Program Overview

Coaching Concepts

Key Facts

• Module code: SPSP050
• Start date: 19 Jan 2026
• Application deadline: 5 Jan 2026
• Duration: 11 weeks
• SCQF level: Level 11
• Credits: 20
• Fees: Home: £967, International: £1,344
• Mode of study: part time
• Delivery: online

Overview

Coaching Concepts considers the formation of coaching knowledge and various aspects of what it means to function as an effective coach, leading to coaching expertise.

Flexible Learning

This short course forms part of the MSc Sport Performance Coaching (Online). You can study other stand-alone continuing professional development (CPD) short courses from this degree:

• Coaching as Learning
• Creating Engaging Practice
• The Coaching Process
• Understanding Performers: Psychological Perspectives

Entrance Requirements

A minimum of a second class Honours degree (2.1 preferred) or equivalent in a relevant subject. You must also have five years' appropriate work experience in coaching, and evidence of successful completion of sport-specific coaching qualifications is expected.

English Language Requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:

• IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each sub-skill.
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with a minimum of 59 in each sub-skill.
• IBT TOEFL 78 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing.

Funding

A flexible payment scheme is operated by the University to support students who are self-funding.

Objectives

• Reflect on and critically evaluate coaching practice using appropriate research and theory.
• Critically evaluate the application of cognitive skills to the development and establishment of personal coaching practice.
• Engage in critical thinking and problem-solving discussions.
• Demonstrate a critical understanding of the decision-making process and undertake an informed evaluation of coaching decisions.
• Investigate and evaluate the concept of expertise and critically appraise the development of expertise within personal coaching practice.

Delivery and Assessment

The module is delivered entirely online through pre-recorded presentations, learning materials, asynchronous discussion and tutorials.

To encourage the application of coaching theory into a coaching practice, your assignments will be directly related to your own context and include a practical analysis task and an evidence-guided reflective essay.

Module Coordinator

Stephen MacDonald

Employability

Typically, individuals who apply for a Sport Performance Coaching CPD module will already be employed in significant sport or coaching related roles. Practitioners engaging with the module will better understand themselves, their coaching practice and wider coaching context. This will enhance their ability to fulfil high performing coaching or coach development roles in their sport.

Engaging with the modules has helped coaches across the world boost their skills and advance their careers. By studying with liked-minded individuals, they are also able to grow their network of professional connections.