Program Overview

Understanding Performers: Psychological Perspectives

Module Overview

This module provides students with an in-depth examination of key psychological concepts useful for coaches to assist them in understanding performers and enhancing performance.

Key Facts

• Module code: SPSP067
• Start date: 22 Sep 2025
• Application deadline: 8 Sep 2025
• Duration: 11 weeks
• Credit value SCQF: 10
• SCQF level: Level 11
• Fees: Home: £483; International: £672
• Mode of study: part time
• Delivery: online

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
• Coaching Concepts
• Creating Engaging Practice
• The Coaching Process

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.

Objectives

By the end of the module students will have had the opportunity to:

• critically appraise the use of psychological concepts to understand participants and performers within personal coaching practice;
• construct, implement, and evaluate psychology-informed practice.

Delivery and Assessment

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

Assessment will include class discussions and a case study.

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.