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FdSc Golf Coaching and Performance

About the course

The course is delivered at University Centre Myerscough and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire. The Foundation Degree in Golf Coaching and Performance has been designed to develop suitably trained and qualified graduates to gain rewarding and exciting careers in the golf industry. It is an intellectually stimulating course, with a strong practical focus enabling students to develop their practical skills, academic knowledge, sports science support and coaching experience.

Additionally the programme offers students a wonderful insight into the performance elements of elite golf. The course provides students with a plethora of sports science and golf coaching concepts that will relate to game improvement. This will equip them with a holistic understanding of golf performance, which they can adopt as part of their own and fellow golfers’ performance development.

It is not a pre-requisite to be an elite player to succeed on the course. However, students are expected to have a keen interest in the development of elite golf performance.

Course modules

Year 1

Introduction to Biomechanics and Physiology

This module will use a theoretical base to develop an understanding of essential terminology and, importantly, the application of biomechanical and technological principles to the performance and analysis of golf.

Introduction to Sports Psychology`

This module is designed to introduce the student to the relationship between psychological factors and performance in golf.

Academic and Vocational Skills

This module provides students with first-hand experience where students will use their industry environment to develop practical and technical skills. Students will record and reflect on their own personal development during the module.

Sports Performance (Double module)

This module will also introduce students to fundamental anatomy and physiology, applied to sport (golf) and exercise performance contexts. It also covers the scientific basis of fitness testing and subsequent prescription of training for golf and exercise.

Coaching Principles and Practice

This module provides the theory of the coaching process. It identifies the main philosophies, styles and practices of golf coaching. These include skill acquisition, delivery techniques, child protection, equity and coaching and the law.

Year 2

Industry Project

This module applies the practical, technical and personal skills developed in the Academic and Vocational Skills module previously. It will utilise a structured work environment for students to identify a suitable project, and work with their supervisor in developing and managing the project and reporting on the outcomes. Students will be encouraged to use the work project to develop professional working relationships and identify their chosen career options.

Sports Performance Analysis

This module provides a framework in which golf coaches can apply the coaching process and develop techniques to evaluate golf performance. This will include a review of pertinent scientific elements of training/performance with students engaging in appropriate coaching practical sessions to elaborate upon the theoretical themes.

Talent Identification and Sport Development

The aim of this module is to provide the student with an understanding of performance pathways developed by organisations to develop players to their full potential and the theory associated with the selection of those players. Furthermore the module will provide students with an insight to the development of golf both nationally and internationally.

Coaching for Sport Performance

This module gives the student the opportunity to develop and appreciate the coaching skills, techniques and strategies for golf. It develops an awareness in students of the demands and considerations of golf coaching.

Research Development

The aim of this module is to develop the ability of students to undertake investigative research and underpin dissertation and double project work at Level 6. The module will focus upon information-related academic and market research skills, research methodology, data collection techniques, data analysis and writing skills.

Training and Conditioning for Sport Performance

The module applies specific conditioning practices to the enhancement of performance, and utilises the key performance indicators outlined by the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Entry requirements & additional information

Entry requirements

5 GCSE passes at Grade C (4) or above (including Maths and English or equivalent)

Plus 48 UCAS Tariff points from one or more of the following:

· 2 A-levels (A2), at least one at C or above

· BTEC/C&G Level 3

· 2 Scottish Highers at C or above

· 3 Irish Highers at C or above

· International Baccalaureate at 24 points

· NVQ Level 3 in a relevant discipline

AS levels, BTEC Subsidiary Diploma and Scottish Intermediate 2s may be used to contribute to entry requirements but they are not sufficient for entry on their own. Alternative equivalent qualifications will also be considered positively.

Applicants who believe they may be eligible for Accreditation of Prior Certificated and/or Experiential Learning (APCL/APEL) for certain modules will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants for whom English is a second language must be able to demonstrate proof of International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at level 6.0 (with no component score lower than 5.5) or equivalent.

All offers may be subject to successful interview

Learning and assessment

Learning Environment:

Learning activities on the course are diverse, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops. Students will be expected to undertake extensive independent study and research to support lectures, seminars and assessments. Students will also have access to Myerscough's virtual learning environment.

To assist in the delivery of the modules and the development of students' golf skills the College has a number of fantastic facilities. These include: a 9 hole golf course, a driving range, video analysis equipment, biomechanics RS Footscan, Science & Motion putting lab, Flightscope, Trackman, K-Vest, Indoor Golf Academy, Sports Centre and Fitness Suite, putting and chipping areas, and golf simulators (including GC2).

Assessment:

Students will face a variety of assessments including workbooks; sports science laboratory and field based testing; essays; reports, group and individual presentations, student led practical sessions and personal development files.

What work experience can I get?

There is no formal work placement on this course. The Academic and Vocational Skills and Industry Project modules will utilise both on and off site working environments to provide the opportunity for students to develop real practical and technical skills and help prepare them for employment in their chosen subject area.

Students will have the opportunity to develop their sport science and coaching skills working with the College's Golf Academy members and fellow students. Students will have opportunity to use modular and extra-curricular activities to enrich their golf performance work experience.

Progression

On successful completion of this Foundation Degree, students will have the opportunity to apply to the BSc (Hons) Golf Coaching and Performance (Top-up) degree.

Careers

What careers can you follow?

This Foundation Degree in Golf Performance leads to employment opportunities in the following fields:

  • Golf Sport Science Consultant e.g. Biomechanist, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Nutritionist, Exercise Physiologist, Sports Psychologist
  • Golf Coach
  • Golf Development Programmes
  • Golf Retail Industry
  • Golf Professional

Professional accreditations

Links with Professional Body:

The College works closely with the Royal and Ancient (R&A) and England Golf (EG)

Special requirements

Additional costs for items that are essential for the course include:

  • Student corporate clothing - £75.00

Additional costs for opportunities and items that are optional for the course include:

  • Dunhill Links Championship, St Andrews (PGA European Tour) - £100.00
  • Turkish Airlines Open, Antalya (PGA European Tour) - £625.00
  • BMW PGA Championship, Wentworth (PGA European Tour) - £120.00
  • Warm Weather Training Camp, Vilamoura, Portugal - £725.00
  • Golf Course (Myerscough College GC) Membership - £49.00
  • Annual Locker Hire - £10
  • Collegiate / Prospects Tour Membership - £100 (+ fee per qualifying event)

UCLan Sports Scholarship

The University of Central Lancashire offers opportunities for student athletes to be supported with their aspirations of maintaining their playing career whilst also studying for a high-quality degree. Our panel will consider applicants as part of the admissions cycle and will offer support to those they feel will make a valuable contribution to the University’s sporting objectives. Find out more and how to apply on their website