Introduction
With an emphasis on applied theory, practical work, and community engagement, this programme aims to provide students with a multidisciplinary understanding of sports science with an option to specialise in a particular area.
The MSc Sport Science is designed for graduates with sport-related degrees and professional practitioners wishing to keep their scientific knowledge and skills up to date.
You will be encouraged to undertake applied work in the areas that best fit your interests and career plans. Academics with specialist knowledge will mentor and support you throughout your chosen research project.
You can choose to focus your independent work within one of three named pathways – Biomechanics, Physiology or Psychology – or study the MSc Sport Science without a designated pathway, in order to reflect the interdisciplinary nature of your studies.
How You Study
Timetabled learning activities may include lectures, workshops, and practical sessions, which are combined with extensive opportunities for independent learning. Specialist individual mentoring provides assistance in an area of a student’s choice during applied sport science support and research projects.
In the first term, students will study modules (Biomechanical Assessment and Research, Sports Physiology, and Delivering Applied Sports Psychology) that explore the theory underpinning practice in the main disciplines of sports science. These are also designed to provide the practical skills and knowledge necessary for undertaking research or applied for support work in these areas. A fourth module, Research Methods, and Skills, covers quantitative and qualitative research methods, which are designed to support the development of a research project proposal.
There is an option to specialise further in term 2 with two modules that involve external engagement. In Applied Sport Science Support students are able to implement a sports science intervention with a local elite sports performer. In Investigation and Communication in Applied Sport Science students can design, develop, and deliver a public workshop on a sports science topic of their choice.
In the final term, a Sports Science Research Project provides an opportunity for independent study that culminates in the submission of a journal manuscript. Students can choose their own research topic.
Named Pathway
Students who opt to focus their independent work in a single discipline can opt to add a named pathway to the title of their award. Alternatively, they may choose to receive the MSc Sport Science without a designated pathway in order to reflect the interdisciplinary nature of their studies.
Postgraduate level study involves a significant proportion of independent study, exploring the material covered in lectures and seminars. As a general guide, for every hour spent in class, students are expected to spend at least two to three hours in independent study or taking advantage of additional opportunities to practice laboratory and field testing skills. For more detailed information please contact the Programme Leader.
Contact Hours
Owing to the nature of postgraduate programmes, a significant proportion of your time will be spent in independent study and research. Research students will have meetings with their academic supervisors, however, the regularity of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and the stage of the programme. For taught programmes, weekly contact hours may vary depending on the individual module options chosen and the stage of the study.
Methods of Assessment
The way you will be assessed on your course will vary depending on the subject and the type of postgraduate programme you select. A taught programme could include a written dissertation, exams, presentations, and projects. A research programme could include a thesis, oral examination, and presentation to a group of research academics. You may be expected to demonstrate how your research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theory or understanding. Please see the indivdual course pages to find out more.
Modules
Applied Sport Science Support (Core)
Biomechanical Assessment and Research (Core)
Delivering Applied Sport Psychology (Core)
Investigation and Communication in Applied Sport Science (Core)
Research Methods and Skills (Core)
Sport Physiology (Core)
Sport Science Research Project (Core)
How You Are Assessed
The broad range of assessment methods for this programme includes an applied support portfolio, delivery of a workshop, applied practical assessments, written reports, a debate and a dissertation.
Assessment Feedback
The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to you promptly – usually within 15 working days after the submission date.
Scholarships
There are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, you can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.
Course-Specific Additional Costs
For each course, you may find that there are additional costs. These may be with regard to the specific clothing, materials or equipment required. Some courses provide opportunities for you to undertake fieldwork or field trips. Where these are compulsory, the cost for travel and accommodation will be covered by the University and so is included in your fee. Where these are optional, you will normally be required to pay your own transport, accommodation and general living costs.
With regards to textbooks, the University provides students who enroll with a comprehensive reading list and you will find that our extensive library holds either material or virtual versions of the core texts that you are required to read. However, you may prefer to purchase some of these for yourself and you will be responsible for this cost.
Entry Requirements 2021-22
First or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject or equivalent professional experience, and a successful interview.
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.
Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.
Teaching and Learning During Covid-19
At Lincoln, Covid-19 has encouraged us to review our practices and, as a result, to take the opportunity to find new ways to enhance the student experience. We have made changes to our teaching and learning approach and to our campus, to ensure that students and staff can enjoy a safe and positive learning experience. We will continue to follow Government guidance and work closely with the local Public Health experts as the situation progresses, and adapt our teaching and learning accordingly to keep our campus as safe as possible.
Research Areas, Projects and Topics
The School is currently undertaking research in a number of areas at national and international levels. The research is organised under the remit of our five research groupings:
Biofeedback in Sport Group (BIO)
Health Advancement Research Team (HART)
Mental Toughness Research Group (MTOUGH)
Physiology of Exercise and Sports Performance (PESP)
Youth Sports Research Group (YSR)
Community Links
The School maintains close links with local and national athletes, sports clubs, coaching networks, and elite athlete support programmes. These links can provide students with diverse, real-world opportunities for delivering applied support and for sharing their sports science knowledge with the community through workshops and consultancy activities.
Sport Industry Experiences
MSc Sport Science students have benefitted from activities such as internships at Lincoln City FC, visits to the Game Changer Performance sports science and rehabilitation facilities at St George’s Park, and guest lectures from practitioners working within elite sport.
Facilities
The University of Lincoln’s Human Performance Centre offers excellent facilities to meet the academic needs of our students. Our experienced staff has academic and professional expertise in a range of areas including sport and exercise physiology, sports biomechanics, sports psychology, coach education, and sports nutrition.
Career Opportunities
The breadth of the material and applied experiences covered in this programme can prepare graduates for a range of career opportunities, including sports science support, research or teaching in sport science, physical education, or related areas.
