Providing a recognised level of training for aspiring professionals in the field of sport and exercise psychology.
This course is designed for students wishing to specialise in the discipline of sport and exercise psychology, to gain professional training, acquire vocationally related psychological skills, develop acritical thinking approach and conduct research, in a science practice model. This MSc was developed in the context of the increasing professionalisation of sport and exercise psychology, the accreditation criteria for the British Psychological Society (BPS) and the need for a university level course in Ireland. The MSc will provide graduates competencies in applying interventions professionally and ethically. The programme will provide students a grounding in the theory, themes, issues and practical skills central to the knowledge base of sport and exercise psychology. The 3 main themes– 1. theory-practice 2. Individual content 3. stability-change –permeate throughout each of the taught modules. The themes are embedded to serve as a heuristic tool to enable students to apply and underpin critical thinking. This thematic approach supports and reflects the critical philosophy that underpins the programme and is central to teaching, learning and assessment. Graduates should possess professional skills in consulting, advanced research, relevant personal skills and an understanding of the high performance environment.
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Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year one
Group Dynamics and Organisational Psychology in Sport and Exercise
Year: 1
This module examines group and team dynamics, and group and organisational processes within sport teams and their broader organisational context. The module provides an overview of organisational factors such as leadership amongst managers, coaches, and athletes within sport teams and sport organisations.
Advanced Research Methods for Sports and Performance
Year: 1
This module is designed to enhance the knowledge and competencies of students to prepare them to undertake research in Physical Activity and Public Health; Psychology and Sports Nutrition. It focuses on the application of advanced elements in experimental design, conducting quantitative analysis, research synthesis and the presentation of data and findings. It equips students to review, conduct and commission research.
Sport, Physical Activity and Mental Health
Year: 1
This module examines the influence of sport and physical activity on mental health of the general population and those involved in sport. It provides a critical understanding of the development of scientific consensus to date and identifies areas in need of further research for the promotion of positive mental health in sport.
Applied Sport Psychology and Contemporary Issues
Year: 1
This module provides students with a critical overview of the contemporary topics in applied sport psychology. Students will be encouraged to translate theory into practice and to develop a critical knowledge base to be able to plan, develop and evaluate how appropriate sport psychology interventions should be delivered.
Professional Practice and Ethics in Applied Sport Psychology
Year: 1
The module is designed to provide students with a critical understanding of the consulting relationship; ethical considerations in professional practice; the impact of different stakeholders on practice; the role of reflection and reflective practice; and the importance of counselling skills. Various activities and module assessment, enables students to experience first-hand the challenge of applying theory to practice and engaging in reflective practice.
Dissertation
Year: 1
Carrying out an original, independent piece of research from the formulation of a research question through to reporting findings in accordance with the conventions of the academic area is an important part of the research training provided by Masters level study. This module provides students with an opportunity for students to carry out an original independent piece of research in the area of sport and exercise psychology and present findings in the form of a journal manuscript and a conference presentation.
Social Perspectives on Health, Sport and Exercise Psychology
Year: 1
This module examines sport, exercise and health psychology at an individual, group and cultural level. Theory and research on the effects of social processes on an individual are explored. The key issues include gender, morality, relationships, transitions from high level sport and the role of cultural issues in the applied sport psychology context.
Track I: Teaching/research in sport sciences and consulting;
Track II: teaching/research inpsychology and also consulting;
Track III: Clinical/Counseling services to various populations including athletes;
Track IV: Health promotion and working with clients but not necessarily athletes;
Track V: Further PhD research study.
To further complete an approved HCPC stage 2 qualification, in order gain eligibility to apply for registration the HCPC and use the protected title of Sport and Exercise Psychologist.
Insurance Single 300 GBP/year
