Degree available as a full-time (one year) or part-time (two year) option.
The GIS Melbourne option is available from January 2024, subject to validation and site approval
Degree overview
This programme provides students with the opportunity to develop systematic knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of coaching to enhance both individual and team performance. It also equips students with a range of research skills necessary to design and conduct applied research in a sports context. The course is available to study either full-time, over one year, or part-time over two.
Programme participants will evaluate a range of traditional and contemporary models of leadership, and review the core components that underpin expertise in sports coaching. Students will have access to clubs across the football pyramid, as well as first-class teaching, learning and coaching provision from professionals with backgrounds in both academia and professional football.
Students on this programme have access to world-leading performance analysis tools from Hudl, the industry-standard software used by athletes, coaches and clubs across the globe.
Degree content
The MSc Sports Coaching course is designed for those wishing to deepen their understanding of coaching practices. The programme provides opportunities to engage in different aspects of coaching including new modules exploring high performance culture, talent development alongside tactics and strategies, and more.
It is ideal for current professionals working within the sports industry or those who aspire to work within the professional game.
Teaching locations for this degree include:
- Wembley Stadium
- The Hive, London
- Hendon FC
- Arch View House
- Etihad Stadium
- Manchester Sports Village, Belle Vue
- UCFB Study Hub @ Piccadilly Place
- Curzon Ashton FC
- Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre
- Melbourne Sports Centres
- Parkville
- Darebin International Sports Centre
- Cricket Victoria
In addition to our teaching locations, we also use specialist facilities throughout the academic year as well as additional facilities where required.
The Global Institute of Sport is an embedded college of the University of East London. All GIS graduates will receive a degree from the University of East London.
I chose to study here it was something different, unique, and an opportunity to gain entry into a career I’ve wanted to pursue for a long time.
Modules
- Applying Strategies and Tactical Practice
- Understanding Coaching Expertise
- Applied Reflective Practice
- Global Sports Leadership
- Applied Research Project and Placement
- Creating a High Performance Culture (Option)
- Principles and Practice in Talent Development (Option)
Entry requirements
The standard entry requirements for the programme are as follows:
Applicants should hold a 2:1 honours degree or a recognised overseas equivalent. Applicants may be accepted with a 2:2 honours degree (or equivalent) provided that they can otherwise demonstrate a strong profile with 50% or above in their dissertation module. Or have professional qualifications of level 2 and above.
Professional experience and industry qualifications can be assessed for applicants without the standard entry requirements such as UEFA B licence with 10 years or more experience in a professional coaching environment.
Candidates are required to hold a FA Level 1 certificate in coaching football additionally, it would be advantageous for candidates to already hold a FA level 2 or equivalent.
All applicants are provided with information relating to student services, with whom they can make contact, should they require additional support or advice as well as information related to appropriate bursaries and funds.
Applicants from non-majority English speaking countries will be asked for an English qualification which tests Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing and will be asked to achieve an IELTS of 6.0 (5.5) or equivalent.
We have revised our coaching entry requirements for 2021 to account for the difficulty in completing FA coaching qualifications due to COVID-19. Please find our 2021 coaching entry requirements here.
To apply for this degree, please click here and follow the instructions to complete your application via our Learner Portal.
Career prospects
The multi-faceted world of football requires modern football coaches to have highly developed skills and an in-depth knowledge of the principles of football coaching. The programme has been developed for those who have graduated from coaching or relevant degree programmes or coaches currently coaching within the game who want to develop their knowledge and skill set further or form part of their CPD. The broad, applied elements of this degree provide students with the skills and experience to progress and work either domestically or abroad in a multi-billion-pound global industry. GIS' ability to provide further Employability and Enrichment opportunities engages students in career development allowing students to find their place in the football industry.
UCFB's Global Institute of Sport was also ranked in the top 5 'Best Universities for Employability' in 2021.
At GIS we bridge the gap between education and business, allowing a unique approach to education. We provide two curricula; the academic curriculum which encompasses exams and coursework and the Employability & Enrichment programme – a journey of professional and personal development.
This provides access to best-in-class industry guest speakers, additional qualifications and exceptional opportunities to apply for work experience placements to ensure our students graduate as well-rounded, empowered professionals.
The Global Insight Series is a thought leadership series, exclusively collated and made available for all on-campus and online students. The Global Insight Series provides unprecedented access to GIS’ elite sports network; including interviews with LMA managers and other guest speakers, and content from our Global Sports Summits at Inter Miami CF Stadium Campus, New York’s Red Bull Arena, Atlanta’s brand new Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Toronto FC’s BMO Field and the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Master’s graduate Amy Lomas worked with Premier League side Norwich City as a Performance Analyst alongside her studies and has gone on to take a role as Leicester City Women’s First Team Analyst upon graduating.
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Upon completing his Master’s degree in 2019, Wesley McGrath is now a coach, scout and analyst for his own company, WM32Football, as well as an Advanced Centre Coach at MK Dons.
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These discounts are open to any UCFB, Buckinghamshire New University and University of East London graduate who has received and accepted an offer to study at postgraduate level with UCFB’s Global Institute of Sport.
- 15% fee tuition discount on all Master's programmes, excluding MSc Sports Directorship
- 15% fee tuition discount on MSc Sports Directorship and CEO of a Sports Organisation
If you’d like to extend your time with us, we’re pleased to offer all GIS graduates:
- 15% fee tuition discount on all Master's programmes, excluding MSc Sports Directorship
- 15% fee tuition discount on MSc Sports Directorship and CEO of a Sports Organisation
We're pleased to offer all UCFB and GIS business partners 15% fee tuition discount on all Undergraduate, Master's programmes.
The provision of a facility or service including accommodation may be subject to an additional charge (i.e. separate from tuition fees). Where this is the case, we will make this clear in advance and payment for such service shall be made in accordance with any additional contract made between you and the University.
In some instances, optional Employability & Enrichment activities provided by UCFB may carry an additional cost for participants (e.g. qualifications with external certification such as FA Coaching Badges). Any additional costs will be provided to students in advance of any such sessions running.
Students will be required to purchase GIS branded kit for their studies, which costs £120-150. GIS students may also be asked for an additional contribution fee of £10-20 for trips.
On top of Wembley Stadium and Etihad Campus, the Global Institute of Sport utilises a network of global stadium venues. Inter Miami CF Stadium, plus Global Hubs at New York’s Red Bull Arena, Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Toronto FC’s BMO Field and the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) allow students to truly immerse themselves in the world of sport.
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