This MSc. program is dedicated to providing a thorough grounding in the knowledge and application of psychological principles to sport, exercise and performance settings in order to enhance wellbeing and performance. It seeks to equip candidates with a sound understanding of theory and research and develop core competencies and professional skills across a range of key domains including the following: motor cognition and skill acquisition; performance psychology; exercise and mental health; applied positive psychology; organisational behaviour and wellbeing; professional issues and ethics; and research design and methods. The core aims of the program are to create an outstanding and distinctive learning experience through innovations in teaching (e.g. e-learning module in applied positive psychology), instilling a scientist practitioner approach across both sport and exercise contexts and highlighting the role of ethical considerations in practice.

This new programme has more flexible entry requirements (e.g. RPL) than the existing MSc in Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology and also has the option of an exit award after 60 credits completed (e.g. Higher Diploma Award). This degree runs parallel to the existing programme which aligns to the Psychological Society of Ireland accreditation requirements. The purpose of this degree is to offer a pathway for those seeking to upskill on topic areas relating to mental skills and mental health in sport and the degree is not a qualification in psychology. It offers a grounding in research and application for those who seek further training to pursue roles that don’t explicitly require a qualification in psychology (e.g. sports coaching, sports management etc.).

DCU's MSc in Elite Sports Performance is a two-year, distance-learning course designed to enhance your expertise in sports performance. You'll gain skills in research methodologies, reflective practice, and critical analysis while exploring decision-making, motivation, and the cognitive and behavioural processes behind elite performance.

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles and practical applications of nutrition and exercise in sports performance. Students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience during the course by working with populations of all ages, genders, and abilities through modules such as Nutrition Across the Lifecycle and The Female Athlete, as well as during work placement (or studying abroad) in the third year of the course. The key features of this four-year Program have been designed to reflect the dynamic global sporting environment in which sports nutrition, testing, analysis, and businesses operate.

Sports management and coaching is an area of study that combines the techniques of sports management and coaching with the principles of business and enterprise.The field of sports management and coaching is changing rapidly. Professional sporting bodies require management and coaching staff to have an excellent understanding of their chosen sport, as well as strong business skills.

A key aim of the program is to enable practitioners to integrate knowledge from a range of fields into the generation of performance solutions. Teaching and learning methods will be based on a blended learning format that will include a combination of online lectures, independent study, work-based assessments, residential stay weeks, and regular forum contributions.