Degree type: BSc (Hons)
UCAS Code: C600 BSc/SE
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
This is one of the specialist routes within the sports portfolio at Abertay. You will make your choice of specialist route at the end of stage 2 of the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise programme.
Strength and Conditioning is an area that is developing a significant profile. There is now a United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) which accredits professionals in the area, two universities offer Masters programmes in the area, and this course is the first undergraduate award in Strength and Conditioning available in the UK. Traditionally the Strength and Conditioning Specialist has worked in team sports with elite performers.
The role has, however, developed considerably in recent years. The depth of understanding of the scientific underpinnings of training and performance required to be a successful Strength and Conditioning Specialist are equally applicable to work with a wide range of populations including young people, the elderly and those either suffering from or at risk of developing a number of disease states.
If you are interested in the improvement of physical performance, whether at the elite or functional level, this is the course for you.
The modules you will study if you choose to follow this route are:
Stage 3
Performance analysis 1
Exercise programming and periodisation
Practical strength and conditioning 1
Exercise testing and prescription
Growth and development
Work-based learning
Research methods
Stage 4
Performance analysis 2
Exercise for special populations
Practical strength and conditioning 2
Option
Work-based learning
Project
Practical Strength and Conditioning
This strand will provide you with the skills necessary to qualify as a practitioner - the assessments match those of the UKSCA accreditation process. You will learn the key elements of the various techniques employed and how to teach them to others. You will also learn how to analyse the physical requirements of a sport or activity in order to prescribe appropriate conditioning strategies.
The science of training and performance
Scientific research in the area of training and performance has increased exponentially in recent years. This strand will help you understand current thinking in relation to the physiology, biomechanics and psychology of both training and performance. It will build on the scientific underpinnings provided in stages 1 and 2 and apply them to the performance context.
Special populations
This strand allows you to develop an understanding of the special requirements of certain groups (children, the elderly, heart disease patients, the obese etc). You will study the underlying physiology and psychology of development and disease states. You will also explore the role of exercise in these populations, exploring methods for assessing clients and providing appropriate exercise prescriptions.
Work-based learning
We consider work-based learning to be a central component of your studies. It presents you with the opportunity to not only apply theory to practice but also to develop a range of practical skills that are valued highly by prospective employers. It is expected that these modules will enable you to develop as a reflective practitioner, developing the ability to identify your own strengths and weaknesses and, most importantly, understanding how you can address your weaknesses whilst optimising your strengths.
Academic and research skills, and Honours project
The research methods module will allow you to further develop your critical skills and ensure that you are prepared for the Honours project. This project, which accounts for 37.5% of your final award, presents a significant opportunity for you to demonstrate your ability to conceive and carry out a small scale research project. As a consequence of this you will not only learn a considerable amount about your chosen topic but also be able to demonstrate your ability to function as an independent learner, a quality much in demand by employers.
Admission directly on to this route at either stage 3 or 4 is only available to exceptionally qualified candidates who have extensive work experience. Applicants seeking admission through this route should contact us directly.
If you are interested in applying to stage 1 or 2 you will should apply for the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise programme which will allow you to progress to this programme at the end of stage 2.
Overseas/EU
All applicants are required to provide certified proof of competence in English Language and the University's minimum requirements are listed here
Career
There are numerous career paths available to graduates from this route. These include: strength and conditioning specialist, personal trainer, Active Schools co-ordinator, GP exercise referral consultants, community wellness programme workers, fitness consultant, lifestyle manager, sports administrator etc.
You will also find job opportunities in complementary occupations where leadership, motivation, communication and a logical and analytical approach are valued - police officer, fire fighter, journalist, marketing executive, public relations officer, youth worker etc.
If you are considering further study (MSc or PhD) this course provides a sound underpinning for such studies. If you are interested in teaching as a career, all of courses meet the requirements for entry onto PGCE courses.
Specialist facilities
You have access to our Human Performance Laboratory with running, rowing, fitness testing and weights machines. You have opportunities to meet the numerous professional sportsmen and sportswomen who draw on the expertise of our lecturing staff within this facility.
| Fee Category | September 2012 Fees |
Scholarships & Bursaries |
| Scottish and other EU students |
£1820 per year. Apply to the Student Awards Agency |
Other forms of support |
| English, Welsh and Northern Irish students |
£7000 per year (max. amount payable You can apply for financial assistance, |
Bursaries & Scholarships |
| Overseas (non EU) students |
£9975 per year. Fees may be subject to annual increase. |
Overseas Scholarships |
Fees shown are payable annually, and may be subject to increase each year.
