MSc/PgDip/PgCert Strength and Conditioning

This course equips you with the skills needed for leadership roles in strength and conditioning. The course blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, allowing you to integrate learning into your current role. Theoretical content is delivered online for flexibility, while case studies and practical sessions enhance your real-world application. Our expert staff, with experience working with professional sports teams and athletes, lead the programme.

This programme was the first postgraduate course in Europe to gain international recognition from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognition Program (ERP).

You will:

• Achieve a higher degree qualifying you for leadership positions in strength and conditioning.
• Critically evaluate scientific principles and theories related to athletic screening and performance measurement.
• Develop a thorough understanding of current scientific concepts and their real-life applications in strength and conditioning.
• Conduct an in-depth, evidence-based exploration of a key area relevant to your practice.

This is for you if...

• You aim to lead in the field of strength and conditioning.
• You possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• You are committed to improving the lives of others through strength and conditioning.

All about the course

The MSc Strength and Conditioning programme is available as both a full-time (one year) and part-time (two or three years) option.

Full-time Study:

The course spans three academic semesters, from October to September of the following year.

Awards available:

• Postgraduate Certificate: Completion of one module
• Postgraduate Diploma: Completion of two modules
• Master’s: Completion of two modules plus a dissertation

Part-time Study:

• Two-year option:
  • Year 1: Postgraduate Certificate in Strength and Conditioning (60 credits) (Semester one and two)
  • Year 2: Postgraduate Certificate in Injury Prevention and Performance Measurement (60 credits) (Semester one and two)
  • Year 2 (Summer): Research Project (Dissertation)
• Three-year option:
  • Year 1: Postgraduate Certificate in Strength and Conditioning (60 credits) (Semester one and two)
  • Year 2: Postgraduate Certificate in Injury Prevention and Performance Measurement (60 credits) (Semester one and two)
  • Year 3: Research Project (Dissertation) (Semester one and two)

To achieve the MSc in Strength and Conditioning, you must successfully complete the modules in Strength and Conditioning and Injury Prevention and Performance Measurement, along with a dissertation.

What will I be doing?

Teaching:

• Blended Learning: The course combines online learning with practical face-to-face workshops.
• Workshops: Three-day interactive sessions per module each semester, becoming progressively student-led with case study presentations.
• Individual Scholarly Activity: Includes self-directed learning, personal reflection, and practice-based application.
• Distance Learning Resources: Access to study guides, lecture materials, and facilitated group work.
• Personal Tutor and Peer Support: Academic, practice-based, and personal support mechanisms.

Assessment:

• Case Studies (written and oral presentations)
• Viva Voce
• Literature Review
• Practical Assessments
• Journal Articles (research reports formatted as journal articles)
• Research Proposal

BSc (Hons) graduates with an appropriate sports or exercise related subject area (Physiotherapy, Sports Rehabilitation, Sports Therapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Sports Medicine Physician). Prospective students will normally be required to have achieved a 2.1 Honours degree, but consideration will be given to students with a 2.2 Honours degree with appropriate experience and satisfactory references. We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.