On completing the course, students will:
1) Have a thorough systematic knowledge of the various scientific and clinical topics studied (A2)
2) Show an ability to apply knowledge in practical settings involving sport, exercise and the rehabilitation from injury (A3)
3) Have the capacity to execute and critically evaluate research relevant to exercise science, injury and rehabilitation(A2)
Teaching/Learning Strategies and Methods Onsite
A range of teaching methods will be used to deliver subject material including lectures, seminars, tutorials, practicals and self-directed learning. Clinical reasoning is encouraged in the practicals through the discussion of paper cases.
Skills are taught by demonstration and through problem solving tasks. Students are directed to articles and books the content of which is discussed in student led presentations. Formal instruction time forms the basis for further self-directed study, the latter using a variety of resources including published material, module -related literature disseminated either as hardcopy or on the web, and other web-based information. There is a progression through the course towards a greater degree of independent learning, a process that reaches its culmination in the final year project.
Distance Learning
The theoretical underpinning of the practice is taught through web pages on CD and via a handbook. Some modules have interactive media where students can learn through experimenting and problem solving. Specialist medical software is available where the students can access the gross and minute detail of cadavers. The handbook is designed to enhance the web pages by encouraging the students to apply the theory to the clinical situation. The handbook will contain the students thoughts on various directed activities or problems and can be submitted when appropriate.
The practical component will be a concentrated period of onsite study culminating in the same assessments as for the onsite course.
Assessment
A variety of assessment methods will be used including unseen and seen written examinations, practical exams, essays, literature reviews, practical reports, oral presentations and oral examinations. With the exception of the placement module, the practicals involve the students acting as models.
27 The distance learning modules include online quizzes and interactive media to facilitate the formative assessment.
However, the summative assessments are identical to the onsite versions. The final year project provides the opportunity for an extended piece of formal scientific writing.
25b. Cognitive intellectual skills Learning outcomes
On completing the course, students will:
1) Be able to understand and develop clear and logical arguments in support or criticism of medical and scientific theories with support from current literature (A3)
2) Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and reason in the application of knowledge to the clinical situation (A3) 3) Be able to analyse medical and patient information to provide a diagnosis and treatment plan based on current
evidence (A3)
4) Show fluency with appropriate quantitative and numerical skills, involving relevant mathematical and statistical methods (A1, A2)
5) Demonstrate academic and scientific literacy at graduate level (A2) Teaching/Learning Strategies and Methods
Initial emphasis in taught material is on the understanding of accepted underlying medical and scientific concepts.
Students are encouraged to apply this knowledge to their professional practice. This is done by directing them to appropriate literature in preparation for debate in class. Students are asked to present their views in small groups or as individuals. They are encouraged to challenge current clinical practice and support their arguments.
Students are encouraged to express their views from year 1 and are placed in a learning environment where discussion is a central posit to their practice. A variety of techniques are used to encourage this, for eg, target or question setting, small group seminars, and balloon debates.
The analysis of patient information is developed in all advanced therapy modules. This is done mainly by paper cases in preparation for the therapy placement in the final year.
Quantitative and numerical skills are developed in specific modules (one in each year) as well as more generally in other modules, particularly those involving practical work. Academic and scientific literacy is developed through formative assessment, where feedback is given on both correct English and the conventions of scientific writing. The final year project makes particular demands on cognitive skills because it comprises a more detailed study of a specific topic than occurs elsewhere in the course.
The distance learning route encourages the same outcomes. This is achieved by web interfaces that utilises a variety of learning tools. The analytical aspect is developed via a handbook where they are asked to think, report and perform an activity. These ideas are then presented when they attend the university for the practical block of learning.
Assessment
The therapy practicals involve the demonstration of techniques usually with a patient case scenario. This ensures that the analysis of a medical situation is assessed alongside the practical ability of
performing the technique. The more advanced modules require more depth of analysis and synthesis that is assessed through practical vivas, presentations, literature reviews and case studies.
The science practicals and other coursework will generally require an appreciation of the process of developing and testing hypotheses, and of the nature of data collected; an ability to analyse and summarise it; and the deduction of appropriate conclusions. A similar process is followed when topics are researched from the literature. Quantitative analyses will be included in coursework, in exams, and in the dissertation. Most forms of assessment, including examinations, essays and presentations, require an ability to organise and apply knowledge, and to develop arguments.
25c. Transferable skills including those of employability and professional practice Learning Outcomes
On completing the course, students will:
1) Have the ability to communicate, both orally and in writing, in a concise, clear and professional manner (A1, A2) 2) Have an understanding of : ethical, equal opportunity and professional issues and work within the professional
code of conduct (A3)
28 3) Be able to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary sports medical team to prevent injury and diagnose and
rehabilitate post injury (A1, A2)
4) Demonstrate a range of other key transferable skills including active involvement in learning, exercise of initiative and judgement, use of appropriate resources and technology including IT, the ability to work both independently and with others, and the capacity for self-awareness and self-reflection (A1)
5) Appreciate the skills necessary to secure and retain employment, including: punctuality, professionalism, communication, consideration for others, creativity, and commitment (A1, A2)
Teaching/Learning Strategies and Methods
Communication and professionalism is developed through a staff:student contract in practical sessions. Students sign up to the code of contact at induction and problems are identified immediately if they occur. Lack of punctuality, inappropriate practical dress or behaviour etc. are not accepted and addressed. Students are encouraged to support and critique their practical performance in class such that they become reflective of their ability.
Communication skills are also developed through a variety of methods including formative feedback on assessment instruments, including presentations and oral exams. Students' ability to write in a formal scientific style is developed progressively through the course, for example by introducing referencing conventions and by directing them to a variety of scientific writing including formal research communications. Use of appropriate technologies is found in all the modules, particularly those where statistical and numerical methods are deployed. There is a progressively higher element of independent learning as the student progresses from Certificate to Honours level.
Ethical and professional issues are discussed in paper cases where the influence of these factors can be discussed alongside the medical intervention. The practice of professionalism is a constant thread in all therapy modules.
The students have an opportunity in their placement to run a clinic and learn all the skills required for future employment. This is supervised by academic staff.
Assessment
Most therapy assessment is a mixture of practical and written. The practicals consist of paper patient cases where they demonstrate professionalism, skill, communication and respect for others. The written components include case studies, literature reviews and oral presentations. Throughout the course emphasis is placed on development of both general communication skills and also on the requirements of formal scientific writing. Use of technology is implicit in all work requiring literature exploration, in the written or oral presentation of work, and in work that is based on practical exercises.
25d. Subject-specific practical skills Learning Outcomes
On completing the course, students will:
1) Be able to analyse patient information and derive a diagnosis and treatment plan supported by current scientific and medical evidence (A2)
2) Be able to competently and safely implement treatment and rehabilitative strategies to a patient with a sports injury/ problem
3) Have an understanding of the main philosophies of practice in the sporting rehabilitation arena (A2)
4) Demonstrate an ability to lead and motivate others with an awareness of the different needs of patients (A1, A3)) 5) Demonstrate an understanding of practical skills relating to sport and exercise science, including competence in
collecting data from a range of test equipment and from psychological inventories, and in implementing appropriate interventions. (A2)
6) Be able to suggest appropriate methodologies for a variety of measurements in sports and exercise science (A2) Teaching/Learning Strategies and Methods
Students are taught to problem solve case information whilst learning new techniques. They learn to place the relevance of patient information into a scientific context that leads to accurate diagnosis formation. They have opportunity to practice clinical skills under supervision and are tested formatively throughout the semester. The students have continual feedback in a process of peer support where they alternate the role of therapist and patient.
The sports science modules encourage the practice of a variety of scientific research philosophies, culminating in the final year project.
Assessment
29 Practical assessments of paper and live medical cases allow the students to demonstrate their practical and
theoretical knowledge and competency. Written case studies assesses their ability to problem solve and derive appropriate treatment plans. Literature reviews demonstrate their understanding of current theories of practice.
Reports of practical work, and also the final Honours project, will form the centrepiece of assessment for these outcomes. There will be an emphasis on the critical appraisal of data, together with justification for decisions regarding measurement parameters and the overall design of investigations. Literature analyses and reviews will also contribute, as will data analysis exercises incorporated into a variety of modules across the programme.
30 26. Course structure diagram
BSc Sports Therapy STH4N
Single Honours Course – Autumn entry Course Leader: Nick Gardiner
C Autumn SP1002N Basic Sports Science C A1/A2 Subject Core including context
SP1003N Functional Anatomy C A2/A3 See note 1
SP1H01N Professional Studies C A1/2/3 Subject HE orientation Core;
See note 1
SP1006N Massage C A1/A3 See note 2
Spring SP1004N Human Physiology C A2
-SP1007N Sports Therapy 1 C A1/A2 See note 2
MA1034N Data Analysis C A2/A3 Subject IT Core; See note 1 and 2 SP1005N Sports Training Principles C A3 See note 1
I Autumn SP2002N Exercise Physiology I C A2/A3
SP2008N Sports Therapy 2 C A1/A2 See note 2
SP2010N Rehabilitation 1 C A2/A3 See note 2
Choice of module – see notes D One from list below
Spring SP2016N Manual Therapy 1 C A1/2/3 See note 2
SP2011N Rehabilitation 2 C A2/A3 See note 2
SP2E01N Project Preparation C A1/A3 Subject employability core Choice of module – see notes D One from list below
H Autumn SP3P02N Project C A1/2/3 See notes 1 & 3
SP3014N Manual Therapy 2 C A2/A3 See note 2
SP3005N Electrotherapy C A2/A3 See note 2
SP3W12N Sports Therapy Placement C A1/2/3 See note
Choice of module – see notes D One from list below
Spring SP3P02N Project C 1,2,3 See notes 1 & 3
SP3003N Sports Therapy 3 C A2/A3 See note 2
SP3W12N Sports Therapy Placement C A1/2/3 See note 1 Choice of module – see notes D One from list below Notes
1. These modules run in both the Autumn and Spring semesters 2. These modules are also offered at distance learning
3. SP3P02N Project is a double module that may be taken in Semester A or B or in both semesters.
Designate Choice
Certificate Intermediate Honours Elective
SP2003N Sport Psychology I1 Any module
for which
Performance Assessment2 SP3007N Advanced Sport Psychology1 SP2006N Biomedical
SP2013N Sport Psychology II2 SP3011N Current Issues in Applied Coaching2 NF2007N Metabolic Nutrition NF3009N Sports and Exercise Nutrition SP2004N Sports Biomechanics SP3008N Exercise Physiology II1 SP2014N Sports Coaching
Theory & Practice1
SP3030N Olympic Studies1
1Autumn semester 2Spring Semester
BSc Sports Therapy STH4N
Single Honours Course – Spring entry
31
C Spring SP1004N Human Physiology C A2
-SP1H01N Professional Studies C A1/A2 Subject HE orientation Core; see note 1
SP1003N Functional Anatomy C A2/A3 See note 1 and 2.
SP1007N Sports Therapy 1 C A1/A2 See note 2
Autumn SP1002N Basic Sports Science C A1/A2 Subject Core including context MA1034N Data Analysis C A2, A3 See note 1 and 2. Subject IT core SP1005N Sports Training Principles C A3 See note 1
SP1006N Massage C A1/A3 See note 2
I Spring SP2016N Manual Therapy 1 C A1/2,3 See note 2
SP2011N Rehabilitation 2 C A2/A3 See note 2.
SP2E01N Project Preparation C A1/A3 Subject employability core Choice of module – see notes D One from list below
Autumn SP2002N Exercise Physiology I C A2/A3
-SP2008N Sports Therapy 2 C A1/A2 See note 2
SP2010N Rehabilitation 1 C A2/A3 See note 2
Choice of module – see notes D One from list below
H Spring SP3P02N Project C A1/2/3 See notes 1 & 3
SP3003N Sports Therapy 3 C A2/A3 See note 2.
SP3W12N Sports Therapy Placement C A1/ 2/3 See note 1 Choice of module – see notes D One from list below
Autumn SP3P02N Project C A1/2/3 See notes 1 & 2
SP3014N Manual Therapy 2 C A2/A3 See note 2
SP3005N Electrotherapy C A2/A3 See note 2
Choice of module – see notes D Notes
1. These modules run in both the Autumn and Spring semesters 2. These modules can also be taken as distance learning
3. SP3P02N Project is a double module that may be taken in Semester A, Semester B or in both semesters.
Designate Choice
Certificate Intermediate Honours Elective
SP2003N Sport Psychology I1 Any module
for which
Performance Assessment2 SP3009N Applied & Environmental Physiology2
SP3011N Current Issues in Applied Coaching2 SP2004N Sports Biomechanics NF3009N Sports and Exercise Nutrition NF2007N Metabolic Nutrition SP3008N Exercise Physiology II1 SP2013N Sport Psychology II2 SP3030N Olympic Studies1
1Autumn semester 2Spring Semester
27. Assessment diagram
* denotes rolling deadline
Certificate Level
Assessment SP1002N SP1004N SP1005N SP1006N SP1H01N MA1034N
32
Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission
Unseen exam EXU
50 60 50 25
Coursework CWK 50 10 40 4-12 0 12 100 6-12 75 6-11
In-class test CST 50 4-12 30 8
Practical PRA 70 12-14
Practical PRA 1 60 14 40 14
Intermediate
Assessment SP2002N SP2010N SP2011N SP2008N SP2016N SP2E01N
Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission
Unseen exam
33 Honours
Assessment SP3W12N SP3P02N SP3014N SP3003N SP3005N
Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission Weighting Submission
Unseen exam EXU
Coursework CWK 50 11 20 12 40 11 40 6 50 12
Oral presentation ORL
15 15 60 12-14
Practical PRA 50 14 60 14 50 14
Dissertation/Project
NOTE: all SP modules with practical components have an attendance requirement. Students must satisfactorily meet the attendance requirement in order to pass.
28. Additional general comments (if appropriate)
The course provides a suitable basis for progression to postgraduate study and research.
29. Standard University entry requirements, inc APEL/AP(E)L Students should be 18+ on enrolment.
The minimum academic entry qualifications are normally as follows:
GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C or above (or equivalent) plus one of the following:
- a minimum of 200 points from two or more A2/ vocational six-unit awards including Biology or PE or Sports Studies, or a minimum of 200 points from a vocational twelve unit award in Science plus three subjects at GCSE level
For qualifications gained before September 2000 candidates must possess:
A Level: two grade C passes, to include Biology, Sports Studies or PE
GCSE: 3 passes including English and Maths at grade C or above (or equivalent) Post 16 Qualifications: A2 Vocational six-unit award including Biology and Chemistry Advanced GNVQ: Overall Merit including options 9, 10 and 16
BTEC National A pass in BTEC National Diploma in Science or Sports Studies with five merits in the final year including biology-related modules but excluding common skills.
Access Entry from appropriate foundation and access courses will also be considered.
Candidates should obtain a pass in at least 60% of the credit available in each level and pass all Biology-related modules
Scottish Qualifications
Higher Grade 5 passes including either Chemistry or Biology Standard Grade 2 passes in other subjects at grade C or above European or International Baccalaureate
Pass with a minimum of grade 4, in each of six subjects, five of which must be at Higher level and include Biology and another science.
34 NB: In all cases Mathematics is considered a science and English and Mathematics must be passed at either advanced or GCSE level, (Grade C or above) or Higher or Standard grade. All candidates must have a good command of written and spoken English.
30. Career opportunities
Employment opportunities for graduates in sports therapy are diverse. Future state registration as applied for by the Society of Sports Therapists, means that opportunities in the NHS may also be possible. Currently, most of our
graduates work in private clinics or with sports clubs/ teams. Private sector employment is offered by health and fitness organisations, including those operating leisure and fitness centres. Larger private companies and hotels, frequently offer sports and leisure facilities 'in house' and recruit Sports Therapists to run injury clinics.
In a wider context, local authorities provide employment at leisure centres and also in staffing leisure, fitness and health programmes in the community. Many primary health-care trusts fund exercise programmes for those suffering from a range of prevalent health problems, including obesity and cardiovascular disease. Large public bodies and private sector industries engage health and lifestyle professionals to assist in improving the well-being of their workforce. Some sport therapy graduates also work as personal trainers alongside their therapy work.
Ultimately Sports Therapists work with athletes and sports people and offer advice in the prevention and rehabilitation of injury. They can work for: football and rugby clubs, track athletes, racket sports, basketball, netball, hockey etc. They can work either independently or in a larger clinic or as part of a multiprofessional medical team.
31. Course summary
This course enables students to achieve clinical competence, subject-specific knowledge and the ability to relate academic knowledge to the clinical situation. The course is accredited by the Society of Sports Therapists (SST) and provides a strong scientific basis on which to build understanding of the pathologies and management of sports injuries.
On completion, students will be able to diagnose, form and implement treatment/rehabilitative plans of sport injuries or dysfunctions.
32. Course Regulatory Schedule
The course conforms to both the University’s Undergraduate Scheme and the University Academic Regulations, with the following exceptions.
1) The following modules must be passed in order to obtain the Award of BSc Hons Sports Therapy:
SP3014N Manual Therapy 2 SP3005N Electrotherapy
SP3W12N Sports Therapy Placement*
SP3003N Sports Therapy 3
(*a regulatory requirement of UG Degree Scheme)
2) In addition it should be noted that passes in the following modules are prerequisite requirements for SP3W12N Sports Therapy Placement:
3) Students who exit from this programme with a non-honours degree or other lower award will receive the title
“Sports Health Studies” rather than “Sports Therapy”.
4) Student who fulfil the general requirements for an honours degree contained in the Awards Framework, but who fail to meet the specific requirements in paragraph 1 above, will also receive the title “Sports Health Studies” rather than “Sports Therapy”.
35
8.0 USEFUL INFORMATION
Additional information that you will need prior to starting your studies (for example the School of Human Sciences Safety Code of Practice) will be provided during Welcome Week/Induction.
9.0 DIRECTORY OF MODULES FOR THE COURSE
The list of modules that make up the course can be found in the Course Specification above. Full details of
the content of each module may be found by following the links at
the content of each module may be found by following the links at