To develop students knowledge and critical understanding of a major study area within Sport & Exercise Sciences.

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1 UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION COURSE SUBJECT TITLE: BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences PLEASE NOTE: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the course and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he or she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities provided. More detailed information on the specific learning outcomes, content and the teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found in the module descriptions in Section B4. 1 AWARD INSTITUTION/BODY: University of Ulster 2 TEACHING INSTITUTION: University of Ulster 3 LOCATION: Jordanstown 4 ACCREDITED BY: Endorsed by BASES 5 FINAL AWARD: BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences with DPP/DPPI BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences with DIAS 6 MODE OF ATTENDANCE: Full-time 7 SPECIALISMS: None 8 COURSE/UCAS CODE: C600 9 DATE WRITTEN/REVISED: Effective from 2013/ EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE COURSE To provide an academically sound tertiary-level education within the area of Sport & Exercise Sciences that allows students to develop their academic and professional potential. To develop students knowledge and critical understanding of a major study area within Sport & Exercise Sciences. To provide students with a balance between the vocational skills necessary for immediate employment and the more fundamental knowledge necessary for postgraduate study. To promote independent as well as group based study opportunities directed at Sport & Exercise Sciences. To provide a sound knowledge base in a range of selected disciplines allied to the academic study of Sport & Exercise Sciences To provide students with opportunities to pursue an understanding of and competence in a range of Sport & Exercise Sciences. To facilitate the effective development of cognitive, transferable and practical skills in Sport & Exercise Sciences. 7

2 11 MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES The following reference points were used to inform the development of the programme and its learning outcomes: the University s Vision and core strategic aims, teaching and learning strategy and policies; current research and other advanced scholarship carried out by academic staff; the QAA subject benchmark statement for Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism (2008) requirements outlined by the BASES endorsement scheme; national and University qualifications and credit frameworks. The course provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning. Successful students will be able to: 11K KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SUBJECT K1 K2 K3 Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the theoretical disciplines underpinning human structure and function in the sport & exercise sciences Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the theories, concepts and principles of practice in the performance of sport and exercise. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the theories, concepts and principles of practice in the management and delivery of opportunities in sport and exercise Teaching and Learning Methods: Subject related qualities are acquired through lectures; seminars, tutorials, directed and self-directed reading, IT based resources, case studies and experiential learning. Exposure to environments associated with sport and exercise is an important aspect of the teaching and learning process. Assessment Methods: Knowledge and understanding are assessed by a combination of written examinations, coursework assignments, online assessments, laboratory reports, project poster, written and oral presentations. 11I I1 I2 I3 I4 INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES Critically review and evaluate a range of literature in the field of Sport and Exercise Sciences. Synthesise interdisciplinary information to address issues within the domain of Sport and Exercise Sciences. Apply theoretical concepts to the design of a research project. Adopt a scientific approach to the collection, analysis and presentation of data. 8

3 Teaching and Learning Methods: These intellectual qualities are developed by seminars, tutorials, laboratory based activity, independent project work and/or field based activities. Assessment Methods: These intellectual qualities will be assessed through coursework, written examination and project portfolio. 11P PROFESSIONAL/PRACTICAL SKILLS P1 P2 P3 P4 Plan and execute a research project in the area of Sport and Exercise Sciences. Interpret and assess the implication of findings from the literature on professional practice in Sport and Exercise Sciences. Organise and carry out practical activities using appropriate laboratory and/or coaching/teaching skills. Communicate the results of research in an appropriate format. In addition, students undertaking a DPP/DPPI qualification should be able to: P5 P6 P7 Demonstrate technical and interpersonal skills necessary to work effectively in an organisational setting Demonstrate basic supervisory skills in a working environment Demonstrate skills or techniques applicable to their working environment OR, if undertaking the DIAS qualification should be able to: P8 P9 Successfully undertake a course of academic study abroad and manage their learning in an effective manner. Interpret and appraise the implications of the study of sport in an international context for theories, concepts, management and delivery of sporting opportunities. Teaching and Learning Methods: Practical and professional skills are developed through structured practical activities in the specific sport settings, laboratory activities and fieldbased or placement experiences and the completion of an independent research project. In addition, the supervised placement experience will apply to those students opting for an optional placement year. Assessment Methods: Practical and professional skills are assessed through placement reports (where applicable), coursework assignments, laboratory reports, and oral and poster presentations. 11T TRANSFERABLE SKILLS T1 T2 Use appropriate information technology to analyse data, produce reports and presentations, and to access electronic information. Present information to specific audiences in appropriate verbal and written format. 9

4 T3 T4 T5 Work as part of a team in problem solving or practical based activity. Plan and manage learning effectively. Develop independent learning and critical evaluation skills. Teaching and Learning Methods: These transferable skills will be taught by seminars and tutorials in effective learning, preparation for placement activities and within theoretical disciplines as well as laboratory practical and/or field based activities. Assessment Methods: These transferable skills are assessed by coursework at all levels and by the completion of a research project. 10

5 12 STRUCTURE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD The course offers a three year programme of study leading to an Honours Degree award in Sport and Exercise Sciences, composed of 360 credit points. The programme is full-time (with a slow-tracking option). An accumulation of 120 credit points is necessary to complete each year of the course. All modules in level 4 are compulsory. There are 7 modules in total, 5 of which are of 20 credit point value and two of 10 point value. Modules in level 4 provide the foundation for advanced study in the 3 core discipline areas (Psychology, Physiology & Biomechanics) and also in a range of vocational /professional options available at level 5. In the 2 nd year (Level 5), students are required to undertake 6 modules of study, each at 20 credits. The four compulsory modules are once again composed of the three core disciplines within Sports and Exercise Sciences, plus a research methods module. In addition, students choose 1 optional module from a choice of three in semester 1, and 1 optional module from a choice of 3 in semester 2. The choices are made taking into careful consideration potential career options and recognising that many of the options serve as prerequisites for advanced study in final year. Prerequisites are fully outlined in the module descriptions. On completion of the second year of the programme, students may elect to complete a period of work experience or to study at a university outside of Northern Ireland. The Diploma in Professional Practice/Diploma in Professional Practice International (DPP/DPPI) represents 60 credit points, with the Diploma in International Academic Studies (DIAS) representing 120 credit points, all taken at level 5. These diplomas are awarded with the Honours Degree. At Level 6, all students undertake a 40 credit point compulsory Research Project Module; in addition they must choose 2 of the 3 core disciplines (Exercise Metabolism, Applications in Sports Biomechanics, and Applied Sport Psychology & Contemporary Issues). Subject to having the necessary prerequisite modules from level 5, students will choose 1 or 2 further module/s from the range of options, which may reflect their chosen professional/vocational interests or the more specialised theoretical options. The language of instruction is English. 13

6 Year 1 Module Title Credit Level Credit Points Module Status Awards Effective Learning & Employability in Sport 4 20 C None Principles of Anatomy and Physiology 4 20 C None Sports Practice 4 10 C None Principles of Teaching and Coaching 4 20 C None Basic Biomechanics 4 20 C None Introduction to Sport & Exercise Psychology 4 20 C None Introductory Coaching Award 4 10 C None Year 2 PE: Theory & Practice 5 20 O None Biomechanics of Sport & Exercise 5 20 C None Physiology of Sport & Exercise 5 20 C None Applied Coaching Principles 5 20 O None Sport Development & Management 5 20 O None Sport & Exercise Psychology 5 20 C None Strength & Conditioning 5 20 O None Research Methods 5 20 C None Health and Fitness Instruction 5 20 O None Notational Analysis 5 20 O None Motor Learning & Performance 5 20 O None Placement/Study Abroad (DPP/DPPI/DIAS) 5 60/120 O DPP/DPPI/DIAS* Year 3 Exercise Metabolism 6 20 O None Applications in Sports Biomechanics 6 20 O None Advanced Sports Development 6 20 O None PE: Advanced Policy & Practice 6 20 O None Applied Sport Psychology & Contemporary Issues 6 20 O None Research Project: Sport & Exercise Sciences 6 20 C None Sports Strategic Management 6 20 O None Physical Activity, Exercise & Health 6 20 O None Sport & Exercise Nutrition 6 20 O None Elite Athlete 6 20 O None * subject to completion of the BSc programme Exit point 360 (420/480 with DPP/DPPI/DIAS) BSc 14

7 13 SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR LEARNING Students and their learning are supported in a number of ways: A comprehensive induction for new students regardless of entry level. The first Year Induction programme consists of a 3.5 day series of events, which introduces students to the course, the staff team, rules and regulations of the course, studies advice and skills. One day of the induction programme is dedicated to sporting and team building activities which we feel produces cohesive student cohorts who form strong bonds with their peers, and this helps to minimise problems with student retention on the programme. Course Director Students are informed that the Course Director is responsible for the day-to-day running of the course and is the immediate point of contact when their studies adviser, module coordinator or other lecturing staff are not able to help with a particular problem or query relating to the course. Students have access to the Course Director during normal office hours and also are provided with the relevant contact details via the course handbook to facilitate off-campus communication. Advisers of Studies During the first week of the semester each registered student is assigned an adviser who provides guidance on matters relating to choice of modules, assessment and progress. Students are encouraged to talk to their advisers about their work and progress and to seek assistance, if required, with study or examination skills. Studies Advisers can also provide students with information about the range of support available. Students are required to meet their adviser at least once per semester Personal Development Planning All students, in consultation with their studies adviser use the University PDP system. Careers Development Centre The Career Development Centre provides an on campus service available to all students, offering friendly and impartial help with career planning and provides opportunities for students to develop their employability skills. The services offered by the centre are integrated into all student inductions from 1 st to final year, with additional support provided for those students embarking on an industrial placement after the completion of the second year of the programme. Information Services Department An induction to the library and to the services provided by ISD is provided. In addition, students are allocated with a University account and have full access to the internet in a variety of locations throughout the University. Student Support Department The department actively engage in the student induction process and their details, facilities and support programmes are provided in the course handbook. Although not an exhaustive list, some of the services provided to students relate to guidance on counselling, health, childcare, finance and disability. 15

8 Sport and Recreation Department/Students Union During the extensive induction period for 1 st year students, the facilities and services offered by these respective sections of the university are outlined by a nominated representative. Chaplaincy Chaplains from all the major religious denominations are available to students on campus. 14 CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION Applicants must satisfy the University s general entry requirements as set out in the prospectus and hold GCSE C grades or above in a Science and Mathematics or equivalent and hold an hold an A-level pass in at least one of the following subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, PE, Physics, Psychology, Sports Studies or Double Award Science or equivalent or demonstrate their ability to undertake the course through the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL). The initial offer standard may vary from year to year. See prospectus entry 15 EVALUATING AND IMPROVING THE QUALITY AND STANDARD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING QAA subject benchmark statement for Hospitality, Leisure, Sport & Tourism (2008) has been used as a reference for informing the learning outcomes of the course and syllabus content. Views of students as expressed through staff/student consultation and the University student survey on the quality of teaching and other questionnaires Views of graduates in the National Student Survey Views of employers are sought via an annual meeting with these stakeholders to help to ensure that the programme and the content of the curriculum are up to date. Views of external examiners are received annually and responded to point by point, by the course committee. These are wide ranging reports and are considered as an important tool in maintaining, improving, and identifying quality on the programme. Student performance data and career progression University processes for initial approval, periodic re-approval and annual monitoring. In addition, there are University/Faculty strategies for teaching and learning. 16 REGULATION OF STANDARDS Assessment rules The pass mark for a module shall be 40%. Where a module is assessed by a combination of coursework and examination a minimum mark of 35% shall be achieved in each element. However, core modules require a minimum mark of 40% to be achieved in each assessment element. 16

9 Performance levels for degree classification. Class I At least 70% Class II (division i) (IIi) At least 60% and less than 70% Class II (division ii) (IIii) At least 50% and less than 60% Class III At least 40% and less than 50% The Honours classification derives 100% from Level 6 modules. The weighting of each module s contribution to the overall mark shall be determined by the module credit value. External examiners There are two external examiners for the course, one which specifically examines the degree programme and subject area, and one examiner for the placement year. External examiners are academic subject or professional experts appointed from outside the University. Their key functions are to contribute to the assurance of the standards of the award and the fair treatment of students. They are involved in the moderation and approval of assessments and the moderation of the marking undertaken by internal examiners. 17 INDICATORS OF QUALITY RELATING TO TEACHING AND LEARNING The course is endorsed by BASES: for the period % of the course team are Fellows of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) 1 member of staff has a University s Distinguished Teaching Award Fellowship The programme was included in the QAA Subject Review in November A score of 23 was awarded. This placed the programme in the top 15 of 109 providers reviewed. 5 members of the course team were included in the submission for the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise in Unit 69 (Sport-Related subjects) confirming their international status and placing them in the top third in the UK. Several members of staff have received funding for teaching & learning related initiatives. Examples include HEIF awards, FDTL Awards, Fusion project, CIES, Invest NI and Play board developments. 17