Masters Degrees (Strength And Conditioning)

This innovative Master's degree is focused on the application of strength and conditioning as one of the most effective tools to improve both health and performance.

The evidence-based content, supported by an extensive practical programme, will provide students with the opportunity to obtain professional accreditations from the most respected organisations in the field: National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) and the International Society of Sport Nutrition (ISSN).

The programme is supported by internationally recognised visiting tutors, together with specialist staff in the Centre for Sports Science and Human Performance within the Department of Life & Sports Sciences. This, together with the well-equipped facilities, gives a focus on the students need and requirements, helping them achieve their potential.

The aims of the programme are:

- To provide students with an understanding of the subject specific knowledge, as well as the critical, analytical and flexible approach to problem-solving in the field of strength and conditioning

- To provide students with enhanced practical and professional skills and thus prepare students effectively for professional employment or doctoral studies in the field of strength and conditioning

- To enable students to work independently and use initiative in solving the diverse problems that may be encountered

- To instill a critical awareness of advances at the forefront of strength and conditioning.

Visit the website http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/courses/pg/scisport/strengthcond

Science - Sport

Our programme forms part of the Centre for Sports Science & Human Performance offering state-of-the-art facilities including 3D motion-capture systems, strength and conditioning facilities and a specialised environment chamber. Our aim is to prepare students for leadership roles in the development and administration of exercise programmes, sports practice, coaching and conditioning.

What you'll study

Full time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Biomechanics and Technology in Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)
English Language Support (for Postgraduate students in the School of Science)
Sports Nutrition and Supplements in Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)
Foundations of Sport Nutrition (15 credits)
Research Methods and Professional Practice in Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)
Applied Strength and Conditioning (30 credits)
Sports Specific Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)
Strength and Conditioning Research Project (60 credits)
Applied Functional Training for Health, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation (15 credits)

Part time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Biomechanics and Technology in Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)
Applied Strength and Conditioning (30 credits)
Applied Functional Training for Health, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation (15 credits)

- Year 2:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Sports Nutrition and Supplements in Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)
Foundations of Sport Nutrition (15 credits)
Research Methods and Professional Practice in Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)
Sports Specific Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)
Strength and Conditioning Research Project (60 credits)

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Find out more about our fees and the support available to you at our:
- Postgraduate finance pages (http://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/pg)
- International students' finance pages (http://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/international)

Assessment

Essays, case study and problem solving exercises, time-constrained tests, formal reports, presentations, portfolio, written examinations, practical assessments and an independent research project.

Professional recognition

Upon successful completion of the programme, students will achieve professional accreditations from the most respected organisations in the field: National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) and the International Society of Sport Nutrition (ISSN).

Career options

Graduates can pursue opportunities in the sports performance and coaching field, or gain positions as Head Strength Coach, Assistant Strength Coach, Strength Coach, Sports Nutrition Advisors. They can also gain roles in the health and fitness industry (advanced programmes and services); performance diagnostics-oriented companies, institutions and laboratories; manufacturers of devices, equipment for training, and testing as well as sports nutrition supplements design; oriented research institutions; public authorities; consulting and self-employed businesses; health-care companies and institutions.

Find out about the teaching and learning outcomes here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/?a=643714

Find out how to apply here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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To be an excellent strength and conditioning coach requires a wide knowledge across several domains and a number of different skill sets. These include:
-An extensive “toolbox” of training exercise and interventions
-An understanding of movement and the ability to teach movement
-An understanding of how the body adapts to training and how to organise training to maximise desirable adaptations
-An ability to coach
-The ability to understand various sources of evidence (including scientific evidence) and use it to inform your practice

The MSc in Strength and Conditioning has been designed with these demands in mind, and aims to support students in developing as excellent strength and conditioning coaches.

Why St Mary's?

St Mary’s is widely recognised as an international leader in strength and conditioning education. We were the first UK institution to offer a BSc in strength and conditioning, and this MSc was the first part time, distance learning course in strength and conditioning in the UK. In recent years the university has invested £250,000 in a state of the art Performance Education Centre which is unrivalled as a facility for strength and conditioning education.

The staff at St Mary’s include both highly experienced coaches and expert sport scientists. In addition, our adjunct faculty is comprised of some of the most highly regarded practitioners in the world. All of the course material is designed for the strength and conditioning degree alone, which ensures that the practical relevance of the scientific evidence to the strength and conditioning coach is always fully explored.

The distance learning nature of this course has several advantages for professionals. Principal among these is the opportunity to combine study with practical work experience, thus allowing the translation of science into practice. In addition, you can organise your study around your own personal schedule. You can download lectures and watch them at times that suit you.

A Student View

Crofton Alexander (Wasps Strength and Conditioning Coach)
"Having already started a career in professional strength and conditioning with London Wasps prior to commencing the MSc, I was hoping that St Mary's MSc Strength and Conditioning programme would be stimulating, thought provoking and a challenge to my current philosophy.

"In all honesty, it did more than that and I can definitely say that this programme has raised my strength and conditioning practices to the next level."

Course Content

All modules have a credit value of 20, except for the research project which has a credit value of 60. With the exception of the Advanced Sport and Exercise Physiology module, all modules are assessed by a variety of types of coursework. To qualify for the diploma you need to accrue 120 credits. To qualify for the certificate you need to accrue 60 credits.

Modules will be offered according to staff availability and student uptake. Details of the core modules offered are presented below. Whilst every effort is made to accommodate student preferences we do require at least three students to register for a module to make it viable.

Module Information
› Practical Techniques in Strength and Conditioning
› Research Methods and Evidence Based Practice
› Biomechanics and Skill Acquisition in Strength and Conditioning
› Physiology of Training
› Programme Design, Planning and Monitoring
› Topical Issues in Strength and Conditioning Science
› Independent Project
› Study Skills

Please note: All information is correct at the time of publication. However, course content is regularly updated and this may result in some changes, which will be communicated to students before their programme begins.

Career Prospects

In today’s marketplace, employers are seeking to employ staff who are suitably qualified to undertake their roles and responsibilities. As such, there is an increased need for postgraduate programmes to be vocationally orientated, with an emphasis on training students in the theoretical underpinnings and relevant practical areas to work in the sport industry.

The MSc / PG Diploma programme focuses on disciplines pertinent to the field of strength and conditioning. These disciplines are developed to provide a programme that reflects the competencies required for professional accreditation with the UKSCA and NSCA.

It is necessary for applicants to understand that the most important quality valued by employers is experience. It is therefore a condition of entry to the course that students arrange experience opportunities in strength and conditioning prior to entry. For those using the course as CPD for another career pathway (e.g. physiotherapists) this condition does not apply.

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Are you highly motivated with an interest in strength and conditioning and sport science? Looking to have a real impact on sport and athletic development? This course gives you the knowledge and practical competencies to go on to further studies or a career in strength and conditioning.

You’ll focus on the practical aspects of the discipline, covering topics including the physiology of strength and conditioning, applied strength and conditioning, contemporary issues and professional practice for the benefit of athletes in the sporting industry.

“It’s inspiring. You are constantly surrounded by individuals with a very high level of knowledge and experience within the industry.” Sam Bacon MSc Strength and Conditioning

You’ll be working in some of the best campus sports facilities in the UK, including sport and exercise science labs accredited by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), and learning useful skills thanks to course recognition by the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

For more information on the part time option for this course, please view this web-page: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/strength-and-conditioning-dtpstc6/

Learn From The Best

You'll learn from our expert staff members, many of whom are accredited strength and conditioning coaches as well as being actively involved in research.

Their specialisms include recovery from exercise; strategies to enhance performance; different fatigue mechanisms; sports nutrition products and how they benefit exercise populations.

Northumbria is ranked in the top 30 for excellence in sport and exercise science research power, making it the best-rated university in the North East.

Teaching And Assessment

Combining practical and theoretical knowledge you’ll increase your skills through informed debate with your peers and independent study.

You’ll learn through small group lectures that will help direct you towards subjects for further study and research and through sessions mainly involving laboratory or practical skills. These sessions will help you develop your hands-on experience alongside analytical, data handling and scientific reporting expertise.

You’ll be assessed through laboratory reports, presentations, case studies, assignments, practical skills, small-scale projects, preparing articles for journals and a dissertation.

You’ll be able to demonstrate transferable and practical professional skills as well as ensuring you can present information to different audiences, for example scientific research conferences and peer groups.

You’ll be supported by a guidance tutor who has a wealth of experience in supporting students from a variety of backgrounds on personal or professional matters.

Module Overview
SP0732 - Exercise Prescription for Health Disorders and Special Populations (Core, 20 Credits)
SP0733 - Sport and Exercise Science Dissertation (Core, 60 Credits)
SP0734 - Contemporary Issues and Professional Practise (Core, 20 Credits)
SP0735 - Applied Strength and Conditioning (Core, 20 Credits)
SP0736 - High Performance Coaching in Strength & Conditioning (Core, 20 Credits)
SP0737 - Physiology of Strength and Conditioning (Core, 20 Credits)
SP0738 - Research Methods (Core, 20 Credits)

Learning Environment

You’ll be learning and training in some of the best campus sport facilities in the country, rated in the Top 5 in the UK in the Times Higher Education’s Student Experience Survey 2015-16.

You’ll have access to facilities including Sport Central, a £30 million purpose-built sports building that offers an indoor sprint track, biomechanics lab, strength and conditioning and performance analysis suites and a physiology lab.

The state of the art sport and exercise science labs have been accredited by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), providing the perfect environment to develop your knowledge and hands-on research skills.

Research-Rich Learning

Northumbria has an unrivalled reputation for sport and exercise science research power in the North East. You’ll learn from accredited strength and conditioning coaches who are internationally renowned for their research while developing your own enquiry and problem solving skills.

You’ll have the opportunity to take part in their research projects and benefit from their expert knowledge as part of the course and through your final dissertation.

You’ll be encouraged to develop a critical approach with a focus on problem solving, while expanding key areas of knowledge and practical experience as you progress on to more complex research projects.

Give Your Career An Edge

The course is focussed on delivering industry specific knowledge, and is supported by a world class BASES-accredited teaching and research environment. Your future employability across the sports science industry will also be enhanced, thanks to our recognition by the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

You can expect to gain professional hands-on learning experience. As part of the High Performance Coaching module, you’ll work with a client and analyse their personal coaching practice, giving you practical experience that can apply in your future career.

Your Future

Graduating from this course, you’ll be well qualified to work as a strength and conditioning coach or go on to study for a PhD.

Former students are involved in strength and conditioning work for national governing bodies and other organisations or through private consultancy. One recent graduate is the National Fitness Coach for the Gibraltar Football Association.

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Over the past decade, the impact of strength and conditioning has had on athletic performance has become increasingly clear with professional and amateur sports using strength and conditioning to maximise performance.

The MSc in Strength and Conditioning aims to enable you to develop an evidence-based approach to understanding the science of strength training and the application of strength and conditioning in enhancing human performance.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

-You will have the opportunity to study all the theoretical and practical areas necessary for gaining accredited status with the United Kingdom strength and conditioning association (UKSCA)
-You will engage in practical application of strength and conditioning in individual and team sport settings
-Blended learning allows maximum flexibility to fit study into your own schedule

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

There is growing recognition that appropriate strength and conditioning is essential for optimum performance and recovery in sport. An increasing number of athletes at all levels require appropriate support from appropriately trained professionals within the field of strength and conditioning. The Strength and Conditioning MSc will give you the skills needed to deliver this support.

The course is delivered via blended learning. The course is structured around key study days involving face to face lectures, tutorials and laboratory practicals. During these you will also develop the practical competencies needed to demonstrate key Olympic lifts and plan periodised strength and conditioning programmes.

You will study topics covering: Performance Physiology, Biomechanics, Sports Injuries, Corrective Exercises, Recovery Strategies, and Strength and Conditioning Practice. To achieve the award of an MSc Strength and Conditioning you will also receive research methods training and then undertake a mandatory research project.

Modules include:
-Foundation Practices in Strength & Conditioning
-Advanced Practices in Strength & Conditioning
-Client Profilling
-Research Skills and Professional Practice
-Aetiology of Injury and Corrective Exercise
-Recovery & Regeneration

HOW WILL THIS COURSE ENHANCE MY CAREER PROSPECTS?

On successful completion of this course you will be well placed to find a position working with groups or individuals to improve human performance. Strength and conditioning professionals are in demand in many organisations including professional sports teams/clubs, government sports providers (eg the English Institute of Sport), local authorities, health and fitness clubs and further and higher education institutions.

On completion of the course you will be ideally placed to pass the assessment day to obtain UKSCA accredited status. You will also develop a number of transferable skills on the course that will allow you to excel in many different careers.

GLOBAL LEADERS PROGRAMME

To prepare students for the challenges of the global employment market and to strengthen and develop their broader personal and professional skills Coventry University has developed a unique Global Leaders Programme.

The objectives of the programme, in which postgraduate and eligible undergraduate students can participate, is to provide practical career workshops and enable participants to experience different business cultures.

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IN BRIEF:

• Gain a higher degree that will qualify you for a lead role in strength and conditioning
• The contact sessions on campus are applicable immediately to professional practice
• Develop the practical skills and professional knowledge that employers ask for
• Part-time study option

COURSE SUMMARY

This course has a strong practice-based element, which means you'll develop the skills you need to pursue a lead role in the field.

Theoretical content is available online, so you won't have to attend University every week. You'll be able to apply your learning to your job and use case studies from your current area of practice. Our staff are experts in the field of strength and conditioning and they often work in partnership with professional sports teams and individual athletes.

This was the first postgraduate programme in Europe to receive international recognition though the NSCA Education Recognition Program (ERP).

COURSE DETAILS

This was the first Strength and Conditioning Masters Degree in Europe to be recognised by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) through their education recognition programme. The programme is delivered by some of the world’s leading experts. The contact sessions on campus, including keynote sessions followed by practical and seminar sessions, are applicable immediately to professional practice and involve a high practical content.

COURSE STRUCTURE

The MSc course is offered on both a full-time and part-time basis.

The full-time course runs over three academic semesters (October through to September the following year), whilst  giving you the chance to exit with the following awards:

• Postgraduate Certificate: completion of one module
• Postgraduate Diploma: completion of two modules
• Masters: completion of two modules plus a dissertation

In order to achieve an award of MSc Strength and Conditioning you must successfully complete the modules Strength and Conditioning and Injury Prevention and Performance Measurement, along with producing a thesis for the dissertation module.

TEACHING

This course is available both part-time and full-time and is delivered via a blended learning approach, which includes:  

Workshops (three days per module, per semester)

These are interactive, discursive, reflective, participatory, collaborative and practice related sessions that employ a variety of teaching and learning methods. As the course progresses these will become progressively more student led, with you presenting case studies for peer and tutor review.  

Individual scholarly activity

Self directed learning, personal reflection, practice based application and reflection, including peer and tutor review.  

Distance learning resources

Delivery of supporting resources such as study guides and lecture material online. Facilitated group work, including tutor and peer evaluation are a key component of this course.

Personal tutor and peer support

To provide an academic, practice based and personal support mechanism alongside facilitated networking.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment methods will vary depending on the module.  They include:

• Case studies (written and oral presentations)
• Viva vocé
• Literature review
• Practical assessments
• Journal articles (research reports written in the format of a journal article)
• Research proposal

EMPLOYABILITY

With the skills you'll learn in this course, you can take a lead role in strength and conditioning and make a difference to the training of your clients. This course will significantly increase your chances of getting a high profile role in top-flight sport.

Graduates are now employed in Premier League and Championship football and paralympic weightlifting. Some graduates have also progressed on to lecturing and doctoral level study.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Al Stewart, was working as a strength and conditioning coach at Manchester City Football Club Academy when he started the MSc Strength and Conditioning, with the aim of gaining a postgraduate degree while gaining additional practical skills and experience to permit him to progress to a more senior role. He is now the Head of Strength and Conditioning for Hull City FC.

LINKS WITH INDUSTRY

This course has been developed to include the key competencies identified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning association (UKSCA).

FURTHER STUDY

Upon successful completion of the course it would be possible to progress on to a PhD, or a PhD via publication. We offer a range of research degrees relevant to your area of practice.  

As a University, we are committed to your continuing professional development. We run short courses and study days throughout the year to keep you at the forefront of developments in Sports Injury Rehabilitation.

FACILITIES

You will have access to some of the best facilities in the UK, including our purpose-built Human Performance Lab, which contains almost every type of physiological and biomechanical equipment including:

• FT700 Ballistic Measurement System
• 9 AMTI Force Plates, 5 of which are situated in a 40m running track
• ProReflex 10 Camera real-time motion analysis system
• KinCom and Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometers for muscle strength testing
• Portable Kistler force plate
• EMG (electromyography) system used to measures the electrical activity of muscles and to gather information about the muscular and nervous systems
• Esaote AU5 Ultrasound used to study skeletal muscles, tendons, ligaments and blood flow
• We have a range of cycle and rowing ergometers, two treadmills, and two online gas analysis systems. We can perform blood analysis with our Analox GM7 Multi-Assay Blood Analyser to measure blood lactate, glucose and a range of other blood substrates
• There is also the Reflotron which another multi-use system that can measure blood cholesterol and haemoglobin as well as portable blood glucose and lactate analysers.

In addition we have the usual equipment found in exercise physiology labs.

• Polar heart rate monitors
• Harpenden skinfold callipers
• Wingate tests
• Hand grip dynamometers
• Height, weight monitors
• Jump mats and timing gates

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If you wish to work with sports performers as a strength and conditioner, or applied sports scientist, this innovative course is for you.

Designed to meet the needs of students interested in the optimisation the fitness capacities required for high level performance in sport, it will provide the theory and foundation knowledge and skills you need to pursue professional accreditation with a number of bodies including the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES); the United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA).

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/strength-and-conditioning#about

Course detail

• Study on a unique course with a multidisciplinary approach to strength and conditioning and gain access to world-leading staff expertise and research. In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) three quarters of our work across sports science, PE and tourism and leisure has internationally recognised impact. More than 95% of our research outputs are rated as internationally recognised or better (compared with a sector average of 93%).
• Explore a range of disciplines and their contribution to helping athletes increase performance, including: strength and conditioning; testing physical capacities; sport science support; laboratory skills.
• Develop your research skills and capabilities including research design and ethics, statistics and laboratory skills, opening up additional career opportunities
• Gain from a course designed to prepare you to for employment in the rewarding and expanding field of strength and conditioning
• Benefit from gaining the necessary skills to pursue roles including Strength and Conditioning Specialist; Applied Sports Scientist; Laboratory Specialised Technician (eg in universities, sports clubs or hospitals) and/or continue to further research-based study on Masters by research, MPhil or PhD programmes.
• Learn in the newly-opened arena facility which provides a space for modern fitness professional to train in a controlled environment designed for student only access. A wide range of cardiovascular and resistance equipment is available including a dedicated Strength and Conditioning suite with weight lifting equipment vital to the development of a Strength and Conditioning coach's delivery skills.

Modules

• Research Methods
• Strength and Conditioning Dissertation
• Assessment of Physical Capacities
• Sport Science Support
• Strength and Conditioning
• Exercise and Nutrition for Clinical Populations*
• Laboratory Skills*
• Placement (short)*
• Placement (long)*

*denotes options

Modes of assessment include examinations (seen and unseen), essays, practical tests, laboratory reports, research projects, case studies, presentations and data-analysis exercises.

These assessment methods will develop and assess core knowledge and practical skills relevant to your future employment and/or further education. Final assessments will be aligned with UKSCA accreditation requirements with you competency as an S & C coach assessed by UKSCA assessors.

Assessment types include:
• essays, laboratory reports, projects , case studies, dissertation (approx. 85%);
• oral and poster presentations (approx. 10%);
• tests and exams (approx. 5%)

Careers

This Masters degree aims to provide an understanding of real- life applications of theory. You will encounter a range of examples of enhancing athletic performance relevant to a future career in the sport and exercise industry or in a profession where such knowledge and skills would be useful.

The competencies of the lead organisation for strength and conditioning – the UKSCA - are embedded into this course giving you an understanding of, and practise in, the UKSCA accreditation process. This should accelerate your career as a coach and look to gain professional accreditation, vital to gaining employment within this career.

Increased investment in sport has opened up new opportunities for careers in strength and conditioning and sport science support, not only at the elite level of sport, but also at grass roots/school sport.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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The programme has been developed with the aim of producing world-class, research-informed practitioners with the option of pursuing a career in research. It is ideal for individuals who currently hold an undergraduate degree in sports science, strength and conditioning or a related topic, and want to advance their knowledge, research skills and expertise in strength and conditioning.

•Delivered by world-leading researchers in LJMU’s pioneering School of Sport and Exercise Science
•Access to state-of-the-art physiology, biomechanics and molecular biology labs in the award-winning Tom Reilly and Life Sciences Buildings
•Career opportunities as an applied practitioner in strength and conditioning, teaching and lecturing and in Doctoral research programmes
•Taught by academics who work with English Premier League Football, Super League Rugby, Premiership Rugby Union, the English Institute of Sport and many more
•Course includes an applied placement in one of many top-class sporting institutions


We welcome applications from those who want to dedicate their postgraduate study to the application and advancement of athlete-centred practice and research application. You will explore a philosophy of critical understanding in strength and conditioning, which will underpin your applied training modules. Cutting-edge research and applied practice are central to your professional development.

The course is built on a solid structure of research skills, applied methodologies and the latest research in physiology, biomechanics and coaching science, all of which is essential for becoming a strength and conditioning practitioner.

​Upon successful completion of the programme, you will understand how to deal with complex issues within strength and conditioning. You will also develop essential skills in communicating and implementing your recommendations for clients, as well as specialist and non-specialist audiences.


Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.


• Research Methods

Includes an introduction to main statistical analyses and covers SPSS workshops.

• Applied Practice in Coaching, Planning and Monitoring Sciences

This module covers coaching science, planning and periodisation and monitoring modalities.

• Applied Fundamental Strength and Conditioning Practices Part 1

In this module you will learn about testing modalities, prehabilitation methodologies, recovery modalities and rehabilitation Methodologies.

• Physiology of Strength and Conditioning

Covers physiological adaptations to resistance and endurance exercise and disuse, nutritional requirements for optimal adaptation and physiological mechanisms of injury.

• Biomechanics of Strength and Conditioning

Learn about biomechanics of gait; sprint, jumping and landing; and motion and force analysis.

• Applied Fundamental Strength and Conditioning Practices Part 2

This module covers fundamental lifting and training methodologies.

• Placement in High-End Sporting Environment

Learn about supporting top-class athletes; collecting and interpreting data; and submitting a research-based consultancy report.

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The MSc Strength and Conditioning degree at the University of Northampton is designed for those with an interest in developing their knowledge and understanding of the key physiological, biomechanical and psychological aspects underpinning sport and exercise performance via the development of strength and conditioning. It is aimed at individuals with a prior knowledge of, or keen interest in, strength and conditioning, specifically graduates of or those working in clinical or applied sport, exercise or health environments.

Our programme of study is practical based, stimulating, well-structured and research-informed covering a range of topic areas including musculoskeletal training and adaptation, advanced and applied training methods as well as assessment and management of injury. The practical elements of the degree make use of purpose-built strength and conditioning and physiology laboratories to develop the students’ knowledge and understanding of the key issues associated with strength and conditioning.

Course content

The course will examine advanced and current aspects of strength and conditioning including musculoskeletal strength and conditioning practices, physiological response and adaptations of the cardiovascular system, assessment/management of injury and advanced/applied training methods aimed at developing an advanced, critical understanding of strength and conditioning training, systems and adaptations that dictate performance. The course will culminate by developing an advanced understanding of the research process by conducting a research project with the intention of submitting the findings to relevant conferences and journals for publication. The programme of study is aligned to the guidelines set out by the United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA).

The first trimester focuses on the musculoskeletal training and adaptations to specific types of strength and conditioning training, the assessment and management of associated injuries and the advanced training methods associated with this type of training. The second trimester allows students to develop their understanding of these specific training methods and apply them to a real life case study as part of the applied training methods module. They will also develop their knowledge and understanding in areas such as cardiovascular development and research methods.

The modules are taught in structured programmes that are delivered within the classroom, sports hall and laboratories. All sessions are supported by our online learning environment, NILE. Students can expect two hours of contact time each week for each module. Classes are delivered in a variety of means – lectures, seminars and practicals – and our aim is to provide opportunities for students to become actively involved in their learning. Personal tutorials, and meetings with a personal academic tutor are additional to the time spent in the class and would average another one hour per week. There are no additional costs for the course however, students will need sports clothes (trainers, shorts, tops) when participating in the practical sessions.

Course modules (16/17)

-Musculoskeletal Training and Adaptation
-Cardiovascular Response and Adaptation
-Injury Assessment and Management
-Performance Analysis

Facilities and Special Features

-Highly equipped and dedicated biomechanics and physiology laboratories.
-Experienced subject specialists actively researching and publishing in their fields.
-Opportunities to attend and present research at international conferences.

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Course Overview

​This is the first programme of its kind to offer a dedicated internship module through which students can gain academic credits while undertaking work experience in a club structure, professional organisation or National Governing Body. The programme offers the following course specific compulsory modules:
- Strength and Conditioning: Science and Application.
- Strength and Conditioning: Theory to Practice.

2016 entry: Due to the popularity of this programme you should submit your application at the earliest opportunity, and at the very latest by 30th June. Applications received after this date will only be considered if the programme has not reached full capacity.

*Please note. This programme will undergo periodic review in March 2016. As such, module and pathway information may change. Refer back to this course page for the most up-to-date information at that point.​​

See the website https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/schoolofsport/courses/Pages/Strength-and-Conditioning.aspx

​Course Content​​

Visiting lecturers, drawn from the UK's most experienced strength and conditioning practitioners, complement the lectures given by the Cardiff School of Sport's specialist staff in strength and conditioning and associated discipline areas. The specialist modules are accompanied by a range of compulsory and option modules, which are shared with other programmes in the School's Postgraduate Scheme in Sport Studies.

Students are afforded the opportunity to develop the academic skills of critical appraisal and reflection alongside the practical skills and competencies that are required to work within this rapidly developing field. The programme's multi-disciplinary content is underpinned by the scientific knowledge that supports the practice of strength and conditioning. A key aim of the programme is to support students in line with the UKSCA competency framework and in preparation for UKSCA accreditation (ASCC: Accredited Strength and Conditioning Coach).

In order to qualify for the MSc, students are required to successfully complete a 15,000 word dissertation project.

Compulsory modules:
- Research Methods for Sport Studies (Quantitative or Qualitative Route) (20 credits)
- Dissertation Project (60 credits)
- Strength and Conditioning: Science and Application (20 credits)
- Strength and Conditioning: Theory to Practice (20 credits)
- Physiology of Sports Conditioning (20 credits)

Option modules (choose 40 credits):
- Internship (40 credits)
- Independent Study (20 credits)
- Theoretical and Experimental Sports Biomechanics (20 credits)
- Analysis of Technique (20 credits)
- Sport Psychology: Theory to Practice (20 credits)
- Computerised Match Analysis (20 credits)
- Understanding the Coaching Environment (20 credits)
- Working with Elite Performers (20 credits)
- Managing Coaching Problems (20 credits)
- Sport Coaching: Theory to Practice (20 credits).​

Assessment

Modules are assessed through a mix of coursework assignments, practical vivas, case studies, portfolios, oral presentations and laboratory reports. ​

Employability & Careers​

Graduates of the programme can continue their studies and register for a research degree (MPhil/PhD) in a related subject. Other graduates will pursued careers as professional strength and conditioning coaches working for the Home Country Sports Institutes, professional sports teams and National Governing Bodies, technical coaches, work within the health and fitness industry, act as consultants and lecture (further and higher education).

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/scholarships

Find out how to apply here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/howtoapply

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The course is aimed at students who have undertaken a sports science, sports coaching or related undergraduate degree and who wish to continue their studies and progress to working within elite athletics.

The course aims to facilitate accreditation with the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) through experiential learning on the professional enquiry placement module and key core modules such as practical applications to performance training, strength and rehabilitation science and effective coaching.

The University of Brighton’s sport and exercise laboratories at the Eastbourne campus, where the course is based, are accredited by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES). There are also extensive fitness and sport facilities on site and a brand new gym will open in 2018.

The course leader, Flo Pietzsch, was a strength and conditioning coach with the Lawn Tennis Association and previously to that at the English Institute of Sport. He is an accredited member of UKSCA and has advised and worked with UKSCA on curriculum development on their recent coaching science content.

We are a REF 2014 top 20 university for world-leading research impact in sport and exercise science, leisure and tourism.

Areas of study

The course offers varied content that brings together strength and conditioning, and applied physiology.

You will study five core modules, including your final project, plus choose two from a range of options that include Exercise Tolerance and Laboratory Skills for Sport Physiologists.

The University of Brighton is unique in offering Effective Coaching as a compulsory module. This module is aligned with curriculum guidance from UKSCA, the national governing body.

The professional enquiry module is also compulsory and provides the opportunity to undertake practical experience in a work environment and gain invaluable first-hand knowledge. It is designed to help you engage with the process of planning and delivering expertise in practice, and to reflect upon and take steps to improve your academic, personal and professional skills. Opportunities exist with a range of organisations whom we partner with.

Syllabus

The course is flexible in that it allows you to exit with a postgraduate certificate at the end of one semester (three 20-credit modules) or a postgraduate diploma at the end of two semesters (six 20-credit modules).

You must complete the 60-credit research project to qualify for the MSc.

You will study five core modules, including your final project plus choose two modules from a range of options. (This new course is still in development so the modules below are currently indicative and could be subject to change.)

Core modules:

Practical Application of Performance Training
Strength and Rehabilitation
Effective Coaching
Professional Enquiry/ placement
Final Project

Options:

Critical Insights into the Study of Physiology
Exercise Tolerance
Laboratory Skills for Sport Physiologists

Equipment and facilities

Accredited by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) and the English Institute of Sport (EIS), our laboratories are equipped with the latest modern facilities.

You will have access to a -10 to +50°C hot-cold chamber, an altitude/hypoxic chamber that rises to the equivalent of 5500m, 3D motion analysis, ground reaction force plates, a DXA bone scanner, exercise physiology laboratories, biomechanics laboratories and three biochemistry laboratories.

Our laboratories have appeared in numerous TV productions by the BBC and Sky TV. They have also been used to test out products for exercising and weight loss and to prepare athletes for the Olympics and Paralympics.

The university’s Eastbourne campus has extensive sporting facilities, including a sports hall, climbing wall, swimming pool, three gyms, a dance studio and an artificial training pitch. Currently there is a 36 station fitness suite has a designated cardiovascular area packed with bikes, treadmills, and rowers, cross-trainers and steppers. Free weights range from 2–40kg with 15 resistance stations.

A brand new gym will be opening in 2018 purpose designed for performance strength and conditioning. We also use the outdoor environment in and around Eastbourne, such as the seafront, the South Downs and Friston Forest.

Placements

The professional enquiry module will involve a 160 hours within a quality assured placement which includes mentoring by the host supervisor and via close guidance from University of Brighton staff.

Previous hosts have included Sussex County Cricket, Brighton and Hove Albion, University of Brighton – Sport Brighton scholarship programme, Eastbourne College, Brighton College, and several other local sporting clubs.

Those already in employment within the strength and conditioning sector have the opportunity to complete this module within their own employment setting.

Careers and employability

Employment prospects for graduates are extremely good. The strength and conditioning industry has expanded considerably and many professional sports organisations employ strength and conditioning coaches. This degree is specifically designed to provide the necessary skills and knowledge bases to undertake such a role.

Since the United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) was founded in 2004 there has been significant investment and development in elite sport provision. A 2015–16 annual report from UK Sport indicates an industry net expenditure of £41 million.

The University of Brighton has expert, accredited strength and conditioning staff who have an international reputation in its applied provision. A degree from Brighton will help ensure you are fully equipped for a successful career in this expanding industry.

Many of our students have gone onto work in professional sport clubs including Brighton and Hove Albion FC, Arsenal FC and Crystal Palace FC. Several have also worked for the English Institute of Sport or directly with a national governing sports body.

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Undertaking the Strength and Conditioning MSc programme is a great way to refine your research skills and your practical skills, and all taught in some of the finest teaching facilities in the region. Students also have the opportunity to take appropriate vocational qualifications and work placements as part of the programme.

Course detail

In addition to the demand for vocational qualifications there is also a need for strength and conditioning practitioners to develop advanced skills and understanding in the field. This programme provides the opportunity to develop research, academic and practical skills that are
highly relevant to the discipline of strength and conditioning. The programme is for individuals holding a sport science related undergraduate degree or those with significant practical experience and qualifications in strength and conditioning who want to consider the application of scientific principles to their work.

The learning activities and assessments on the programme are highly applied and focussed upon developing students’ ability to evaluate critically the quality and impact of their own work. A key aspect is the engagement with existing academic literature and the production of research to provide evidence that can be used to inform strength and conditioning practice.

There is scope for negotiation in terms of practical work and focus of assessment on modules depending upon individual experience or areas of interest. For example, on the Training Intervention module this could mean use of highly controlled laboratory based endurance training or field based repeated sprint conditioning with larger numbers of participants.

Format

How the programme is delivered is just as important as what is delivered for the development of appropriate Masters level skills and understanding. The teaching and assessment on the programme aims to actively engage students in a variety of learning activities.

The delivery model is based upon a single, all day study day per week. This model of delivery is aimed to support students who are in employment while undertaking the programme. The study days will be designed to engage you in interdisciplinary debate, professional practice, critical review of research, generation of feedback, presentations and data collection.

Full-time students will undertake four 30 credit modules and a 60 credit dissertation over a 12 month period.

Part-time students will normally do two 30-credit modules in year one, with two 30-credit modules and a 60-credit dissertation in year 2.

Modules

• Performance analysis – using advanced performance analysis techniques to collect data in specific settings to inform athletic needs.

• Research Methods – become informed consumers and producers of research in a range of paradigms and using a variety of approaches.

• Training Interventions – investigation of training intervention and physiological adaptation for the enhancement of performance.

• Athlete Development – appreciate the inter-play between growth and maturation and use physiological and psychological markers to develop performance during growth.

• Research paper - Produce a written manuscript of publishable quality that addresses a research question relevant to strength and conditioning.

Work placements

Work-related learning is a key part of the activities and assessments on modules. In order to effectively undertake these tasks students will need to draw upon experiences from employment, continuous personal development (CPD) or a work placement. There are opportunities to undertake relevant CPD and work placement while on the programme.

Completion of a Personal and Academic Development Profile (PADP), through the academic tutor system, will help to identify which opportunities individuals could access to support their working towards accreditation with the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA). An example of the types of opportunities available through our partnerships would be strength and conditioning experience with York City FC/York City Knights RLFC or a British Weight Lifting Association qualification/UKSCA assessment preparation day facilitated by YSJ Active. Such experiences and skills will support the programme of academic study by offering tangible examples for application of theory, critical analysis and reflective practice.

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please see the following link:
https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

Other sources of funding

Information on alternative sources of funding can be found here:
https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/student-services/money/funding-my-course/postgraduate-/postgraduate-funding-/

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With the rapid expansion of strength and conditioning provision around the UK, there is a growing need for highly qualified graduates in this field and for those already working within the setting to further extend their specialist strength and conditioning knowledge.

This masters degree offers the opportunity for students to learn and apply contemporary theoretical principles and scientific methodologies that enhance strength and conditioning practice. The programme is designed to build on the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA ) Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS ) award and the UKSCA Accredited Strength and Conditioning Coach (ASCC ) award, to provide a necessary range of theoretical and practical experiences for a career as a strength and conditioning practitioner.

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Our MSc Strength and Conditioning is carefully aligned to the UKSCA accreditation process, and focuses on both the scientific principles of the strength and conditioning process, their practical application, and assessment using both laboratory and field based measurement systems to provide the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary for a successful career in Strength and Conditioning.

Indicative course content:

Strength and Conditioning Theory and Practice

Planning, Programming and Application

Applied Measurement Techniques

Work Placement

Research Methods

Students also deliver a research dissertation and undertake a dedicated work placement module.

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.

We provide performance support for elite athletes and competitive teams. We consistently perform well against the elite of university sport. A high number of our performance teams compete in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) programme at the elite level.

Several teams are supported with high-level coaching, training facility support and sports science analysis. Numerous local and national sports clubs’ links with our student sports teams provide additional high-level playing opportunities.

Indicative modules
Indicative course content:

Strength and Conditioning Theory and Practice

Planning, Programming and Application

Applied Measurement Techniques

Work Placement

Research Methods

Students also deliver a research dissertation and undertake a dedicated work placement module.

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The MSc Strength and Conditioning is designed for individuals working in the strength and conditioning industry who wish to continue their professional development, or those wishing to increase their knowledge in preparation for a career in the field.

The degree offers you a coherent balance between academic knowledge (for evidence-based practice) and professional vocational skills. The modules emphasise both the theoretical knowledge underpinning strength and conditioning and the professional skills you'll need for a successful career in this exciting industry.

You will study the science and coaching of strength and conditioning by undertaking eight taught modules and a masters project. Each module builds on your undergraduate-level knowledge and makes strong links between theory and practice in areas such as biomechanics, physiology, nutrition and coaching, among others.

What you will learn

Each module consists of eight 3-hour taught sessions. Teaching is a traditional mixture of lectures, workshops and practicals, but with a strong emphasis on problem based approaches and a core commitment to evidence-based practice. Assessments are based on real world, practically focussed issues and are in the form of case studies, critical reviews, and presentations.

Specialist guest lecturers with a strong background in applied strength and conditioning contribute to each module on the course and have included coaches to elite athletes, book authors, internationally recognised researchers, NGB coaches, and internationally recognised strength and conditioning specialists.

For more information please visit http://www.bolton.ac.uk/postgrad

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Help athletes achieve their full potential as you join the emerging and growing profession of strength and conditioning coaching. This course will give you the skills to work with any level of athlete, from amateurs to professionals, preparing them to perform to the best of their ability without sustaining injury.

You will study the biomechanics and physiology of the human body, focusing on the development of strength and power in sport and the cardiovascular adaptations of training. You will learn to apply this to your coaching practice, while also understanding the perspectives of other practitioners including nutritionists, physiotherapists and psychologists.

There will be the opportunity to design and implement a programme for athletes or the general population, allowing you to use your theoretical knowledge in real-life situations. This experience will help you develop the ability to establish positive working relationships with a wide range of people including players and athletes, other coaches, parents and officials.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: 59% of our research submitted was assessed as world leading or internationally excellent.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/strengthconditioning_msc

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

Whether you are already working with sports performers or a graduate looking to specialise, this course prepares you for working with a range of athletes in professional sports teams and across public sectors such as the armed forces. It’s also a great foundation for further study at PhD level, where you will have the opportunity to add to your expertise.

- Strength and Conditioning Coach
- Physical Training Instructor
- Personal Trainer

Careers advice: The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

We have worked closely with our contacts in the strength and conditioning industry to create this course. Thanks to this, you will benefit from the input of professionals including physiotherapists, strength and conditioning coaches, lecturers and nutritionists, helping you gain the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this sector.

Our teaching team have a strong research background and includes practising strength and conditioning coaches who will be able to relate your theoretical learning to real-life practice. You will also benefit from our first-class facilities which include biomechanics labs, an on-site swimming pool, athletics track and strength and conditioning gym.

Our course is aligned with the requirements of the UK Strength and Conditioning Association and the National Strength and Conditioning Association and will prepare you to apply for accreditation after you graduate.

Core Modules

Biomechanics of Strength & Power
Develop an understanding of the physiological and mechanical factors governing the generation of strength and power through a study of the structure and function of the neuromuscular system.

The Physiology of Sports Conditioning
Gain the skills to evaluate the physiological demands of sporting events, measure physiological capacities and prescribe training for physiological development in athletes.

Organisation & Evaluation of Training
Learn how to plan, organise, deliver and evaluate training as you explore the requirements of a sport or event and its participants.

Multidisciplinary Perspectives in Strength & Conditioning
Examine the wider role of the strength and conditioning coach and the implication of working in interdisciplinary teams alongside nutritionists, physiotherapists and psychologists.

Strength & Conditioning Practice
Apply practical coaching skills, critically reflect on practice and plan own professional development as a strength and conditioning coach.

Research Methods
Gain the knowledge you require for your Major Independent Study. You will learn a scientific approach to research including data analysis and interpretation.

Major Independent Study
Plan, implement and evaluate a study relevant to your personal interests and the themes you've explored throughout the course.

Facilities

- Physiology Labs
Our state-of-the-art labs include a human performance lab, a cardio-respiratory lab, blood sampling room for biochemical marker work, a full working physiology lab for monitoring athletes, a full body composition scanner and a nutrition laboratory.

- Biomechanics / Strength and Conditioning Labs
Here our students use our biomechanics and strength and conditioning equipment to measure strength, power output and key neuromuscular performance parametrics.

- Sports Facilities
"I've been coming here to train since 2004 and the facilities are great." - Jessica Ennis, Olympic Gold Medalist

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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