MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Science

Summary 2012/13

The MSc in Applied Sport and Exercise Science provide you with the opportunity to further develop knowledge and understanding of both theoretical principles and practical techniques related to the application of sport and exercise sciences. You will also explore contemporary issues in sport and exercise science and benefit from a strong emphasis on research methods, engaging both formally and informally in the three scientific disciplines of biomechanics, physiology and psychology.

2012 Entry Requirements

For entry to the PGCert, PGDip and MSc programmes candidates should normally possess a 2:1 undergraduate honours degree or equivalent of which at least 50% of the context at Levels 5 and 6 can be identified as sport and exercise science related study. In addition, students are required to demonstrate evidence of a suitable standard of literacy and numeracy, for example, GCSE passes at grade C in Mathematics and English or equivalent. Entry to the programme by students who do not meet these standard entry requirements will be governed by reasonable expectation that the candidate will be able to achieve the learning outcomes of the programme.

Details

What will I gain from this programme?

The MSc in Applied Sport and Exercise Science takes a hands-on approach and practical experience working with clients is central to your learning experience. This means you will graduate not only with an academic qualification but also with experience of working within the field, enhancing your job prospects. Modern purpose-built and well-equipped biomechanics, physiology and psychology laboratories where students have priority use facilitate this approach, along with an approachable team of specialised staff. Another distinctive aspect of the course is the ability to study across the three science disciplines therefore providing a holistic perspective of sport and or exercise performance. There is also some scope for you to specialise within certain modules.

What will I study?

The curriculum has been designed to include both core and optional modules.

The core modules provide you with the opportunity to further develop knowledge and understanding of both theoretical principles and practical techniques related to the application of sport and exercise sciences. A strong emphasis is also place on research methods and you will be provided with the opportunity to critique existing research and design suitable hypotheses and procedures related to applied sport and exercise science.

The optional and more specialist modules include contemporary issues in sport and exercise science and will enable you to develop skills relevant to pursue a career in the area and gain professional accreditation. You will select modules that most reflect your interest in either sport performance or exercise and health and these are often related to the research interests of the staff delivering them.

Regardless of module selection you will be required to engage both informally and formally in the three scientific disciplines of biomechanics, physiology and psychology. Informal seminars, small group tutorials, workshops and problem based learning will require you to engage in academic debate about the integration of applying the three disciplines to sport and exercise scenarios.

How will I study?

A wide range of learning experiences and teaching methods will be used to facilitate effective learning including: workshops, small group seminars and laboratory work, tutorials, taught practical sessions, fieldwork, problem-based learning, directed independent study, supervised individual research and ICT-based learning. For each module you will have access to a detailed module booklet which will gives details of what sessions are about, what to read, how you will be assessed and coursework guidance. You will be encouraged to express your own views and staff will be available to give advice and guidance when you need it. We aim to make your learning imaginative, varied, effective and, most of all, enjoyable.

Who will be teaching me?

The sport and exercise science team are highly experienced and enthusiastic with a real commitment to teaching sport and exercise science. The team believe in utilizing a range of appropriate teaching, learning and assessment methods to offer a varied and rewarding student experience. The ethos of the course team is that students should actively engage in their learning experiences and as a Masters student, problem based learning will play a major role. As a team we are dynamic, friendly and supportive of student's needs. You will get to know us and we will get to know you. Staff are actively involved in research and consultancy projects that influence the development of sport and exercise science and directly feed into the currency of your Masters. Current staff have particularly strong specialisms in working with a variety of different sports groups.

How will I be assessed?

The course incorporates a diverse and appropriate range of assessment methods. The rationale for this is based on the desire to facilitate learning and understanding progressively and to allow performance to be monitored effectively. The range of assessment methods provides opportunity for each student to illustrate their strengths. More traditional assessment methods such as journal articles, review articles, practical examinations and oral viva provide opportunity to assess your understanding and application of theoretical principles and intellectual skills. In addition to traditional assessment methods, a range of applied assessments that link to the vocational aspect of the course are also included such as case studies, information packages and oral presentations. These assessment methods provide opportunity to assess your ability to apply scientific knowledge and understanding to a variety of complex familiar and unfamiliar situations and also provide opportunity for evaluation of key skills.

What are my career prospects?

Graduates from this programme will leave well qualified to pursue careers in the expanding sports and exercise industry. A range of career opportunities exist within the health and fitness industry such as personal trainers, fitness and health consultants, GP referral scheme and physical activity programme coordinators. Further opportunities are becoming increasingly available working in applied sports sciences with National Governing Bodies of sport, the British Olympic Association, Universities and commercial ventures wanting specialised sports science support and performance managers. Some graduates may go on to take advantage of the many opportunities available in higher education for higher level postgraduate study and may wish to specialise further for example into sports injury and rehabilitation. Those who seek employment in non-sports related areas will find the transferable skills they have acquired during their study attractive to employers.

A Great Study Environment

Based in 160 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the Ormskirk Campus is a unique and inspirational place to study. Industry standard resources and cutting edge technology combine to make an interactive and highly advanced teaching and learning environment. Everything you could want is on one site with 25 acres of sport and leisure facilities, more than 1,000 rooms in halls of residence and fantastic modern spaces in which you can study and socialise.

The University library gives you access to thousands of books, journals, online resources and extensive PC and media provision. You'll get all the support you need to succeed, reflected in Edge Hill University being ranked in the top two in England for students' personal development, and the top three in the country for assessment and feedback, in the 2011 National Student Survey. The University is also featured in the top 4 in England for graduate employment.

How do I apply?

Apply online at www.ukpass.ac.uk.

Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyukpass for more information on the application process.

Fees and Finance

Tuition fees are £4,320pa for full-time study on this programme in academic year 2012/13. Part-time postgraduate students in academic year 2012/13 will pay £250 per 10 credit module, £500 per 20 credit module and £1,500 per 60 credit module. 180 credits are required to complete the MA. Information for UK and EU students only. Full-time fees for international postgraduate students are £11,500pa for academic year 2012/13.

Edge Hill graduates joining an eligible postgraduate programme at the University in academic year 2012/13 could benefit from a 20% reduction in tuition fees. If you're a UK or EU student and will be paying the fees yourself, you might be eligible to receive this discount. See www.edgehill.ac.uk/reducedfees for more information.

Where can I find out more?

If you would like to receive a copy of our prospectus or be kept updated about forthcoming events, contact the Course Information, Advice and Guidance Team by emailing study@edgehill.ac.uk or calling 01695 657000.

If you want to attend one of our open events held throughout the year, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/postgradopendays to book your place.

You will also find Edge Hill University staff at many postgraduate study fairs taking place across the UK and Ireland.

Still want more?

If you have any questions you would like to ask the programme leader about this course, please contact:

• Evelyn Carnegie, Department of Sport and Physical Activity, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire L39 4QP
• Tel: 01695 584764
• Email: carnegie@edgehill.ac.uk

Overseas students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk for further information.