sport is the focus of sporting activities, both academic and recreational, at the University. The Tudor Hale Centre for Sport incorporates a suite of state of the art sport science laboratories, a sports injury clinic, a strength and conditioning room and a fitness suite. In addition, there is a sports hall used for basketball, netball, trampolining, badminton, volleyball, cricket, soccer, table tennis, hockey and ultimate frisbee. Located beside the Tudor Hale Centre for Sport you will find our brand new Sports Dome, incorporating four indoor tennis courts, our all-weather astro turf pitch, and grass rugby pitch.

Facilities:

Brand new Sports Dome, with four tennis courts, three netball courts
Sports hall
110m synthetic athletics track
Modern fitness suite
Strength and conditioning room
Two multi-purpose gymnasiums
Indoor and outdoor climbing walls and climbing boulder
Grass football and rugby pitches
Outdoor netball and tennis court
Floodlit synthetic Astro Turf pitch
Two seminar rooms
Cricket nets
Sport Science Laboratories:

Four dedicated psychology labs
Two dedicated biomechanics labs
Five dedicated physiology labs
An environmental chamber to simulate heat, altitude, etc
A sports injury clinic and adjoining rehabilitation space
Where this can take you
We understand the importance of ensuring that you have the knowledge, skills and experience to compete successfully in today’s challenging jobs market.

The course prepares students for a range of graduate careers; our students have gone on to further work or training in a variety of fields including:

Sport and Exercise Psychology
Health Promotion
Higher research Degrees (PhD)
Teaching
Sports science support personnel
Sports coaching
Exercise Referral
Business management and recruitment

For those wishing to commence training for BPS QSEP Stage 2 and BASES SE, there are opportunities for supervision from academic staff who are qualified supervisors and associates of the Sports Performance Rehabilitation Unit.

Indicative modules
All students are required to complete six taught modules, five discipline modules and one in research methods and statistics. In addition, students will complete a research dissertation.

Modules currently available are:

Social Processes in Sport
Performance Psychology
Motor Learning and Control
Enhancing Physical Activity and Wellbeing
Professional Practice in Sport & Exercise Psychology
Advanced Applied Research Skills for Sport
Research Dissertation

Teaching and Assessment
Teaching is delivered in small groups and is interactive. Students are encouraged to debate topics and lead their fellow students through presentations and discussions. In a number of modules there is also a practical element to gain experience of delivering mental skills techniques and developing the skills needed for applied practice.

Requirements for exit qualifications:

To gain a Postgraduate Certificate in Sport and Exercise Psychology, students need to complete three modules. Each module is assessed by the equivalent of a 4,000-word assignment.
To gain a Postgraduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise Psychology, students need to complete six modules. Each module is assessed by a 4,000-word assignment.
To gain an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology students need to complete six modules, and a dissertation of 12,000 words or a sport science support placement.

Read less

Why take this course?

This course presents the UK’s first integrated Professional Doctorate and stage II of the BPS qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology. On completion of this course you will hold a doctoral degree, become a Chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist, and be eligible to apply to register with the Health and Care Professions Council as a Practitioner Psychologist.

The course offers a unique blended learning opportunity for those who wish to achieve both the highest level of academic degree and vocational qualification to practice as a psychologist within the sport and exercise domain. Holding these dual qualifications is increasingly important for both career and professional development in the field of sport and exercise psychology.

What will I experience?

On this course you will:

Gain advanced research skills through the completion of a doctoral level programme of research.
Be supervised by BPS Chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologists, Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Registered Psychologists, and British Association of Sport and Exercise Scientists (BASES), Accredited Sport and Exercise Scientists. All supervisors are experienced researcher-practitioners with extensive applied experience.
Develop advanced ethical, communication, and consultancy competencies in applied sport and exercise psychology practice.

What opportunities might it lead to?

Specific careers directly related to this qualification include becoming an applied practitioner, researcher, or lecturer in sport and/or exercise psychology. Applied practitioners tend to be self employed or employed by national governing bodies, sport institutes, or private sport organisations.

Researchers tend to be employed by commercial companies and academic institutions. Lecturers in this field are employed by further and higher educational establishments.

You will not only be qualified for a career in applied sport and exercise psychology, but also in sports and exercise science, and management roles within the world of sport, for example, national governing bodies. Alternatively, given the range of general employability skills developed throughout the course, you could also go on to a variety of careers in other sectors, for example, business, the police and the armed services.

Module Details

The Professional Doctorate comprises two stages:

Stage 1 relates to the completion of a British Psychological Society accredited undergraduate degree or conversion course (conferring Graduate Basis for Chartered Status) and a British Psychological Society accredited Masters degree (conferring Stage 1 of the BPS’s Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology). If you have completed the requirements for Stage 1 (i.e. Stage 1 BPS QSEP), you will be compensated for this through APEL and will enter the programme at Stage 2 of the Professional Doctorate.

Stage 2 of this course contains three core units: Publication and Dissemination (30 credits), Proposal for Professional Research and Development Project and Professional Practice and Research (30 credits), and Professional Research and Development Project in Sport and Exercise Psychology (360 credits). These units are made up of component parts and are assessed through portfolio work, presentation, and viva voce examination.

Programme Assessment

You will be assigned one or more University supervisors, depending on the area of research and professional development. Access to specialist advisors in the workplace will be required for Part 2 of the programme and will vary according to the area of investigation. We have excellent support systems for our Professional Doctorate students and you will be assigned a Personal Tutor for Part 1 as well as two Supervisors for Part 2 of the course. There are further opportunities to attend research seminars and workshops organised by the University's Graduate School.

The Professional Doctorate consists of coursework and research and is credit based. The coursework component is designed to help build on professional expertise by exposing students to challenging and innovative ideas in their field.

Assessment is by coursework (including preparation of manuscripts for publication and documents for review in line with the BPS QSEP) and oral presentations. This should normally take 36 months to complete.

Student Destinations

This course is specifically tailored for individuals seeking to become a sport and exercise psychologist and hold a doctoral research degree. It's the first course to provide this blended approach to gaining the qualifications in one programme of work. The course is designed for those interested in a career in academia such as research and lecturing, and/or applied practice in the domain of sport and exercise psychology.

Read less

If you hold the British Psychological Society (BPS) Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) this course will support you along the path to becoming a chartered sport and exercise psychologist. You can choose to study to obtain GBC after completing the MSc if you decide to follow the full pathway to becoming a registered sport and exercise psychologist.

Successfully completing the course provides you with Stage 1 of the BPS Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology (QSEP), and prepares you for stage 2, which is required for chartered status.

You gain core skills in the academic and intellectual understanding and researching of sport and exercise psychology. You also begin to consider applied practice in sport and exercise settings, enabling you to be supervised and taught by chartered practising psychologists.

The course provides you with opportunities to study psychology in both a sport and exercise setting. In this setting, you consider the role of psychological interventions for sport performers, coaches and teams as well as lifestyle behaviour change, such as exercise and physical activity adoption.

You develop your work-related and applied skills throughout the course whilst keeping a major focus on developing your core psychological skills, especially in the sport and exercise psychology subject area.

To gain the masters, you complete a major research project. It may be possible to study your project overseas if it satisfies the module aims and learning outcomes.

For more information, visit the website: https://www.shu.ac.uk/study-here/find-a-course/msc-sport-and-exercise-psychology

Professional links and experience

Our teaching team are chartered psychologists in the Division of Sport and Exercise and BPS supervisors for the QSEP. They also have substantial practice experience in both elite athlete and physical activity and exercise settings. Sheffield Hallam are a skills development partner of the Chartered Institute for Managing Sport and Physical Activity.

Research expertise

75 per cent of Sheffield Hallam’s sport research is of international standard according to the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE). ‘Research Research’ ranks us as fourth in the country for sports research, based on the results of the 2008 RAE.

Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology

If you do not hold Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, you can complete our Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology (conversion course) before or after completing the MSc.

Professional recognition

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society.

Course structure

Full time – 1 year.
Part time – typically 2 years.
Starts September.
The masters award is achieved by successfully completing 180 credits.
Modules
-Research methods (15 credits)
-Data analysis (15 credits)
-Psychology of sport and performance (15 credits)
-Physical activity and health behaviour (15 credits)
-Lifespan development perspectives in sport and exercise (15 credits)
-Applied techniques in sport and exercise psychology (15 credits)
-Individual differences in sport and exercise psychology (15 credits)
-Developing professional practice in sport and exercise psychology (15 credits)
-Project (60 credits)

Assessment: examinations, portfolio, group and individual presentations, written reports, practical assessments.

Read less

This is a 1-year full-time course, all teaching is delivered in a distance-learning format, through an online Virtual Learning Environment. Drawing on a variety of multi-media technologies, the elements are broken down into various engaging formats to help you learn, and provide interaction between students and tutors. You will explore a wide-ranging curriculum, covering subjects such as applied sport psychology techniques, group dynamics, leadership, applied research methods, skill acquisition, physical activity and mental health, stress, and resilience.

As an exclusively online course, this MSc is unique in the UK, and through Staffordshire University’s well-established distance learning expertise you will gain access to a highly effective way to develop your knowledge, expertise and professional skills around your life.

The MSc in Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology is aimed at individuals who come from a sport science (or related) background and wish to study applied sport and exercise psychology at Masters Level. This MSc provides the required post-graduate qualification for an individual seeking to engage in the accreditation process with the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) and to gain Chartered Scientist status that can support a career in sport and exercise psychology.

Course content

-Physical Activity and Mental Health
-Advanced Research Methods and Data Analysis
-Group Dynamics and Leadership in Sport and Exercise
-The Practice of Sport and Exercise Psychology
-Skilled Performance Under Pressure
-Dissertation

Read less

Key fact

Accredited by the British Psychological Society, highly flexible, and geared to excellent peer learning with practical experience and placement opportunities, this Master’s provides a strong theoretical background to sports psychology in practice.

Introduction

Sport and Exercise Psychology is a relatively new field of applied psychology that's growing rapidly thanks to an increasing global focus on elite performance and physical activity in general particularly in light of the London 2012 Olympic Games. Today, the psychologist's contribution to our understanding and enhancement of sport and exercise is ever more varied and important.

Supporting athletes and wider society

National governing bodies now recognise sports science as an important part of training and competition for high-performance sports. These days many teams, sports organisations and local health authorities employ sports and exercise psychologists to help train athletes and promote physical activity to the wider population. Meanwhile, many primary care trusts are now appointing exercise specialists with psychology expertise to work in areas such as chronic conditions and health promotion.

The MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology gives you a critical understanding of contemporary issues in sport and exercise psychology, and applies this directly to practice and future roles in sport and exercise psychology. The course team brings extensive experience of counselling, motivational interviewing and other applied skills, along with the psychological tools you'll use when working with athletes, teams and other groups. Working with teams and individual athletes features heavily in the course.

Therapeutic processes form a central theme in this course, and as a result you'll develop a solid foundation in the therapeutic skills required to work effectively with individuals in sport or exercise contexts.

For up to date list of modules and course delivery please visit our website.

Learning and Teaching

You'll develop your skills and knowledge through block teaching days, and we provide an excellent virtual learning environment to support you throughout. This innovative teaching and learning approach suits full-time and part-time study and means you can study in the most flexible and convenient way, around your professional and personal commitments.

Study facilities

Find out more about the facilities and resources UWE has to offer: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/whyuwe/fantasticfacilities

Careers/Further Study

Our links to practice are excellent, and all course tutors work professionally with sports teams and individual athletes. So, as well as excellent context to your learning, you will enjoy useful links to potential employers through placement opportunities with, for example, Bristol Rovers FC, Bristol Rowing, and Bristol Rugby.

Our award-winning careers service helps you develop your employment potential through career coaching, a vacancy service for internships, placements, jobs, global opportunities, volunteering and community activity plus support for entrepreneurial activity, and access to employer events.

Open Events

We hold a number of University-wide open evenings as well as a number of subject specific events throughout the year for anyone considering postgraduate and professional study. Visit http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/whatson/opendays/postgraduateopendays.aspx

Read less

This programme provides students with a critical understanding of sport and exercise psychology. It is designed and delivered primarily with a view to best preparing students for two specific career pathways: a Sport and Exercise Psychologist / Sport and Exercise Scientist or a lecturer / professor of sport and exercise psychology / sport and exercise science, specialising in psychology.

Areas of study include: research methods and methodologies, psychology of sport and physical activity in youth, current research in performance psychology and management, psychology of exercise for clinical populations, quantitative research, qualitative research, mental health in sport and exercise, professional practice in sport psychology, the psychology of the coach-athlete relationship, and a research project.

See the website http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/programmes/departments/ssehs/psychology-sport-exercise/

Programme modules

Compulsory Modules:
Semester 1
- Research Methods and Methodologies
- Performance Psychology
- Applied Sport Psychology
- Motivation and Individual Differences in Exercise and Sport

Semester 2
- Quantitative Research or Qualitative Research
- Applied Sport Psychology
- Psychology of Physical Activity and Public Health
- Mental Health and Physical Activity

Summer
- Research Project

Assessment

Examination, coursework and a research paper.

Careers and further study

Sport and exercise psychologist, performance psychologist, sport and exercise scientist, a lecturer / professor of sport and exercise psychology, a lecturer / professor of sport and exercise science specialising in psychology, and doctoral researcher of sport and exercise psychology.

Why choose sport, exercise and health sciences at Loughborough?

Staff within the School are renowned internationally for the quality of their teaching and research, which has influenced policy and practice around the world.

Knowledge gained from our research underpins the teaching and variety of learning experiences offered through the School’s comprehensive range of postgraduate taught and research degrees.

Our staff expertise, combined with on-going investment in buildings, teaching facilities, laboratories and equipment, makes the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences a stimulating, multidisciplinary environment in which to study.

- Research
Research within the School is classified broadly into three themes: Performance in sport, Lifestyle for health and well-being, and Participation in sport and exercise.

- Career prospects
Over 92% of our graduates were in employment and/or further study six months after graduating. They go on to work with companies such as APR Psychology, Adidas, BUPA, Badminton England, British Red Cross, Ministry of Education, KPGM, Lucozade, NHS, Nuffield Health and Youth Sport Trust.

Find out how to apply here http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/programmes/departments/ssehs/psychology-sport-exercise/

Read less

This course is designed for students wishing to specialise within the discipline of sport and exercise psychology, in order to gain professional training in the provision of psychological support to clients, acquire vocationally related psychological skills, develop a critical thinking approach to the existing knowledge base and conduct research, all within a science practice model.

Key benefits

- Accredited by the British Psychological Society, this makes up Stage One of the training in Sport and Exercise Psychology

Course detail

Visit the website: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/course/msc-sport-and-exercise-psychology-ft-jn

- Description -

This MSc was developed in the context of the increasing professionalisation of sport and exercise psychology, the accreditation criteria for the British Psychological Society (BPS) and the need for a university level course on the island of Ireland.

- Purpose -

The MSc will provide graduates with competencies in applying interventions professionally and ethically. As such, the programme will provide students with a thorough grounding in the theory, themes, issues and practical skills that are central to the knowledge base of sport and exercise psychology.

- Format and assessment -

The programme is organized around 3 main themes:

(1) theory-practice
(2) Individual content
(3) stability-change

which permeate throughout each of the taught modules. These themes are embedded to serve as a heuristic tool to enable students to apply and underpin critical thinking in the field. This thematic approach also supports and reflects the critical philosophy that underpins the programme as a whole and is central to teaching, learning and assessment.

Career options

Graduates should expect to possess professional skills in consulting, advanced research skills, relevant personal skills and a deep understanding of the high performance environment.

Graduate destinations:

- Teaching/research in sport sciences and consulting;
- Teaching/research in psychology and also consulting;
- Clinical/Counseling services to various populations including athletes;
- Health promotion and working with clients but not necessarily athletes;
- Further PhD research study.

How to apply: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/how-to-apply#pg

[Why Choose Ulster University ?

1. Over 92% of our graduates are in work or further study six months after graduation.
2. We are a top UK university for providing courses with a period of work placement.
3. Our teaching and the learning experience we deliver are rated at the highest level by the Quality Assurance Agency.
4. We recruit international students from more than 100 different countries.
5. More than 4,000 students from over 50 countries have successfully completed eLearning courses at Ulster University.

Flexible payment

To help spread the cost of your studies, tuition fees can be paid back in monthly instalments while you learn. If you study for a one-year, full-time master’s, you can pay your fees up-front, in one lump sum, or in either five* or ten* equal monthly payments. If you study for a master’s on a part-time basis (e.g. over three years), you can pay each year’s fees up-front or in five or ten equal monthly payments each year. This flexibility allows you to spread the payment of your fees over each academic year. Find out more by visiting https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-finance/postgraduate

Scholarships

A comprehensive range of financial scholarships, awards and prizes are available to undergraduate, postgraduate and research students. Scholarships recognise the many ways in which our students are outstanding in their subject. Individuals may be able to apply directly or may automatically be nominated for awards. Visit the website: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-finance/scholarships

English Language Tuition

CELT offers courses and consultations in English language and study skills to Ulster University students of all subjects, levels and nationalities. Students and researchers for whom English is an additional language can access free CELT support throughout the academic year: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/international/english-language-support

Read less

Accredited by the BPS providing Stage One Professional Training in Sport and Exercise Psychology - the first step in gaining Chartered Psychologist status and registration with the Health Professions Council (HPC) as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist. Course tutors have a wealth of research and consultancy experience and come from both the Sport and Exercise Department and the Psychology Department.

Part-time study mode allowing you to 'earn while you learn'. The only distance-learning postgraduate qualification in sport and exercise psychology offered by a university in the UK. It offers a unique opportunity to study for postgraduate qualifications at a time and place convenient for the learner.

Course outline

The award provides students with a critical understanding of current issues relating to the application of psychological theory to sport and exercise settings. It has been developed for individuals who possess Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS). It is accredited by the BPS and provides the first stage in a training process towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist and registration with the Health Professions Council (HPC) as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist. The course is part-time, taking two years to complete, and is delivered in a distance learning format through an electronic Virtual Learning Environment.

Read less

Accredited by the BPS providing Stage One Professional Training in Sport and Exercise Psychology - the first step in gaining Chartered Psychologist status and registration with the Health Professions Council (HPC) as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist. Course tutors have a wealth of research and consultancy experience and come from both the Sport and Exercise Department and the Psychology Department.

Part-time study mode allowing you to 'earn while you learn'. The only distance-learning postgraduate qualification in sport and exercise psychology offered by a university in the UK. It offers a unique opportunity to study for postgraduate qualifications at a time and place convenient for the learner.

Course outline

The award provides students with a critical understanding of current issues relating to the application of psychological theory to sport and exercise settings. It has been developed for individuals who possess Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS). It is accredited by the BPS and provides the first stage in a training process towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist and registration with the Health Professions Council (HPC) as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist. The course is part-time, taking two years to complete, and is delivered in a distance learning format through an electronic Virtual Learning Environment.

Read less

Staffordshire University’s MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology offers students a critical understanding of current issues in psychological theory applied to sport and exercise settings.

Available as a 1-year full-time or 2-year part-time course, all teaching is delivered in a distance-learning format, through an online Virtual Learning Environment. Drawing on a variety of multi-media technologies, the elements are broken down into various engaging formats to help you learn, and provide interaction between students and tutors. You will explore a wide-ranging curriculum, covering subjects such as applied sport psychology techniques, group dynamics, leadership, applied research methods, skill acquisition, physical activity and mental health, stress, and resilience.

As an exclusively online course, this MSc is unique in the UK, and through Staffordshire University’s well-established distance learning expertise you will gain access to a highly effective way to develop your knowledge, expertise and professional skills around your life.

If you have the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society (BPS) this course provides Stage 1 training towards becoming a Chartered Psychologist and Registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist. It’s also suitable for anyone with a Sport and Exercise Science or related first-degree background, however, to complete Stage 2 training with the BPS you’ll need to obtain GBC via a conversion course before enrolling in Stage 2.

Modules

-Physical Activity and Mental Health
-Advanced Research Methods and Data Analysis
-Group Dynamics and Leadership in Sport and Exercise
-The Practice of Sport and Exercise Psychology
-Skilled Performance Under Pressure
-Masters Research Project (MSc Dissertation)

Read less

The only distance learning, postgraduate qualification in sport and exercise psychology offered by a university in the UK. Course tutors have a wealth of research and consultancy experience and come from both the Sport and Exercise Department and the Psychology Department. It offers a unique opportunity to study for postgraduate qualifications at a time and place convenient for the learner. Part-time study mode allowing you to 'earn while you learn'.

Course outline

The award is for individuals interested in the exciting and growing field of sport and exercise psychology. The aim of the award is to provide students with a critical understanding of current issues relating to the application of psychological theory to sport and exercise settings. It has been developed for individuals who possess an appropriate honours degree in sport science (or related topic). The course is part-time, taking two years to complete, and is delivered in a distance learning format through a Virtual Learning Environment.

Read less

The only distance learning, postgraduate qualification in sport and exercise psychology offered by a university in the UK. Course tutors have a wealth of research and consultancy experience and come from both the Sport and Exercise Department and the Psychology Department. It offers a unique opportunity to study for postgraduate qualifications at a time and place convenient for the learner. Part-time study mode allowing you to 'earn while you learn'.

Course content

The award is for individuals interested in the exciting and growing field of sport and exercise psychology. The aim of the award is to provide students with a critical understanding of current issues relating to the application of psychological theory to sport and exercise settings. It has been developed for individuals who possess an appropriate honours degree in sport science (or related topic). The course is part-time, taking two years to complete, and is delivered in a distance learning format through a Virtual Learning Environment.

Student experience

"Working full-time, I would never be able to do a masters degree - but distance learning has made this possible, giving me the flexibility to study in the evenings and at weekends. It is not an "easy" option by any means but has been stimulating and challenging. The opportunity of attending in person to meet other students and staff was welcomed and made me feel part of the learning community again."

Read less

How do athletes overcome setbacks? What is the best way for coaches to develop a great team dynamic? How do referees and officials deal with criticism? What factors influence people to take part in exercise?

Sport and exercise psychologists seek to understand the ways in which thoughts and emotions can affect performance and exercise participation. They use this knowledge to provide psychological skills support, increase motivation and develop self-belief at all levels, whether that’s encouraging the public to adopt a more active lifestyle or improving the performance of elite competitors.

This British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited Masters degree will develop the advanced psychological knowledge to understand critical issues in sport and physical activity, from recreational to elite level.

For more information on the part time option of this course, please view this web-page: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/sport-and-exercise-psychology-dtpsxp6/

Learn From The Best

The teaching team includes a number of BPS Chartered and HCPC registered Sport and Exercise Psychologists who have links to high profile governing bodies and sporting organisations including The Football Association (FA), Newcastle United Foundation and the English Institute of Sport, so when you choose this course you can be sure the knowledge and skills you will gain will be current and industry-relevant.

You will learn from research-active academics from across the Department of Psychology and Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, a valuable combination not found in most institutions. The experienced, cohesive teaching team have been praised by the BPS, external examiners and students alike for their knowledge, enthusiasm and high levels of student support.

Teaching And Assessment

At Northumbria, we take a practical approach to learning and assessment. Based in our well-equipped laboratory facilities and the state-of-the art Sport Central, you will be given the opportunity to work with athletes and client groups.

You’ll find that many modules use real-world scenarios, providing an opportunity to satisfy your intellectual curiosity as you work your way through evidence that often seems contradictory or controversial. You may find yourself helping to solve a real-life athlete issue; implementing intervention strategies to assist with performance; or developing a strategy to encourage behaviour change.

Assessment methods are varied and include exams, critical reviews and essays. Much of the course-based assessment has been developed to illustrate how the principles of sport and exercise psychology are applied in real world contexts. These may include reflections, case study reports, client/athlete needs assessments presentations, and handouts to coaches.

Moduler Overview
PY0756 - Exercise Psychology (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0757 - Motor Processes in Sport (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0758 - Psychological Skills for Sport Performance (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0759 - Counselling and Interpersonal Processes in Sport and Exercise (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0774 - Qualitative and Quantitative Methods (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0775 - Professional Skills (Core, 20 Credits)
PY0776 - MSc Thesis (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

You will be working within our modern, purpose-built teaching rooms and laboratories for taught and practical based sessions.

You will develop data analysis and interpretation skills using advanced statistical software packages as well as online survey platforms and bespoke laboratory software, including psychometric and cognitive tests.

As a postgraduate psychology student you will also have access to a dedicated common room for study, informal learning and socialising.

Research-Rich Learning

Throughout the course you will develop an understanding of research-informed practice and learn to apply this practically, through solving case studies, assessing clients for psychological skills intervention, and interpreting patterns of behaviour.

You will draw from the strengths of research active academics whose interests cover wide-ranging subjects from investigating the effects of venue on sports performance, interpersonal processes in sport, the psychological influence of injury, alcohol consumption in student athletes and the impact of physical activity on psychological wellbeing.

Your MSc thesis is submitted in journal format which allows for ongoing review and evaluation. This eases the process of submitting for publication, can strengthen a scholarship or funding application, and improve the prospect of securing employment in an academic environment.

Give Your Career An Edge

As the link between psychological wellbeing and physical activity becomes more defined, the demand for exercise psychologists in the healthcare sector has increased – particularly in the areas of health promotion and rehabilitation. Similarly, there is a growing demand for sports psychologists to deliver support from grassroots level through to performance athletes. This Masters degree programme will help develop the professional skills that will give you the edge in this evolving area of psychology.

For applicants who already possess the Graduate Basis for Chartered membership (GBC) and who successfully complete the course, you can then go on to complete the BPS Stage 2 Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology. After completing both Stage 1 and Stage 2 qualifications this will then enable you to become an HCPC registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist practitioner, a legally protected title.

Your Future

You will graduate with a wide range of professional skills, which include the ability to:
-Critically evaluate current theories and evidence which can be applied to understand and solve complex issues in real world contexts.
-Communicate your ideas and findings effectively to variety of audiences, whether it be coaches, parents, athletes or exercise enthusiasts.
-Apply relevant ethical, legal and professional practice frameworks (such as those required by the BPS and HCPC).

Your transferable skills will include oral and written communication, critical evaluation, problem solving, time management, IT and advanced statistical and qualitative analysis techniques.

Graduates with Stage 1 and Stage 2 qualifications who are interested in sport psychology will be in a strong position to work with major sports teams or field-based consultation at major sporting events. Options for exercise psychologists include working in private rehabilitation, gyms, the NHS, GP exercise referral schemes and local Councils.

Some of our recent graduates now work as teachers, coaches, consultants, in the healthcare sector and for organisations including the English Institute of Sport and Sunderland Association Football Club (SAFC). Many of our students have gone on to further postgraduate opportunities such as Ph.D. study whilst some have also secured placement opportunities in elite, amateur and recreational level sport.

Read less

About the course

This course focuses on the application of psychology in the sport and exercise domain.

The course is aimed at students who hold or plan to obtain Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and who wish to specialise in sport and exercise psychology, either as researchers or Health and Care Professions Council registered practitioners.

Aims

You will be provided with a coherent programme of study, consistent with the BPS accreditation criteria, that prepares you for Stage 2 of training to become a sport and exercise psychologist.

You will extend your knowledge and understanding in the field of sport and exercise psychology.

You will encounter a range of learning experiences designed to enhance critical analysis and independence of thought.

You will be given grounding in research methods and data analysis that prepares you for higher research-related degrees (e.g. PhD).

Course Content

Compulsory Modules

Research and Application in the Psychology of Sports Performance
Social Processes in Exercise and Sport
Psychological Skills for Practitioners
Individual Differences in Sport & Exercise
Research Methods and Data Analysis
MSc Dissertation

Optional Modules

Professional Development
Performance Lifestyle

Assessment

Your academic performance will be assessed in a variety of ways. Assessment procedures include essays, case studies, oral presentations, poster presentations, laboratory report writing and computer-based tests. Formal written examinations constitute part of the assessment in some modules. In addition, you will need to submit, and pass, a research dissertation.

Special Features

Highly relevant curriculum: The course content aligns with the BPS regulations and capitalises on the extensive research and consultancy expertise of the teaching team.

Teaching excellence: The Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences enjoy a prominent position within the University, building upon traditions that stem from Borough Road College – the oldest teacher-training college in the British Commonwealth. We have a long-standing reputation for excellence in teaching and an impressive record of research and publication which consistently attracts high-calibre students, including high level sportsmen and sportswomen who successfully combine study with training and competition.

Prestigious placements: Many of our graduates have secured outstanding work-experience placements after completing their course, including work with Fulham FC, Southampton FC, Wickham Wanderers FC, Sutton Tennis Academy, West Indies Cricket Board, the IMG Bollettieri Tennis Academy, and Chelsea FC Academy.

Quality sports facilities: Brunel University offers state-of the-art indoor and outdoor sports facilities including an international standard 400 metre, 6-lane track with full field event facilities and a Sports Hall housing an climbing wall and pump room – rated in the top 10 in the country by the British Mountaineering Council.

Accreditation

This course is fully accredited by the BPS; therefore, students who successfully complete the course will have passed Stage 1 of training for becoming a Chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist.

Read less