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Sports Performance Practice
Master of Science
Course Details
Course Code | LY_RSPEF_M |
---|---|
Level | 9 |
Duration | 1/2 years |
Credits | 90 |
Method of Delivery | Blended |
Campus Locations | Donegal – Letterkenny |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time, Part Time |
Course Overview
There is an increasing demand within the sports performance industry for motivated and highly skilled graduates who have a specific knowledge of of Applied Sport Science (i.e. Exercise Physiology, Sports Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning and Performance Analysis) as well as highly developed professional practice ethos and skills
The aim of this course is to provide learners with a broad knowledge of the science of sports performance practice and an expert knowledge in specialist areas of the science of sport performance (i.e. Exercise Physiology, Sports Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning and Performance Analysis). It will develop applied techniques which will enable learners to pursue a career in Sports Performance, Strength and Conditioning, Exercise Physiology, Performance Analysis, Research, Education, Coaching or other science-based professions.
Contemporary Sports Performance practitioners must utilise an interdisciplinary and applied approach to the science of sport performance enhancement. Practitioners must be given an opportunity to advance their knowledge and understanding of scientific principles in this context. Particularly, within the core aspects of Performance Science (i.e. Exercise Physiology, Sports Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning.
The long-term commitment by government to spending in sport, announced in tandem with the new National Sports Policy 2018 will ensure the growth of this sector for at least the next ten years. A range of investigative, analytical and practical techniques are required to increase graduate employability in both academic and applied settings. The industry demands reflective practitioners, who have the ability to take responsibility for their own learning and ongoing professional development.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Sports NutritionThis module gives the learner an insight into the practical application of current Sport Nutrition guidelines within a high-performance setting. This module explores the key role and contemporary issues of nutrition in various aspects of Sport and Exercise e.g. fuelling, hydration, recovery, making weight, body composition, challenging environments, energy balance, dietary analysis, etc. The module also introduces the learner to specialist nutritional and practitioner skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically analyse current sports nutrition guidelines. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Physiology of Sport & ExerciseThis module examines the physiological effects in response to various sport and exercise stresses. The module explores key acute physiological responses and chronic physiological adaptations that influence human performance. The examination of various physiological assessment techniques will be explored. The interpretation of assessment results and their application to various performance environments will be completed. This module aims to advance physiological knowledge, skills and techniques and the ability to critically evaluate relevant scientific literature. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise various physiological systems and critically analyse their responses to a range of sport and exercise stresses |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Research MethodsThe aim of the module is to critically understand the design, methodological and implementation issues in research in your field of study. Specifically, the module aims to: facilitate the learner in the evaluation and the design of a research plan. The learner will develop an in-depth knowledge of the tools and techniques of research and an appreciation of which research approaches are appropriate in a given set of circumstances. Learning Outcomes 1. Write and present a research proposal that clarifies their research topic, approach, strategy and research questions. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Data AnalyticsThis module is designed to give students the necessary skills to analyse data using SPSS as part of their research projects. It will be a thorough and comprehensive overview to understanding, critically evaluating, conducting, and writing about analyses for most studies in relevant disciplines. Learning Outcomes 1. Conduct preliminary analyses: descriptive analysis and use graphs to describe the data |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Strength & ConditioningStudents will have the opportunity to develop and apply a comprehensive knowledge of the planning, periodisation and evaluation of strength and conditioning training for individual athletes/teams. Students will also develop an in-depth and critical understanding of contemporary strength and conditioning research and practices. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically review and interpret contemporary research in Strength and Conditioning practice. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Sports Performance AnalysisThe aim of this module is to further develop the skill set to deliver a high level of performance analysis that provides coaches and athletes with objective information through video and statistical information on athlete performance. Students will develop their knowledge and expertise on academic, practical and research skills that is required to become a successful performance analyst in sport. Graduates will be well equipped to meet the demand for people in the area of performance analysis within any level of sport or sporting organisation. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop the practical competencies and communication skills required to successfully deliver analysis to a team or individual in sport |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Professional PracticeThe aim of this module is to develop the key skills required to work within the demanding high performance setting. This module also introduces the learner to the range of ethical issues encountered within this environment. The learner will develop a reflective practice tool set and the skills required for peer based learning. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate the skills required to work within the challenging high performance environment. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
DissertationThe dissertation provides learners with an opportunity to apply the concepts, methods and techniques that have been studied in research methods and the various performance modules. The learner will demonstrate that they critically understand issues relating to the design, planning, execution of a level nine dissertation in their chosen field. Learning Outcomes 1. Write, present and defend a research design, analysis and conclusions/recommendations. |
30 | Elective |
2 |
Work Based Learning Research ProjectThe aim of this module is designed to allow learners to learn through reflecting on the experience of working in a relevant high performance environment in sport. This module focuses on developing significant and critical work based learning and research. The approach recognises the relationship between sport and exercise theory and sports practice and creates an environment in which participants can engage in knowledge development based on the 'work' context. The module requires learners to make explicit links between academic theories or concepts and their experiences in an applied sport setting. The module also seeks to provide an underpinning for developing as a competent reflective sports practitioner in a high performance environment. Applied project work and sharing of real life experiences will form a richness of learning through the process referred to as 'Apply and Learn'. This is essentially an applied module with rigorous theoretical underpinnings. It will enable learners to understand the wider implications of their academic work and to reflect on how their experience has informed their knowledge regarding their academic practice Learners will critically evaluate an academic theory or concept in relation to the applied setting they are undertaking work in. They learn how their academic studies are relevant when working in an applied setting and in this way the module focuses the learners' awareness towards their transferable skills whilst relating this to the knowledge gained so far from academic credit. The module also seeks to provide an underpinning for developing as a competent reflective practitioner -researcher within industry. Each learner is required to spend 12 weeks (full time) in a relevant work placement or approved work environment. . Learning Outcomes 1. Develop research skills and competence in a high performance sports settings |
30 | Elective |
Examination and Assessment
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Level 8, or an equivalent qualification which will be sport related or a non-sport degree graduates who have significant work experience in a related sport industry.
Careers
Graduate careers typically include roles such as Educator & Researcher, Performance Analyst, Sports Coach, Sports Nutritionist, Sports Performance Scientist, and Strength & Conditioning Coach.
Further Information
Who Should Apply?
This programme is suitable for coaches, sport scientists, practitioners and teachers looking to pursue or develop their career in sports performance, strength and conditioning, exercise physiology, performance analysis, research, education, coaching or other science-based professions.
Contact Information
Faculty of Business
Department of Tourism & Sport
Department Administration: +353 (0)74 918 6207 / +353 (0)74 918 6209
Head of Department: Nicola Dunnion
E: nicola.dunnion@atu.ie
T: +353 (0)74 918 6645
Tourism & Sport