Strength, Conditioning and Performance MSc

Core Modules

Science of Human Performance

This module provides you with an understanding of the underpinning mechanisms related to human movement and performance with a strong link to practical concepts. You will look at neuromuscular structure and function, bioenergetics and metabolism, cardio-pulmonary function and endurance performance as well as strength and power. Much of this will take place in our brand new Human Performance Laboratory. Using a range of teaching methods, including podcasts, laboratory-based sessions, lectures and seminars, this module is designed to link components of exercise science to the field of human performance.

Coaching and Enhancing Sports Performance

Coaching and Enhancing Sports Performance builds on the underpinning concepts of human performance and applies them to key areas relating to practical application. You will look at a number of areas including effective coaching in strength and conditioning, training strength, power and endurance and working with team sports alongside nutrition for training adaptation, enhanced performance and recovery. This module will prepare you for many aspects of stepping into industry and applying the theory in a sports performance environment. You will develop your practical coaching skills while learning methods to enhance sports performance. This module will allow you to gain competence across a range of equipment used in both laboratory and field-based settings.

Applied Strength and Conditioning

An effective strength and conditioning coach needs to go beyond understanding the science of performance. This module will help you to develop a range of the ‘softer’ skills required to work in the field of strength and conditioning, such as interpersonal skills, effective communication, empathy, conflict management and resolution. Furthermore, the module introduces the concept of reflective practice, an essential skill for the applied practitioner.

Research Methods

The Research Methods module will develop your understanding of the research process, preparing you to undertake and complete a successful research project. The module will cover all aspects of the research process and provide you with the opportunity to carry out a pilot study, receiving staff and peer feedback before commencing your research project. Key stages of the module include applying for ethics approval, developing appropriate studies for hypotheses testing, research design, population sampling, data analysis (and associated software) and reporting findings.

Athlete Management

This module provides you with knowledge and experience of working within a multi-disciplinary team in order to provide the best support for athletes. You will learn a range of concepts including injury screening and rehabilitation, monitoring load and fatigue, performance testing and the athletic diet. By developing an appreciation of these areas you will be able to identify your roles and responsibilities in a wide range of settings. You will effectively take your ‘case studies’ through the process of training, from screening and referral to monitoring of load and fatigue and performance testing.

Experiential Learning

The Experiential Learning module provides you with a vocational opportunity to develop your personal, transferable skills and work-specific skills, therefore enhancing your future employability. By gaining real-world experience in the field of applied strength and conditioning, you will be challenged to link theory with practice. You will be supported to find suitable vocational practice placements with which to hone your skills, as well as building industry networks to support your future career aspirations. The module will also provide you with the opportunity to reflect on evidence-based practice and identify your own learning needs.

Dissertation

The dissertation provides you with the opportunity to consolidate your learning and undertake a supervised research project, with the option to seek appropriate publication (e.g. academic journal, conference etc.) You will be able to specialise in an area of interest to you, which could be based out of the Human Performance Centre/Laboratory or in the field, potentially following on from your work on the Experiential Learning placement.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

In light of COVID-19, we have made some changes to the way we deliver our teaching. We are continually following the guidelines and measures put in place by the UK Government to ensure our students and staff are safe on campus, whilst remaining committed to providing high-quality education. The information below explains how teaching will take place in semester 2 (or semester 1 for those joining us in January) for each level/year of this course.

• Level 7

Assessment

You will be assessed by a range of methods to encourage the development of relevant skills and competencies. These include case studies, presentations, assignments and laboratory reports. Finally, you will undertake an extended research project linked to your area(s) of interest within the industry.

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2015-2020.