On this part-time course you study one module at a time. The first three modules you study (60 credits) contribute to the PG Certificate. These modules in combination with the following two lead to a PG Diploma (120 credits), with successful completion of the final 60-credit Masters Research Project module leading to the MSc (180 credits).
You study 4 modules (90 credits) in Year 1 and 2 modules (90 credits) in Year 2.
In Physical Activity and Mental Health (15 credits) the current state of evidence regards the relationship between physical activity and mental health is examined. Physical activity theories and models are critically evaluated using a range of sources of evidence including traditional review, meta-analysis and epidemiological research. A central focus of the module is behaviour change with respect to physical activity. The mental health benefits of activity with respect to selected mental illnesses are also evaluated and practical physical activity interventions examined.
The module Advanced Research Methods and Data Analysis (30 credits) develops and enhances research methods, statistical and qualitative analysis skills. Key analytical techniques will be addressed via data sets in sport and exercise psychology.
The Sports Biomechanics and Injury (15 credits) module focuses on the principles of sports biomechanics in relation to injury management, rehabilitation and injury prevention. The role and practice of sports therapists and sports physicians will be examined alongside the internal and external factors and key mechanisms associated with sports injury.
In the first part of The Practice of Sport and Exercise Psychology (30 credits) a range of psychological techniques available to practitioners are outlined (e.g. self-talk, imagery). Students will be required to consider what psychological techniques are most appropriate and how they should best be applied to a range of scenarios (e.g., enhancing confidence in a novice exerciser, helping an elite athlete cope with a career-ending injury). In the second part of the module the skills required to practice effectively (e.g., counselling skills, communication skills and reflective practice) are considered along with issues surrounding the delivery of psychological interventions to different groups (e.g., disabled athletes) are considered.
The Physiological Support of Athletes (30 credits) module addresses the development of laboratory and field-based practical competencies in functional and biomechanical tests used in the physiological support of athletes. Actual athlete data obtained from selected physiological tests is directly examined and assessed via the production of an appropriate testing regime for a given athlete. Skills to interpret and present data in an appropriate manner to different audiences (athlete, coach and parent) are a central feature of the module.
The final module is the Masters Research Project Dissertation (60 credits). This module involves the planning and execution of an empirical research project. Typically, students are encouraged to write their thesis in a journal style and where appropriate submit for publication. A formal presentation and oral examination of the research is a key feature of the module.
Facilities
As a Staffordshire University online student you may wish to use our extensive set of facilities based on the Leek Road campus of the University. Our laboratory facilities can support you if you wish to undertake some lab-based research as part of your Maters Research Project module.