The International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association (IUSCA) is proud to announce that Manchester Metropolitan University’s MSc in Strength and Conditioning has been awarded prestigious Degree Accreditation by IUSCA. This recognition marks the programme amongst elite institutions offering the gold standard in strength and conditioning (S&C) education and highlights its commitment to producing graduates who are industry-ready, with both advanced academic knowledge and practical expertise.
The IUSCA Degree Accreditation is the only fully embedded practitioner certification available in the field, integrating an IQF Level 7 certification directly into the programme. This ensures that graduates not only leave with a master’s degree but also with an internationally recognised professional qualification, providing a competitive edge in the global job market.
The hallmark qualities of an IUSCA Accredited International Strength and Conditioning Practitioner (aISCP*m) include:
The ability to utilise scientific thinking to facilitate independent thought within S&C
Comprehensive breadth and depth of knowledge within S&C
The ability to write and communicate with clarity and effectiveness
Demonstrated advanced technical abilities
Significant experience as a practitioner (1500 hours)
The ability to review and evaluate their own and others' practice and performance
Dr. Sam Barraclough, Lecturer on the MSc in Strength and Conditioning, emphasised the significance of the accreditation:“Securing the degree accreditation from the IUSCA is a significant achievement for the MSc in Strength and Conditioning at Manchester Metropolitan University. Our course is designed to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and its practical application in real-world settings. As such, becoming an IUSCA accredited degree ensures our programme aligns with industry standards, offering students the chance to obtain an internationally recognised qualification alongside completing their master’s degree. Partnering with the IUSCA provides us with a robust accreditation pathway, empowering our graduates and providing them with a competitive edge as they transition into strength and conditioning roles and other future careers.”
The MSc in Strength and Conditioning at Manchester Met is designed for graduates and current practitioners, offering a multidisciplinary approach to enhancing athletic performance and mitigating injury risk across diverse populations. Students gain a comprehensive education that combines practical and laboratory experience, research skills, and a deep understanding of the scientific and coaching theories underpinning effective training methods.
Taught by experts at the world-class Institute of Sport, students have access to outstanding facilities in the heart of Manchester, a city renowned for its sporting achievements. As part of a large and diverse sporting community, students benefit from connections with academics and sport professionals with a range of specialisms. A key feature of the programme is the opportunity to gain real-world experience through work placements. Students can choose from opportunities in leading clubs, organizations, and sports tech companies, including partnerships with England Para Football, Manchester City FC Academy, British Swimming, and professional rugby union club Sale Sharks.
Andrew Langford, Director of the IUSCA, highlighted the importance of this achievement:“We are delighted to accredit Manchester Metropolitan University’s MSc in Strength and Conditioning. The programme combines world-class academic instruction with a strong emphasis on practical skills and professional certification, creating a pathway for students to excel in this dynamic and evolving field. Manchester Met has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to preparing its students for leadership roles in the industry, and this accreditation highlights the exceptional quality of their program.”
Students enrolled in the program also gain unlimited access to IUSCA’s exclusive video content and practitioner-focused short courses, allowing them to remain at the forefront of the latest advancements in strength and conditioning.
This accreditation affirms Manchester Met’s position as a leader in S&C education, offering students a unique opportunity to gain advanced knowledge, significant practical experience, and a globally recognized certification, preparing them for impactful careers in the industry.
For more information about the MSc in Strength and Conditioning at Manchester Metropolitan University, visit MSc Strength and Conditioning · Manchester Metropolitan University
To learn more about IUSCA Degree Accreditation, please visit: https://www.iusca.org/degree-accreditation
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