MSc Coaching Science in Sport

Program Overview

The MSc Coaching Science in Sport from the National University of Ireland, Galway, provides a comprehensive understanding of coaching principles, scientific foundations, and practical skills. It prepares students for a variety of careers in the sports industry, including coaching, performance analysis, and coaching education. Through a balance of theory and practice, the program develops essential skills, fosters critical thinking, and encourages ongoing professional development.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Coaching Science in Sport is a graduate-level program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles underpinning coaching practices. The program aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in various coaching roles across different sports.

Objectives:

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

Utilize and integrate current and emerging technologies in sports coaching practice:

The program recognizes the importance of technological advancements in coaching and aims to equip students with the skills to effectively leverage these tools.

Develop training plans and organize training sessions:

Students will learn to design and implement effective training programs that maximize athlete learning and performance while considering social and ethical responsibilities.

Demonstrate advanced levels of essential skills:

The program emphasizes the development of crucial skills such as written and verbal communication, digital literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving in complex contexts.

Showcase specialized skills of analysis, enquiry, critical reflection, evidence-based practice, and leadership:

Students will gain proficiency in analytical thinking, research methodologies, critical evaluation, and leadership qualities to enhance their professional practice.

Prepare for a career in sports coaching:

The program provides students with a thorough understanding of the organizational dynamics, skills required for success, and complexities of the sports coaching environment.

Engage in original and novel practice:

Students will be encouraged to pursue innovative coaching approaches and take responsibility for their ongoing professional development to meet the diverse needs of athletes at all levels.

Outline:

The MSc Coaching Science in Sport program is structured into three semesters, covering a range of modules that delve into various aspects of coaching science.

Semester 1:

• The Science of Coaching: Theory and Practice (10 credits): This module explores the theoretical foundations of coaching, examining different coaching models, philosophies, and approaches.
It delves into the historical evolution of coaching and its contemporary applications.
• Exercise Physiology and Sports Nutrition (10 credits): This module focuses on the physiological principles underlying athletic performance, including energy systems, training adaptations, and the role of nutrition in optimizing athletic performance.
• Applied Sports Psychology and Skill Acquisition (10 credits): This module examines the psychological aspects of coaching, including motivation, goal setting, stress management, and the development of motor skills.
It explores the application of psychological principles to enhance athlete performance and well-being.

Semester 2:

• Sports and Performance Analysis for Coaches (10 credits): This module introduces students to the principles and techniques of performance analysis in sport.
It covers data collection, analysis, and interpretation methods to inform coaching decisions and enhance athlete development.
• Planning in Strength and Conditioning (10 credits): This module focuses on the principles and practices of strength and conditioning training for athletes.
It covers program design, exercise selection, and the application of strength and conditioning principles to improve athletic performance.
• Research Methods and Applied Statistics (10 credits): This module provides students with a foundation in research methodologies and statistical analysis techniques.
It equips students with the skills to conduct research, interpret data, and critically evaluate research findings.

Semester 3:

• Dissertation (30 credits): The dissertation is the culmination of the MSc program, allowing students to conduct original research on a topic of their choice related to coaching science.
It provides an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world problem or issue.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Assignments: Written assignments, such as essays, reports, and case studies, assess students' understanding of theoretical concepts and their ability to apply knowledge to practical situations.
• Presentations: Oral presentations allow students to demonstrate their communication skills and present their research findings or analyses.
• Practical assessments: Practical assessments, such as coaching sessions or performance analysis tasks, evaluate students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings.
• Dissertation: The dissertation is a major assessment component, requiring students to conduct original research and present their findings in a written thesis.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods to engage students and facilitate learning, including:

• Lectures: Lectures provide students with a foundation in key theoretical concepts and principles.
• Seminars: Seminars offer a platform for interactive discussions, critical analysis, and the sharing of ideas among students and faculty.
• Workshops: Workshops provide hands-on experience and practical application of theoretical concepts.
• Guest speakers: The program invites guest speakers from various fields related to coaching science, including professional coaches, researchers, and industry experts.

Careers:

Graduates of the MSc Coaching Science in Sport program are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in the sports industry, including:

• Sports coaches: Graduates can work as coaches at various levels, from youth sports to professional teams.
• Coaching officers: Graduates can work in national governing bodies or sports organizations to develop and implement coaching programs.
• Game development officers: Graduates can work in sports organizations to promote and develop participation in specific sports.
• Coach developers/educators: Graduates can work in educational institutions or coaching organizations to train and mentor coaches.
• Guest Speakers from Industry: The program also features guest speakers from prominent sports organizations, such as the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), Leinster Rugby Dublin, Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), Professional Golfers Association Ireland (PGA), Football Association of Ireland (FAI), and Sport Ireland Institute.
• Emphasis on Autonomous Learning: The program encourages students to be active learners, sharing their experiences with faculty and peers and critically reflecting on their own coaching practices to enhance their knowledge and skills.
• Integration of Disciplines: The program aims to integrate theories and ideas from various relevant disciplines, such as psychology, physiology, and sociology, to provide a comprehensive understanding of coaching science.
• Innovative Teaching and Learning Approaches: The program utilizes a blend of innovative teaching and learning approaches, including seminars, laboratory-based experiential learning, web-based interactive learning, case studies, and group work.

MSc Coaching Science in Sport (X772) Full Time EU fee per year - € 10200 nonEU fee per year - € 22000 MSc Coaching Science in Sport (X773) Part Time EU fee per year - € 4880 nonEU fee per year - € 14550