The B.Sc. (Honours) programme aims to develop, from evidence- based theory and practice, the students’ ability to lead physical activity, to coach athletes (individually and in teams), manage sports teams and individual athletes. Graduates will be able to safely, and within context, design and lead strength and conditioning programmes, as well as designing and leading performance-training programmes. They will be able to advise on performance-related nutrition, apply the principles of sports psychology in context, and apply ancillary techniques in recover from exercise, injury management or others in support of optimal sports performance and recovery.

The B.Sc. Honours student’s fourth year of study will include advanced techniques in physiological assessment, performance training, the coaching of specific populations, coach pedagogy, applied sports psychology and sport management.

The strength of the programme delivery model is that students experience a significant amount of applied practical time during their studies. The applied practice elements include independent studies, workshops, group discussions, activity leadership sessions, client (group and individual) engagement, work placement, final year research project and other activities that provide authenticity to the students’ experience.

This degree programme involves vigorous physical activity, eligible candidates will need medical clearance. Garda vetting is also mandatory.

For nearly 30 years, the Department of Health and Leisure Studies in MTU has offered degree programmes related to health, fitness, outdoor education and physical education. The emphasis of these programmes is on inclusivity, adaptation, holistic and authenticity.

The Department of Health and Leisure Studies is characterised by its progressive, innovative and approachable academic and support staff, its vibrant and engaging students and the valued contribution it makes to campus life. Many Coaching and Sports Performance students are regular players, individual athletes or support members on the MTU teams in a variety of sports and through a variety of Institute society and volunteering activities.

The Department in general is known for its valued contribution to the health, fitness and leisure industry nationally, where the department is involved in establishing sectoral standards and educational policy change.

The Department of Health and Leisure Studies is a registered REPs Ireland provider. REPS Ireland (www.repsireland.ie) uses industry standards that have been developed and published by the European Health & Fitness Association to determine eligibility of individual exercise professionals for entry to the REPs Ireland register.

In addition to graduating with an ordinary or honours Bachelor of Science degree, graduates of this degree programme will be qualified fitness instructors, personal trainers with broad-ranging knowledge in nutrition and exercise programming and may hold coaching badges in selected sports codes. Students on this programme gain unique experience in studying modules in adapted physical activity and exercise recovery techniques.

This degree programme is intended for prospective students interested in pursuing a career in areas including the following:

• High-level fitness instruction and personal training businesses, for teams, professional athletes or private individuals;
• Sports management in elite and professional club contexts;
• Commercial sales and/or sales management in the sports and fitness sector;
• Coaching, coach tutoring;
• Sports development, talent development, athlete and team conditioning.