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IUSCA Degree Accreditation
The International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association (IUSCA) is an international accreditation body in the Higher Education (HE) sector. The IUSCA Degree Accreditation program is designed to evaluate, recognise, and accredit exceptional academic programs in S&C, sports performance and exercise science.
The rigorous accreditation process ensures that the institutions we endorse consistently demonstrate excellence in curriculum, faculty, and resources, preparing their graduates for successful careers in the industry.
The IUSCA Degree Accreditation program has therefore established a profile of skills that employers will be able to recognise in graduates from accredited degrees.
These qualities include:
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The ability to utilise scientific thinking in a variety of contexts
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Breadth and depth of knowledge within S&C
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The ability to write and communicate with clarity and effectiveness
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Demonstrated technical abilities
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Significant experience as a practitioner (750 hours or 1500 hours at master's Level)
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The ability to review and evaluate their own and others' practice and performance
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Benefits of Degree Accreditation
By pursuing an IUSCA Accredited Degree, students are assured that they will receive gold-standard education, have access to world-class facilities and teaching, and be guaranteed significant practical experience.
They will also benefit from unlimited free access IUSCA Video content and Short Courses, on the way to graduating with vocational qualifications and a full professional accreditation.
Benefits to Universities:
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Confirmation of academic quality and integrity
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Can provide students with access to IUSCA Video and Short Courses
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Ability to award vocational qualifications at Level 2 and Level 4
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The only way to award students with full practitioner Accreditation (aISCP status) upon graduation
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Increased potential for student recruitment (+31% applications)
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Enhanced student satisfaction (+11%) and attainment (+14%)
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Links to a wide network of partners, employers, and students
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External, independent review and feedback
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Sharing of best practices
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International recognition
Benefits to Students:
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The only way to gain full professional accreditation directly upon graduation
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Increased employability in a competitive job market
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Confidently pursue a degree of the highest quality
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Enjoy international recognition and the ability to work immediately after graduation
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Attend online conferences, webinars, and events for free
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Free Access to IUSCA Video featuring leading figures in the field (including Ron McKeefery, JB Morin, Brad Schoenfeld, Lorena Torres, Tim Suchomel, Richard Blagrove, and many more).
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Unlimited access to On-Demand CPD Courses
Prospective Students:
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Assurance that your intended degree course is fit for purpose and provides a competitive advantage in the job market
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Guaranteed practical experience
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Able to obtain vocational qualifications and industry accreditation during your degree
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Access to quality internships and industry placements
Benefits to Employers:
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Confidence in hiring high-quality applicants with specific, relevant experience in the field
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Access to internationally qualified staff that fulfils best practice guidelines and health and safety requirements
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The only accreditation that guarantees significant practical experience
Which courses are eligible?
The IUSCA grants Degree Accredited status to BSc (Hons) and MSc degrees in the UK, or BS and MS degrees in the USA, or equivalent, depending on the country. While specialized courses in Strength and Conditioning may make it easier to meet all the necessary criteria, the IUSCA Degree Accreditation is suitable for any course related to Sports Science, Exercise Science, or other related fields.
For instance, a BSc in Sport & Exercise Science (SES) would likely satisfy most of the criteria, but students may need to be proactive in obtaining the required practical experience hours and submitting a substantial portfolio.
Accreditation Process:
The IUSCA Degree Accreditation process evaluates academic programs based on the following criteria:
Curriculum: Comprehensive coverage of essential topics in sports performance and exercise science.
Faculty: Highly qualified and experienced educators with a strong background in research and/or professional practice.
Resources: Access to state-of-the-art facilities, equipment, and technology to support hands-on learning and skill development.
Student Support: Effective academic and career support services to foster student success and growth.
Continuous Improvement: Ongoing efforts to enhance program quality, incorporating
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Internationally Accredited
and Independently Regulated
The IUSCA Accreditation Committee (IAC) awards Degree Accreditation, which is globally recognised due to our status as an international accreditation body. As the leading accreditor of strength and conditioning (S&C) provision within Higher Education (HE), we utilise standardised course levels rated on the International Qualification Framework (IQF) to ensure stakeholders understand the requirements and competencies of suitably qualified individuals.
Oversight and External Validation by IQF-IRC
To enhance credibility and global recognition, the IQF Independent Regulatory Council (IQF-IRC) serves as the independent regulatory body overseeing and externally validating the entire accreditation process. This ensures that the evaluations and accreditations conducted by the IAC adhere to rigorous international standards.
Degree Program Accreditations
Undergraduate Degree Programs:
Graduates of our partner undergraduate degree programs (who attain a 2:1 or 3.0 GPA, complete 750 hours of practical experience, and maintain a practitioner portfolio) are awarded Accredited International Strength and Conditioning Practitioner (aISCP)® status at IQF Level 6. This level is designed to align with globally recognised standards such as those set by organizations like the NSCA, UKSCA, and ASCA, ensuring international comparability and recognition.
Master’s Degree Programs:
Graduates of accredited master’s degree programs are awarded aISCP*m status, signifying their advanced attainment through a higher degree. This is rated at IQF Level 7, reflecting a higher level of expertise and specialization.
Embedded Certification Options
Educational institutions have the option to embed the following IQF certifications within their degree programs:
IUSCA IQF Level 2 Certified Strength and Conditioning Instructor®: Can be integrated within the first or second year of study. This entry-level certification enables students to gain foundational skills and seek employment in the sector early in their academic journey.
IUSCA IQF Level 4 Certified Strength and Conditioning Practitioner®: Can be integrated within the second or third year of study. This certification provides students with advanced skills and knowledge, enhancing their employability and practical competence.
IUSCA IQF Level 6 Accredited International Strength and Conditioning Practitioner (aISCP)®: This can be awarded directly upon graduation from an undergraduate program to students who meet the relevant criteria.
IUSCA IQF Level 7 Accredited International Strength and Conditioning Practitioner by Masters (aISCP*m): This can be awarded directly upon graduation following a master's program.
By embedding these certifications, institutions provide students with valuable credentials that align with industry standards and improve their career prospects.
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Contact US
To learn more about the IUSCA Degree Accreditation, please contact us at courses@iusca.org or click the link below to request the Degree Accreditation Handbook.
Download Degree Accreditation Handbook
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Recent Degree Accredited Institutions and Partners
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