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.). The MSc. aims to: Provide a learner-focused and connected curriculum to enable students to develop their capacity to think critically and acquire a broad set of attributes as identified by the UL as knowledgeable, proactive, innovative, responsible, articulate and collaborative. Extend the traditional remit of sport psychology by focusing on performance restoration, resilience and mental health, rather than exclusively targeting performance enhancement. Enhance the understanding of mental health challenges in sport contexts using a positive psychology approach. Develop a multidisciplinary mode of graduate enquiry coupled with an ethical scientist-practitioner basis.

Entry to the programme will be based on the result of a written application with appropriate references (no interview required). Applicants require a minimum 2.2 Level 8 honours degree (NFQ or other internationally recognised equivalent) in the domain of sport science, psychology, sports coaching or sport management. RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) entry will be available for those without a related degree. Applicants must also satisfy the English Language Requirements of the University. Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet one of the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application). Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following: TOEFL – 580 (paper based) or 90 (internet based) What to include with your application: Qualification transcripts and certificates, English language qualification(s) if English is not your first language Certified English translation of your transcripts/certificates where the original transcripts are in a language other than English, A CV (Curriculum Vitae), Scanned copy of any membership of psychological societies and CPD workshop attendance, A copy of your birth certificate or passport