Sport Studies BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

The Sport Studies BSc (Hons) at Ulster University delves into the theoretical and practical aspects of sport, encompassing areas like sociology, politics, sports development, and management. It fosters critical and vocational skills, preparing graduates for careers in the sports and leisure industry. The program utilizes a multifaceted approach, combining classroom learning with practical experiences, and offers opportunities for independent and collaborative study.

Program Outline

Sport Studies BSc (Hons) at Ulster University

Degree Overview

Overview:

This program delves into the theoretical and practical aspects of sport, encompassing areas like sociology, politics, sports development, sports management, physical education, and sports coaching. It explores the crucial role of sports in society and examines it as a tool for individual and social development. The program fosters critical and vocational skills to prepare graduates for careers in the sports and leisure industry.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the social sciences in the context of sport.
• Provide a balance between vocational skill development and theoretical knowledge, preparing students for both postgraduate studies and employment in the sports industry.
• Offer opportunities for independent and collaborative study, immersing students in research and real-world applications of sports science.
• Foster intellectual curiosity, professional competencies, and transferable skills that empower graduates to become effective practitioners in a globalized world.

Description:

The program utilizes a multifaceted approach, combining classroom learning with practical experiences. Students engage with diverse modules, including:

• Sociology of Sport
• Politics of Sport
• Sports Development
• Sports Management
• Physical Education
• Sports Coaching
• Sports Policy and Planning
Students explore the intricate relationship between sport and society, examining its impact on individuals, communities, and nations. Additionally, the program emphasizes the practical application of sports science, equipping graduates with the necessary skills to excel in professional settings.

Structure:

The program is delivered over three years, with each year comprising two semesters. The typical course load involves a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical sessions. Students are expected to actively participate in class discussions, complete assignments, and engage in independent study.

Course Schedule:

The program offers a diverse range of modules, encompassing:

• Year One: Foundations for Future Success; Sport and Society; Introduction to Sports Development; Leading and Managing People in Sport; Sport in Practice; Principles of Coaching, Instructing and Teaching.
• Year Two: Sports Development; Politics of Sport; Sociology of Sport; Sports Management; Research Skills in Practice; Applied Coaching Principles; Physical Education: Theory and Practice (optional).
• Year Three: Diploma in Professional Practice (International) (optional); Diploma in International Academic Studies (optional).
• Year Four (optional): Sport Research and Practice; Sports Strategic Management; Coaching Process; Give Sport a Free Pass?
; Advanced Sports Development; Advanced Physical Education and School Sport; Sport For Development and Peace.

Modules:

• Foundations for Future Success: This module equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their academic endeavors and future careers.
• Sport and Society: This module introduces students to the social sciences of sport and the key skills required to analyze the relationship between sports and society.
• Introduction to Sports Development: This module provides students with an understanding of the key issues and debates in sports development, along with the skills needed to design and implement sports development initiatives.
• Leading and Managing People in Sport: This module explores the theories and practicalities of leadership and management within the sports industry.
• Sport in Practice: This module develops students' skills in observing, analyzing, and improving sports performance.
• Sports Development: This module provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the sports development industry, including theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical applications.
• Politics of Sport: This module examines the interrelationship between sport and politics, exploring the role of governments in sports decision-making and the impact of sports on social and political issues.
• Sports Management: This module introduces students to the key principles and practices of sports management, covering areas like resource management, facilities management, and strategic planning.
• Research Skills in Practice: This module equips students with the skills necessary to conduct research in the field of sports science.
• Physical Education: Theory and Practice: This module explores the theories and practices of physical education, including curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and assessment techniques.
• Diploma in Professional Practice (International): This optional module provides students with valuable work experience in the sports industry, allowing them to consolidate their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting.
• Diploma in International Academic Studies: This optional module allows students to study abroad, gaining invaluable experience in a different cultural and academic environment.
• Sport Research and Practice: This module builds upon the research skills developed in previous years, enabling students to conduct in-depth research projects related to sport and society.
• Sports Strategic Management: This module explores the strategic management processes employed by sports organizations to gain a competitive advantage in the global sports industry.
• Coaching Process: This module focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of the coaching process, exploring the key components of effective coaching and the development of coaching skills.
• Give Sport a Free Pass?
• : This module critically examines the ideology surrounding the notion that sport is inherently beneficial, exploring the complexities and potential issues associated with this perspective.
• Advanced Sports Development: This module delves deeper into the evolution and diverse strands of sports development, examining the role of government and key agencies in shaping sports development policies and strategies.
• Advanced Physical Education and School Sport: This module critically appraises recent research and educational initiatives in the field of physical education, focusing on its effective delivery within the school context.

Assessment

The program employs a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Examinations: These assess students' understanding of theoretical concepts and principles.
• Coursework: This includes essays, reports, presentations, and projects that demonstrate students' ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
• Practical Assessments: These assess students' skills and competencies in specific areas, such as coaching, teaching, and sports development.
The assessment criteria vary depending on the module and the specific learning outcomes. However, overall, the program emphasizes the following:
• Critical thinking and analysis: Students are expected to demonstrate their ability to critically analyze information, evaluate arguments, and form independent judgments.
• Problem-solving: Students are expected to apply their knowledge and skills to solve problems in practical settings.
• Communication: Students are expected to communicate their ideas effectively in written and oral forms.
• Teamwork: Students are expected to work effectively in teams to achieve common goals.

Teaching

The program is delivered by a team of experienced and qualified academics, many of whom are active researchers in the field of sports science. The teaching methods vary depending on the module and the learning outcomes, but generally include:

• Lectures: These provide students with an overview of key concepts and theories.
• Seminars: These offer students the opportunity to discuss and debate issues related to the module content.
• Workshops: These provide students with hands-on experience in applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
• Laboratory sessions: These provide students with the opportunity to conduct experiments and collect data.
• Individual supervision: This provides students with personalized guidance and support in their studies.
• Guest lectures: These provide students with insights from industry professionals and experts in the field of sports science.
The program utilizes a student-centered approach, encouraging active participation and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to engage with the teaching staff and their peers to create a vibrant and intellectually stimulating learning environment.

Careers

Graduates of this program are well-equipped for a wide range of careers in the sports and leisure industry, including:

• Sports Development Officer
• Sports Management Consultant
• Physical Education Teacher
• Sports Coach
• Recreation Officer
• Sports Journalist
• Event Organizer
The program also prepares graduates for further study at the postgraduate level, leading to careers in research, academia, or specialized areas of sports science.

Other

The program offers the following unique features:

• Work placement opportunities: Students have the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the sports industry through work placements with local and international organizations.
• Study abroad opportunities: Students can choose to study abroad for a year, gaining valuable experience in a different cultural and academic environment.
• Strong industry links: The program maintains close links with the sports industry, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge required by employers.