MSc Strength and Conditioning

Why study a strength and conditioning master's degree at Solent University

Boost your employability and gain the knowledge and experience to graduate as an effective strength and conditioning coach.

Course overview

Strength and Conditioning is an exciting topic examining the science behind athletic physical preparation. A strength and conditioning coach helps to meet the individual needs of their clients and the specific needs of sports competition. They help people increasing their physical activity, prepare for the demands of sport, and bridge the gap returning to play when recovering from injury. Strength and conditioning coaches are also skilled practitioners in the research and application of knowledge into practice. A specialist support service in its own right, strength and conditioning coaches typically operate and provide expertise as part of multi-disciplinary team.

This course is ideal for students progressing on from relevant sports undergraduate courses such as Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, Sports Therapy or Football Studies. In addition, this course would suit practitioners returning to education to update and develop their knowledge and skills, for example, sports coaches, PE teachers, sports therapists and physiotherapists.

The course is taught one day a week for full-time students. This is designed to provide enough time to read extensively, research topics and work on assignments. It will also provide ample time for gaining coaching experiences and apply knowledge into practice. As you progress through the course you will embed technical competency of resistance training and energy systems development within principles and physiology of strength and conditioning.

You will generate a critical understanding of periodisation and programming to plan and progress your client’s goals over the short-term, medium-term and long-term. You will improve your session effectiveness utilising modern coaching science concepts and psychosocial elements. You will also develop an understanding of the analysis of movement patterns, particularly those related to injury prevention and recovery.

This course has been developed in collaboration with governing bodies and professional bodies to ensure it meets the demands of industry. As part of the course you will benefit from practical hands-on lessons and multiple placement opportunities, both within the University and with external links to facilitate your experiential development.

An honours degree at 2:2 or higher in relevant subject area. Significant industry experience will be considered on an individual basis. If you do not have these qualifications or are unsure of your eligibility please contact the University.