ISA Master s Degrees in Sport & Exercise Degree Title Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Psychology University University of Roehampton University Overview In recent i-graduate surveys, Roehampton was ranked as the best university in London for environment on and around campus, quality of teaching and financial support. Students rave about the stunning 54-acre campus beside Richmond Park, London s largest park, and also enjoy having a say in how the university is run. Roehampton is the top new London university for graduate employment, and 78% of research conducted there has international standing. Being one of the first higher education entities to admit women, Roehampton has a strong academic history dating from its days as a teacher-training institution in the 1840s. Now comprised of four unique constituent colleges and boasting a student community of over 130 nationalities, Roehampton consistently demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that students receive a truly globalized education during their time in London. The Department of Life Sciences is committed to developing a supportive and stimulating environment to pursue excellence in teaching, learning, research and knowledge transfer activities. Our scholars work in various academic disciplines, including Anthropology, Aquatic Biology, Biomedical, Sport and Health sciences. In the 2008 UK Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), Biological Anthropology was the highest rated unit in the UK in its field. A significant amount of our research work was rated as internationally excellent. The Department is home to several undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, which are underpinned by first-class research undertaken by staff. Our students enjoy the most complete laboratory experience, while our London location gives them easy access to museums, biological collections and field visits. Our curricula are continuously updated to reflect current scientific advances, and designed to produce highly employable graduates with skills meeting the needs of society. We also work with a range of organisations in the biomedical and healthcare industries to be fully engaged in knowledge transfer activities and to promote public engagement in science. The scale, scope and quality of our offerings are, we believe, without equal. By leveraging our strengths and intellectual traditions, the Department is uniquely positioned to further increase its reputation in the international scientific community. Program Information Specifically, the program critically examines the philosophical and theoretical basis of assessment, support and intervention, to give an informed and holistic perspective of the profession. It is delivered in a manner that supports and stimulates students active engagement in their professional development and provides invaluable experience of aspects of being a sport psychologist. Masters-level programs are yet to be considered for BASES kite-marking, however, the experiences gained through this program will assist greatly in the completion of the BASES Supervised Experience process.
This taught program provides students with a critical understanding of the psychological factors that affect and are affected by participation in sport and exercise. It was designed and is delivered by BPS Chartered and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) practitioner psychologist. Course Outline MSc students must pass 180 M level credits in Sport (SEA) modules from the list below in order to graduate. Compulsory module (100 credits) #SEA060L414Y - MSc/MA Research Dissertation #SEA020L407A - Psychology of Physical Activity, Health and Injury #SEA020L413S - Approaches to Psychological Support #SEA020L424Y - Research Methods #SEA020L426S - Application of Psychological Support #SEA020L434S - Professional Practice Optional modules (80 credits) SEA020L401A - Physiological Assessment SEA020L421S - Nutritional Aspects of Exercise & Sport Performance SEA020L442Y - Biomechanical Measurement & Technology SEA020L446A - Psychology of Sport and Performance SEA020L462S - Musculoskeletal Biomechanics SEA020L472A - Fundamentals of Biomechanics All compulsory modules must be passed to continue with the program. Attendance at all practical classes is a requirement for passing laboratory-based modules. Module annotations: # - compulsory module (must be passed). Module Codes: Each module code consists of a three-letter module prefix denoting the program it belongs to (eg JOU030L403S = Journalism Studies), the following three digits refer to its credit value (eg JOU030L403S = 30 credits), the single letter in the middle (eg JOU030L403S) denotes the module level (L = M level), the last three digits denote its unique number (eg JOU030L403S), and the final letter denotes its suffix (eg JOU030L403S). The suffixes indicate the following: A - Autumn term, S - Spring term, H Summer intensive mode and Y - All year. Full course descriptions can be found at the end of this document. Next Steps For students interested in receiving their Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Psychology from the University of Roehampton through the ISA Sport and Exercise Masters program, please submit your application here. Program Outcomes Students who successfully complete the program will: have a systematic understanding of contemporary, multi-disciplinary approaches to the assessment and support of sport and exercise 'performance';
be able to critically analyze and evaluate complex and specialized assessment and support techniques in sport and exercise; have developed the ability to analyze a range of physical activities and select the most appropriate assessment and support methods from (one or all of) the disciplines of biomechanics, physiology and psychology; have developed the ability to utilize a habitually rigorous, critical and reflective approach to their own and others' assessment, support and evaluation practices; have developed a critical awareness and conceptual understanding of research issues, methodology and design appropriate to the sport and exercise sciences; demonstrate the ability to research and write a dissertation of extended length based on an original, empirical investigation. Course Descriptions Applicants should note that optional modules are arranged on an annual basis. It is possible that a module may be modified in its content, suspended for a session, or discontinued. New modules may become available in any given year. The final decision on which module options a successful candidate will follow will be made by the Institute in consultation with the candidate before the start of the session. Below is a brief introduction to a selection of each module: SEA060L414Y MSc/MA Research Dissertation Assessment: manuscript [70%], oral/written defence (2500 words or equivalent) [30%] This module is compulsory for all students following the MSc or MA programme. Students are required to perform an independent, detailed study of an aspect of either assessment and/or support in sport science or the relationship between sport and culture, ranging from an extended philosophical argument to an empirically based investigation. Drawing on their understanding of research philosophies and techniques developed within the Research Methods module SEA020L424Y, students will select and utilise a research methodology appropriate to their project. The research dissertation is central to the programmes and consequently accounts for one third of the total assessment. The dissertation provides the opportunity to perform focused research, informed and framed by theoretical understanding. It allows students to follow an area of their own choosing yet within the context of the programme and to exercise their research potential under tutorial guidance and supervision. SEA 020L424Y Research Methods Assessment: (1) in-class test on qualitative and quantitative methods [20%];(2) approach-specific study and oral/poster presentation [50%](quantitative: mini meta-analysis OR qualitative: interview and thematic analysis); (3) research proposal (2000 words) [30%] This module will equip students with a comprehensive understanding of research methods enabling them to select the appropriate research design for an original research project. Students will study key philosophical questions as to the nature of science and knowledge to develop a reflexive approach to research. Students will learn the appropriate approaches to the management of ethical dilemmas within research. Students will develop a critical awareness of the principles and practice of qualitative and quantitative approaches and techniques before focusing on the in-depth study of methods used within their chosen field of research. Students will be guided on the development of their research proposal that will form the foundation of their dissertation, and supported in their dissertation research by a series of e-workshops targeted at key stages in the dissertation. In addition, students are invited to attend the Sport Science Seminars Series to frame their understanding of current sport-related research.
SEA020L407A Psychology of Physical Activity, Health and Injury Assessment: 2 critical essays (2000 words) Informed by the rationale, aims and outcomes of the MSc Sport Psychology programme, this unique module to the University of Roehampton provides an opportunity to investigate the psychology of physical activity, health and injury. Given that physical activity is increasingly being adopted as a strategy for mental health promotion, this module begins by exploring this emerging field of inquiry; in particular, the determinants and outcomes of physical activity and inactivity. The theories, concepts, research and interventions reviewed within this module will provide students with important insights towards preventing, treating and managing certain conditions (e.g., depression and anxiety) as well as fostering desirable outcomes (e.g., post-traumatic growth and subjective well-being) that can have social-economic implications. Unfortunately, one of the less than desirable consequences of physical activity is the risk of injury, which, according to a recent consensus statement by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) for health professionals, should not be ignored because injury poses a burden on the healthcare system, is emotionally costly, and may be a deterrent to future activity (O Donovan et al., 2010, p. 584). Therefore, the latter part of this module focuses on the psychology of injury and rehabilitation. Drawing from research being conducting at the University of Roehampton, the lectures not only provide invaluable insights of how to work with injured individuals, but also review contemporary research that challenge current knowledge and practice. SEA020L401A Physiological Assessment Assessment: lab report (2000 words) [50%], client assessment consisting of observation of practice [25%], written needs assessment and client feedback (1000 words) [25%] This module starts by considering the overall purpose of assessment (to monitor and predict) as well as its underlying nature, breaking 'assessment' into its components of design - testing and analysis - evaluation - feedback. It provides the theory and the hands-on application of assessment/support techniques in physiology. In particular, it will look in depth at the advantages and disadvantages of adopting particular protocols and practices and considers an integrated approach to physiological assessment. The hands-on part of the module will analyse contemporary assessment techniques used in the testing of exercise and sport participants, focussing primarily on those required for the assessment of the elite performer. This theoretical dissection will provide the underpinning of an essentially practical module where the above techniques will be learnt and used. The relating of theory to practice will be demonstrated in the completion of a client specific assessment with a demonstration of the assessment procedure and client feedback being assessed along with a written report. The practical application of the protocols will further be assessed via a laboratory report. SEA020L416A Research R Topics in Applied Physiology Assessment: coursework (equiv. to 4000 words) [100%] What are the physiological limitations of the human body? How does the external environment influence the acute physiological responses of the human body to exercise? What is the plasticity of the human body to training stimuli? To what extent do our genes code for our level of athletic ability? Can exercise reverse the effects of ageing? These are just some of the many questions that have important implications for both sports performance and health. The purpose of this module is to address some of these questions by providing an in depth look at current popular research topics in the field of applied physiology. Consideration will be given to the background physiology of the covered topics, as well as some of the physiological techniques employed to research these areas. This module will cover each topic through in depth, critical evaluation of the relevant literature, and will provide the student with an advanced understanding of the academic skills required to undertake research in applied physiology.
SEA020L442Y Biomechanical Measurement & Technology Assessment: lab report (2000 words) [50%], client assessment consisting of observation of practice [25%], written needs assessment and client feedback (1000 words) [25%] This module starts by considering the overall purpose of biomechanical assessment (to monitor and predict) as well as its underlying nature, breaking 'assessment' into its components of design - testing and analysis - evaluation - feedback. It provides the theory and the hands-on application of assessment/support techniques in biomechanics. In particular, it will look in depth at the advantages and disadvantages of adopting particular protocols and practices and considers an integrated approach to biomechanical assessment. The hands-on part of the module will analyse contemporary assessment techniques used in the testing of exercise and sport participants. This theoretical dissection will provide the underpinning of an essentially practical module where the above techniques will be learnt and used. The relating of theory to practice will be demonstrated in the written report, client needs assessment, measurement protocol and client feedback. SEA020L421S Nutritional N Aspects of Exercise & Sport Performance Assessment: student presentations [40%], case-study (1500 words) [60%] Knowledge of current theory underpinning the application of Sport and Exercise nutrition advice is essential for competent practitioners. This module encourages an in depth awareness of topics that are at the cutting edge of Sport and Exercise Nutrition, addresses the need for critical debate of current sport and exercise nutrition research, and utilises problem based learning and case study techniques to encourage students to be able to apply their knowledge to assist performance enhancement. SEA020L434S Professional Practice Assessment: reflective placement critique (3000) words [75%], multi-disciplinary group presentation of professional issues [25%] Post-graduate students are attracted to a wide range of careers within the sport and exercise sciences. This professional practice module will enable students to consider and develop skills that are required across and within these careers. The placement component of the module enables students to shadow professionals within their chosen potential career and to reflect on the knowledge and skills required to attain professional levels of practice. The flexibility of the placement will enable students to gain experience within the fields of research, applied consultancy, teaching or sport development depending on their area of interest. As these professions typically benefit from others in subsidiary professions, group reflection will further develop student awareness of issues and practices from a multidisciplinary perspective. SEA020L413S Approaches to Psychological Support Assessment: applied case study (4000 words) Traditional sport psychology practice has tended to work within a cognitive-behavioural framework. However, the recent literature has begun to explore alternative perspectives to understanding and consequently supporting the athlete. This innovative module aims to enhance awareness and personal reflection of these recent developments by conducting an in-depth review of the theoretical underpinnings of each approach. Through the consideration of research and applied case-studies conducted within these approaches, students will be provided with the basis to make informed decisions about how best to support a client s specific needs. SEA020L426S Application of Psychological Support Assessment: case study (based on BASES Supervised Experience Guidelines) (2500 words) [60%], individual applied presentation (to include theoretical and intervention-based elements) (20 min.) [40%]
The application of theoretical and empirical research to applied practice is a core strength of the MSc programme. This innovative module epitomises this by providing students with the opportunity to undertake consultancy experience under the guidance/supervision of a BPS chartered/hpcp registered member of staff. The module begins by investigating assessment methods and cognitive behavioural interventions within applied practice. Drawing upon this knowledge, (together with the knowledge gained from the Approaches to Psychological Support, Psychology of Sport and Performance and Professional Practice modules) students will design and implement appropriate assessment and intervention strategies to meet a client s specific needs. This will be conducted over six consultations. Individual guidance, feedback and support will be provided by both staff and peers in the form of group seminar sessions. SEA020L446A Psychology of Sport and Performance Assessment: critical essay (2000 words) [50%], group presentation (30 min.) [50%] Sport is more than just a game. Events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games are global media spectacles that place immense pressures on athletes. Like it or not, pressure is part and parcel of sport. Whether it comes from external (e.g., expectations of others) and/or internal (e.g., one s own expectations) sources, it can do extraordinary things to athletes; it can affect the way they think (e.g., confusion and panic), feel (e.g., muscle tension and butterflies) and behave (e.g., fidgeting and disrupted sleep patterns) during training and competition. But although performers all experience pressure, they don t all cope with it in the same way. Some struggle in the face of adversity, typically resulting in sub-optimal performance, whereas others effectively manage or even thrive under stress to attain peak performances. What is the difference between these performers? Informed by the rationale, aims and outcomes of the MSc Sport Psychology programme, this module aims to answer this question by exploring the psychology of sport and performance. In particular, this module will explore a number of individual differences (e.g., personal resilience, stress and emotion, and motivation) and social processes (e.g., organisational functioning, collective efficacy, and team cohesion) that have been observed to effect performance outcomes. Embracing an evidence-based philosophy, the learning outcomes, lectures and assessments of this module are focused on providing students with a thorough knowledge and understanding of the theories, models and research informing these individual differences and social processes, thereby enabling students to generate applied implications for professional practice for various populations across difference contexts. SEA020L462S 2S Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Assessment: essay (4000 words) This module will examine the structure and function of the musculosceletal system, how they will be altered in injuries and diseases, and treatment which may restore or augment the lost functions. The application of engineering principles to the human body will be discussed at the tissue, joint and system levels. SEA020L472A Fundamentals of o f Biomechanics Assessment: 2 pieces of coursework (2000 words equiv.) This module starts by considering the fundamental of biomechanics from a Life Sciences and Engineering perspective. The module will develop such concepts as anatomy and musculoskeletal biomechanics and basic engineering mechanics and modelling as applied to the human system. The module will ensure that all students, from whichever background (sport, clinical or engineering) will be able to use the methods and theories of all disciplines in order to be able to progress successfully through the degree.