Applied Sports Science with Strength and Conditioning - BSc

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Sports Science with Strength and Conditioning at TUS provides students with a comprehensive education in sports science and strength and conditioning, preparing them to become successful Strength and Conditioning Coaches or entrepreneurs in the fitness industry. The program emphasizes practical learning in a state-of-the-art facility and covers a wide range of topics, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, nutrition, and coaching skills. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in the sports and fitness industry, including strength and conditioning coaching, performance analysis, and fitness instruction.

Program Outline

Applied Sports Science with Strength and Conditioning – BSc (Detailed Extraction)

Degree Overview:

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Sports Science with Strength and Conditioning offers a comprehensive education in this growing field, both in Ireland and internationally. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become successful Strength and Conditioning Coaches, working with athletes and teams across various levels of sport. The program emphasizes practical learning, utilizing the state-of-the-art "SportsLab" facility at the Thurles campus. This facility includes a 45m sprint track, Paralympic area, cable machines, sport technology systems, Olympic lifting platforms, functional screening kits, weights, and a full range of exercise machines. The program is designed for students who aspire to become members of sports training professional bodies and pursue careers as top sports strength and conditioning coaches or entrepreneurs in the fitness industry.

Outline:

The program is structured over three years, with each year divided into two semesters. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:

Year 1:

• Semester 1:
• Coaching Skills & Athlete Preparation (5 credits)
• Communication Skills (5 credits)
• Foundations of Human Anatomy (5 credits)
• Foundations of Nutrition (5 credits)
• Physical Activity & Movement Development (5 credits)
• Principles Of Resistance Training (5 credits)
• Semester 2:
• Foundations In Biomechanics (5 credits)
• Fundamental Movement Skills (5 credits)
• Fundamentals Of Exercise Physiology (5 credits)
• Philosophy & Ethics of Practice (5 credits)
• Resistance Training Methods (5 credits)
• S&C Across the Lifecycle (5 credits)

Year 2:

• Semester 1:
• Clinical Biomechanics (5 credits)
• Psychology For Sport (5 credits)
• Speed & Agility For Sport (5 credits)
• Sport Nutrition (5 credits)
• Sports Profiling & Needs Analysis (5 credits)
• Weightlifting Techniques And Practices (5 credits)
• Semester 2:
• Endurance Development For Sport (5 credits)
• Injury Management & Return to Play (5 credits)
• Performance Measurement & Testing (5 credits)
• Special Populations Interventions (5 credits)
• Sport Statistics (5 credits)
• Training for Power & Force (5 credits)

Year 3:

• Semester 1:
• Advanced Sports Conditioning (5 credits)
• Current Concepts In Performance Technology (5 credits)
• Para Sport (5 credits)
• Sport Technology Analytics (5 credits)
• Statistical Research Methods For Sport (5 credits)
• Youth Athletic Development (5 credits)
• Semester 2:
• Work Placement For Strength & Conditioning (30 credits)

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Written examinations: These assess students' theoretical understanding of the subject matter.
• Practical assessments: These evaluate students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.
• Assignments: These allow students to demonstrate their research and analytical skills.
• Presentations: These provide students with the opportunity to communicate their findings to an audience.
• Portfolio: This allows students to showcase their work and demonstrate their progress throughout the program.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: These provide students with a foundation in the theoretical aspects of the subject matter.
• Tutorials: These offer students the opportunity to discuss and clarify concepts with their peers and instructors.
• Practical sessions: These allow students to develop their practical skills in the SportsLab facility.
• Guest lectures: These provide students with insights from industry professionals.
• Case studies: These allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Careers:

Upon completion of the program, graduates are well-prepared for a variety of career opportunities in the sports and fitness industry, including:

• Strength and Conditioning Coach: Working with athletes and teams at various levels of sport.
• Performance Analyst: Using data and technology to improve athlete performance.
• Fitness Instructor: Providing fitness guidance and training to individuals and groups.
• Sports Scientist: Conducting research and applying scientific principles to improve athletic performance.
• Sports Therapist: Providing rehabilitation and injury prevention services to athletes.

Other:

• The program is recognized by the National Strength & Conditioning Association.
• Graduates are eligible for Level 9 and 10 postgraduate programs within TUS or elsewhere.