Masters Degrees in Sport Psychology

Course Overview

The MSc in Sport Psychology and Applied Sport Psychology provide students with the opportunity to extend their theoretical and applied knowledge and understanding of sport psychology within a supportive student centred environment. The programmes are designed to be flexible, meet students' needs and develop a range of transferable skills that will enhance their employability. The programmes are delivered by a team of dedicated sport psychology staff, many of whom are at the forefront of international research and professional practice developments in their respective fields. The application of theory to professional practice is a key strength of the programmes.

Due to the popularity of this programme you should submit your application at the earliest opportunity, and at the very latest by 31st July. Applications received after this date will only be considered if the programme has not reached full capacity.

Please note: Due to a periodic programme review in March 2016, programme and module content may change. Please refer to our website at that point for the most up-to-date information​.

See the website https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/schoolofsport/courses/Pages/Applied-Sport-Psychology.aspx

​Course Content​​

​Core Modules: (Relevant to both MSc Applied Sport Psychology and MSc Sport Psychology programmes)
- Research Methods for Sport Studies (Quantitative Pathway)
- Sport Psychology: Theory to Practice
- Research Design in Sport Psychology
- Professional Development and Practice in Sport Psychology
- Counselling Skills for Sport Psychologists
- Dissertation Project

Core Modules (Relevant to MSc Sport Psychology only):
- Lifespan Development: Considerations for Sport Psychology

Option Modules (Relevant to MSc Applied Sport Psychology only).
Pick one option from:
- Understanding the Coaching Environment
- Working with Elite Performers
- Lifespan Development: considerations for sport psychology.

Learning & Teaching​

All modules, with the exception of the independent research project (dissertation) module are 20 credit modules. Allocated teaching timetabled (contact time) delivery for such modules usually equals a minimum of 30 hours of time supplemented with up to 60 hours of directed study time and up to 60 hours of independent study time. Contact time is normally made up of lecture, seminars, practical laboratories/ workshops, professional visits and individual and group tutorials.

Modules are usually taught through a combination of lecture type, seminar and practical based sessions. Group discussions and tasks are frequently used. Student learning is supported through the use of our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) that provides learning resources over and above that found in the learning centre (library). All learners are supported with access to a personal tutor who is usually the Programme Director of your course.​

Assessment

With the exception of the independent research project (dissertation), all module assessment is based upon 5,000 words or equivalent. Assessment methods are designed to give students the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of theoretical, applied and professional practice issues and include coursework essays, needs analyses and the design of interventions, research reports, case studies, presentations, role play, and video analysis and critique.

In addition, all students are required to submit an independent research project (dissertation), which can be presented in either a traditional 12,000 word or publishable paper (8,500 word) format.

Employability & Careers​

The MSc in Sport Psychology (BPS accredited) and MSc in Applied Sport Psychology are ideally suited to those aspiring to become practicing sport psychologists, as well as teachers, lecturers and coaches. Successful completion of the MSc Sport Psychology forms Stage 1 training towards BPS Chartered Status and will enable students to progress onto Stage 2 training.

The MSc in Applied Sport Psychology provides a platform from which students can pursue Supervised Experience through the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES). Both programmes provide an excellent spring board for students wishing to progress to MPhil/PhD study.

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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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/

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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.

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Accredited by The British Psychological Society (BPS) and endorsed by the Health & Care Professions Council, this course focuses on the study of psychology within a range of sport and exercise settings, providing an essential stepping-stone to becoming a chartered sport and exercise psychologist.

You will learn about complex issues such as the initial assessment of prospective clients, maintaining professional boundaries and analysing data sets, as well as developing a systematic, evidence informed and ethical approach to your work.To support your career goals, we will offer the opportunity to gain work experience with clients across a range of sporting pursuits, from recreational to elite performance. Gaining hands-on professional development will enhance your communication skills and will provide direct experience of ethical and evidence-informed practice.

Sport and active lifestyles

At Leeds Beckett we're passionate about sport. There's a huge range of sports and activities for you to get involved in, including more than 40 sports clubs. If you'd like to find out more about what we have to offer - including our Carnegie Sports Scholarship Scheme - take a look at our Sport & Active Lifestyles website.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: 40% of our research in the Psychology unit was judged to be world leading or internationally excellent.

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

A growth in the number and variety of career opportunities for sport and exercise psychologists has increased the need for qualified and accredited individuals. Following successful completion of this course, you can go on to complete the BPS Stage two Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology, which allows you to legally use the titles of Chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist, Registered Psychologist or Practitioner Psychologist.

- Practitioner Sport and Exercise Psychologist
- Physical Activity Behaviour Specialist
- Lecturer/Researcher in Higher Education
- Academic Journalist/Publisher

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 website - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

Our course makes you eligible for stage 2 of the qualification in Sport & Exercise Psychology and after completing BPS Stage 1 and Stage 2 qualifications you will be able to use the titles of Sport and Exercise Psychologist, Registered Psychologist or Practitioner Psychologist. Members of our highly experienced team are qualified to provide BPS Stage 2 supervision.

The University is recognised as a leader in the field of Sport and Exercise Science. The quality of our research is evident in the outstanding results achieved in Sport-Related Studies in the Research Assessment Exercise completed in 2008 in which we were ranked 6th nationally in terms of quality and 3rd when accounting for both quality and quantity of staff submitted. Much of our outstanding Sport & Exercise Science research pervades our taught MSc modules providing the opportunity for those working or intending to work in the field of sport & exercise psychology to upgrade their academic and professional skills, expertise and knowledge.

Modules

Contemporary Issues in Sport Psychology (20 credits)
Examine the broad range of cutting-edge issues and trends that appear within contemporary sport psychology literature, as you gain an in-depth understanding of human behaviour in the sporting environment.

Psychology of Exercise & Health (20 credits)
Study the effects of exercise on behaviour and mental health. You will consider both the positive and negative results of exercise, exploring the its beneficial impact on well-being and cognitive function, as well as the negative implications of exercise dependence.

Professional Practice in Sport & Exercise Psychology (20 credits)
Learn the core skills you will need to be a successful sports psychologist. You will have the opportunity to apply the techniques you've studied and explore traditional and modern approaches to psychology consultancy.

Learning & Development in Sport & Exercise (20 credits)
Analyse the research that reveals how sport and exercise psychology has been investigated at different stages of the lifespan. Topics may include expertise, learning, cognitive development and decline.

Practicum (20 credits)
Engage in a range of applied activities to prepare you for your future career as a sport or exercise psychologist.

Research Methods (20 credits)
Focus on the design of research projects as a way of answering questions and solving 'real world' problems in a reliable and valid manner.

Major Independent Study (40 credits)
Complete a research project of your own choosing under the supervision of a member of academic staff. Ideally you will aim to produce research of a publishable quality.

Facilities

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- 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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Why take this course?

The psychology of human performance in sport and exercise environments is fundamental to helping individuals to realise their physical, technical and health performance potential.

This course aims to train you to understand how the mind can impact human behaviour and performance within competitive sport and everyday physical activity settings.

What will I experience?

On this course you will:

Be taught by our BPS Chartered Psychologists and BASES Accredited Sport and Exercise Scientists who have a wealth of experience in research and applied practice in sport and exercise psychology
Use specialist facilities and benefit from our strong links with UK Sport and the Fuchs Foundation

What opportunities might it lead to?

The global sport industry is estimated to be worth in excess of £110 billion and is growing rapidly. You can expect to find a career in many specific areas such as teaching, research, sport science support, or the health and fitness sectors.

This course is accredited by the British Psychological Society, which means that graduates are eligible to apply for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC). It also opens up a wide range of training and development opportunities.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

UK Sport
NHS
Sport governing bodies
Health and fitness companies
Private healthcare companies

Module Details

You can choose to study for this course in either full-time or part-time mode. You will study several key topics and have the valuable opportunity to complete a professional practice placement, where you will be required to perform the role of a trainee sport and/or exercise scientist within a related setting.

Here are the units you will study:

Psychology of Elite Performance: This unit will provide an advanced theoretical, research and practical insight into the psychology of expertise and the role of psychology in optimising performance across a range of elite domains.

Applied Sport Psychology: For this unit you will study contemporary approaches to applied practice and develop a range of professional skills associated with the theory to practice transfer in sport and exercise.

Psychology of Exercise and Physical Activity: This unit covers the emerging field of psychology in physical activity and exercise settings. You will study topics relevant to understanding how psychological theory can influence the promotion and prescription of exercise and physical activity to optimise health and wellbeing.

Applied Research Methods: This unit will provide you with an opportunity to independently investigate a particular topic related to sport/exercise psychology.

Research Project: This unit will provide you with an opportunity to independently investigate a particular topic related to sport/exercise psychology.

Programme Assessment

Our teaching approaches include lectures, seminars, laboratory workshops, and tutorials.

The varying teaching formats are reflected in the assignments. Here’s how we assess you:

Essays
Scientific reports
Reflective accounts
Product development
Presentations
Projects

Student Destinations

Specific careers directly related to this qualification include becoming an applied practitioner, and a researcher and/or a lecturer in sport and/or exercise psychology. Researchers tend to be employed by commercial companies and academic institutions. Lecturers in this field are employed by further and higher educational establishments.

Given the range of general employability skills developed throughout the programme, you could go on to a variety of careers in other sectors, for example, business, the police and the armed services.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

Sports and exercise scientist
Lecturer in sport and/or exercise psychology
Researcher in sport and/or exercise psychology

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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 registered 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 to become a registered psychologist within the division of Sport and Exercise Science.

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 registered, 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.

Professional links and experience

Our teaching team are registered 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

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)
• Acquisition and developmental perspectives in sport and exercise psychology (15 credits)
• Applied techniques in sport and exercise psychology (15 credits)
• Social-psychological aspects of 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

Employability

Our graduates are ideally positioned to progress to Stage 2 of the QSEP and work towards becoming a registered sport and exercise psychologist.

Once obtaining registration (HCPC) you can work in a range of settings including sport, physical activity and exercise or rehabilitation. This may be supporting athletes, coaches, parents, patients and families.

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Summary

Learn how to optimise athlete performance and improve well-being and activity levels by studying the psychology behind sport at Roehampton. You will explore key factors that affect sports performance, well-being, and activity levels such as mental toughness, self-confidence, motivation, stress and anxiety, concentration, and the psychology of sport injury.

This innovative programme provides you with a thorough theoretical, conceptual and research informed grounding in the discipline of sport and exercise psychology. You will develop a strong scientific understanding of human behaviour and experience, and of the complex interactions between these. You will also enhance your understanding of relationships between the theoretical concepts and current techniques used in sport and exercise psychology assessment and support. This will include becoming familiar with the different types of approaches, assessment strategies, and psychological skills used by Applied Sport and Exercise Psychologists.

To support your professional development, this course will cover the idea of reflective practice, and codes of conduct. You will also develop an awareness and understanding of the issues, methodology and design of research within sport and exercise psychology, and gain research skills through the completion of a detailed, empirical research dissertation and benefit from the support of our staff’s wide areas of expertise.

This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society to provide you with Stage 1 training in preparation for your professional career in Sport and Exercise Psychology. Successful completion of the course will grant access to Stage 2 training with the BPS, the next stage on the route to becoming an Applied Sport and Exercise Psychologist.

Content

In the module ‘Approaches to Psychological Support’ you will initially be introduced to the varied approaches within sport and exercise psychology, and undertake an in-depth review of the differences of the theories, looking at them in practice through a selection of case studies. Other modules, such as ‘Application of Psychological Support’, will allow you to link theory to practice, and students will have the opportunity to develop consultancy skills under the guidance/supervision of a BPS Chartered/HPCP registered member of staff.

Further modules will provide important knowledge with respect to sport performance as well as well-being and physical activity promotion. Within the ‘Psychology of Sport and Performance’ module you will gain a critical appreciation for various social processes and individual differences that influence performance. The ‘Psychology of Physical Activity, Health and Injury’ module will explore the determinants and outcomes of physical activity and inactivity and provide students with important insights towards preventing, treating and managing certain health conditions.

You will also gain insightful knowledge of contemporary issues concerning professional practice within sport psychology. The module ‘Professional Practice in Sport Psychology’ will explore the importance of ethics and reflection within your practice, whilst also exploring the challenges and opportunities that you may face when working with various athlete populations (e.g., team sport athletes, injured athletes, and young athletes).

Finally, you will have the opportunity to undertake research on your areas of specific interest for your dissertation project. During the year, you follow a coherent pathway of study to facilitate your future direction within the exciting discipline of sport and exercise psychology.

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If you have a general interest in psychology in the area of sport, our course will give you a grounding in the core principles of the subject. You will learn about complex issues such as the initial assessment of prospective clients, maintaining professional boundaries and analysing complex data sets. The course will encourage you to take a systematic, evidence-based and ethical approach to your work, developing your ability to apply the methods you learn to a range of clients, from athletes to sedentary populations.

Designed with your future in mind, we are committed to supporting your career goals by offering the opportunity to gain direct experience working with a variety of client groups across a range of levels, from recreational to elite performance. Our dedicated course team will support your learning, allowing you to develop the professional competencies you need including communication and ethical and evidence-based practice. You will apply these in your placement - a distinctive feature of your course which will provide a taster for BASES Supervised Experience.

Whilst this course will not give you the foundation to pursue the qualification that enables you to use the titles of 'Sport and Exercise Psychologist', 'Registered Psychologist' or 'Practitioner Psychologist', it does provide the basis to pursue further professional qualifications from the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES). Due to regulations governing the practice of Health and Care Professionals, if you want to become a Sport and Exercise Psychologist, Registered Psychologist or Practitioner Psychologist, you will need to look at our MSc Psychology of Sport & Exercise course.

Sport & Active LifestylesAt Leeds Beckett we're passionate about sport. There's a huge range of sports and activities for you to get involved in, including more than 40 sports clubs. If you'd like to find out more about what we have to offer - including our Carnegie Sports Scholarship Scheme - take a look at our Sport & Active Lifestyles website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/sport).

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: 40% of our research in the Psychology unit was judged to be world leading or internationally excellent.

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

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

A growth in the career opportunities available for sports and exercise scientists within the past decade has fuelled the demand for appropriately qualified individuals to fill such positions. You could go on to work for national governing bodies, the National Health Service, English Institute of Sport or in a teaching role in further and higher education.

- Sport and Exercise Scientist
- Performance Lifestyle Adviser
- Lecturer/Researcher in Higher Education
- Exercise Intervention Facilitator

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

You will have the advantage of a placement allowing you to put your newly learned skills into practice. As well as this practical experience, you'll benefit from the expertise and knowledge of our staff, studying at a university that is passionate about sport.

Modules

Contemporary Issues in Sport Psychology (20 credits)
Examine the broad range of cutting-edge issues and trends that appear within contemporary sport psychology literature, as you gain an in-depth understanding of human behaviour in the sporting environment.

Psychology of Exercise & Health (20 credits)
Study the effects of exercise on behaviour and mental health. You will consider both the positive and negative results of exercise, exploring the its beneficial impact on well-being and cognitive function, as well as the negative implications of exercise dependence.

Learning & Development in Sport & Exercise (20 credits)
Analyse the research that reveals how sport and exercise psychology has been investigated at different stages of the lifespan. Topics may include expertise, learning, cognitive development and decline.

Dr Susan Backhouse

Reader in the School of Sport

"You will have the opportunity to engage in applied experience under supervision, a practical component of the course likely to enhance your future professional activities within the field of sport and exercise science."

A registered sports psychologist, Susan joined our University in 2003 after completing her PhD at Loughborough University. She's an active researcher within the Carnegie faculty, focussing her interest on anti-doping policy and practice. Recently, Susan has collaborated with colleagues in the UK, Australia, Greece and the US to develop a number of projects spanning the social sciences of doping in sport.

Facilities

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- 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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The MSc in Applied Sport Psychology is aimed at those wishing to develop a career in the area of sport psychology or wish to enhance their understanding and develop their skills in the area.

Over the previous 20 years there has been a gradual acceptance and involvement in psychology within sport at all levels. The application of psychology with sports performers and coaches has been rapid and continues to develop.

Recognising this, the professional bodies of both sport science and psychology (the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences and the British Psychology Society) have developed professional routes to recognition within the field.

The School of Sport, Health and Applied Science has five specialised laboratories, in addition to a £8 million sports centre.

Why St Mary's?

This Applied Sport Psychology postgraduate degree has been accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). It is designed to enable students to attain professional recognition beyond the programme and to help those wishing to develop a career in sport psychology or aiming to enhance their understanding of the field.

The programme has a discipline-focussed curriculum, looking closely at developing knowledge and applied skills that are critical to practitioners.

Motor skills are an integral element of the programme, allowing students to enhance their ability to work closely with both performers and coaches.

The focus on sport and elite sporting performance at St Mary’s makes the University an ideal environment for students.

A Student View

Phoebe SandersPhoebe Sanders (Graduated in 2015)
"This course will do much more than teach you the theory, it will give you an understanding of how to do it in practice. When you are face to face with your first client, that will make all the difference.

"One of the best things for me has been the level of care and attention that the staff offer. I am still in regular contact with my thesis supervisor, who has been an incredible source of support and guidance even since I left the university.

"St Mary's also have fantastic contacts within various sports organisations, which allowed me to get a rare placement within a Premiership rugby club."

Course Content

All modules have a credit value of 20, except for the research project which has a credit value of 60. All modules are assessed by a variety of both written and oral forms of assessment. In order to qualify for the Certificate, students will be required to achieve 60 credits and for the Diploma 120 credits. For the degree of Master of Science, students will be required to achieve 180 credits, 60 of which will be the Research project.

Module Information
› Professional and Counselling Skills
› Psychological Skills 1
› Research Methods
› Psychological Skills 2
› Applied Motor Skills
› Social Psychology of Sport: Interpersonal and Group Processes
› Research Project

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

The specific focus of the programme on applied sport psychology enables students to focus their understanding and skills to enhance their opportunities for employment within the sport and performance sectors.

The options on completion of the MSc are wide ranging but include moving into supervised experiences through internships or development programmes, progressing into teaching or research positions within higher education as well as building skills towards business ventures in the applied psychology field.

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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.

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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.

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.

Key benefits

The MSc is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and constitutes Stage 1 training towards practitioner sport and exercise psychologist status.

Course detail

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.

Modules

You'll study a range of core modules:

• Therapeutic Skills in Sport and Exercise
• Social and Developmental Sport Psychology in Action
• The Psychology of Physical Activity and Exercise
• Psychological Skills, Cognitive Processes and Individual Differences in Sport Psychology
• Conducting and Evaluating Psychological Research

Dissertation

The in-depth research project required to achieve the MSc award. Full-time students complete the research project supervised by specialist subject tutors at UWE, while part-time students complete the research project over two terms in the second year of study.

Format

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.

Assessment

We assess taught modules through written examinations and coursework. Coursework comprises case studies, a portfolio of experience, critical incidence analysis and oral presentations.

Careers / Further study

After completing this MSc, you'll need to complete Stage 2 training to become a Practitioner Sport and Exercise Psychologist.

To be eligible to progress for Stage 1 training in Sport and Exercise Psychology you must have Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) status.

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.

How to apply

Information on applications can be found at the following link: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/study/applyingtouwebristol/postgraduateapplications.aspx

Funding

- New Postgraduate Master's loans for 2016/17 academic year –

The government are introducing a master’s loan scheme, whereby master’s students under 60 can access a loan of up to £10,000 as a contribution towards the cost of their study. This is part of the government’s long-term commitment to enhance support for postgraduate study.

Scholarships and other sources of funding are also available.

More information can be found here: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/feesandfunding/fundingandscholarships/postgraduatefunding.aspx

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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.

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Our MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology degree further develops and utilises the skills and techniques required to be a practitioner in sport and/or exercise psychology. The programme provides opportunities to experience the practical nature of being a sport and exercise psychologist, reflecting the requirements for the British Psychological Society (BPS) stage 1 (BPS approval of the curriculum is subject to confirmation) and the British Association of Sport & Exercise Sciences (BASES) supervised experience. In addition the degree will explore contemporary issues and challenges within sport and exercise psychology encompassed by a framework of intervention.

One of the standout features is the applied professional practice module. This module enables the student to engage in a work based learning environment to practice, develop and reflect upon the application of the appropriate skill set, and it’s development, within sport and exercise psychology. This feature will also be attractive to students who are already in employment which will allow them to combine work and study. Furthermore, for students who are not in employment this will provide networking opportunities, as well as professional work based experience.

Graduates of the programme who also have a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited undergraduate degree can register for stage 2 of the BPS’s qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology (this is currently subject to BPS accreditation of the programme), which is the route to becoming a BPS chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist.

Graduates of the programme who have a sport and exercise science background can apply for the British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) Supervised Experience, which is the route to becoming a BASES Accredited Sport and Exercise Scientist (Psychology), and they can log their placement hours towards this. This progamme also aligns to the professional standards of the Health and Care Professional Council (HCPC).

The programme is underpinned by current research, theoretical discourse and professional practice with specific applied emphasis on developing students further to become practically and ethically competent and confident in the field of sport and exercise psychology.

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Overview

This course is aimed at sport and exercise sciences graduates who wish to further their studies in sport and exercise psychology. It is excellent preparation for higher research qualifications (e.g., PhD) or practitioner training for becoming an accredited sport and exercise scientist through BASES.

Core Modules

(15 credits unless stated):

Research Methods and Data Analysis (45 credits)
Research and Application in the Psychology of Sports Performance
Social Processes in Sport and Exercise
Psychological Skills for Practitioners
Physical Activity and Health
Dissertation (60 credits)

Performance Lifestyle OR
Individual Differences in Sport and Exercise OR
Professional Development

Highlights

*Outstanding Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (NSS equivalent) ratings
*2014: 100% of student respondents would recommend the course to another prospective student
*Engaging course team with a wealth of teaching, practitioner and research experience
*Commended for the range of facilities underpinning the programme
*Commended for the knowledge base, research expertise and applied experience of the programme team
*Commended for the range of pedagogies and approaches to learning and teaching
*Commended for the approachability and supportive nature of the programme team
(Formal commendations from BPS re-accreditation report, 2013)

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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

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