If you already have a first degree in a sports science subject and you want to advance your level of study and research into a specific area of sport then you should consider studying a graduate course in sports science. Not only will you become an expert in your field but you will also enhance you employability and professional development in a society where sport and health are high on the agenda. Studying a graduate sports science program gives you the opportunity to expand your understanding of scientific methods of enquiry into areas such as Biomechanics, Coaching and Fitness Leadership, Sports Psychology or Exercise Physiology. Sports Science courses are increasingly being offered with the option of management components. If this sounds interesting then read on to discover how a graduate course in sports science can benefit you.
Why Study Sports Science?
| Study this subject here: |
| University of Chester - Faculty of Applied and Health Sciences |
| Edinburgh Napier University |
In recent years, there has been dramatic growth in the range of specialist areas available to study in the field of sports science. The subject itself involves the application of scientific principles through four branches of science- biomechanics, physiology, psychology and interdisciplinary approaches- although this knowledge is applied differently to each of the sport disciplines. Graduate sports science courses largely offer an expert scientific backup for top training and performance, whereas exercise science has a central role in physical activity programs aimed at improving general health. Once you have completed your sports science graduate program, you can expect to have broad technical physiological and psychological knowledge. Studying a graduate sports science course will allow you to deepen this knowledge as part of a research project. Many programs are now providing greater specialisation through module choice or projects and many practitioners are now capable of diversifying their areas of expertise accordingly.
What Do I Need?
To gain entry onto a graduate sports science program you will normally need to have a good first degree (usually with honours or international equivalent) in sports science or a subject with similar components. For a sports science course at Master's level, you will be expected to produce a thesis at the end of the program in an area of your choice. An MPhil is a research-based course that should be taken if you are interested in more of an academic career. Similarly, for those of you who see yourself lecturing or being at the forefront of new developments and research in the sports science industry then a PhD is probably the course for you. These programs will vary in length and focus depending on the university, so make sure you pick a sports science course that aligns with your own interests in the subject.
What Career Can I Have?
Students who complete a graduate course in sports science follow various career paths. Many stay within sports science education through teaching and research, whilst others apply their knowledge through related areas such as coaching and management. The following are typical career destinations for graduates in sport science: Research, Lecturer, Teacher, Physiotherapist, Lab Technician, Police and Armed Services and Social Care work.
For those who wish to stay in the profession of sport science there is significant scope for career development. With the increased prominence in the media of poor health and lack of exercise of some populations, sport and health are fields with immense support and funding. This is a very interesting time to study a graduate sports science program as many sports are accessing sport science to improve performance.
The professional body, in the UK for sport science is the British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES). The association represents UK sport and exercise science interests both nationally and internationally, and disseminates knowledge across the sport, exercise and health sector through conferences, seminars, publications and workshops. Make sure that your graduate sports science course is accredited by a similar organisation in your study destination.
