Sport Science and -Physical Education MEd
What will you learn?
Please note that his programme is only taught in Icelandic.
Students accrue 120 ECTS credits throughout a two-year MEd in Sport Science and Physical Education. The curriculum prioritises education and pedagogy, psychology, sport science, and public health science, merging academic rigour with industry relevance.
During the first year, students study training and sport science, highlighting the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and encouraging structured and varied physical activity for people of all ages.
During the second academic year, students undertake paid internships (50%) as physical education teachers in kindergartens and primary and secondary schools, in addition to courses such as course material preparation. The emphasis is on education and pedagogy, psychology, and sport science.
Individuals can qualify for a teaching certificate after completing the MEd degree and meeting certain conditions.
Opportunities for Specialisation
Students are encouraged to do a project in their chosen field. The projects might be aimed toward toddlers, teenagers, or adults, allowing students to specialise. They are also encouraged to explore a variety of subjects to broaden their knowledge and skills. This is accomplished, for example, by working with people of all ages or in various disciplines of study, such as nutrition, training, or research.
It was especially beneficial for me to complete an internship and understand things that cannot be taught in a classroom. The RU facilities are among the best in the country, and the staff is personal.
Dagný brynjarsdóttir, MED IN SPORT AND HEALTH EDUCATION, SOCCER PLAYER FOR WEST HAM UNITED
How will you learn?
Through classroom learning and completing a research project, RU's Department of Sport Science emphasises students' grasp of evidence-based methodology and receipt of targeted training to apply what they've learned.
Courses
In the programme's first half, students take courses in psychological training, performance analysis, statistics and methodology, measurement and training of children.
Additionally, they learn strategies to maximise performance through training based on physiology, training, psychology, nutrition, technology, and organisation.
The primary goal is to improve teachers' ability to communicate information in their profession to students while establishing a dynamic learning environment that encourages job satisfaction, independence, and creative thinking.
Most courses follow a six-week cycle.
Instruction Training
The emphasis is on students developing teaching skills for diverse age groups. The key objectives are teaching in primary and secondary schools and training for given lectures. During the second academic year, students work part-time (50%) as sports instructors in primary schools, in addition to project-based courses.
Partner with CDIO
The Department of Sport Science is a member of the International Cooperation Network CDIO (Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate). According to the ideology, students are given a solid academic foundation while working on practical assignments and group problem-solving.
Paid Internship
In the second academic year, students spend 50% of their time working as sports instructors in elementary schools. The student independently seeks an internship for a teaching position and is hired from August 1st to July 31st, with approval from the department. The student shares responsibilities equally with other teachers at his school. RU is professionally accountable for the internship, but students receive teacher guidance.
Working with other Departments
The Department of Sport Science collaborates with other faculties within the university to provide a well-rounded education to its students such as psychology.
Innovation with other Departments
At RU, students enrolled in the master's programme can take courses in innovation and entrepreneurial studies from several departments at the institution. These courses aim to improve student's knowledge and skills in all significant areas of innovation, including theoretical understanding, creative problem-solving, product development, strategic planning, management, and financing. Upon completing 30 credits in this subject, students can graduate with a specialisation in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Scientists and Experts
Students enrolled in the master's programme benefit from guidance from some of RU's leading researchers in the field and guest lecturers with experience in coaching and sport. Teachers at RU are in good relations with students. The Department of Sport Science supervises sports science studies and education.
Do you have any questions about the curriculum?
Whats next?
Teacher Certification
The programme is designed specifically for individuals who wish to become physical training instructors and work in public health for individuals of all ages. It also suits them seeking to advance their careers as working sports instructors in primary and secondary schools.
The MEd degree in Sport Science and Physical Education certifies students with a BSc in Sport Science from RU with a Teacher Certification at kindergarten, primary and secondary school levels. BSc degrees from other universities are reviewed during admissions.
Conditions for a Teaching Certification
To earn a Teaching Certification after graduation, you must have achieved the competencies defined in Act No. 95 of July 1, 2019.
Knowledge upon Graduation
After graduation, students must understand the fundamental principles and theories of education, coaching, training physiology, and health promotion. They should be able to use a variety of practical coaching approaches, with a focus on sport science, as well as strategies for boosting students' self-esteem and confidence. They dealt with problems that arose in the work of teachers and organised coaching and training for various groups/individuals based on their specific needs.
The RU facilities and services are excellent. The programme has prepared me well for my profession as a sports teacher, and I learned how to tackle a variety of circumstances that may happen in class. If you want to train, educate, and approach your profession scientifically and practically, this programme is for you.
Structure
Organization and Structure
The MEd in Sport Science and Physical Education is a two-year, 120 ECTS programme.
Exercise and Sport Science
The programme comprises 75 ECTS programmes in theories of instruction and a 45 ECTS programme in sport science for 120 ECTS. Most first-year courses are taught in six-week sessions.
Paid Internship
During the second academic year, students undertake paid internships (50%) as physical education teachers in kindergartens and primary and secondary schools, in addition to courses such as course material preparation. The emphasis is on education and pedagogy, psychology, and sport science.
Elective and Compulsory Courses
The curriculum consists of 110 ECTS of compulsory courses and 10 ECTS of elective courses. However, there must always be a minimum of 60 ECTS in pedagogy and 60 ECTS in a subject. Students can take courses in different subjects and departments at the school and from other universities in collaboration with the Department of Sport Science.
Courses
The programme consists of courses that cover topics including theories of instruction, the instructor's role, teaching and assessment methodologies, the preventative benefits of physical exercise, factors influencing health, and health training. Additionally, it explores strategies to improve quality of life through organised exercise at all ages, using principles from education and pedagogy, psychology, and sport science.
Did you know?
Grants are available to support students during their final year.
Facilities
Good service and facilities
Teaching occurs online, at the RU's university building, and in a gym. The Department of Sports Science also has excellent teaching and research facilities. Among other things, you can find:
- A treadmill, rowing machine, Wingate bike, and Atom X Wattbike are used to assess endurance.
- Equipment for measuring maximum oxygen uptake and lactic acid production.
- Lifting racks, bars, weight plates, dumbbells, kettlebells, TRX bands, elastic bands, and workout balls.
- Tanita is used to assess body composition, fat-free mass, proportion of fat mass, and basic energy requirements.
- Various measurement equipment for use in the field, such as timing gates, jumping mats, grip strength testers, and FMS tests
- Kinvent force metre
Reykjavík University has good facilities for teaching, reading, and group work rooms. The classrooms are well-equipped, and students can use group work areas. Students have access to general facilities 24/7. Find out more about the facilities. (vantar link, líka á íslensku.)
Service and good Facilities
The university facility offers easy access to study and career help, an international office, and technical aid. The library provides good and diverse working facilities. It provides access to books and scholarly publications, and information specialists host open hours during which students can browse around, ask questions, and obtain assistance with reference work.
Shops and Cafe
RU facilities include the Háskólbúðin (convenience store), a cafe, a World Class training facility, and the Málið restaurant sale.
Teachers
Scientists and Specialists
Students benefit from the mentorship of leading scientists and guest lecturers with subject expertise.
Other Teachers
Why Sport Science at RU?
- Intensive vocational training
- Opportunities for specialisation based on interests
- Excellent facilities
- Good access to teachers
- A collaborative group of students