MSc Sports Coaching

MSc

Sports Coaching via Distance Learning

Faculty of Health Sciences

Key Facts Duration: A minimum of 2 years part time

Is this award for you?

If you wish to obtain a postgraduate qualification in Sports Coaching, but due to work, family or geographical reasons are unable to access traditionally delivered awards, our part time, online approach to study may be just what you are looking for.

Course begins: September Location: School of Psychology, Sport and Exercise Course fee: For further information about our fees please visit www.staffs.ac.uk/ internationalfees www.staffs.ac.uk/ feesandfunding

Entry requirements: Normally an honours degree (minimum 2 ii classification) from a UK university (or the international equivalent) in a related subject such as sports coaching, sport development, physical education, sport science or sport studies and possess (or be working towards) at least a UK Level 2 coaching qualification or equivalent, alongside evidence of a sustained commitment to coaching practice.

Candidates with appropriate degrees (or equivalent) in other subjects will also be considered if they have significant relevant employment experience in sports coaching or a demonstrable interest in (or commitment to) areas related to sports coaching as evidenced by possession of (or working towards) a UK Level 3 coaching qualification or equivalent.

You must be able to demonstrate a good standard of English. A minimum score of IELTS 7.0 (with a minimum of 6.5 in all bands) or an equivalent qualification is required for this award.

About this award The MSc in Sports Coaching has been developed for active coaches to provide an advanced multidisciplinary understanding of current issues relating to the theory and practice of sports coaching. The award is aimed at supporting both ‘participation’ and ‘performance development’ coaches who are seeking academic credit as part of their professional development, arising from either personal interest or in relation to endorsed National Governing Body coaching certificates.

With over 10 years experience of delivering fully online postgraduate awards you will encounter subject specialists with a proven track record of delivering innovative and exciting online modules that will allow you to develop your depth of knowledge and apply that knowledge into your coaching practice. The modules studied will focus on developing key analytical and decision making skills; enhance your capacity to critically reflect on your current coaching practice and on applying the emerging evidence base in relation to effective practices in sports coaching.

As part of a community of practice you will benefit from a variety of online approaches to study that support knowledge exchange.

These will include reading, listening, producing and viewing online content and interacting with fellow students and tutors. High levels of technical and administrative support will assist your learning.

Key features

• Study part-time by online distance learning with no interruption to family or working life • Update your knowledge and skills for professional development with support from highly qualified sports coaching staff experienced at delivering within a research to practice framework • Designed for coaches who need flexible approaches to study as they are in full time employment, unable to obtain day release or cannot access a locally based university delivering such an award • Be part of a dynamic community of learners • Actively engage with online content, your fellow coaches and module tutors • 24/7 access to a wide range of online databases, e-journals and e-books to support your learning • Technical and administrative staff to assist and support your online study requirements

visit www.staffs.ac.uk

MSc Sports Coaching via Distance Learning

Faculty of Health Sciences Award Content

Modules are offered within a part-time framework where you study one module at a time. The focus is to further develop key academic and professional skills and transfer those skills into your coaching practice.

Modules Studied Include:

Effective Coaching 1: Strategy and Practice Develops a critical understanding of both your coaching philosophy and different approaches to the coach-athlete relationship. Contemporary topics that influence modern day coaching practice are introduced, examined and assessed.

Advanced Research Methods and Data Analysis Develops and enhances an understanding of research methodology and statistical skills utilising both quantitative and qualitative approaches to examine data sets related to sports coaching.

Group Dynamics and Leadership in Sport and Exercise The module examines the application of social psychological theory to sport and exercise settings with a focus on audience effects, groups, and leadership, and on how these processes may impact on the performance of athletes, coaches, trainers and managers.

Effective Coaching 2: Reflective Practice Different approaches and practices related to reflective practice will be examined to develop a critical understanding of reflective practice in sports coaching. The role of experiential learning, mentoring and technology to modify existing coaching practice and support professional development lies at the heart of the module.

Skilled Performance Under Pressure Current models of skill acquisition are introduced alongside evidence linking the structure, organisation and design of practice to the effective emergence of sport related skills. The module then examines the breakdown of sport related skill and identifies potential mechanisms responsible for that performance breakdown.

Masters Research Project This module involves the planning and execution and write up of a research project as either a peer reviewed journal article, standard dissertation or a portfolio of research. A formal presentation and defence of the project is a key feature of the module.

“The 2012 Olympic Games highlighted the growing impact and importance that sports coaches can have on athlete development. This online award is aimed at active, busy coaches who wish to upskill their coaching knowledge and competencies to position themselves at the forefront of effective coaching practice.�

Chris Lee, Award Leader, MSc Sports Coaching

For further information, contact our Enquiries Team on:

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The information in this guide is correct at time of publication, but may be subject to change. For the latest information, visit our website or call us on 01782 294400.

Tel: +44 (0) 1782 294400 Email: enquiries@staffs.ac.uk Opening times: 8.45am - 5.00pm Monday - Thursday 8.45am - 4.30pm Friday

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