MSc Sport and Exercise Biomechanics Degree

Program Overview

The MSc Sport and Exercise Biomechanics program at the University of Chichester equips students with advanced biomechanical principles, theories, and practical skills. Students learn to analyze human movement, apply biomechanics to sport and exercise, and gain practical experience in using biomechanical tools and techniques. The program includes six core modules and a research project or supervised experience portfolio, preparing graduates for careers in high-level performance coaching, personal training, physiotherapy, gait analysis, sport coaching, or PhD research.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Sport and Exercise Biomechanics provides students with an opportunity to study at a postgraduate level to fulfill the initial requirements for BASES accreditation, to develop their knowledge of the sport and exercise sciences, and to increase their skills in applying such knowledge in both sporting and exercise populations. The degree program aims to equip students with advanced biomechanical principles, theories, and practicalities, culminating in a final research project. This program is designed for individuals who wish to pursue a career in biomechanics-related fields, including high-level performance coaching, personal training, physiotherapy, gait analysis, sport coaching, or PhD research. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the principles of biomechanics and its application to sport and exercise. Students will learn about the biomechanics of human movement, including the analysis of motion, forces, and energy. They will also gain practical experience in using biomechanical tools and techniques.

Outline:

The MSc Sport and Exercise Biomechanics program comprises six core modules and a dissertation of 12,000 words or a supervised experience portfolio. The modules are as follows:

• Developing as an Applied Practitioner in Biomechanics: This module focuses on developing skills in delivering applied consultancy in the biomechanics of sport and exercise.
• Tissues, Modelling and Assistive Devices: This module covers the application of biomechanics research findings in areas like muscle, tendon, ligament tissues, one/two joint muscles, muscle and joint energetics, prosthetic design, orthotic design and function, vibration training, in-silico modelling, and neuromuscular modelling.
• Ergonomics in Sport & Exercise: This module helps students understand the areas of ergonomics research and practice where their biomechanics skills can be applied.
• Applied Research Skills: An introduction to quantitative and qualitative methodology for biomechanics, utilizing practical and real-world examples to demonstrate how data is interpreted.
• Advanced Research Skills for Sport: This module focuses on learning and applying innovative and cutting-edge methods of analysis commonly found in biomechanics literature.

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including essays, examinations, portfolios, practical assessments, lab reports, and oral presentations.

• Postgraduate Certificate: Students need to complete three modules, each assessed by a 4,000-word assignment.
• Postgraduate Diploma: Students need to complete six modules, each assessed by a 4,000-word assignment.
• MSc: Students must complete six modules and a dissertation of 12,000 words or a supervised experience portfolio.

Teaching:

The University of Chichester employs a team of principal lecturers known for their innovation, enthusiasm, and expertise. Teaching methods vary depending on the module content and focus of study. The program combines lead lectures, seminars, workshops, and laboratory sessions, with a focus on small group learning and tutor support. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and development, directing their study towards areas of personal interest.

Careers:

Graduates of the MSc Sport and Exercise Biomechanics program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the sports industry, including:

• High-level Performance Coaching: Analyzing athlete movement and performance to improve training strategies and technique.
• Personal Training: Applying biomechanical principles to design personalized exercise programs for clients.
• Physiotherapy: Assessing and treating injuries using a biomechanical understanding of the body.
• Gait Analysis Expert: Analyzing and evaluating human movement patterns, particularly related to walking and running, to identify and address gait abnormalities.
• Sport Coaching: Providing expert coaching services across various sports, integrating biomechanics knowledge to enhance technique and performance.
• PhD Research: Pursuing advanced research in the field of sport and exercise biomechanics.

Other:

The program emphasizes the importance of practical experience, and students have access to a wide range of excellent sporting facilities that support their learning. These facilities include:

• Sports and Exercise Science laboratories: These labs offer opportunities for practical sessions and research, including a virtual reality reader, brain imaging unit, and an observation suite.
• Sports injury clinic: Students utilize this clinic for practical sessions and practice running a physiotherapy practice.
• Tudor Hale Centre for Sport: This world-class center houses facilities for sports science, therapy, and physiology.
• Sports hall: Used for a variety of indoor sports, including basketball, netball, badminton, and volleyball.
• Specialist outdoor sports pitches: Includes grass football and rugby pitches, and an International Hockey Federation compliant floodlit astro turf.
• FA Women's High-Performance Football Centre: One of nine such centers in the UK, providing opportunities for women to develop as players and coaches.
• Fitness suite: Offers a variety of cardio, resistance, and weight equipment, with a dedicated strength and conditioning room.
• Sports Dome: A large indoor facility used for sports such as cricket, football, hockey, and more.
• Learning Resource Centre: Includes the library, a café, IT/teaching rooms, and the Support and Information Zone (SIZ).
• Library: Contains over 200,000 books and over 500,000 eBooks.
The program also has strong connections with placement partners, providing opportunities for students to gain practical work experience. The University of Chichester is committed to a friendly and close-knit student community, contributing to a high degree of success for its graduates.

UK fee: £8,838 International fee: £16,722