Microbiology and Infection

By taking this programme you will develop the skills to critically evaluate new developments/theory and integrate this knowledge, where appropriate, into your own personal coaching practice.

Throughout the programme you will be encouraged to develop yourself as a lifelong learner, understanding the importance of learning and the theory behind coaching practice and also development of performance and expertise.

This programme is an innovative blended delivery using both high quality online resources complemented with face to face discussion time with academics and leaders in the programme fields. You will be encouraged to develop your use of theory in practice, and to reflect upon your own personal coaching philosophy and development in light of new knowledge. View the Additional Information and Module Information Tabs for more details of the course.

Students will be required to attend three to four compulsory block teaching weeks during September, December and March. When attending these taught sessions on the Universitys Edgbaston campus, you will be required to book and pay for your own food and accommodation. A list of accommodation is available from the programme administrators.

The postgraduate diploma consists of four taught modules that are taken part-time over two years. In each year of the postgraduate diploma you will take two modules. Should you transfer to the MSc you will also complete a dissertation in a third year. The modules are briefly outlined below.

Research methods in sport pedagogy

This module will develop your research skills within the areas of sport and physical activity. It will cover the practical usage and critical analysis of methodologies providing an essential understanding of conducting research in a real world sport/physical activity environment.

Through this module you will gain an in depth understanding of conducting research in a real world sport/physical activity environment which will allow you to develop as a research-led practitioner. The module also provides the grounding for the masters dissertation research.

Professional practice in sport

This module seeks to develop enquiring, critical and innovative approaches to professional practice in sport. Linking theory and practice, you will be encouraged to critically evaluate strategies used to facilitate and support professional development in your own workplace. Further, in the context of sport pedagogy, you will examine the relationship between learners, educators and context in facilitating professional learning.

Player and participant development

This module develops the theory and applied practice in the coaching and participation process. Drop out and issues of sports membership will be analysed from the viewpoint of participants, coaches and sports administrators. The theory and application of sport science in assisting and improving coaching methodology will also be covered including areas such as motor learning, biomechanics and psychology.

Professional case study

In this module you will work on a real-life case study from your own coaching. You will be expected to draw upon knowledge and skills gained in the other modules to create a fully considered and justified player or team development plan based upon a clear rationale and needs analysis. As part of this you will be expected to integrate theory into practice in the
development of the player or team. You will then implement your plan to demonstrate the competency that you have achieved in applying appropriate theory into practice and the evaluation of and impact of decisions made.

Dissertation (after successful transfer to MSc)

In this module you will integrate the areas covered in the taught modules within the programme. You will propose a research project, submit ethics, undertake and write up a piece of academic empirically based research relevant to your area of practice and interests in coaching.

Coaching:All students will be required to be qualified coaches with an award recognised by their national governing body, normally at Level 2 of the UKCC or its equivalent. Students will also be expected to regularly coach an average of 3 hours per week whilst on the programme.Academic:(i) Attainment of a good Honours degree (normally a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree) awarded by an approved University in an appropriate subject, or the equivalent thereofor(ii) Attainment of an alternative qualification or qualifications and/or evidence of experience judged by the School as indicating a students potential for research and as satisfactory for the purpose of entry to a taught degree programme. This may include the requirement to produce a written piece of work and attendance at interview.or(iii) Attainment of the Advanced Certificate in Golf Coaching delivered by the University English Language Requirements CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 80 (Grade A)

See the University of Birmingham Website for more details on fees and funding.