Join a distance learning MSc that blends evidence-based theory and applied practice, accredited by the British Psychological Society and designed for professionals, athletes and coaches
The MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology at Staffordshire University is delivered entirely by distance learning, giving busy professionals and international students the chance to study without relocating. Prospective students are invited to an Open Day on 30 April to learn more about the programme and meet staff and current students.
The course balances rigorous academic content with applied tasks so you can immediately transfer learning into practice, whether you are a coach, practitioner, or aspiring researcher.
This programme focuses on how physical activity influences mental wellbeing, how performers manage pressure, and how teams function.
Core themes include performance psychology, exercise and mental health, leadership and group dynamics, and research methods. The award is structured to ensure a close link between contemporary theory and the kind of practical work expected in professional practice, with many assessments set as realistic scenarios that mirror applied consultancy.
Curriculum and how you will learn
The curriculum covers subjects that apply to both sporting and exercise contexts. You will study technical topics such as psychophysiological responses, action observation and motor imagery, and the social processes that shape team behaviour. Teaching uses a mix of video lectures, weekly activities, live seminars and discussion forums hosted on Blackboard and supported by Microsoft Teams. Learning is interactive: expect role plays, group debates and opportunities to practice consultancy skills through case studies and simulated sessions.
Assessment and practical tasks
Assessment is 100% coursework, designed to reflect professional outcomes. Formats include critical essays, recorded presentations, data analysis reports, applied case study responses and a viva-style oral examination. You will receive detailed criteria and feedback on your work, with formal assessment feedback normally returned within 20 working days. These tasks are intended to develop both academic rigour and applied competence for future roles in sport and exercise psychology.
Accreditation and career development
The programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) and counts as stage 1 of the qualification pathway toward Chartered Membership (CPsychol), depending on your undergraduate background. Graduates who hold or obtain GBC (graduate basis for chartered membership) will have met the academic requirement to progress to supervised practice. Stage 2 requires a minimum of two years of supervised experience before registration as a practitioner with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Career pathways and outcomes
Completing the MSc opens routes into applied roles with sports organisations, private consultancy, education and clinical settings, and provides a foundation for doctoral research. The degree is also suitable for professionals wishing to enhance coaching, teaching, or wellbeing roles. Students sometimes use the award as the academic component for BASES accreditation or to support applications for postgraduate funding and research positions.
Delivery, facilities and support
Although the programme is online, you will have full access to university resources including specialist laboratories. The Basil Ashford Sports Psychology laboratory and consulting room are used for teaching, research and applied projects, featuring equipment such as eye-tracker software, cryotherapy and electrotherapy devices. Regular online drop-ins, networking sessions and guest lectures from partner sports organisations enrich the experience and create opportunities for collaboration and professional networking.
Students are supported by module tutors, a personal tutor, subject specialist librarians and a course administrator. The team includes experienced staff such as Karla Drew, Course Leader and BPS Chartered practitioner, and Matthew Slater, Professor of Sport & Exercise Psychology, recognised for work on leadership and group dynamics. Disability and inclusion services are available for students with additional needs.
Practical details and how to apply
Study options include full-time distance learning completed in one academic year or part-time delivery spread over two years, with the six compulsory modules scheduled across the period for part-time students. Entry typically requires a minimum 2:2 (Hons) degree in a related discipline or relevant professional experience, plus a personal statement. If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0 is required. For the course starting on 21 September 2026 the published tuition fee is £9,435 for both UK and international students.
Financial support may be available through postgraduate loans for eligible students, and an alumni discount may apply for previous Staffordshire University graduates. To apply or request further information, visit the university admissions pages or contact the enquiries team. If you want to get a feel for the programme before applying, consider attending the Open Day on 30 April to meet staff and ask detailed questions about modules, assessments and career support.
