Sports Performance Science MSc

• Applications to the Faculty Research Ethics Committee.
• Formulating the research question.
• Developing appropriate studies for hypotheses testing.
• Key factors in research design, reliability, and validity. Population sampling techniques.
• Current controversies in sports science research.
• Data analysis techniques - quantitative approaches, including a review of the use and application of old and new statistical analysis, flaws and faults in statistics.
• Introduction to data analysis software (SPSS for Windows) and descriptive and inferential statistics, using appropriate examples and data from Sports Science. 
• Reporting findings.
• Research ethics.

This module is designed to develop in students an understanding of research methods applicable to post-graduate study within the field of sports science. It is designed to facilitate students’ ability to evaluate research methods and critique current research within the sub-disciplines of sports science. These core skills have been identified as key skills of the sports scientist (BASES Research and Accreditation Guidelines). In particular, students will develop and broaden their knowledge of ethical issues in Sports Science research, quantitative research methods and analysis techniques through the examination of published research in order for them to prepare a research proposal and complete the Research Project.

• Sports science support within the sub-disciplines.
• Sports science practitioner competencies (interpersonal skills, communication, empathy, listening skills, conflict management and resolution).
• Ethics when working in the field (BASES guidelines).
• Key issues for special populations (Children’s Act, Vulnerable Adults Policy, Creating safe environments).
• Interview and case history techniques (interview skills, observation, and note taking).
• Referral processes, guidelines and examples.
• Reflection and the reflective process for practice.
• Working with data for presentation.
• The role of experimental research in guiding practice (scientist –practitioner model, practitioner-scholar model, action research).

In gaining specialist accreditation in one area of sports science practitioners are charged with developing an understanding and appreciation of generic practitioner skills and the work of professionals in other areas (BASES Accreditation Guidelines requirement). This module will introduce students to the key competencies and skills of the sports science practitioner including the ethical guidelines associated with sports science support and working with athletes from differing populations. To develop a broad understanding of the role of sports science support services students will review how each area of sports science delivers support and gain an understanding of how research guides practice in each area. Therefore the aims of the module are to develop in students:

1. An understanding of the key competencies of the applied practitioner.
2. Knowledge of, and an ability to critically appraise the position of the sports science practitioner within the sport structure.
3. An ability to critically appraise practice in light of ethical guidelines.
4. Core practitioner skills such as communication, basic interview techniques, team work and report writing.
5. The ability to reflect on their practice using theoretical reflection frameworks.
6. An appreciation of all areas of sports science support.
7. The ability to critically review practice in light of BASES guidelines.
8. The ability to critically review and reflect on different practices within areas.
9. A competency with data handling and analysis.
10. An understanding of how research guides practice within the sports sciences.

In the first four weeks of the module students will further develop an understanding of the roles of the sports scientist (research and applied) and develop core competency skills and knowledge relating to code of conduct, ethical implications of applied sport science support work, and designing and implementing intervention strategies. In addition, students will also be provided with opportunities to develop skills related to applying and preparing for job interviews in applied sport science. While the approach to deliver the general material will be fairly broad, students will be able to focus the development of specific skills on their area of interest, i.e. psychology, physiology, movement analysis, nutrition, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, medicine).

Each student will work in their chosen area of sports science/medicine undertaking work for an assigned tutor and/or client. This may include links through the tutor with outside individuals and or organisations where appropriate. Where students are on placements external to the University, the Department, and the student, will ensure that the placement complies with the advice offered on the QAA’s ‘Code of Practice for the assurance of academic quality and standards in higher education: Placement learning’

• To prepare students for applied research in the field areas of sports science and medicine;
• To further develop in students the skills and competencies necessary for preparing and completing job applications and interviews in sports science/medicine;
• Develop the core practical skills necessary for working with athletes and coaches in field and laboratory settings;
• To develop transferable work placement skills (team work, communication, report writing).

Module content will vary according to the individual research investigation requirements and will evolve through student initiative and student-tutor negotiation.

This module is designed to develop students research skills building on the knowledge gained in the taught modules (SS7301 – 315). Students will be required to plan, conduct and report upon an independent piece of research and in doing so fulfil the post-graduate QAA Master's Degree Characteristics benchmark of demonstrating self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and acting autonomously. Through successful completion of the module students will gain experience in the research process by pursuing a topic of their choice utilising either laboratory or field based skills. The module will also provide a secure research grounding for those students who wish to go on to work for a higher degree by research
(MPhil / PhD.). The aims of the module are to develop in students:

1. The ability to plan and instigate an appropriate data collection method;

2. An ability to project manage the research process;

3. An appreciation of the demands of research and the skills of the researcher;

4. The ability to analyse data and synthesise findings;

5. The ability to produce a Masters level scientific Research Report in a journal style format.

6. The ability to explain orally their research and communicate the details to an applied scientific audience.

• Neuromuscular structure and function
• Bioenergetics and metabolism
• Cardio-pulmonary function
• Endurance performance
• Strength and power
• Team sports

This module will aim to extend students’ knowledge of the physiological systems that underpin performance in different sports. Key concepts and contemporary issues will be addressed to facilitate an understanding of monitoring and improving sports performance.

• Athlete screening, injury and rehabilitation
• Monitoring load and fatigue
• Fitness testing
• The athletic diet
• Measurement issues and assessment techniques

This module will aim to develop in students an appreciation of the multi-disciplinary (i.e. physiology, strength and conditioning and nutrition) support required to manage and assess the performance athlete. Students will also gain an appreciation of key concepts relating to measurement validity and reliability, in accordance with the requirements for BASES accreditation.

• Pre-conditioning
• Training strength and power
• Training endurance
• Nutrition for enhanced sports performance and recovery
• Nutrition and training adaptation

This module will aim to provide students with a means to apply their understanding of 1) the physiological determinants of sports performance, and 2) laboratory and field-based practice, to enhance sports performance in different events. Key concepts relating to nutrition and the chronic physiological stress imposed by exercise will be explored.