MSc Coaching Science in Sport

This programme is intended for sports coaches, coach developers/educators and those working in closely related fields, to extend their scientific knowledge and understanding of the coaching process. This programme may be taken on a one-year full-time or two-year part-time basis, and will normally be open to graduates who have completed and achieved a high standard in their primary degree.

In this MSc programme you will learn about the cutting-edge science that underpins diverse aspects of coaching, including tapering and peaking to optimise performance, the coach-athlete relationship and performance & notational analysis in sport. You will also undertake original research of your own on a topic that is relevant to you. Critical evaluation of academic knowledge and its practical application is a distinctive feature of this advanced programme.

Good practice in sports coaching is fundamental at all levels and ages for athlete development and success.
We value and encourage out students to be autonomous learners. We expect them to share their own experience with faculty and peers, as well as critically reflect on their own practice in order to enhance their existing knowledge and skills.
We aim to provide a learning environment that facilitates the comparison and contrast of theories and ideas from a range of relevant disciplines in order to integrate them into personal coaching practice.
In this programme we use a blend of the most innovative teaching and learning approaches and assessment strategies, including seminars, laboratory-based experiential learning, web-based interactive learning, case-studies and group work. These are informed by the world-class research carried out by our faculty in addition to the prestigious guest speakers.

For more information on the programme, click here or contact the Programme Director, (opens in a new window)Dr Katy Horner.

Graduating class throwing caps

Application Process:

For details of the application process, please see the instructions atwww.ucd.ie/apply.

The application process is carried out by the Programme Director and is approved at School level. All applications must be supported by official transcripts of undergraduate degrees, except where significant relevant work experience and involvement in sports coaching with a coaching qualification recognised by the relevant National Governing Body can be demonstrated. Applicants who have been approved by the School will be given either a firm or a conditional offer through our online system, and will receive an email which details how to accept or decline such an offer.

Graduating student receiving a medal from an academic