INSTITUTE OF SPORT GUIDE

We offer additional opportunities for you to play in a wide range of teams or individual activities to represent the University in the BUCS league and many of the courses have specific activities which are designed to enhance your CV so that you will stand out above the crowd after graduation.

Professor Linda LangDean of the Faculty of Education, Health and Wellbeing

I am delighted that you are interested in studying in the Institute of Sport at the University of Wolverhampton. We have a number of courses for you to choose from which are designed specifically with different career options in mind.

You will be supported by academic staff who are experts in their fields and a wide range of specialist facilities across our campuses, including laboratory facilities based at Walsall Campus.

Welcomefrom the Dean

1 WELCOME

Contents

3 A University to be proud of

5 Facilities

6 Career opportunities

7 BSc (Hons) Physical Activity, Exercise and Health

9 BA (Hons) Physical Education

11 BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

13 BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching Practice

15 BA (Hons) Sports Studies

17 MRes Sport

CONTENTS 2

A University to be proud of

3 A UNIVERSITY TO BE PROUD OF

Courses in the Institute of Sport are both evidence-based and vocationally relevant, providing skills for jobs in many different fields. Several of our courses have been developed with, and are endorsed by, professional bodies such as The British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences, The Register of Exercise Professionals, and Sports Coach UK.

We have developed significant links with industry to provide placement opportunities such as bursaries at Walsall FC, and clinical placements at Russells Hall Hospital. Many students also undertake work placements or volunteering in schools, leisure centres, gyms, and local sports clubs.

There are also opportunities for students to undertake additional coaching and leadership qualifications alongside their studies to enhance their career prospects.

A University to be proud of

A UNIVERSITY TO BE PROUD OF 4

Walsall Campus’ multi-million pound Sports Centre features a state-of-the-art strength and conditioning suite and 12-court sports hall. You’ll also find a floodlit 6-lane synthetic athletics track and football pitch, plus a 20m x 10m swimming pool, tennis courts, and extensive sports fields.

In 2012, British Judo’s Centre of Excellence opened at Walsall Campus, a £1 million venture, funded by the University. The Centre will play a key role in nurturing some of the country’s best players in years to come, including Great Britain’s VI squad, and junior athletes between the ages of 17 and 22 years old – potential 2020 Olympians and beyond.

We offer a well-equipped set of physiology, biomechanics and social science labs, as well as a

dual energy X-Ray absorptiometry (DXA) suite. The state-of-the-art DXA suite allows us to carry out bone mineral density scans to screen for health issues such as osteoporosis, and also to make sophisticated body composition assessments.

Our labs are used to support teaching on several of our courses, to support both elite and non-elite athletes, as well as for sport, exercise, and health related research. The physiology labs have facilities for online gas analysis, blood analysis and 12 lead ECG monitoring in addition to blood pressure measurement, lung function evaluation and body composition assessment.

Our biomechanics lab includes a video editing suite, force platforms, motion analysis system and EMG muscle activity monitoring system. Our social science lab has facilities such as two interview pods with high-tech recording facilities that will allow the simulation of various social environments in which aspects of human interactions and behaviour can be captured and analysed. In addition, we have various portable systems for off-site and field-based testing.

Facilities

5 FACILITIES

A wide range of careers in education, health, leisure, sports science and development utilise knowledge and experience of sport. Further professional qualifications are needed for some of these options, while for others vocational qualifications, personal qualities and experience are as important as academic qualifications, although a degree is increasingly an advantage.

Many Sport and Physical Activity graduates choose to progress to teacher training and qualify as PE teachers or further education sport lecturers. Others go into a variety of related jobs in education such as mentors, coaches, and outdoor pursuits instructors.

The move towards the concept of wellness and preventative care has opened up new opportunities within healthcare, for example as GP referral advisors or rehabilitation assistants. Some graduates become lifestyle consultants, fitness instructors and personal trainers, often working on a freelance basis.

Graduates have also gone on to train as physiotherapists and sports therapists, exploiting their knowledge of anatomy, physiology and psychology.

A career as a sports development officer is always a popular option, either increasing participation in sport through education, leisure or community projects, or by working for governing/development bodies for sports.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES 6

Career opportunities

What you will studyYou will develop a sound understanding of the scientific and practical relationships between physical activity, exercise, health and wellbeing. You will have the opportunity to specialise and focus your exercise and health science discipline interests within biomechanics, physiology and psychology and work with clients to meet the requirements for the industry-standard professional qualification in advanced personal training. Work placements provide invaluable experience and networking with outside agencies such as the NHS eg. cardiac rehabilitation, health and wellbeing centres and local authorities.

Career opportunitiesThe encouragement of healthy lifestyles and exercise from the UK Government has resulted in increased job prospects both in Britain and abroad. As a graduate you will be prepared for a career in advisory roles in local, regional or national authorities, the NHS, private healthcare providers and health and fitness centres. You will also be able to explore a number of other career options such as coaching, sports development, leisure management, sports performance, teaching and postgraduate study.

This course is ideal for students who wish to work in applied settings such as exercise referral schemes, community programmes and professional environments that promote active lifestyles and wellbeing. You will develop knowledge and skills in sport, health and exercise sciences and health promotion, whilst embracing the practical and scientific principles of working with diverse populations in the physical activity, exercise and health sectors.

Upon successful completion of the degree you will gain the Level 3 Advanced Personal Trainer award. This gives you level 3 accreditation to the Register of Exercise Professionals.

7 BSc (HONS) PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, EXERCISE AND HEALTH

BSc (Hons) Physical Activity, Exercise and Health

Staff expertise

Belinda Bowd Course leader Belinda is a former exercise and health practitioner running a successful training agency business. Her main interests are exercise behaviour and performance in diverse populations. An active member of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Science, she is currently completing a PhD on the evaluation of physical activity interventions during life transition.

Dr George Metsios George recently completed his Doctorate in Biomedical Science and Exercise Physiology at Wolverhampton. An expert reviewer in several peer-reviewed journals and funding bodies, he has published several invited articles in his area of expertise and is an Honorary Researcher in Action Heart, the UK’s largest cardiac rehabilitation centre. His research work has a significant impact and has been used in revised guidelines for chronic disease.

Ross Cloak Lecturer and laboratory director, provides sports science support for a range of organisations outside the University. His research interests include injury prevention, whole body vibration and neuromuscular responses between elite and amateur athletes – completing a PhD in this area.

BSc (HONS) PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, EXERCISE AND HEALTH 8

The aim of this degree is to equip you with the applied practical and teaching skills required to pursue a career in education, and is ideal if you wish to proceed to a PGCE or School Direct with a subject specialism in Physical Education (PE).

What you will studyYou will study applied practical skills, child development, pedagogical skills and work-based practice. The course involves both practical and theoretical study of the techniques and skills involved in teaching. In addition, you will study current issues in education, how children learn and develop, and how to plan and deliver practical sessions. Work-based learning and placements are central to this course, and you will gain experiences of primary and secondary school PE activities, working with younger children and adolescents.

You will become equipped with a substantial knowledge of teaching and a set of skills and values to advance your career prospects, and take a substantial role in regional, national and international communities through PE teaching.

Career opportunities

As a graduate of this course, you could proceed to a PGCE or School Direct and train to become a teacher with a specialism in PE. This course also provides the basis for a career in education, and other sectors such as sports coaching and youth related work. If you do wish to pursue a career in teaching you should be fully prepared to undertake a postgraduate qualification in order to gain Qualified Teacher Status. Upon completion of the PGCE or School Direct, you will be well equipped and qualified to undertake a teaching career.

BA (Hons) Physical Education

9 BA (HONS) PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Staff expertise

Dr Nick O’Leary, Course leader for the BA (Hons) Physical Education Nick is a member of British Educational Research Association, the Association for Physical Education, and the Basketball Coaches Association. He is currently studying the influence of socialisation upon the teaching of games for his doctorate. An England senior basketball coach and coach tutor, Nick has coached all levels of the national league in addition to assisting with the junior national programme and mentoring other coaches.

Dr Gerald Griggs Senior lecturer in physical education and sports studies, Gerald is an active member of the British Educational Research Association, the Association for Physical Education and the British Sociological Association. His main teaching and research interests concern primary physical education and the sociology of sport.

Gavin Ward Gavin is a senior lecturer in physical education. His research interests include primary and secondary physical education, in particular the teaching of games and The PE and Sport Strategy for Young People. Prior to Wolverhampton, he taught Physical Education across Key Stages 1-4, both in the UK and abroad.

Helen Keane Helen is currently a lecturer in Physical Education. Prior to her teacher training at Newman College University, she undertook a Master’s in Sport and Exercise Psychology. She has taught in schools in the UK and Italy, with experience of delivering the International Baccalaureate and the UK National Curriculum across Early Years, Primary, Secondary and Post-16 levels.

BA (HONS) PHYSICAL EDUCATION 10

The course is endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences' (BASES) Undergraduate Endorsement Scheme (BUES). You will benefit from completing a course specifically mapped against BASES undergraduate competencies which provides you with a solid foundation on which to embark upon a sport and exercise science career.

What you will studyIn your first year, you will focus on developing the basics of how the body and mind work within sport and exercise whilst improving your study and research skills. Your second year will build on this, developing your understanding and experience of the application of sport and exercise science knowledge and skills.

You will also receive training in improving your subject specific knowledge and applying practical skills. In your final year, you will undertake an independent project enabling you to investigate an area of your choice, with an opportunity to specialise in two of the three sport and exercise science disciplines; applied sport biomechanics, physiology and exercise psychology.

This course enables you to explore and understand sport and exercise using the main disciplines of biomechanics, physiology and psychology, in relation to both high-performance and recreational participants.

Staff expertise

Dr Chris Sellars Chris is an active BASES-accredited, applied sport scientist, working primarily with elite track athletes and footballers. His research interests include coach-athlete relationships, the application of attribution theory and the training of sports psychologists.

Ian Lahart Ian is currently investigating physical activity levels in breast cancer populations. The initial research aims to assess the level of awareness of breast cancer risk factors in screening populations. Ian is also an editorial board member of the Journal of Sports Therapy.

Dr Tracey Devonport Tracey's research interests primarily lie around stress and coping, and related interventions. Other interest areas include emotional intelligence, self-efficacy and body image. She is a member of the Sport and Exercise Psychology Division for the British Psychological Society.

Dr Tina Smith Tina is a senior lecturer in Biomechanics. Her research interests include the biomechanical analysis of sports performance and the application of biomechanics to the coaching environment. Within exercise and health she researches the biomechanics of activities of daily living in various clinical populations. She is also interested in the development of e-learning provision in biomechanics and sport science.

Career opportunitiesYou will be well prepared to pursue employment in a variety of sport and exercise careers including: exercise leader, personal trainer, sports science support, uniformed services, sports development workers and sports administrators. You may also want to pursue a career in research through applying for research studentships and postgraduate training.

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

11 BSc (HONS) SPORT AND EXERCISE SCIENCE

The BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science is endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences' (BASES) Undergraduate Endorsement Scheme (BUES).

BSc (HONS) SPORT AND EXERCISE SCIENCE 12

Career opportunitiesYou will have opportunities for work as a coach with national governing bodies of sport, clubs, local authorities, schools, after school coaching programmes, private hotels or leisure complexes. There are also opportunities, particularly after further training to be an outdoor pursuits or health and fitness instructor, strength and conditioning coach, sports development officer or personal trainer.

Positions held by previous graduates include: lecturers in further education colleges and adult education, paid coaches within local authorities; fitness instructors for a large chain of health clubs; swimming teachers, employed by or have set up their own coaching companies.

This course aims to produce competent and confident coaches for the sports industry. As you develop your practical coaching skills, you will benefit from learning how to blend subject-related theoretical knowledge with practical problem solving, enabling you to meet the real-life needs of sports people across a range of ages, level of performance and sports settings.

What you will studyYour first year of study will give you a comprehensive introduction to coaching, developing your sports skills and exploring the use of information technology to investigate key coaching topics. You will explore current issues relating to coaching and sport science and address the needs of your personal and professional development, with the opportunity to specialise in; applied sport biomechanics, physiology or exercise psychology.

You will develop your knowledge and understanding of research methods and interdisciplinary applications of sports science, examining coaching philosophy and how to analyse performance. Your final year is divided between a coaching placement, undertaking a substantial project, and the further study of applied sport sciences related to coaching.

BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching Practice

13 BSc (HONS) SPORTS COACHING PRACTICE

Staff expertise

Zsuzsa Galloway Course leader Zsuzsa, has a Master's in physical education from the Hungarian University of Physical Education. She played on a national championship volleyball team and has coached university and club-level volleyball. Zsuzsa’s research focuses on the use of blended learning and technology and its place in teaching physical and sport courses.

Dr Shaun Galloway Shaun has a PhD in sport psychology from Semmelweis University, Hungary, and has coached track and field at a national level. His research has focused on applied programmes to develop the mental and physical performance of athletes, and examining sport coaches’ effects on positive development for at-risk youth.

Hannah Dingley Hannah has a BSc in sport and exercise science and MSc in sport coaching from Loughborough University. She currently coaches Nottingham Forest Ladies in the National Premier Division and Hinckley FC men’s football club in Leicestershire. She has done extensive charity work developing football programmes to tackle social issues including HIV and AIDS education, anti-social behaviour and gender inequality.

BSc (HONS) SPORTS COACHING PRACTICE 14

Increasingly recognised for its attractive career opportunities, the multi-billion pound sport and leisure industry is in need of qualified and experienced professionals. The Sports Studies degree aims to provide you with the skills and competencies required for a successful career in the sports industry.

What you will studyThis course draws on a wide range of teaching methods to help you explore a number of themes including the social, historical and political aspects of sport. You will study contemporary issues such as sport in a new media era, youth sport, and special populations. In addition, you will examine factors influencing the participation in and consumption of sport in a regional, national and international context, and begin to foster your employability skills through an examination of the expanding sports development sector.

You will acquire the knowledge, skills and attributes necessary to enable you to gain employment in a wide variety of jobs, including sport development and sports administration, as well as gaining access to postgraduate study or a career in research.

BA (Hons) Sport Studies

Career opportunitiesThis degree is designed to prepare you for a career in sport and helps to consolidate your approach to future employment. Many students enter sport development posts with public sector organisations, others put their key learning and transferable skills, plus their love of sport, into professional contexts such as the police force, or continue to progress to Master’s-level study or enter a PGCE programme in order to teach sport-related subjects in schools or further education.

15 BA (HONS) SPORT STUDIES

Staff expertise

Dr Mark Groves Senior lecturer in Sport Sociology, Mark is interested in enhancing the first year experience for university students. His research publications include a sociological examination of exercise dependence and a consideration of globalisation processes of football.

Pat McCarthy Pat is principal lecturer for admissions and collaborative links. His research interests include the political economy of sport and leisure. His PhD is entitled: A qualitative analysis of media representation of women in sports during the Olympic years 1984 and 2004.

Kathryn Leflay Senior lecturer in Sport Sociology Kathryn's research interests include sport and new media and sport role model influence. Kathryn is currently working on her PhD entitled: Beyond heroic role modelling: A wider social role for sports stars?

Dr Richard Medcalf Richard is principal lecturer and head of student experience in sport and leisure. His research interests relate to developing an understanding of how individuals and marginalised populations – particularly children and young people with special educational needs – experience and make sense of their sporting and educational lives.

BA (HONS) SPORT STUDIES 16

The MRes Sport is designed for graduates or those with relevant professional experience who wish to enhance their understanding and application of advanced research skills within professional and academic settings. It aims to develop you as a reflective, evidence-based practitioner and researcher.

With an emphasis on student-led research and modules focused on the application of research to applied or work settings, you will develop advanced research skills including problem-solving, reflective practice and the ability to critically interpret and apply evidence. You will be supported by a supervisor throughout your studies to develop your research skills and their application, and in identifying now your professional profile can be best applied within a changing vocational market.

The MRes is available in:• Sport and Exercise Science• Sports Studies• Sports Coaching• Physical Activity, Exercise and Health• Physical Education

Supervision in the above subject areas is matched to available staff expertise.

Why study this course?The Institute has an excellent reputation for teaching quality, supervision and research. You will have the opportunity to work with staff accredited by the British Association for Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), the British Psychological Society (BPS), and the Higher Education Academy (HEA), whilst completing a course that will enhance your career prospects and prepare you for future study at Doctoral level.

What will I study?Modules include Advanced Research Methods, The Sports Industry, and Professional Practice and Applied Practice, combined with a large component of independent study and blended learning. You will be allocated a personal supervisor in a negotiated subject area to support your learning in group and tutor-led study facilitated in classroom environments, independent study and blended learning. Reflective practice, a key feature of this programme, will be utilised to facilitate the application of knowledge and skills in light of personal experience and literature-based evidence.

MRes Sport

17 MRES SPORT

Career opportunities

You will be well prepared to pursue a career in higher or further education teaching and research, and for further study at doctoral level. By completing the course, you will enhance your employability and promotion prospects within your chosen profession. There will be the opportunity for existing practitioners to significantly improve their continuing professional development portfolio.

MRES SPORT 18

University of Wolverhampton Wulfruna Street, WolverhamptonWest Midlands, WV1 1LY

Tel: 0800 953 3222 Email: enquiries@wlv.ac.uk Website: www.wlv.ac.uk/sport MAC2064