Strength & Conditioning

About the course

The Sport and Exercise Science group within the School of Health and Social Sciences is committed to developing the scientist practitioner and the strength and conditioning professional is a prime example of this.

At the moment there are no formal qualifications in strength and conditioning in the UK, although the launch of the UK Strength and Conditioning Body in May 2004 might well address this issue. Many people have taken the USA CSCS exam . This course will be aimed at not just meeting but exceeding the standards for the USA CSCS course, as well as making more specific reference to UK / European training practices. The level of science and coaching underpinning the MSc will certainly be well in excess of the CSCS course. In particular there will be a much stronger practical element.

In terms of course content we believe that the course more than covers the requirements for UKSCA certification with the exception only of the experiential elements.

What you will learn

Each module consists of eight 3-hour taught sessions. Teaching is a traditional mixture of lectures, workshops and practicals, but with a strong emphasis on problem based approaches and a core commitment to evidence-based practice. Assessments are based on real world, practically focussed issues and are in the form of case studies, critical reviews, and presentations.

Specialist guest lecturers with a strong background in applied strength and conditioning contribute to each module on the course and have included coaches to elite athletes, book authors, internationally recognised researchers, NGB coaches, and internationally recognised strength and conditioning specialists.

What you will study

You will normally enrol for the complete MSc programme (180 credits). If, for any reason, you choose to leave before completion of the MSc you may be awarded the postgraduate certificate (for successful completion of 60 credits) or the postgraduate diploma (for successful completion of 120 credits).

Special features

• We believe that this course is unique in both content and in the student profiles that choose to take the MSc.

• We have had candidates from diverse backgrounds including strength and conditioning professionals already working in international cricket, Premiership football and professional rugby.

• There are no formal work placements with the course, though every effort will be made to encourage students on the course to engage in strength and conditioning support to athletes through the course and to apply and evaluate their knowledge.

• Many of the tutors on the course work with elite athletes and would look to offer networking opportunities to those students not currently actively involved in the field.

Careers and professional development

As a graduate from this programme you will be equipped with strong practical skills, underpinned by a sound theoretical base. The course will also enhance your lifelong learning and transferable skills, enabling you to work with self-direction and confidence in the strength and conditioning industry.

Previous graduates have secured positions as strength and conditioners in elite sport including Premiership football, international cricket, English Institute of Sport and professional rugby. Other students have used their qualification to establish their own strength and conditioning consultancy.

On completion of your MSc you will also become a member of the University’s alumni association. You can be a lifelong member of the University's community, able to access careers information and guidance, as well as the University's library and other facilities.

Professional recognition

The UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) do not accredit any courses, however, we believe that the course content more than covers the requirements for UKSCA certification with the exception only of the experiential elements.

Mode of attendance - Part-time: the course is designed to be delivered for one day per week, including eight days in semester 1 and eight days in semester 2.