Sport Performance Enhancement

Professional Sport Performance Enhancement is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a career in enhancing athletic performance at elite levels. This postgraduate course at Edinburgh Napier University combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical skills, equipping graduates to work effectively within sports teams, training facilities, and rehabilitation centers. Students will explore core areas such as biomechanics, physiology, nutrition, sports psychology, and biomechanics, gaining a multidimensional understanding of what it takes to optimize athletic potential. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and independence, encouraging students to develop innovative strategies to improve sports performance. Through a combination of lectures, practical workshops, and industry placements, learners will acquire hands-on experience in performance analysis, strength and conditioning, injury prevention, and recovery techniques. The program is tailored to meet the needs of aspiring sports scientists, coaches, physiotherapists, and performance analysts seeking to advance their careers in sports performance enhancement. Edinburgh Napier University's strong links with professional sports organizations and research facilities offer students valuable opportunities for networking and real-world application of their knowledge. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to contribute effectively to the development of athletes across a range of sports, ensuring they reach their highest potential through scientific and sport-specific interventions. The course encourages a collaborative approach, integrating insights from sports, health sciences, and technology, to foster innovative solutions for performance improvement. Whether you aim to work with professional athletes, sports teams, or in sports consultancy, this program provides the essential expertise, research skills, and practical experience needed to succeed in the competitive field of sports performance enhancement.

What's involved
The course is studied full-time over one year and is split up into three trimesters. Alternatively it can be studied by individualised part-time study with attendance. You can choose to start this course in either February or September. You'll learn by a variety of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and through independent study. There may also be some opportunities to study abroad.

Trimester 1

Scientific Methods plus two core modules

Trimester 2

Scientific Support in Sport, Contemporary Issues in Sport and Exercise Science, Independent Study Module (40 credits)

Trimester 3

Research project (60 credits)

Core Modules:

* Applied Biomechanics -Performance Enhancement
* Psychological Interventions for Sport Performance Enhancement
* Physiological Factors Affecting Sporting Performance
* Independent Study

Candidates should possess a relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification in sports science, physiology, biomechanics, or a related field. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong interest in sports performance enhancement, with prior experience or practical involvement in sports coaching, athletic training, or performance analysis being advantageous. The selection process may include submission of a personal statement outlining motivation and relevant experience, as well as academic transcripts to verify previous qualifications. Additionally, applicants might be required to attend an interview or provide references to assess their suitability for the programme. The programme typically prefers applicants with a solid foundation in biology and anatomy, good analytical skills, and a commitment to advancing their expertise in enhancing athletic performance. While specific entry requirements are detailed on the university’s official admissions webpage, prospective students should ensure they meet all specified criteria before application submission. English language proficiency is essential for non-native speakers; therefore, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent is generally expected. Candidates may also need to provide evidence of secondary education credentials and meet the criteria set by the university for international or home students. The programme aims to admit students who demonstrate a proactive attitude toward learning and a clear understanding of the science behind sports performance. Overall, the entry requirements are designed to ensure that students have the foundational knowledge, motivation, and skills necessary to succeed in rigorous postgraduate study in Sport Performance Enhancement.

Funding for the Sport Performance Enhancement program at Edinburgh Napier University is available through a variety of sources, including government-funded student loans and grants, scholarships, bursaries, and potential employer sponsorships. Domestic students can typically access student loans provided by the Student Loan Company (SLC), which cover tuition fees and contribute towards living costs. These loans are repaid after graduation, based on income levels, making higher education more accessible. Scholarships and bursaries are also offered by Edinburgh Napier University to outstanding students or those demonstrating financial need. These awards may be merit-based, need-based, or targeted towards specific groups such as international students or students from certain regions. International students should explore scholarships offered directly by the university or external funding bodies, as they may also be eligible for government-sponsored scholarships or sponsorship programs from their home countries. In addition, part-time work opportunities are often available within the university campus or nearby areas, allowing students to supplement their income during their studies. Work placements and internships related to sport performance enhancement may also provide financial benefits or stipends. Some students may seek external funding through sports associations, professional bodies, or charitable foundations supporting sports education and training. It is advised that prospective students consult the university’s official financial aid webpages and contact the admissions or admissions office for detailed information regarding up-to-date funding options, application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Financial planning should be integrated into the decision-making process when enrolling in the program, ensuring that students can afford the total cost of their studies and are aware of all available financial support mechanisms.

The Sport Performance Enhancement program at Edinburgh Napier University is designed to prepare students for careers in sports science, coaching, athlete development, and performance analysis. The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles underlying athletic performance and methods to improve and optimize physical performance in athletes. Students will explore various aspects of sports performance, including biomechanics, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and strength and conditioning. The curriculum incorporates practical training alongside theoretical knowledge, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in performance testing, data analysis, and training program development.

Throughout the course, students will learn about athlete monitoring, injury prevention strategies, and the application of sports technology in performance enhancement. The program emphasizes evidence-based approaches, fostering critical thinking and research skills to assess and improve training strategies. Collaborations with local sports teams and organizations enable students to engage in real-world projects, integrating academic learning with practical application.

The program also offers pathways for specialization, such as focusing on youth development, elite athlete support, or sports biomechanics, allowing students to tailor their studies towards specific interests or career goals. Graduates of the program can pursue careers as sports scientists, performance coaches, physical therapists, or sports analysts, working with amateur and professional athletes across various sports disciplines. The University’s state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories and sports science equipment, support experiential learning and research activities.

Overall, the Sport Performance Enhancement program at Edinburgh Napier University aims to develop well-rounded sports professionals equipped with scientific knowledge, technical skills, and practical experience to enhance athletic performance across different levels of sport.