Programme Specifications

Programme summary

1. Programme Aims

1. To provide students with knowledge of the fundamental science relevant to the science and practice of strength and conditioning
2. To develop students’ critical thinking linked to the theory and practice of strength and conditioning
3. To equip students with the practical knowledge and skills to become strength and conditioning practitioners
4. To develop reflective and professional strength and conditioning practitioners
5. To enhance students’ employability and career prospects

2. Relevant subject benchmark statements and other external reference points used to inform programme outcomes:

National Strength and Conditioning Association of the UK Standard

American College of Sports Medicine Certifications and Guidelines

3. Programme Learning Outcomes

3.1 Knowledge and Understanding

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and understanding of: 

K1. the fundamental physiology, biomechanics, and psychology relevant to the science and practice of strength and conditioning

K2. the cutting-edge issues, insights and practices relevant to the science and practice of strength and conditioning

K3. the research methods, techniques and processes necessary to perform rigorous scientific investigations

K4. best ethical practices relevant to the field of strength and conditioning

3.2 Skills and other attributes

a. Subject-specific cognitive skills:

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to: 

C1. synthesize fundamental knowledge of science (e.g., physiology, biomechanics, and psychology) to generate research hypotheses and advance scholarship typical to strength and conditioning

C2. critically evaluate the link between fundamental sciences and the practice of strength and conditioning

C3. critically reflect on strength and conditioning research and practice to further enhance the field

C4. plan and deliver strength and conditioning programming informed by best research and practice 

C5. reflect on own strength and conditioning practice and the practice of others, integrating this information to evolve practice

b. Subject-specific practical skills:

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to: 

P1. apply acquired knowledge of science and practice to the planning, delivery and evaluation of strength and conditioning programming/training

P2. deal with complex issues related to the science and practice of strength and conditioning both systematically and creatively, and make sound judgements in the absence of complete information

P3. utilise the research techniques and processes necessary to perform rigorous scientific investigations

P4. demonstrate self-direction and originality in problem solving as it pertains to the science and practice of strength and conditioning

P5. utilize cutting-edge hardware and software relevant to the practice of strength and conditioning

c. Key transferable skills:

On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to: 

T1. think critically

T2. manage self-learning

T3. communicate effectively, in verbal, written, visual and physical forms

T4. work effectively as part of a team

T5. solve complex problems

T6. continue to advance knowledge and practical skills independently

T7. communicate both scientifically and practically generated findings to both specialist and non-specialist audiences

T8. critically reflect on one’s practice and development

4. Programme structure

Semester 1

Compulsory modules (30 credits) 

Semester 2

Compulsory modules (30 credits) 

Semester 1&2 

Compulsory modules (60 credits)  

Semester 3 

Compulsory modules (60 credits)  

For all students the Project (PSP350) should be the final module completed.

5. Criteria for Progression and Degree Award

In order to be eligible for the award, candidates must satisfy the requirements of Regulation XXI. 

6. Relative Weighting of Parts of the Programme for the Purposes of Final Degree Classification