Program Overview

Elite Performance

DProf

Attendance

• Full-time
• Part-time

Location

• Online learning

Start

• September 2025
• March 2026

Duration

• 3 years

Start

• September 2025

Delivery

• Online learning

Course Description

Our Professional Doctorate in Elite Performance (DProf) provides an opportunity for those working in performance-related roles to complete a PhD-equivalent programme of study focused on career-based needs and aspirations.

This is an exciting and original initiative, capable of providing a high-level, vocationally focused award to a broad range of professionals working in high-performance domains. Applications are especially welcome from those working in sports coaching, sports science, strength and conditioning, psychologists, analysis, medical practitioners, the military, police, and fire and rescue.

Study is designed specifically around students' professional work, with the aim of enhancing professional practice or progression in their chosen performance environment.

At the outset of this course, you'll formulate a detailed personal development plan (PDP) which will outline what you want to achieve on this course and how you'll be able to apply what you learn to your professional environment and the world of elite performance.

You'll explore the factors which affect and enable elite performance and equip yourself with the skills, knowledge, and techniques needed to undertake research projects within your professional field which will contribute to advancements in understanding and practice.

You'll engage in a process of reflective development which will enable you to enhance your own professional practice and performance. The approach taken in the programme reflects current thinking on this type of award, being more a matter of guidance and mentoring than a simple knowledge transfer process.

Why Study with Us

• An innovative, flexible, and original course, designed specifically for working professionals, which has a strong national and international reputation.
• A course taught by staff with extensive professional and research experience.
• Supports student progress and practice by challenging perceptions and beliefs, answering questions, solving problems, and driving innovations that will shape future professional practice.

What You'll Do

• There's a strong focus on professional development planning. You'll focus on enhancing your skills, knowledge, and professional practice.
• Our aim is to support experienced professionals working in performance environments to develop evidenced-based solutions to 'real-world' workplace problems.
• This is an exciting and original initiative, capable of providing a high-level, vocationally focused award to a broad range of professionals.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

• Skills Review and Development
• Working Context
• Research Methodology and Design
• Evolution of Working Practice
• Thesis

Academic Expertise

• Dr. Jill Alexander
• Dr. Christopher Yiannaki
• Damian Harper
• Dr. David Grecic
• Dr. Pamela Richards

Research Centres

• Research Centre for Applied Sport, Physical Activity and Performance
• Institute of Coaching and Performance (ICaP)

Entry Requirements

• Provide evidence of the intellectual capacity for study, through for example:
  • Holding an approved undergraduate degree in a subject relevant to the proposed performance domain
  • Evidence for having undertaken or holding an equivalent and relevant professional qualification
  • Demonstrate the generation of professional development materials or other knowledge transfer resources
• Provide evidence of a significant experiential profile in the performance domain, through for example:
  • Holding a position or role in the promotion of elite performance for at least five years
  • An appointment or professional position in the domain held for at least three years
  • Professional qualifications in the domain at the highest level
• Provide evidence of the capacity to develop and deploy a significant contribution to the performance domain, through for example:
  • A supporting reference from a high-ranking official within the performance domain

English Language

• If English is not your first language, you'll need to evidence of English language to IELTS (or equivalent) 6.5 (and 6.5 in each component).
• We offer a test of English language equivalent through our Language Academy. You will need 75% overall with no component under 75%.
• Please note the requirements for DProf differ to the general postgraduate requirements stated on our website.
• Documents that are not in English must have an official English translation.

Application Process

• The application process involves you making a formal application which should normally contain:
  • A completed university postgraduate programme application form with supportive evidence of qualifications
  • An appropriate CV to detail your academic and professional experience
  • An outline proposal of 1000 words describing the challenges currently faced in your performance domain
  • Two references including one from a high-ranking official in your performance domain
  • If relevant, evidence of competence in English language to the above level

Fees and Funding

• 2024/25:
  • UK: Part-time £2,800 per year, Full-time £5,600 (Years 1 - 4), £1,250 per year thereafter
  • International: Online part-time £2,800 per year, Distance Full-time £5,600 (Years 1 - 4), £1,250 per year thereafter
• 2025/26:
  • UK: Part-time £2,900 per year, Full-time £5,800 (Years 1 - 4), £1,300 per year thereafter
  • International: Online part-time £2,900 per year, Distance Full-time £5,800 (Years 1 - 4), £1,300 per year thereafter

Scholarships and Bursaries

• We offer many scholarships, bursaries, and funds to support you during your studies. Select your country or region to see if you are eligible and how to apply.

Learning and Assessment

• The majority of student learning is achieved through guided reading, with subsequent supported synthesis and discussion through formal (with your supervisor) and informal (with peers) methods.
• Assessments vary, are agreed with your supervisor, and can be via professional and academic reports, case studies, a personal development plan, a learning diary, presentation, and a final piece of research.

Further Information

• If you think you've already covered some of the modules on this programme, you may be able to make a claim for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Find out more by contacting the Course Leader. They can also advise on existing MSc/MA/PGDip awards and how they relate to specific modules.