| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-02-03 | - |
| 2025-03-03 | - |
Program Overview
MPhil Sports and Recreation
Overview
Our dynamic research community offers interdisciplinary supervision, innovative research projects, and a vibrant network of local, regional, and international scholars.
Award
MPhil
Start date(s)
3 March 2025, 3 February 2025
UCAS Code
Course specifications
View course spec
Course length
Full-time (2 years), Part-time (4 years)
Campus location
University: Walsall Campus
School
School of Sport
UCAS points calculator
Open Points Calculator
In this section
- Overview
- Entry Requirements
- Fees & Finance
- Modules
- Employability
- Facilities
Why choose this course?
The Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing (FEHW) supports the research ambitions of over 240 doctoral students across Education, Health, Social Work and Social Care, Sport and Psychology. Our research community is diverse and dynamic, collaborating with local, regional and international students on innovative research projects.
Our research supervisors possess internationally recognised expertise in a range of research methodologies and frequently work across subject areas, for example, research supervision can take place around the intersections of Education and Health and Sport and Psychology. We support students with a vibrant seminar and workshop calendar of events and sits within a and broader university research community where a very wide range of activity and support takes place.
What happens on the course?
The School of Sport has been awarded an Athena SWAN Bronze Department Award in recognition of our work to support gender equality.
Lead - Sports and Recreation
Ross Cloak is an Associate Professor in Sport and Exercise Science and the Head of the Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre (SPARC). His research focuses on how sports science can be applied to improve athlete health and performance. With experience as a practitioner in combat sports, soccer, and endurance sports, Dr. Cloak’s current work includes altitude training in combat sports, the use of virtual reality technology in elite soccer, and return-to-play analysis in sport.
PhD Supervisors
- Matthew Wyon is a Professor in Exercise Physiology and leader of the Performance Enhancement Research Cluster. His main focus is on the performance demands of dance and how it affects the health and well-being of dancers. He is part of an international research group that includes PhD students from across the globe looking at different dance genres from a physiological and biomechanics perspective.
- Amy is currently a Senior Lecturer in Physical Education and School Sport, and Inclusivity Lead for the School of Sport. She is currently the principal investigator for an Early Career Research Fellowship which is exploring the nature of belonging, engagement and self-confidence from the student perspective, driven by a strong passion for equality, diversity, inclusion and equitable teaching practices. She has published the findings of a mindfulness intervention programme with global majority students and based on her previous roles as Head of PE and Head of House in the primary/secondary school sectors, she is currently writing two projects up on the back of completing her Doctorate in Education: a conceptualisation of quality in physical education teaching, and a mixed methods approach to understanding physical education teachers constructs of quality across a career.
- Amy Bywater, Lecturer in Physical Education
- Dr Nick O'Leary has been a Senior Lecturer in Physical Education and School Sport at the University of Wolverhampton for 23 years. Nick has three research areas of interest. Firstly, how teachers’ past and current socialisation experiences influence their teaching of Physical Education. Secondly, the issues teachers and coaches face in learning to use game-based approaches in Physical Education and sports coaching. Finally, the influence neoliberal performativity has on the working lives of Physical Education teachers.
- “My research is underpinned by a focus on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. My main research interests are exploring the experiences of women working in male-dominated spaces. I have recently published a co-authored chapter on the transition from women's amateur to semi-professional football. Previous work includes research on female football officials and sex segregation in football.”
- Alison Forbes, Senior Lecturer in Sport Sociology
- Gavin Ward is a Senior Lecturer in Physical Education at the University of Wolverhampton and a leading member of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion research theme within the Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre (SPARC). The theme is focused on research that positively impacts social justice in relation to (dis)ability, gender, age, class, race and ethnicity. Gavin has recently completed a £40k research project for British University and Colleges Sport (BUCS) to explore Race and Equality within university sport and physical activity provision. Recommendations from this UK-wide research are now in the process of being implemented by BUCS. Gavin Supervises a range of research students across a range of subject areas including health, psychology and sport. These include full-time, part-time and professional doctorate students.
Potential Career Paths
- Sports Manager
- Sports Marketing Professional
- Fitness and Wellness Consultant
- Sport Performance Analyst
- Academic Researcher
Sports Manager
Oversee sports teams, facilities, or athletic programs.
Sports Marketing Professional
Develop marketing strategies for sports teams, brands, or organisations.
Fitness and Wellness Consultant
Provide expert guidance on physical activity and recreational programs.
Sport Performance Analyst
Analyse athletic performance data and develop improvement strategies.
Academic Researcher
Pursue doctoral studies or work in university research departments.
Additional Information
Everything you need to know about this course!
Course Fees and Finance
| Location | Mode | Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home | Full-time | £4786 per year | |
| Home | Full-time | £5006 per year | |
| Home | Part-time | £2393 per year | |
| Home | Part-time | £2503 per year | |
| International | Full-time | £15950 per year | |
| International | Full-time | £16950 per year |
The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed.
Funding
Financial support for research study:
Before applying, you should consider carefully how you will finance your studies for the duration of your programme, including tuition fees, research support fees and living costs.
Government loans(Home Fee Status):
Government loans are available for postgraduate research students of up to £30,301, to cover fees and living expenses. More information can be found at Doctoral-loans website.
**Studying in the UK:Guidance for EU students **
For 2021/22 new entrants, EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fee status and financial support from Student Finance England.
Self-funded:
We are able to take payments in instalments, to spread out the cost of your studies, and it is possible to switch between full-time and part-time modes of study. For more information go to How to pay.
Postgraduate Research Loyalty Discount:
To students progressing from an undergraduate programme and/or a taught postgraduate programme to a postgraduate research programme, where both courses are University of Wolverhampton Awards.
There is no time limit on how long ago you completed your degree and/or Masters level qualification, as long as the new award is at a higher level.
For full terms and conditions please see: Loyalty Discount for Postgraduate Research Students
Research councils:
The UK Research and Innovation funds postgraduate study in all subject areas on a discretionary basis.
University Research Studentships:
The University offers a very limited number of research stipends, formerly known as bursaries, to research students. Stipends are designed to support specific projects as determined by the Research Institute rather than individual student-led projects. Funds are accessible from the relevant Research Institute or Centre - please contact them directly.
Other sources:
Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.
You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.
Program Outline
MPhil Sports and Recreation - University of Wolverhampton
Degree Overview:
Award:
MPhil
Start Date(s):
Variable start date
Location:
University: Walsall Campus
School:
School of Sport
Full-time Duration:
2 years
Part-time Duration:
4 years
Application process:
Apply via RDSS Through independent research and supervised mentorship, you'll dive deep into a specific area of your choosing while contributing to the existing body of knowledge. This program aims to cultivate independent researchers capable of making significant contributions to the field.
Outline:
- Independent Research: You'll embark on an original research project under the guidance of an experienced supervisor, culminating in a thesis of at least 50,000 words.
- Supervised Study: You'll benefit from individual supervision meetings with your academic advisor, ensuring focused guidance and support throughout your research journey.
- Research Training Modules: These modules equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to conduct high-quality research. This includes modules on research methods, data analysis, academic writing, and research ethics.
Assessment:
- Thesis: Your independent research project culminates in a thesis of at least 50,000 words, representing the culmination of your research endeavors.
- Presentations: You'll present your research findings at seminars and conferences, fostering your communication and dissemination skills.
- Written Assignments: Throughout the program, you'll complete written assignments related to research methods, data analysis, and other relevant topics.
- Viva Voce: Upon completion of your thesis, you'll participate in a viva voce examination, where you'll defend your research findings before a panel of experts.
Teaching:
- Individual Supervision: You'll receive regular, personalized guidance from your academic supervisor, who will provide mentorship and support throughout your research journey.
- Seminars and Workshops: The program incorporates engaging seminars and workshops led by experienced researchers, providing opportunities to delve deeper into specialized topics and research methodologies.
- Guest Lectures: Renowned academics and industry professionals are invited to share their expertise and insights with students, broadening perspectives and fostering networking opportunities.
Careers:
- Academia: Pursue a career in academia as a researcher, lecturer, or professor, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and inspiring future generations of students.
- Research: Leverage your research expertise to secure positions in research institutes, government agencies, or private organizations, tackling crucial challenges in the field of sports and recreation.
- Policy Development: Apply your research findings to influence policy development and decision-making processes, shaping the future direction of sports and recreation at local, national, or international levels.
- Industry: Utilize your research skills and knowledge to work in the sports and recreation industry, contributing to the development of innovative products, services, or strategies.
Other:
- This program places a strong emphasis on fostering a supportive and collaborative research environment where students can learn from and share knowledge with peers.
- The program is designed to be flexible, allowing you to tailor your research project to your specific interests and career aspirations.
- Upon successful completion of the program, you'll graduate with a prestigious MPhil degree, recognized internationally for its academic rigor and research excellence.
Tuition Fees and Payment Information:
- Home Full-time £4712 per year 2023-24
- Home Full-time £ per year 2024-25
- Home Part-time £2356 per year 2023-24
- Home Part-time £ per year 2024-25
- International Full-time £15450 per year 2023-24
- International Full-time £ per year 2024-25
University of Wolverhampton
Overview:
The University of Wolverhampton is a public university located in Wolverhampton, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as degree apprenticeships and CPD short courses. The university is known for its strong focus on student support and its commitment to providing a high-quality learning experience.
Services Offered:
The University of Wolverhampton offers a variety of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
The university provides academic support services such as tutoring, writing workshops, and study skills development.Student Support:
Students have access to a range of support services, including disability support, mature student support, and career guidance.Accommodation:
The university offers a variety of on-campus accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.IT Services:
Students have access to a range of IT services, including computer labs, Wi-Fi, and online learning platforms.Library:
The university library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.Gym:
The university has a gym with a variety of facilities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and sports courts.Students' Union:
The Students' Union provides a range of services and activities for students, including social events, clubs, and societies.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Wolverhampton can expect a vibrant and supportive campus environment. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a number of facilities and services to support student life, including a gym, a Students' Union, and a library.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Student Support:
The university is known for its strong focus on student support, with a range of services available to help students succeed.Affordable Living:
The university offers a variety of affordable accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.High-Quality Learning Experience:
The university is committed to providing a high-quality learning experience, with experienced lecturers and modern facilities.Strong Graduate Outcomes:
A high percentage of the university's graduates are employed or in further education within 15 months of graduation.Academic Programs:
The University of Wolverhampton offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts, Business, and Social Sciences:
The university has a strong reputation in these fields, with programs in areas such as creative industries, social science, humanities, business, and law.Education, Health, and Wellbeing:
The university offers a variety of programs in these fields, including education, nursing, midwifery, psychology, health and society, and sport.Science and Engineering:
The university has a strong reputation in these fields, with programs in areas such as architecture, built environment, engineering, computing, mathematical sciences, life sciences, and pharmacy.Other:
The university has a strong commitment to research, with a number of research centers and institutes. The university also has a strong international focus, with a number of programs and services for international students.
Entry Requirements:
UK/EU applicants:
- Typically, a minimum of a second-class honours degree (2:2) in a relevant subject area, such as sport, health, social science, or any other suitable discipline. If you are unsure if your subject would be considered relevant, do not hesitate to contact the School of Sport directly. Please note that this is the minimum requirement and competition for places is often high. Applicants with higher degree classifications and additional qualifications, such as a Master's degree, are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Additional experience within the sports industry or with volunteering within sports clubs would be viewed favorably and should be highlighted in your application.
- Strong academic performance will demonstrate your ability to handle the rigors of postgraduate study.
International applicants:
- To be considered for an MPhil in Sports and Recreation at the University of Wolverhampton as an international applicant, you'll need to fulfill these additional requirements:
- A first degree of a comparable UK second-class honours degree (2:2) or better in a relevant subject area, as outlined above.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component. For applicants completing degrees at UK education institutions who have successfully passed exams within the last two years with a minimum of IELTS 6.5 (as stipulated above), there is no need to take another English language test. In addition to these core requirements, the following information might be valuable to you:
- For those already holding a University of Wolverhampton postgraduate award: It is not possible to join the MPhil straight onto any of our programs after completing an undergraduate degree. It is, however, possible for you to apply for this Master's program after successfully completing a University of Wolverhampton Master's program that relates to your chosen research. Your application would still be dependent on the entry requirements specified, so this is something you can explore if you choose to do a further Master's program offered by the School of Sport.
- Contacting the course leader is encouraged: If you can, get in touch with the course leader to discuss potential research projects in greater detail before finalizing your application. This might involve exchanging further information about your specific research interests that might not be evident from your application alone. I encourage you to visit the University of Wolverhampton's website directly if you require further information about the application process and admissions criteria. If you intend to contact the Course Leader directly, feel free to visit the MPhil Sport and Recreation program page to ensure you have the most current information available about program leaders and administrators. It's possible that there have been changes from when these data were initially stored in October 2023.
