Sport, Health & Exercise Science  (MDSK)

The BSc in Sport, Health, and Exercise Science aims to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required for careers in exercise, health, and sports performance. The programme is designed to meet the accreditation requirements of a Sport and Exercise Scientist.

We uphold professionalism, personal integrity, and ethical conduct aligned within the recognised scope of practice of sport and exercise scientists. The programme fosters intellectual curiosity, innovation, and a commitment to evidence-based practice, scientific inquiry and lifelong learning.

Our students learn in a dynamic and supportive environment that seamlessly integrates scientific and theoretical learning with hands on practice.  With state-of-the-art laboratories and high-performance facilities, students are guided by experienced educators and leading experts in sport, health and exercise science.

The curriculum is shaped by industry demands whilst remaining grounded in scientific principles. Through a variety of teaching and assessment methods, including supervised work placements and interdisciplinary collaboration, students tackle real-world challenges. This approach equips graduates with the competencies, connections, and skills needed to excel in their chosen career.

1 - Demonstrate applied knowledge and skill in exercise physiology, nutrition, biomechanics, sport and health psychology, performance analytics, skill acquisition and motor control, exercise prescription.
2 - Critically engage with and apply research to inform evidence-based practice in sport, health and exercise science, including contributing to the design and conduct of scientific research.
3 - Effectively communicate across verbal, written, and digital formats.
4 - Design and deliver evidence informed exercise programmes that adhere to professional standards for diverse populations across the lifespan
5 - Monitor and evaluate sport, health and exercise outcomes in both lab and field settings with due regard for professional and ethical standards, safety and risk assessment.
6 - Display a logical, systematic and innovative approach to decision making and problem solving in applied contexts.
7 - Collaborate respectfully and effectively with peers, professionals from other disciplines, and a range of stakeholders.
8 - Promote physical activity and facilitate positive changes in health-related behaviours through education and support.
9 - Use data and technology to assess, monitor, and improve sport, health and exercise outcomes.
10 - Meet professional accreditation standards for Sport and Exercise Scientists.

When you graduate, you will be skilled in the prescription and management of therapeutic exercise interventions in healthcare and sporting settings. You will also be an expert in the analysis and evaluation of human sports and exercise performance. Graduates of the course work in a variety of settings, including:

• Sport and exercise consultancy
• Health promotion
• Professional athlete/team support
• Exercise physiology
• Strength and conditioning
• Education and research

Graduates are also eligible to apply for MSc and PhD programmes in the UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy & Sports Science.

UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science

Belfield,

Dublin 4

Tel: +353 1 716 3271

Email: performance.science@ucd.ie

Web: www.ucd.ie/phpss/

Stage 1

Stage 1 will help students build foundational knowledge in physics, anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, and research skills, with an introduction to coaching and nutrition.

Students must register to 60 credits of modules for Stage 1 (30 credits per Trimester).

All modules in Autumn Trimester are core.

In Spring Trimester students must register to 5 core modules (25 credits) and select a module from one of the option modules or alternatively select a first year general elective place for Spring Trimester.

By enrolment to the programme students consent to participate in the associated practical sessions. During practical classes students will be asked to wear appropriate clothing and engage with tasks as specified by the module coordinator.

Stage 2

In stage 2 students will develop applied expertise in biomechanics, strength & conditioning, nutrition, sports psychology, and research methods, with a strong focus on exercise for both health and performance optimization.

By enrolling, students consent to participate in the associated practical sessions. During practical classes students will be asked to wear appropriate clothing and engage with tasks as specified by the module coordinator.

Students must register to 50 core credits and 10 credits of option/elective modules (5 credits in Spring and 5 credits in autumn).

Stage 3

In Stage 3 students gain hands-on experience through practical placements, advanced biomechanics, performance analysis, and a research thesis to prepare for graduate careers in sport and health sciences.

By enrolling, students consent to participate in the associated practical sessions. During practical classes students will be asked to wear appropriate clothing and engage with tasks as specified by the module coordinator.

Students must register to 50 core credits and 10 credits of option/elective modules (5 credits in Spring and 5 credits in autumn).

See the UCD Assessment website for further details, including worked examples of how degree award GPAs are calculated

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Module Weighting Info