Sport Science MSc
What will I learn?
In Master of Sport Science, you are required to complete 120 ECTS. Upon enrollment, you can select one of three emphases: Psychology, Coaching, or Performance Analysis. Learn more about each pathway below and the program's structure here.
The program is fully taught in English.
The programme is composed of courses designed to encourage independent work and familiarize students with the latest research and methods in sport science. Students can tailor the courses to their areas of interest and gain skills that enable them to work with athletes and organizations at all performance levels.
The programme is research-based, academic, and practical, culminating in a 30-credit final project in the specialization chosen by the student.
MSc in Sport Science with an emphasis on Coaching
Includes specialization in the training of athletes and research in the field of sport science. The programme comprises subjects that discuss, among other things, sports research and research methods, the organization and philosophy of training, and how to maximize capacity through training based on the principles of physiology, training, psychology, and nutrition.
MSc in Sport Science with a Focus on Performance Analysis
Includes specialization in sports-related data analysis. The programme comprises subjects that deal with sport science and how to analyze and use data to improve decision-making and performance. Students learn to analyse performance with video analysis programs and sports analysis devices (e.g., GPS). Students also study data science. This programme is for anyone interested in applying technology and data science to improve the performance of their athletes.
MSc in Sports Science with an Emphasis on Sport Psychology
Includes specialisation in evidence-based sport psychology methods to help athletes maximize their performance and well-being during training and competition. It also discusses how sport psychology methods can be used in other areas where performance is important. The programme comprises subjects that deal with sport science and sport psychology.
Students in the master's programme in sport science may have the option to complete an internship aligned with their area of specialisation.
Students in the master's programme in sport science may have the option to complete an internship aligned with their area of specialisation.
A Unique Program
The MSc in Exercise Science is unique in Iceland, focusing on coaching competitive and elite athletes and utilising the latest cutting-edge sport science research. Students can work on projects related to their interests across all courses, strongly emphasising linking research to practical applications.
Micro-Credential Programmes
Specialization in sports-related data analysis. The programme comprises subjects that deal with sports science and how to analyze and use data to improve decision-making and performance. Students learn to analyse performance with video analysis programs and sports analysis devices (e.g. GPS). Students also study data science. This programme is for anyone interested in applying technology and data science to improve the performance of their athletes.
The program is fully taught in English.
- Credits: 30 ECTS
- Language: English
- Length of study: One year
Includes specialization in sports-related data analysis. The programme comprises subjects that deal with sports science and how to analyze and use data to improve decision-making and performance. Students learn to analyse performance with video analysis programs and sports analysis devices (e.g. GPS). Students also study data science. This programme is for anyone interested in applying technology and data science to improve the performance of their athletes.
Courses Students Take
- Sports Analysis and Feedback - Fall
- Sports analytics - Spring
- Sports Performance Topics - Fall
Learning Format
Most courses are taught in modules, five weeks + one week for project work. Typically, classes are held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 12:40 PM to 3:10 PM GMT.
Renowned International and Local Scholars
Leading international scholars in strength and endurance training, sports nutrition, sports psychology, and exercise physiology will share their knowledge and experience with students.
Here are examples of some of the leading international scholars that have taught at our program last year: Dan Gould, Robert Weinberg, Hugh Fullagar, Peter O´Donoghue, Inigo Mujika, Clive Brewer, Ian Jefferys, Chris Curtis, Billy Low, Kevin Tipton, Rick Howard, Rob Duffield, Tim Harkness, Chris Harwood and many others.
New Knowledge
By creating new knowledge in their field, students develop expertise and specialisation, with numerous opportunities to explore questions they seek answers to. Students have addressed questions like:
- “Why is the quality of the Norwegian women's handball team so high?”
- “Does the first goal in the Premier League make the biggest difference?”
- “Do rebounds matter more in basketball playoffs?”
Admission
Students shall have completed undergraduate studies in sports science, physical therapy, health training, biology, education science, or other related disciplines.
In the master's programme, students have the opportunity to work independently on a major project related to their area of interest.
guðrún þórbjörg sturlaugsdóttir
MSc in Sports Science and Coaching (2020)
MEd in Health Coaching and Teaching (2022)
How do I learn?
Most courses are taught in six-week modules.
In the first part of the programme, students complete core courses. These cover topics such as psychological training, performance analysis, statistics and methodology, measurement, and training for children. They also focus on optimizing performance through training grounded in physiology, coaching science, psychology, nutrition, technology, and organization. Students can work on projects in every course that align with their areas of interest.
Students can tailor their studies to their interests in the latter part of the program, particularly through research. The program concludes with a 30-credit final project.
Outstanding Domestic and International Scholars
International scholars who are leaders in strength training, endurance training, sports nutrition, sport psychology, and training physiology share their knowledge and experience with students.
Collaboration with Other Departments
The Department of Sport Science collaborates with other university departments, such as the Engineering Department, which oversees studies in health engineering. There has also been extensive and productive collaboration with the psychology department. Students benefit from these collaborations when conducting research and choosing research topics.
Sponsored Master’s Positions
The Department of Sport Science at HR has agreements with numerous sports federations, such as the Icelandic Football Association (KSÍ), the Icelandic Handball Association (HSÍ), and the Icelandic Basketball Association (KKÍ). Faculty and students conduct athletes' physical and psychological performance assessments and provide training guidance.
Generating New Knowledge
Students develop expertise and specialisation by creating new knowledge in their areas of interest. They are offered various opportunities to delve deeper into questions they wish to explore. For example, students have sought answers to questions such as:
- "Why is the quality of Norway's women’s national handball team so exceptional?"
- "Is scoring the first goal in the Pepsi League the most important factor?"
- "Are rebounds more significant in basketball playoff games?"
Exchange Programs
Students can participate in exchange programs with partner universities such as Molde University College in Norway, Stirling University in Scotland, the German Sport University in Cologne, and the University of Seville in Spain. These institutions are among the world leaders in sport science today.
Any questions?
After graduating
Graduates of the master’s programme in sport science have many career opportunities, including sports management and coaching positions. Individuals with an MSc in sport science currently work as head coaches of sports clubs, project managers for elite sports programs, sportscientists in mental health, elite coaches, and personal trainers, to name a few.
Knowledge Gained Upon Graduation
Graduates are expected to possess knowledge of training philosophies and factors influencing athletes' physical and mental health. They should also have a solid theoretical foundation in methodology and key concepts and theories in sports nutrition.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the master’s program in sport science have numerous career paths. Here are some possibilities:
Coaching
- Head coaches at sports clubs
- Project managers for elite sports programmes
- Elite and strength coaches
- Personal trainers
Sport Management
- Leadership roles within sports organizations
Further Studies
- PhD programs
Structure
The programme is a two-year, 120 ECTS programme.
The master's thesis (E-899-THES) is worth 30 ECTS credits.
Facility
Facilities and Services
Teaching takes place at RU's university building and a fitness centre. The Department of Sport Science has access to excellent facilities for teaching and research, including:
- Treadmills, rowing machines, Wingate bikes, and Atom X Wattbikes for endurance testing
- Equipment to measure maximal oxygen uptake and lactate production
- Weightlifting racks, bars, plates, dumbbells, kettlebells, TRX bands, resistance bands, and exercise balls
- Tanita measurement devices to assess body composition, fat-free mass, fat-mass ratio, and basal metabolic rate
- Various field-testing tools, such as timing gates, jump mats, grip strength meters, and FMS mobility tests
- Force meters from Kinvent
Classrooms and Study Spaces
The Reykjavik University building offers excellent teaching, studying, and student collaboration facilities. Classrooms are well-equipped, and students can make use of group work rooms. General facilities are available to students 24/7. For more details about HR's facilities, visit the HR website.
Comprehensive Services
The university building provides easy access to academic and career counselling, the international office, and technical support. The library offers diverse study spaces, access to books and academic articles, and scheduled sessions where information specialists assist students with research and citation work.
Shops and Cafés
At HR, the campus includes the university shop and café, providing convenient options for students.
Faculty
Scientists and Experts
Students benefit from the guidance of skilled scientists in their field and guest lecturers with specialized knowledge from the industry. HR instructors typically maintain strong communication with students.
Why Sports Science at RU?
- Intensive vocational training
- Opportunities for specialisation based on interests
- Excellent facilities
- Good access to teachers
- A collaborative group of students