Programme Specification
MSc Strength and Conditioning
Academic Year: 2020/21
This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if full advantage is taken of the learning opportunities that are provided.
This specification applies to delivery of the programme in the Academic Year indicated above. Prospective students reviewing this information for a later year of study should be aware that these details are subject to change as outlined in our Terms and Conditions of Study.
This specification should be read in conjunction with:
- Reg. XXI (Postgraduate Awards) (see University Regulations)
- Module Specifications
- Summary
- Aims
- Learning outcomes
- Structure
- Progression & weighting
Programme summary
Awarding body/institution | Loughborough University |
Teaching institution (if different) | |
Owning school/department | School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences |
Details of accreditation by a professional/statutory body | |
Final award | MSc (PG Certificate and PG Diploma are Exit Awards only) |
Programme title | Strength and Conditioning |
Programme code | PSPT25 (FT)/PSPT26 (PT) |
Length of programme | Full-time: one year; Part-time: typically 2 years |
UCAS code | |
Admissions criteria | |
Date at which the programme specification was published | Thu, 18 Jun 2020 16:22:55 BST |
1. Programme Aims
- To provide students with knowledge of the fundamental science relevant to the science and practice of strength and conditioning
- To develop students’ critical thinking linked to the theory and practice of strength and conditioning
- To equip students with the practical knowledge and skills to become strength and conditioning practitioners
- To develop reflective and professional strength and conditioning practitioners
- 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)
Code |
Title |
Credits |
PSP406 |
Neuromuscular Function |
15 |
PSP413 |
Strength and Conditioning Coaching |
15 |
Semester 2
Compulsory modules (30 credits)
Code |
Title |
Credits |
PSP002 |
Quantitative Research |
15 |
PSP412 |
Professional Practice for Strength and Conditioning |
15 |
Semester 1&2
Compulsory modules (60 credits)
Code |
Title |
Credits |
PSP411 |
Applied Strength and Conditioning Science |
30 |
PSP414 |
The Science Underlying Performance and Injury |
30 |
Semester 2 & 3
Compulsory modules (60 credits)
Code |
Title |
Credits |
PSP005 |
Research Project: Natural Sciences in Sport and Exercise |
60 |
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.