Master of Science in Sports Performance Analysis at Institute of Technology Carlow

Performance analysis provides the coach and athlete with objective information that helps them understand performance, and improve the coaching process by providing statistical and video information on athlete performance. This process is underpinned by a systematic observation process resulting in valid, reliable and detailed information.

What is the MSc in Sports Performance Analysis about?

This programme has been developed  in response to the marked growth in demand for people with performance analysis knowledge, competencies and skills across a range of sporting teams and National Governing Bodies (NGB's).

This innovative MSc (NFQ Level 9, 90 Credit) programme will prepare graduates for future opportunities in performance analysis by offering a blend of theory and practice, ensuring practical knowledge underpinned with a theoretical foundation. The programme is aligned with a number of national governing bodies of sport to facilitate experiential learning. Graduates will be well equipped  to serve sport organisations and teams (national and international), and feed into and drive the sports performance analysis research agenda, in Ireland and internationally.

Special Features of the programme

Learners undertake an 8-month experiential learning module.They also work with a sports team or teams during the year/ season. This module provides the student with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained in their programme of study, in live sports performance analysis contexts and to facilitate the student in developing the practical competencies, soft skills and communications skills necessary to function as an effective sports performance analyst. This module runs parallel with the learner’s studies. Students have worked with a range of sports teams at differing levels including: underage provincial rugby, senior and underage international basketball teams, senior club teams in Gaelic football, county senior hurling teams, club hockey teams and First Division soccer teams.   

What subjects will I study?                                                     

• Sports Analytics and Insights
• Experiential Learning
• SPA Theory to Practice
• Technology in Sports Performance Analysis
• Performance Analysis and the Coaching Environment
• Biomechanics and Movement Analysis of Sport
• Research Methods Dissertation

Study & Career Opportunities

This programme is highly vocational and practical and is carefully aligned to industry demands, yet underpinned by solid theoretical foundations. The programme will be beneficial to those wishing to seek future opportunities in performance analysis, those currently employed within a club or organisation with a performance analysis role, and coaches who want to enhance their knowledge and skill set.

Students also have access to our innovative Sports Performance Analysis Lab at IT Carlow. They will have the opportunity to learn how to use and apply the latest performance analysis software to their practice (Sportscode Elite, NacSport, Dartfish and Quintic).