UDSPPYCO - BSc (Hons) Sport Psychology and Coaching

The BSc Sport Psychology and Coaching is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological principles underpinning athletic performance and effective coaching strategies. This interdisciplinary programme combines elements of psychology, sports science, and coaching theory to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the dynamic field of sports coaching and athletic development.

What sets our course apart is its unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Students will not only gain insight into the psychological factors influencing athlete behaviour and performance but will also learn how to effectively apply these principles in coaching contexts. Our emphasis on integrating theory with hands-on experience and real-world application ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of the sports industry. Students will develop their critical thinking and problem solving abilities throughout the course, with a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in sport. The course is dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment conducive to personal and professional growth.

The course adopts a learner-centred approach, with an emphasis on active engagement and participation. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical exercises, students will have the opportunity to explore key concepts, engage in group discussions, and apply their learning in real-world scenarios. Assessment methods include coursework, assignments, practical assessments, presentations, and examinations, designed to evaluate both knowledge and practical skills.

To enhance flexibility and accessibility, the course incorporated blended learning and e-learning components. Students will have access to online resources, including lecture recordings, reading materials, interactive learning modules, and discussion forums. Students will be able to use facilities within the university such as the exercise physiology labs, sports hall and equipment, and 3D motion capture system.

Students enrolled in the BSc Sport Psychology and Coaching will have access to a wide range of learning resources to support their academic journey. This includes access to the university library, online databases, and specialised software relevant to sport psychology and coaching. Additionally, dedicated academic advisors and support staff will provide guidance and assistance to ensure students have the necessary support to succeed academically and personally.

The course is designed to meet the growing demand for professional with expertise in both sport psychology and coaching. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue various career paths within the sports industry, including roles such as sports coach, performance analyst, sport psychologist, and athletic development specialist. Our strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world application ensures that graduates are highly sought after by employers seeking individuals who can make an immediate impact in the field. Through industry placements, guest lectures, and networking opportunities, students will have the chance to build valuable connections and gain first-hand experience in the sport industry, enhancing their employability upon graduation.

Our BSc Sport Psychology and Coaching programme aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of sport psychology and develop effective coaching skills. The course aims to integrate the theoretical underpinnings within sport psychology and coaching strategies to practical implementations, whilst fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and promoting inclusivity in sports. Additionally, the course aims to develop the students’ ability to work both independently and collaboratively, communicate confidentially in a variety of formats, and deploy essential work-related skills such as time management and task prioritisation.

The course learning outcomes were based on the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA)’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) at its latest publication year, which is 2014.

UL0. Demonstrate confidence, resilience, ambition and creativity and will act as inclusive, collaborative and socially responsible practitioners/professionals in their discipline.

LO1. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of foundational theories, concepts, and empirical evidence in sport psychology and coaching.

LO2. Apply psychological principles to analyse and interpret athlete behaviour, performance, and mental well-being across diverse sporting contexts.

LO3. Critically evaluate and synthesise information from a range of sources to inform coaching practice and decision-making.

LO4. Generate innovative solutions to complex problems related to athlete performance, motivation, and psychological well-being, using systematic and evidence-based approaches.

LO5. Develop and implement effective coaching strategies, incorporating communication, leadership, and motivational techniques, to enhance athlete performance and development.

LO6. Demonstrate proficiency in planning, delivering, and evaluating coaching sessions for individual athletes and teams, utilising a variety of coaching methods and technologies.

LO7. Communicate complex ideas and arguments confidently and persuasively, both verbally and in writing, to diverse audiences.

LO8. Manage time effectively, prioritise tasks, and work collaboratively with others in team-based settings, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges.

LO9. Work independently to set and achieve personal and professional development goals, reflecting on one’s own coaching practices and seeking feedback for continuous improvement.

LO10. Collaborate effectively with peers, coaches, and stakeholders, demonstrating accountability and professionalism in all aspects of coaching practice and teamwork.

LO11. Recognise and respect the ethical principles and values underpinning sports coaching, including integrity, fairness, and respect for diversity and inclusion.

LO12. Promote an inclusive and supportive coaching environment that values diversity, recognizing and addressing the individual needs and identities of athlete from diverse backgrounds.

The Benchmark Statements for ‘Hospitality, Leisure, Sport, and Tourism’ (2019) served as the foundation. The current course predominantly addresses points 6.16 to 6.21

The course assessment strategy for the BSc Sport Psychology and Coaching is designed to promote student learning and development in alignment with the Education for Social Justice Framework, while drawing upon principles from the Centre for Professional Education Development (CPED) and the Academic Quality and Development (AQD) guidelines.

Assessment and feedback practices are informed by reflection, professional practice, and educational scholarship, ensuring that assessments are relevant, inclusive, fair, and conducive to student success. Staff and students engage in ongoing dialogue to promote a shared understanding of assessment criteria, standards, and expectations, fostering transparency and collaboration in the assessment process.

Students are provided with opportunities to develop an understanding of good academic practice through clear guidance on citation, referencing, and avoiding plagiarism. They receive support in honing their academic skills, such as critical thinking, research, and communication, which are integral to demonstrating mastery of the course content.

The assessments are directly related to employment in sport psychology and coaching by incorporating practical, real-world scenarios and case studies into the coursework. For instance, students may be tasked with developing psychological training programs for athletes or designing coaching plans that integrate motivational techniques. These assignments ensure that graduates are not only theoretically knowledgeable but also practically skilled, making them well-prepared for professional roles in sports settings. The volume, timing, and nature of assessment are carefully designed to allow students to demonstrate their attainment of the intended learning outcomes. Assessments include a balance of formative and summative tasks, enabling students to receive timely feedback on their progress and providing opportunities for improvement before final assessments.

Formative assessment supports students in preparing for summative assessment by providing practice opportunities, feedback, and guidance for improvement. This iterative process enhances student learning and ensures that they are well-prepared for the final assessments. Feedback on assessment is timely, constructive, and developmental, focusing not only on identifying areas for improvement but also on celebrating strengths and achievements. Feedback is provided in various formats, including written comments, audio recordings, and face-to-face discussions, tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. Feedback will be provided within the classroom and during individual meetings depending on the needs and preference of the students.

Processes for marking assessments and moderating marks are clearly articulated and consistently operated by all staff involved in the assessment process. Clear marking criteria and rubrics are provided to ensure consistency and fairness in grading, while moderation procedures ensure that assessments are evaluated fairly and accurately across different modules and cohorts.

Overall, the course assessment strategy is designed to empower students to achieve their full potential, promote social justice through equitable assessment practices, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in sport psychology and coaching education.

As part of the programme, students also participate in the Empowering London module (WL6W50), which entails securing a placement within the local community. This module empowers students to actively contribute to community development initiatives through sport and physical activity, fostering meaningful engagement and addressing societal challenges while gaining hands-on experience in their chosen field. Throughout the placement, students are encouraged to establish and expand professional networks within the sports industry. This includes liaising with coaches, athletes, psychologists, and other relevant stakeholders, facilitating valuable connections for future career prospects.

The modules focus on enhancing students' practical competencies essential for successful careers in sport psychology and coaching. Through hands-on experience, students develop crucial skills such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability, vital for effective practice in diverse environments. Students gain exposure to a range of sporting environments, including amateur and professional settings, schools, community programmes, and sports organisations. This exposure provides valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities present in various contexts, enriching students' understanding of sport psychology and coaching principles

While there a no regulation specific to this course, it is important to note that the University’s academic regulations govern the criteria for awards.

Part-time study involves the completion of a maximum of 90 credits per year to maintain their part-time study status. There is, however, flexibility to move to full-time status if personal circumstances change. Pre-requisite modules for each level must be taken as a priority to enable progression.

The default programme for a part-time student is listed below, although other options are available:

Year One: Fundamentals of Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Principles of Effective Coaching, Introduction to Biomechanics, Foundations of Sport Psychology.
Year Two: Human Physiology, Professional and Core Skills, Foundations of Strength and Conditioning, Applied Sport Science.
Year Three: Exercise Physiology, Skill Acquisition Across the Lifespan, Performance Analysis, Applied Strength and Conditioning
Year Four: Individual Performance Psychology, Biomechanics of Human Movement, Team Performance Psychology, Sports Science Research Methods
Year Five: Empowering London: Working within the Community, Human Movement Analysis, Professional Development in Sport, Advanced Coaching.
Year Six: Sports Science and Therapy Dissertation, Advanced Sport Psychology, Applied Sport Psychology

Full Award

Level 4

• Human Physiology
• Fundamentals of Musculoskeletal Anatomy
• Principles of Effective Coaching
• Professional and Core Skills
• Foundations of Strength and Conditioning
• Foundations of Sport Psychology
• Introduction to Biomechanics
• Applied Sport Science

Level 5

• Exercise Physiology
• Individual Performance Psychology
• Biomechanics of Human Movement
• Skill Acquisition Across the Lifespan
• Sport Science Research Methods
• Performance Analysis
• Team Performance Psychology
• Applied Strength and Conditioning

Level 6

• Sport Science and Therapy Dissertation
• Empowering London: Working within the Community
• Human Movement Analysis
• Advanced Sport Psychology
• Applied Sport Psychology
• Professional Development in Sport
• Advanced Coaching

Throughout the course, dedicated modules are integrated to encourage reflective practice. Students are introduced to reflective learning during the level 4 ‘Professional and Core Skills’ module. This is then built upon within level 5 and 6 subject specific modules where students are provided with structured opportunities to reflect on their learning experiences, personal growth, and professional development goals. Activities such as journaling, group discussions, and self-assessment exercises are employed to facilitate reflective learning. Reflective assignments are integrated into the curriculum, across all levels, to assess students’ reflective abilities and critical thinking skills. These assignments may take the form of reflective essays, case studies, or portfolio assessments, requiring students to evaluate their learning experiences, apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, and articulate their professional development goals. Collaborative learning environments are fostered to promote peer reflection and feedback. Students engage in group activities, peer coaching sessions, and peer-assisted learning initiatives, allowing them to learn from each other's experiences, provide constructive feedback, and gain diverse perspectives on reflective practice and personal development.

Regular workshops are conducted to guide students through the process of personal development planning. These workshops cover topics such as goal setting, skill assessment, and action planning. Students are supported in identifying their strengths, areas of improvement, and aspirations, enabling them to create personalised development plans aligned with their career ambitions.

By implementing these arrangements, the programme aims to instil students a lifelong commitment to reflective learning and personal development, equipping them with the skills, self-awareness, and resilience needed to thrive in the field of sport psychology and coaching

Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA)’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ)

Graduates of the BSc Sport Psychology and Coaching possess a versatile skill set that opens doors to a myriad of career paths and further study opportunities within the sports industry and related fields. Their comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and personal development acquired throughout the course equips them for roles spanning sports coaching, psychology, education, research, and beyond.

Career destinations for graduates are diverse, encompassing positions within exercise psychology, as well as sport and exercise coaches, fitness trainers, physical education teachers, athlete development specialists, and sports administrators. Opportunities for employment exist in a variety of settings, including professional sports organisations, schools, universities, sports clubs, fitness centres, rehabilitation centres, and governmental agencies dedicated to sports and recreation.

Furthermore, graduates can pursue further study through postgraduate degrees such as master's or PhD programs in Sport Psychology, Coaching Science, Exercise Science, or related disciplines. These advanced studies offer opportunities for specialisation, research, and professional advancement, enabling graduates to deepen their expertise and pursue leadership roles within academia, research institutions, or specialised sports organisations.

Graduates often progress into careers in sports coaching at various levels from elite to community, PE teaching and positions within sporting organisations where they can make full use of their sport psychology knowledge. Recent graduates currently hold key roles with Premier League football clubs, such as Arsenal and West Ham United, involved with strength and conditioning and community coaching. Opportunities exist to forge these links, even before graduation.

London Metropolitan University’s enterprise services is also integrated within the course so that students who have business and entrepreneurial ambitions can be supported. This is in addition to advice from the careers service.

In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:

• a minimum of 88 UCAS points from A levels including either Biology, Human Biology or Physical Education, or a minimum of 88 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification eg BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma/Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Progression Diploma or Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits
• GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent)

If you don't have traditional qualifications or can't meet the entry requirements for this undergraduate degree, you may still be able to gain entry by completing our Sport Psychology and Coaching (including foundation year) BSc (Hons) degree.

Entry from appropriate foundation and access courses will also be considered.