MSc Youth Athletic Development at Cardiff Metropolitan University

Programme overview

The MSc Youth Athletic Development is a blended-learning postgraduate degree (180 credits) focused on youth strength and conditioning. Theory is delivered online, with one week of on-campus practical delivery each term at the Cyncoed Campus. Work-based learning is a key element of the programme.

Faculty: Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences | Duration: 16 months to 2 years full time; 3-5 years part time | Intake: 2027 | Location: Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom

What you will study

Modules cover Fundamentals of Youth Athletic Development, Injury Risk in Youth, Fitness Development in Youth and Research Methods, with a 40-credit Internship (or Independent Study and Preparation and Planning for Strength & Conditioning) and a 60-credit Final Project. Topics include growth and maturation, talent identification, assessment and monitoring, and strength, power, speed and energy system development in youth.

Career pathways

Graduates can continue to MPhil/PhD study or work as strength and conditioning coaches with professional sports teams, national governing bodies and schools, or in the wider health and fitness industry. Some may combine the subject with a PGCE.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold an honours degree (2:1 or above) in a sport or exercise related area, or in another discipline acceptable to the Programme Director. Candidates with exceptional and extensive work experience in coaching, the health and fitness industry, sport science or exercise science are also considered. Selection is normally based on the application and a CV. International applicants whose first language is not English need IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,000 for the whole programme (2026/27). Full-time home Postgraduate Masters (including MRes) fee as listed; period not stated in the table. Source

International applicants: GBP 17,600 for the whole programme (2026/27). Full-time international Postgraduate Masters (including MRes) fee as listed. Source

Intake: 2027

Duration: 16 months to 2 years full time; 3-5 years part time

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