STUDY

Sport and exercise are inherently subjective experiences, deeply influenced by psychological and social dimensions. Whether or not a sport and exercise psychologist is present, psychological aspects play a vital role in enjoyment, learning, and performance. For instance, a recreational runner may thrive on intrinsic motivation and goal-setting, while an elite athlete may struggle with stress and benefit from resilience strategies. This module highlights these critical connections.

Coaching, at its core, is an interpersonal process. The actions and behaviours of a coach shape the experiences of athletes. For example, a coach designing an inclusive training environment that balances challenge with support can significantly enhance athletes' enjoyment, commitment, and performance. From selecting tasks and arranging equipment to providing direct feedback, coaching decisions are pivotal in shaping athletic outcomes.

As future professionals, you will also confront their own psychological dynamics. They must develop their professional philosophy, personal style, and capacity to manage challenging situations. For example, self-regulating under pressure during a high-stakes match not only demonstrates professionalism but also models resilience for athletes. This module will establish foundational knowledge for you to understand themselves as future professionals, others as clients or athletes, and the psychological underpinnings of behaviour and performance in sport and exercise settings.

In this module, you will explore a range of topics within the field of sport and exercise psychology. The journey begins with understanding the definition of sport and exercise psychology, including the discipline's scope and foundational principles. You will then gain insight into the professional field, examining the roles, contexts, and contributions of sport and exercise psychologists.

A focus will also be placed on the psychological challenges in coaching, analysing common issues coaches face in their professional practice. Building on this, you will develop a holistic understanding of people and behaviour, adopting a comprehensive approach to analysing human behaviour and performance.

The module includes an exploration of descriptive traits, with general insights into traits and specific research topics such as physical impairments, personality, motivation, social roles, sport experience, and healthy habits. This is complemented by an exploration of descriptive states, which covers topics like brain wave activation patterns, emotions, thoughts, social attitudes, and decision-making processes.

Further, you will delve into the exploration of external factors that influence behaviour and performance. These include coaching styles, parental involvement, organisational stressors, task design in motor learning, and dual-career challenges. By integrating these elements, the module aims to provide a deeper understanding of behaviour and performance, highlighting how they are shaped by stable traits, variable states, and external influences.

Finally, you will be introduced to the concept of self-regulation, exploring foundational strategies for managing behaviour and enhancing performance.

Understanding how the body responds and adapts to exercise is essential for appreciating the benefits of physical activity on health and performance. Equally important is recognising the role of nutrition in fueling these processes, influencing acute responses during exercise, and driving long-term physiological adaptations. Understanding how cells, tissues, organs, and systems respond to exercise and nutritional stimuli is critical for building a successful career in sports science. 

Proper nutrition underpins energy production, recovery, and adaptation, from supporting metabolic pathways during exercise to optimising protein synthesis, reducing inflammation, and enhancing immune function in the acute phase. Over time, strategic nutritional strategies contribute to system-level adaptations, such as improved cardiovascular efficiency, enhanced muscle function, and better metabolic health. 

The application of this integrated understanding spans a wide range of career paths, including laboratory research in molecular or cellular physiology, clinical roles in cardiac or respiratory health, designing strength and conditioning programs for athletes, or tailoring nutritional plans to optimise performance and recovery. Additionally, analysing data for talent identification and team performance often requires expertise in both physiology and nutrition to provide actionable insights. 

This module equips you with the principles of physiology and nutrition necessary to understand exercise responses while ensuring they are prepared to make valid, reliable performance assessments and apply their knowledge across the diverse professional domains of sport and exercise sciences. 

You will explore the fundamental principles of exercise physiology and nutrition, focusing on how key variables are measured, quantified, and interpreted. This foundational knowledge will support their understanding of more advanced topics in sport and exercise sciences throughout their studies. 

The module content, alongside guided independent study, will examine how exercise physiologists investigate the functions of the energy systems, as well as the nervous, endocrine, respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and digestive systems. You will explore how nutrition interacts with these systems, including its role in fuelling exercise, supporting energy metabolism, and optimising system-level adaptations, such as enhanced cardiovascular efficiency and muscle function. 

The digestive system will be studied in relation to nutrient absorption and energy availability, emphasising its importance in supporting physical activity and recovery. You will also examine how protein synthesis is regulated through exercise and dietary intake, alongside the impact of macronutrient and micronutrient modifications on metabolic health, performance, and recovery. 

“Performance analysis is an objective way of recording performance so that key elements of that performance can be quantified in a valid and consistent manner” (International Society of Performance Analysis in Sport). Performance analysis is used in a variety of ways, in a variety of professional sporting environments. Performance analysis enables athletes, coaches and exercise professionals to objectively appraise performance characteristics and tactics of sporting play/activity. In order to achieve this valuable insight into the effectiveness of sports performance, the professional analyst must possess knowledge of the tactical and technical requirements of that sport, as well as understanding the methods and tools used to record, measure and analyse performance. 

In this module, you will explore the theoretical basis of sports performance analysis, before progressing onto investigating ways in which valid and consistent measurement and evaluation techniques may be conducted. Sporting applications will include individual and team-based sports. You will also cover material concerning the professional requirements of a performance analyst. 

This module will introduce you to the core principles of sports and exercise biomechanics and explore their application within strength and conditioning. You will achieve a foundational knowledge of biomechanical principles and their application in optimising human movement and performance. This module explores key concepts such as force, motion, levers, and joint mechanics, enabling you to understand how the body generates and transfers force during physical training. By examining these principles, you will develop skills to analyse movement patterns and identify inefficiencies to enhance performance and reduce injury risk. Tailored for aspiring strength and conditioning professionals, this module bridges the gap between theoretical biomechanics and practical application, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in the field. 

You will study the theoretical principles that govern a biomechanical analysis of human motion in strength and conditioning. You will investigate the dual roles of kinetics and kinematics and appreciate the respective contribution of each component. You will learn to apply mathematical calculations to describe movement apply this to evaluate exercise training. You will learn how to use their theoretical knowledge gained in this module to real-world biomechanical assessments of sporting performance. You will gain an appreciation of the anatomical features of the musculoskeletal system and understand its functional role during physical activity. On successful completion of this module, you will have had opportunities to study the theoretical principles that govern a biomechanical analysis of human motion in strength and conditioning. You will investigate the dual roles of kinetics and kinematics and appreciate the respective contribution of each component. You will learn to apply mathematical calculations to describe movement apply this to evaluate exercise training. You will learn how to use their theoretical knowledge gained in this module to real-world biomechanical assessments of sporting performance. You gain an appreciation of the anatomical features of the musculoskeletal system and understand its functional role during physical activity. 

In essence, the series of Suffolk Graduate modules are intended to help you learn how to think, not what to think. Developing graduate, professional skills is crucial for you for several reasons: 

• Increased Job Prospects: In today's competitive job market, a degree alone isn't always enough. Employers are increasingly seeking graduates with a diverse skillset beyond their academic knowledge. Skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking are highly valued and can make a student stand out from the crowd. 

• Career Advancement: Professional skills are essential for career growth and advancement. They allow individuals to adapt to new challenges, take on leadership roles, and navigate complex work environments. 

• Enhanced Employability: By developing in-demand skills, you become more adaptable and marketable. This increases their chances of securing employment in their chosen field and opens doors to a wider range of career opportunities. 

• Improved Personal and Professional Development: These skills are not only valuable in the workplace but also in personal life. They foster self-reliance, confidence, and the ability to navigate various situations effectively. 

• Lifelong Learning: Developing professional skills encourages a growth mindset and a commitment to lifelong learning. It equips individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to adapt to an ever-changing world and succeed in their chosen careers. 

By focusing on developing graduate, professional skills alongside their academic studies, you can increase their chances of success in the competitive job market and build a fulfilling and rewarding career.

This module is designed to develop a range of essential thinking, personal, and professional skills that will support you in their academic, professional, and personal development. A key focus is placed on thinking skills, beginning with the development of critical thinking. You will learn to analyse information, identify biases, evaluate evidence, construct sound arguments, and draw informed conclusions. Problem-solving abilities will also be enhanced through the application of creative and analytical approaches to complex challenges, enabling you to identify and evaluate potential solutions and implement effective strategies.

The module encourages independent learning by supporting you in developing the ability to self-direct their studies, conduct effective research, and acquire new knowledge autonomously. Additionally, you will be guided in fostering metacognitive awareness, helping them to become more conscious of their own thinking processes, recognise personal strengths and weaknesses, and develop strategies for continuous improvement.

Alongside cognitive development, the module also aims to strengthen personal and professional skills. You will improve their communication and interpersonal abilities, including written and oral communication, active listening, clear articulation, and professional presentation. They will gain foundational knowledge of research methods and data analysis techniques, essential for academic inquiry and evidence-based practice.

Teamwork and collaboration are central themes, with students encouraged to work effectively in diverse groups, contribute constructively, resolve conflicts, and pursue shared goals. The module also promotes leadership and initiative, fostering a sense of personal responsibility and encouraging you to actively engage in their learning and contribute to their communities.

Professionalism and ethical conduct are emphasised throughout, with a focus on acting with integrity and demonstrating ethical behaviour in all academic and professional settings. Resilience and adaptability will be cultivated by helping you develop the capacity to cope with challenges, embrace change, and learn from setbacks.

Key considerations in the delivery of the module include an application-focused approach, where you are encouraged to apply their skills to real-world scenarios, case studies, and practical projects. Opportunities for self-reflection and peer feedback are integrated to support personal growth and help you recognise areas for improvement. An interdisciplinary approach is also adopted, linking learning to a range of disciplines and real-world contexts to highlight the relevance and broad applicability of these skills.

By focusing on these learning aims, the module aims to empower you to become independent, critical thinkers and to equip them with the essential skills needed for success in their academic journeys, future careers, and personal lives.

This module is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the practical demands of professional performance analysis. In the highly competitive field of sport performance analysis, graduates must be adept at using industry-standard software and workflows to deliver actionable insights across the pre, live, and post-game analysis stages.

Applied Performance Analysis equips you with hands-on experience with elite software programs and you will learn to create workflows that align with real-world practices, fostering the ability to collect, code, and interpret data effectively. Emphasis is placed on translating technical outputs into strategic recommendations for coaches and athletes, ensuring you are prepared for employment in elite sports settings. By engaging in authentic tasks and case studies, this module ensures you graduate as competent, confident analysts ready to meet the challenges of modern professional environments.

Throughout the module, you will have the opportunity to refine their understanding and application of performance analysis software solutions and technology routinely used in elite sporting environments. You will utilise their skills to complete applied analysis tasks such as notational coding/tagging, telestration, video editing, data analysis and visualisation, creating interactive documents and curating presentations

Once you has a comprehensive awareness of the methodological principles of performance analysis, and a sound skillset with computing technologies used to collect, process, analyse and present their work, they then face a critically important set of challenges. Great performance analysis work ensures that every stage of the work is both efficient and effective for the performer, their coach, or a team’s understanding of enhanced performance. This requires the performance analyst to understand the differences between analysis that is performed to provide information for information sake, and analysis that may meaningfully contribute to the performance aims of an athlete or team. This demands that the you develops both a critically analytical mind when deciding on their methods of performance analysis, and a critical awareness of the rules, demands and opportunities of the sport they support. This module will further develop your skills by focussing specifically on how physical, technical and tactical performance attributes directly impact sporting event outcomes and thus enable the end user athletes/teams the ability to achieve their ultimate aim – to win their next sporting event.

In this module, you will refine the elementary skills of conducting performance analysis that were learned at Level 4. Module content will include an exploration of performance analysis across different sports and the contexts in which it is commonly used: support for coaches and athletes, academic research and how they both combine to inform coaching practice and thus potentially provide a competitive edge and or marginal gain. The module will also review the methodological advances in performance analysis research, assessing the evidence that underpins contemporary theories of sport performance. We will also review developments in applied performance analysis across a wide range of sports. Debate surrounding what makes for an effective and therefore meaningful performance analysis will be central to this module’s activities.

This module will further your' understanding of the strength and conditioning and biomechanical principles underlying human performance in sports. You will develop the ability to analyse human performance, identify inefficiencies, and enhance performance while minimising the risk of injury. This module connects theoretical physiological and biomechanical knowledge gained at Level 4 with practical applications, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills vital for success in the field.

In the module Supporting Athletes in High Performance Sport, you will learn how to apply strength and conditioning principles, along with biomechanical knowledge, to enhance athletic performance. They will develop the skills to analyse human movement, identify performance inefficiencies, and implement strategies to optimise outcomes while reducing the risk of injury. By building on foundational physiological and biomechanical concepts introduced at Level 4, you will bridge theory and practice, gaining a deeper understanding of how to support athletes in high-performance settings. The module also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, equipping you with the tools needed to make informed, evidence-based decisions in real-world sporting environments.

The ability to interpret and effectively present data is a critical skill in modern sport and exercise science. This module equips you with the theoretical and practical knowledge required to transform complex datasets into clear, insightful visual representations. By contextualizing data visualisation within sport and/or clinical environments, you will explore how visualisation tools enhance decision-making in areas such as training load management, injury prevention, health assessment and athlete performance analysis.  

You will engage with industry-standard software and develop skills in designing interactive and impactful visualisations tailored to diverse audiences, including coaches, athletes, patients and other stakeholders. This module aligns with current industry trends emphasizing data-driven approaches and prepares you for further academic research or professional roles in performance analysis, sport science, clinical settings and public health policy, where effective communication of data insights is paramount. 

Data visualization is essential in sport and exercise science as it transforms complex data into clear, actionable insights for effective decision-making. It can enhance communication, support interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensure data is presented transparently, helping to improve performance, strategy, and understanding across diverse areas. This module equips students with essential skills to effectively communicate data insights and you will learn to select appropriate visualisations tailored to specific audiences and delivery methods, balancing academic rigor with practical application. Emphasis is placed on design principles such as colour and composition, to enhance clarity and impact and assist in creating compelling narratives. You will also learn various techniques for data analysis and exploration preparing them to excel in both research and professional contexts within sport and exercise sciences.

This module follows on from Suffolk Graduate 1. The Suffolk Graduate module series aims to cultivate critical and independent thinkers, emphasizing the development of higher-order cognitive skills rather than the mere acquisition of factual knowledge. Recognizing the evolving demands of the contemporary professional landscape, the focus shifts towards equipping you with a sophisticated skillset that transcends disciplinary boundaries. 

Developing advanced professional competencies is paramount for several reasons. In today's dynamic and interconnected global market, employers increasingly seek graduates who possess a nuanced understanding of complex issues, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to adapt and innovate. These skills are not merely instrumental for securing employment but are fundamental for navigating challenging and ambiguous professional environments, driving career advancement, and achieving long-term professional success. 

Furthermore, the cultivation of these skills extends beyond the professional realm, fostering personal growth, adaptability, and a lifelong commitment to learning. By embracing a growth mindset and cultivating a proactive approach to professional development, you are empowered to become agile and resilient professionals, capable of thriving in an ever-changing and increasingly complex world. 

By integrating the development of advanced professional skills with rigorous academic study, the Suffolk Graduate module series provides you with the necessary foundation for a successful and fulfilling career trajectory.

This module places a strong emphasis on the development of advanced cognitive skills and professional competencies, aimed at preparing you to engage critically, independently, and ethically with complex challenges in both academic and professional contexts.

You will be supported in developing sophisticated critical analysis and evaluation skills. They will learn to analyse complex and multifaceted information, critically appraise diverse perspectives, identify underlying assumptions, and evaluate evidence with rigorous scrutiny. Alongside this, they will refine their problem-solving and decision-making capabilities by applying innovative and creative approaches to address complex, multi-layered challenges. This will involve conducting in-depth analyses, evaluating alternative solutions, and making informed decisions that account for ethical, social, and economic considerations.

The module will also cultivate independent and self-directed inquiry by developing your' ability to design and conduct independent research. Emphasis will be placed on the use of advanced research methodologies, effective data collection, and analysis, all underpinned by intellectual curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. Furthermore, you will enhance their metacognitive awareness and reflective practice, engaging in deep self-reflection to understand their cognitive processes, address personal learning biases, and develop strategies for continuous intellectual growth.

In terms of professional competencies, you will refine their communication and interpersonal skills, including advanced written and oral communication, effective negotiation, influencing techniques, and intercultural communication. They will gain knowledge of advanced research methods and acquire the ability to analyse complex data using sophisticated analytical tools, with a focus on effectively communicating their findings.

The module also emphasises professional integrity and ethical leadership. You will be encouraged to act with ethical responsibility and social awareness in both academic and professional settings, demonstrating a strong commitment to ethical decision-making and conduct. In addition, you will be supported in developing resilience, adaptability, and a global perspective, preparing them to thrive in dynamic, uncertain environments and engage critically with global issues.

Key considerations in the delivery of this module include encouraging the application of knowledge and skills to complex, real-world scenarios through advanced case studies, simulations, and real-world projects. You will be supported in undertaking self-directed and experiential learning, including independent research and the creation of personal learning portfolios to track their development. Interdisciplinary collaboration and global awareness will also be promoted, encouraging you to engage with diverse perspectives and understand the interconnectedness of local and global challenges.

By focusing on these advanced learning aims, the module will empower you to become highly skilled, independent, and critical thinkers. They will be equipped with the advanced competencies needed to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.

Building upon the foundations established in Levels 4 and 5, this Level 6 module focuses on applying psychological and social principles to the high-stakes contexts of talent development and elite sports. At Level 4, you explored the subjective nature of sport and exercise experiences, emphasizing the critical roles of psychological and social factors in shaping enjoyment, learning, and performance. Level 5 advanced these concepts, deepening your’ understanding of team dynamics, performance enhancement, perception and appraisal, and self-regulation. Key insights included the interplay of external factors and interpersonal dynamics, the importance of holistic approaches to coaching, and the pivotal role of self-regulation in high-pressure situations. 

This module takes the next step by preparing you to address the unique challenges associated with high-profile sports environments. It introduces strategies for working with highly talented youth athletes and established professionals in demanding, performance-driven settings. You will engage with practical approaches they can implement in their future careers, whether as sport coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, performance analysts, or sport psychologists. 

In addition to addressing the technical and psychological demands of elite sports, this module also emphasizes the ethical considerations and behavioural expectations inherent in high-performance contexts. By equipping you with both the theoretical and practical tools needed for these environments, the module ensures they are prepared to meet the dual challenges of achieving results while maintaining professional and ethical integrity. 

In this module, you will explore a range of topics related to communication, conflict resolution, and team dynamics within sport environments. A key area of focus will be the challenges involved in communicating with athletes, particularly in situations where staff members must convey important or sensitive information under difficult circumstances. You will examine strategies for delivering constructive feedback to elite athletes who may be perceived as having higher social status than the staff member, learning how to balance authority with respect in these interactions.

Another central topic will be the challenges of resolving conflicts. You will analyse scenarios involving disputes between themselves and athletes, between staff members, or among athletes. For instance, they may explore how to respond when a head coach questions their methods or decisions regarding athlete training and development, considering approaches that maintain professionalism while addressing concerns effectively.

The module will also address challenges related to performance and team dynamics. You will consider issues such as poor performance outcomes or disruptive social dynamics that impact a team’s cohesion and success. An example might include developing strategies to manage parental criticism following a series of disappointing results in a high-level youth sport setting. Throughout, you will be encouraged to think critically and constructively about maintaining team unity and professionalism in the face of adversity.

This module builds upon foundational knowledge in Foundations of Performance Analysis, Applied Performance Analysis and Match Analysis in Team Sports and Implications for Coaching modules. Contemporary issues in sport are numerous and constantly evolving, shaped by societal, cultural, technological, and political forces. These issues often challenge the day-to-day operations of performance analysts and coaches within industry and at the time of writing some of the issues that regularly make international news include: mental health of sports athletes, diversity within sports, athlete remuneration and athlete rights, gender equality in sports, doping and performance enhancing drug use, technology use in sports, corruption and governance in sports, concussion protocols in sport, social media use by sports athletes, gambling within sports, athlete and fan alcohol consumption in sports and human rights violations within host countries. This module will require students to discuss and evaluate how many of the issues stated above impact the role of performance analysts within sports and the sports industry as a whole.

In this module, you will refine their skills of conducting performance analysis that were learned at level 4 and level 5. Module content will include an exploration of performance analysis across different sports including (but not limited to) topics such as: mental health of sports athletes, diversity within sports, athlete remuneration and athlete rights, gender equality in sports, doping and performance enhancing drug use, technology use in sports, corruption and governance in sports, concussion protocols in sport, social media use by sports athletes, gambling within sports, athlete and fan alcohol consumption in sports and human rights violations within host countries.

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Achieving success in sport requires athletes to be conditioned to cope with the rigours of training and competition. Strength and conditioning specialists need to prepare athletes to compete in peak condition, which is a complex task, and so it is vitally important that they understand relevant physiology to enable effective design and implementation of testing, training and recovery programmes. This module will develop sport and exercise physiology, and strength and conditioning content that we have learned at earlier levels of study. We need to explore why we respond and adapt to training stimuli, at a slightly deeper level including advanced physiology, and importantly learn how to apply that knowledge so we can better support athletes in a variety of sports.  

Therefore, we will need to review how we can test/monitor our athlete/player performance, and when we should test/monitor them. In order to design effective training programmes we must understand the time-course of a number of physiological adaptations, as performance will only improve if the training stimuli is able to produce the adaptations that enable performance to improve. We do this by revisiting the fundamental principles of frequency, intensity, time and type, and ensure they are utilized in a way that evidence tells us should lead to improvement for the specific performance requirements of the athlete’s/player’s sport. And finally, we need to review how we avoid ‘overtraining’ athletes/players, by making sure that training load is managed, and recovery is as well planned for as the exercise training sessions. 

In this module you will explore the scientific evidence that best supports the testing, training and monitoring of athlete/player readiness to train and compete. Topics will include aerobic endurance, strength, anaerobic power and capacity, as well as the integration of multiple fitness components through concurrent training. You will explore the acute responses and chronic adaptations to training, training design and prescription, periodization, recovery strategies, tapering, and the effects of de-training on a multitude of physiological performance measures. 

The role of a performance analyst has diversified significantly in recent times with elite organisations now recruiting staff into a range of specialist roles. An emerging role of the contemporary performance analyst is the dedicated undertaking of talent identification and recruitment work to support coaches and management staff. The principal responsibility of the talent identification and recruitment process is to identify athletes with the potential to develop and excel. In team sports the process of talent identification is complexified due to the numerous different attributes that contribute to the overall measurement of performance, these attributes can be derived from several broad categories including physiological, psychological, technical and tactical performance.

To inform the talent identification and recruitment process performance analysts need to apply effective data management and analytical skills alongside compiling statistical and visual reports to discover patterns and generate insights. This module is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills to undertake analysis tasks that can support the talent identification and recruitment process in elite sporting environments.

This module’s focus is on conducting a data driven evidence-based approach to player/athlete recruitment or selection. You will conduct a strategic and detailed analysis of player performance data to identify recruitment targets which align with a teams’ playing style and philosophy. You will conduct a data driven evaluation of several potential targets and support their findings with appropriate statistical evaluations. They will present their findings with engaging reports, containing data visualizations and video telestrations, to inform and support key decision makers within a club or organisation.

The Research Project will provide an opportunity for individuals to develop an area of scientific interest arising from their sport and exercise science and sport performance analysis discipline. It will enable you to further develop skills learnt throughout the programme such as enquiry-based learning, problem solving, critical thinking, and reflection. You will engage with the principles of primary research and/or literature review to further their understanding of the evidence base. This module will enable you to utilise intellectual decision-making, and possibly practical skills in novel situations, and provide a mechanism by which you can demonstrate autonomy and self-direction whilst undertaking a real problem-solving approach to a research topic. The focus of the Research Project will be a research-based study, which will either be original research (including data collection and hypothesis testing) or a review of the scientific literature. 

Individual specialist supervisors will be carefully selected from staff whose backgrounds and experience enable them to provide effective guidance for research projects. These supervisors will support you in managing their research, helping them to gather sufficient and relevant evidence to address their research questions.

Suitable projects are expected to offer opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate key skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and critical evaluation. They should align with the student’s range of interests while reflecting the overall aims and objectives of the course. Projects must adopt an academic empirical approach and require an original contribution from you. Additionally, the scope of the project should be realistic and achievable within the available resources.

This final module in the Suffolk Graduate series is designed to prepare you for a successful transition from academic study to the professional world. The focus shifts towards career exploration, professional development, and the refinement of both personal and professional goals. Through a combination of workshops, seminars, and individual consultations, students will engage in a range of activities aimed at enhancing their readiness for employment.

You will begin by conducting in-depth self-assessment exercises to better understand their strengths, interests, and aspirations. This process will support the development of clear and focused professional goals, culminating in the creation of a concise career plan. The module also places strong emphasis on employability skills, guiding you through the refinement of CVs, cover letters, and online professional profiles, including LinkedIn, to ensure they present themselves effectively to potential employers.

Interview preparation is another key component, with you participating in mock interviews, receiving personalised feedback, and developing effective strategies suited to a variety of job settings. In addition, you will learn to build strong networking skills by exploring techniques for forming professional relationships and participating in industry events.

Throughout the module, you will also gain valuable insights into the job market. They will explore current industry trends, identify key employers in their fields of interest, and develop a clear understanding of the expectations and demands of today’s employers. Overall, this module equips you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate the job market successfully and to pursue fulfilling and meaningful professional careers.

In this module, you will engage in a comprehensive set of activities designed to support their transition into the professional world. They will begin by defining and articulating their personal and professional career goals, setting a clear direction for their future. Through in-depth career research, you will explore a range of potential career paths, gaining insight into the opportunities available in their chosen fields. They will develop a professional portfolio that highlights their skills, experiences, and achievements, and learn how to craft a tailored CV and cover letter to suit specific job applications.

To prepare for employment, you will also practise and refine their interview techniques, equipping themselves with the skills needed to perform confidently in a variety of interview settings. They will develop effective networking strategies and learn how to build and maintain professional relationships that can support their career growth. An understanding of current industry trends and employer expectations will be fostered, helping students to align their goals and skills with the realities of the job market.

Additionally, you will create and implement a personal development plan aimed at supporting ongoing career advancement. Throughout the process, they will be encouraged to develop self-awareness by identifying their strengths and recognising areas for improvement. Ultimately, the module will promote a proactive approach to career management and encourage a commitment to lifelong learning as a foundation for continued personal and professional success.

Sport and exercise are inherently subjective experiences, deeply influenced by psychological and social dimensions. Whether or not a sport and exercise psychologist is present, psychological aspects play a vital role in enjoyment, learning, and performance. For instance, a recreational runner may thrive on intrinsic motivation and goal-setting, while an elite athlete may struggle with stress and benefit from resilience strategies. This module highlights these critical connections.

Coaching, at its core, is an interpersonal process. The actions and behaviours of a coach shape the experiences of athletes. For example, a coach designing an inclusive training environment that balances challenge with support can significantly enhance athletes' enjoyment, commitment, and performance. From selecting tasks and arranging equipment to providing direct feedback, coaching decisions are pivotal in shaping athletic outcomes.

As future professionals, you will also confront their own psychological dynamics. They must develop their professional philosophy, personal style, and capacity to manage challenging situations. For example, self-regulating under pressure during a high-stakes match not only demonstrates professionalism but also models resilience for athletes. This module will establish foundational knowledge for you to understand themselves as future professionals, others as clients or athletes, and the psychological underpinnings of behaviour and performance in sport and exercise settings.

In this module, you will explore a range of topics within the field of sport and exercise psychology. The journey begins with understanding the definition of sport and exercise psychology, including the discipline's scope and foundational principles. You will then gain insight into the professional field, examining the roles, contexts, and contributions of sport and exercise psychologists.

A focus will also be placed on the psychological challenges in coaching, analysing common issues coaches face in their professional practice. Building on this, you will develop a holistic understanding of people and behaviour, adopting a comprehensive approach to analysing human behaviour and performance.

The module includes an exploration of descriptive traits, with general insights into traits and specific research topics such as physical impairments, personality, motivation, social roles, sport experience, and healthy habits. This is complemented by an exploration of descriptive states, which covers topics like brain wave activation patterns, emotions, thoughts, social attitudes, and decision-making processes.

Further, you will delve into the exploration of external factors that influence behaviour and performance. These include coaching styles, parental involvement, organisational stressors, task design in motor learning, and dual-career challenges. By integrating these elements, the module aims to provide a deeper understanding of behaviour and performance, highlighting how they are shaped by stable traits, variable states, and external influences.

Finally, you will be introduced to the concept of self-regulation, exploring foundational strategies for managing behaviour and enhancing performance.

Understanding how the body responds and adapts to exercise is essential for appreciating the benefits of physical activity on health and performance. Equally important is recognising the role of nutrition in fueling these processes, influencing acute responses during exercise, and driving long-term physiological adaptations. Understanding how cells, tissues, organs, and systems respond to exercise and nutritional stimuli is critical for building a successful career in sports science. 

Proper nutrition underpins energy production, recovery, and adaptation, from supporting metabolic pathways during exercise to optimising protein synthesis, reducing inflammation, and enhancing immune function in the acute phase. Over time, strategic nutritional strategies contribute to system-level adaptations, such as improved cardiovascular efficiency, enhanced muscle function, and better metabolic health. 

The application of this integrated understanding spans a wide range of career paths, including laboratory research in molecular or cellular physiology, clinical roles in cardiac or respiratory health, designing strength and conditioning programs for athletes, or tailoring nutritional plans to optimise performance and recovery. Additionally, analysing data for talent identification and team performance often requires expertise in both physiology and nutrition to provide actionable insights. 

This module equips you with the principles of physiology and nutrition necessary to understand exercise responses while ensuring they are prepared to make valid, reliable performance assessments and apply their knowledge across the diverse professional domains of sport and exercise sciences. 

You will explore the fundamental principles of exercise physiology and nutrition, focusing on how key variables are measured, quantified, and interpreted. This foundational knowledge will support their understanding of more advanced topics in sport and exercise sciences throughout their studies. 

The module content, alongside guided independent study, will examine how exercise physiologists investigate the functions of the energy systems, as well as the nervous, endocrine, respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and digestive systems. You will explore how nutrition interacts with these systems, including its role in fuelling exercise, supporting energy metabolism, and optimising system-level adaptations, such as enhanced cardiovascular efficiency and muscle function. 

The digestive system will be studied in relation to nutrient absorption and energy availability, emphasising its importance in supporting physical activity and recovery. You will also examine how protein synthesis is regulated through exercise and dietary intake, alongside the impact of macronutrient and micronutrient modifications on metabolic health, performance, and recovery. 

“Performance analysis is an objective way of recording performance so that key elements of that performance can be quantified in a valid and consistent manner” (International Society of Performance Analysis in Sport). Performance analysis is used in a variety of ways, in a variety of professional sporting environments. Performance analysis enables athletes, coaches and exercise professionals to objectively appraise performance characteristics and tactics of sporting play/activity. In order to achieve this valuable insight into the effectiveness of sports performance, the professional analyst must possess knowledge of the tactical and technical requirements of that sport, as well as understanding the methods and tools used to record, measure and analyse performance. 

In this module, you will explore the theoretical basis of sports performance analysis, before progressing onto investigating ways in which valid and consistent measurement and evaluation techniques may be conducted. Sporting applications will include individual and team-based sports. You will also cover material concerning the professional requirements of a performance analyst. 

This module will introduce you to the core principles of sports and exercise biomechanics and explore their application within strength and conditioning. You will achieve a foundational knowledge of biomechanical principles and their application in optimising human movement and performance. This module explores key concepts such as force, motion, levers, and joint mechanics, enabling you to understand how the body generates and transfers force during physical training. By examining these principles, you will develop skills to analyse movement patterns and identify inefficiencies to enhance performance and reduce injury risk. Tailored for aspiring strength and conditioning professionals, this module bridges the gap between theoretical biomechanics and practical application, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in the field. 

You will study the theoretical principles that govern a biomechanical analysis of human motion in strength and conditioning. You will investigate the dual roles of kinetics and kinematics and appreciate the respective contribution of each component. You will learn to apply mathematical calculations to describe movement apply this to evaluate exercise training. You will learn how to use their theoretical knowledge gained in this module to real-world biomechanical assessments of sporting performance. You will gain an appreciation of the anatomical features of the musculoskeletal system and understand its functional role during physical activity. On successful completion of this module, you will have had opportunities to study the theoretical principles that govern a biomechanical analysis of human motion in strength and conditioning. You will investigate the dual roles of kinetics and kinematics and appreciate the respective contribution of each component. You will learn to apply mathematical calculations to describe movement apply this to evaluate exercise training. You will learn how to use their theoretical knowledge gained in this module to real-world biomechanical assessments of sporting performance. You gain an appreciation of the anatomical features of the musculoskeletal system and understand its functional role during physical activity. 

In essence, the series of Suffolk Graduate modules are intended to help you learn how to think, not what to think. Developing graduate, professional skills is crucial for you for several reasons: 

• Increased Job Prospects: In today's competitive job market, a degree alone isn't always enough. Employers are increasingly seeking graduates with a diverse skillset beyond their academic knowledge. Skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking are highly valued and can make a student stand out from the crowd. 

• Career Advancement: Professional skills are essential for career growth and advancement. They allow individuals to adapt to new challenges, take on leadership roles, and navigate complex work environments. 

• Enhanced Employability: By developing in-demand skills, you become more adaptable and marketable. This increases their chances of securing employment in their chosen field and opens doors to a wider range of career opportunities. 

• Improved Personal and Professional Development: These skills are not only valuable in the workplace but also in personal life. They foster self-reliance, confidence, and the ability to navigate various situations effectively. 

• Lifelong Learning: Developing professional skills encourages a growth mindset and a commitment to lifelong learning. It equips individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to adapt to an ever-changing world and succeed in their chosen careers. 

By focusing on developing graduate, professional skills alongside their academic studies, you can increase their chances of success in the competitive job market and build a fulfilling and rewarding career.

This module is designed to develop a range of essential thinking, personal, and professional skills that will support you in their academic, professional, and personal development. A key focus is placed on thinking skills, beginning with the development of critical thinking. You will learn to analyse information, identify biases, evaluate evidence, construct sound arguments, and draw informed conclusions. Problem-solving abilities will also be enhanced through the application of creative and analytical approaches to complex challenges, enabling you to identify and evaluate potential solutions and implement effective strategies.

The module encourages independent learning by supporting you in developing the ability to self-direct their studies, conduct effective research, and acquire new knowledge autonomously. Additionally, you will be guided in fostering metacognitive awareness, helping them to become more conscious of their own thinking processes, recognise personal strengths and weaknesses, and develop strategies for continuous improvement.

Alongside cognitive development, the module also aims to strengthen personal and professional skills. You will improve their communication and interpersonal abilities, including written and oral communication, active listening, clear articulation, and professional presentation. They will gain foundational knowledge of research methods and data analysis techniques, essential for academic inquiry and evidence-based practice.

Teamwork and collaboration are central themes, with students encouraged to work effectively in diverse groups, contribute constructively, resolve conflicts, and pursue shared goals. The module also promotes leadership and initiative, fostering a sense of personal responsibility and encouraging you to actively engage in their learning and contribute to their communities.

Professionalism and ethical conduct are emphasised throughout, with a focus on acting with integrity and demonstrating ethical behaviour in all academic and professional settings. Resilience and adaptability will be cultivated by helping you develop the capacity to cope with challenges, embrace change, and learn from setbacks.

Key considerations in the delivery of the module include an application-focused approach, where you are encouraged to apply their skills to real-world scenarios, case studies, and practical projects. Opportunities for self-reflection and peer feedback are integrated to support personal growth and help you recognise areas for improvement. An interdisciplinary approach is also adopted, linking learning to a range of disciplines and real-world contexts to highlight the relevance and broad applicability of these skills.

By focusing on these learning aims, the module aims to empower you to become independent, critical thinkers and to equip them with the essential skills needed for success in their academic journeys, future careers, and personal lives.

This module is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the practical demands of professional performance analysis. In the highly competitive field of sport performance analysis, graduates must be adept at using industry-standard software and workflows to deliver actionable insights across the pre, live, and post-game analysis stages.

Applied Performance Analysis equips you with hands-on experience with elite software programs and you will learn to create workflows that align with real-world practices, fostering the ability to collect, code, and interpret data effectively. Emphasis is placed on translating technical outputs into strategic recommendations for coaches and athletes, ensuring you are prepared for employment in elite sports settings. By engaging in authentic tasks and case studies, this module ensures you graduate as competent, confident analysts ready to meet the challenges of modern professional environments.

Throughout the module, you will have the opportunity to refine their understanding and application of performance analysis software solutions and technology routinely used in elite sporting environments. You will utilise their skills to complete applied analysis tasks such as notational coding/tagging, telestration, video editing, data analysis and visualisation, creating interactive documents and curating presentations

Once you has a comprehensive awareness of the methodological principles of performance analysis, and a sound skillset with computing technologies used to collect, process, analyse and present their work, they then face a critically important set of challenges. Great performance analysis work ensures that every stage of the work is both efficient and effective for the performer, their coach, or a team’s understanding of enhanced performance. This requires the performance analyst to understand the differences between analysis that is performed to provide information for information sake, and analysis that may meaningfully contribute to the performance aims of an athlete or team. This demands that the you develops both a critically analytical mind when deciding on their methods of performance analysis, and a critical awareness of the rules, demands and opportunities of the sport they support. This module will further develop your skills by focussing specifically on how physical, technical and tactical performance attributes directly impact sporting event outcomes and thus enable the end user athletes/teams the ability to achieve their ultimate aim – to win their next sporting event.

In this module, you will refine the elementary skills of conducting performance analysis that were learned at Level 4. Module content will include an exploration of performance analysis across different sports and the contexts in which it is commonly used: support for coaches and athletes, academic research and how they both combine to inform coaching practice and thus potentially provide a competitive edge and or marginal gain. The module will also review the methodological advances in performance analysis research, assessing the evidence that underpins contemporary theories of sport performance. We will also review developments in applied performance analysis across a wide range of sports. Debate surrounding what makes for an effective and therefore meaningful performance analysis will be central to this module’s activities.

This module will further your' understanding of the strength and conditioning and biomechanical principles underlying human performance in sports. You will develop the ability to analyse human performance, identify inefficiencies, and enhance performance while minimising the risk of injury. This module connects theoretical physiological and biomechanical knowledge gained at Level 4 with practical applications, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills vital for success in the field.

In the module Supporting Athletes in High Performance Sport, you will learn how to apply strength and conditioning principles, along with biomechanical knowledge, to enhance athletic performance. They will develop the skills to analyse human movement, identify performance inefficiencies, and implement strategies to optimise outcomes while reducing the risk of injury. By building on foundational physiological and biomechanical concepts introduced at Level 4, you will bridge theory and practice, gaining a deeper understanding of how to support athletes in high-performance settings. The module also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, equipping you with the tools needed to make informed, evidence-based decisions in real-world sporting environments.

The ability to interpret and effectively present data is a critical skill in modern sport and exercise science. This module equips you with the theoretical and practical knowledge required to transform complex datasets into clear, insightful visual representations. By contextualizing data visualisation within sport and/or clinical environments, you will explore how visualisation tools enhance decision-making in areas such as training load management, injury prevention, health assessment and athlete performance analysis.  

You will engage with industry-standard software and develop skills in designing interactive and impactful visualisations tailored to diverse audiences, including coaches, athletes, patients and other stakeholders. This module aligns with current industry trends emphasizing data-driven approaches and prepares you for further academic research or professional roles in performance analysis, sport science, clinical settings and public health policy, where effective communication of data insights is paramount. 

Data visualization is essential in sport and exercise science as it transforms complex data into clear, actionable insights for effective decision-making. It can enhance communication, support interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensure data is presented transparently, helping to improve performance, strategy, and understanding across diverse areas. This module equips students with essential skills to effectively communicate data insights and you will learn to select appropriate visualisations tailored to specific audiences and delivery methods, balancing academic rigor with practical application. Emphasis is placed on design principles such as colour and composition, to enhance clarity and impact and assist in creating compelling narratives. You will also learn various techniques for data analysis and exploration preparing them to excel in both research and professional contexts within sport and exercise sciences.

This module follows on from Suffolk Graduate 1. The Suffolk Graduate module series aims to cultivate critical and independent thinkers, emphasizing the development of higher-order cognitive skills rather than the mere acquisition of factual knowledge. Recognizing the evolving demands of the contemporary professional landscape, the focus shifts towards equipping you with a sophisticated skillset that transcends disciplinary boundaries. 

Developing advanced professional competencies is paramount for several reasons. In today's dynamic and interconnected global market, employers increasingly seek graduates who possess a nuanced understanding of complex issues, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to adapt and innovate. These skills are not merely instrumental for securing employment but are fundamental for navigating challenging and ambiguous professional environments, driving career advancement, and achieving long-term professional success. 

Furthermore, the cultivation of these skills extends beyond the professional realm, fostering personal growth, adaptability, and a lifelong commitment to learning. By embracing a growth mindset and cultivating a proactive approach to professional development, you are empowered to become agile and resilient professionals, capable of thriving in an ever-changing and increasingly complex world. 

By integrating the development of advanced professional skills with rigorous academic study, the Suffolk Graduate module series provides you with the necessary foundation for a successful and fulfilling career trajectory.

This module places a strong emphasis on the development of advanced cognitive skills and professional competencies, aimed at preparing you to engage critically, independently, and ethically with complex challenges in both academic and professional contexts.

You will be supported in developing sophisticated critical analysis and evaluation skills. They will learn to analyse complex and multifaceted information, critically appraise diverse perspectives, identify underlying assumptions, and evaluate evidence with rigorous scrutiny. Alongside this, they will refine their problem-solving and decision-making capabilities by applying innovative and creative approaches to address complex, multi-layered challenges. This will involve conducting in-depth analyses, evaluating alternative solutions, and making informed decisions that account for ethical, social, and economic considerations.

The module will also cultivate independent and self-directed inquiry by developing your' ability to design and conduct independent research. Emphasis will be placed on the use of advanced research methodologies, effective data collection, and analysis, all underpinned by intellectual curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. Furthermore, you will enhance their metacognitive awareness and reflective practice, engaging in deep self-reflection to understand their cognitive processes, address personal learning biases, and develop strategies for continuous intellectual growth.

In terms of professional competencies, you will refine their communication and interpersonal skills, including advanced written and oral communication, effective negotiation, influencing techniques, and intercultural communication. They will gain knowledge of advanced research methods and acquire the ability to analyse complex data using sophisticated analytical tools, with a focus on effectively communicating their findings.

The module also emphasises professional integrity and ethical leadership. You will be encouraged to act with ethical responsibility and social awareness in both academic and professional settings, demonstrating a strong commitment to ethical decision-making and conduct. In addition, you will be supported in developing resilience, adaptability, and a global perspective, preparing them to thrive in dynamic, uncertain environments and engage critically with global issues.

Key considerations in the delivery of this module include encouraging the application of knowledge and skills to complex, real-world scenarios through advanced case studies, simulations, and real-world projects. You will be supported in undertaking self-directed and experiential learning, including independent research and the creation of personal learning portfolios to track their development. Interdisciplinary collaboration and global awareness will also be promoted, encouraging you to engage with diverse perspectives and understand the interconnectedness of local and global challenges.

By focusing on these advanced learning aims, the module will empower you to become highly skilled, independent, and critical thinkers. They will be equipped with the advanced competencies needed to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.

Building upon the foundations established in Levels 4 and 5, this Level 6 module focuses on applying psychological and social principles to the high-stakes contexts of talent development and elite sports. At Level 4, you explored the subjective nature of sport and exercise experiences, emphasizing the critical roles of psychological and social factors in shaping enjoyment, learning, and performance. Level 5 advanced these concepts, deepening your’ understanding of team dynamics, performance enhancement, perception and appraisal, and self-regulation. Key insights included the interplay of external factors and interpersonal dynamics, the importance of holistic approaches to coaching, and the pivotal role of self-regulation in high-pressure situations. 

This module takes the next step by preparing you to address the unique challenges associated with high-profile sports environments. It introduces strategies for working with highly talented youth athletes and established professionals in demanding, performance-driven settings. You will engage with practical approaches they can implement in their future careers, whether as sport coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, performance analysts, or sport psychologists. 

In addition to addressing the technical and psychological demands of elite sports, this module also emphasizes the ethical considerations and behavioural expectations inherent in high-performance contexts. By equipping you with both the theoretical and practical tools needed for these environments, the module ensures they are prepared to meet the dual challenges of achieving results while maintaining professional and ethical integrity. 

In this module, you will explore a range of topics related to communication, conflict resolution, and team dynamics within sport environments. A key area of focus will be the challenges involved in communicating with athletes, particularly in situations where staff members must convey important or sensitive information under difficult circumstances. You will examine strategies for delivering constructive feedback to elite athletes who may be perceived as having higher social status than the staff member, learning how to balance authority with respect in these interactions.

Another central topic will be the challenges of resolving conflicts. You will analyse scenarios involving disputes between themselves and athletes, between staff members, or among athletes. For instance, they may explore how to respond when a head coach questions their methods or decisions regarding athlete training and development, considering approaches that maintain professionalism while addressing concerns effectively.

The module will also address challenges related to performance and team dynamics. You will consider issues such as poor performance outcomes or disruptive social dynamics that impact a team’s cohesion and success. An example might include developing strategies to manage parental criticism following a series of disappointing results in a high-level youth sport setting. Throughout, you will be encouraged to think critically and constructively about maintaining team unity and professionalism in the face of adversity.

This module builds upon foundational knowledge in Foundations of Performance Analysis, Applied Performance Analysis and Match Analysis in Team Sports and Implications for Coaching modules. Contemporary issues in sport are numerous and constantly evolving, shaped by societal, cultural, technological, and political forces. These issues often challenge the day-to-day operations of performance analysts and coaches within industry and at the time of writing some of the issues that regularly make international news include: mental health of sports athletes, diversity within sports, athlete remuneration and athlete rights, gender equality in sports, doping and performance enhancing drug use, technology use in sports, corruption and governance in sports, concussion protocols in sport, social media use by sports athletes, gambling within sports, athlete and fan alcohol consumption in sports and human rights violations within host countries. This module will require students to discuss and evaluate how many of the issues stated above impact the role of performance analysts within sports and the sports industry as a whole.

In this module, you will refine their skills of conducting performance analysis that were learned at level 4 and level 5. Module content will include an exploration of performance analysis across different sports including (but not limited to) topics such as: mental health of sports athletes, diversity within sports, athlete remuneration and athlete rights, gender equality in sports, doping and performance enhancing drug use, technology use in sports, corruption and governance in sports, concussion protocols in sport, social media use by sports athletes, gambling within sports, athlete and fan alcohol consumption in sports and human rights violations within host countries.

Achieving success in sport requires athletes to be conditioned to cope with the rigours of training and competition. Strength and conditioning specialists need to prepare athletes to compete in peak condition, which is a complex task, and so it is vitally important that they understand relevant physiology to enable effective design and implementation of testing, training and recovery programmes. This module will develop sport and exercise physiology, and strength and conditioning content that we have learned at earlier levels of study. We need to explore why we respond and adapt to training stimuli, at a slightly deeper level including advanced physiology, and importantly learn how to apply that knowledge so we can better support athletes in a variety of sports.  

Therefore, we will need to review how we can test/monitor our athlete/player performance, and when we should test/monitor them. In order to design effective training programmes we must understand the time-course of a number of physiological adaptations, as performance will only improve if the training stimuli is able to produce the adaptations that enable performance to improve. We do this by revisiting the fundamental principles of frequency, intensity, time and type, and ensure they are utilized in a way that evidence tells us should lead to improvement for the specific performance requirements of the athlete’s/player’s sport. And finally, we need to review how we avoid ‘overtraining’ athletes/players, by making sure that training load is managed, and recovery is as well planned for as the exercise training sessions. 

In this module you will explore the scientific evidence that best supports the testing, training and monitoring of athlete/player readiness to train and compete. Topics will include aerobic endurance, strength, anaerobic power and capacity, as well as the integration of multiple fitness components through concurrent training. You will explore the acute responses and chronic adaptations to training, training design and prescription, periodization, recovery strategies, tapering, and the effects of de-training on a multitude of physiological performance measures. 

The role of a performance analyst has diversified significantly in recent times with elite organisations now recruiting staff into a range of specialist roles. An emerging role of the contemporary performance analyst is the dedicated undertaking of talent identification and recruitment work to support coaches and management staff. The principal responsibility of the talent identification and recruitment process is to identify athletes with the potential to develop and excel. In team sports the process of talent identification is complexified due to the numerous different attributes that contribute to the overall measurement of performance, these attributes can be derived from several broad categories including physiological, psychological, technical and tactical performance.

To inform the talent identification and recruitment process performance analysts need to apply effective data management and analytical skills alongside compiling statistical and visual reports to discover patterns and generate insights. This module is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills to undertake analysis tasks that can support the talent identification and recruitment process in elite sporting environments.

This module’s focus is on conducting a data driven evidence-based approach to player/athlete recruitment or selection. You will conduct a strategic and detailed analysis of player performance data to identify recruitment targets which align with a teams’ playing style and philosophy. You will conduct a data driven evaluation of several potential targets and support their findings with appropriate statistical evaluations. They will present their findings with engaging reports, containing data visualizations and video telestrations, to inform and support key decision makers within a club or organisation.

The Research Project will provide an opportunity for individuals to develop an area of scientific interest arising from their sport and exercise science and sport performance analysis discipline. It will enable you to further develop skills learnt throughout the programme such as enquiry-based learning, problem solving, critical thinking, and reflection. You will engage with the principles of primary research and/or literature review to further their understanding of the evidence base. This module will enable you to utilise intellectual decision-making, and possibly practical skills in novel situations, and provide a mechanism by which you can demonstrate autonomy and self-direction whilst undertaking a real problem-solving approach to a research topic. The focus of the Research Project will be a research-based study, which will either be original research (including data collection and hypothesis testing) or a review of the scientific literature. 

Individual specialist supervisors will be carefully selected from staff whose backgrounds and experience enable them to provide effective guidance for research projects. These supervisors will support you in managing their research, helping them to gather sufficient and relevant evidence to address their research questions.

Suitable projects are expected to offer opportunities for you to develop and demonstrate key skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and critical evaluation. They should align with the student’s range of interests while reflecting the overall aims and objectives of the course. Projects must adopt an academic empirical approach and require an original contribution from you. Additionally, the scope of the project should be realistic and achievable within the available resources.

This final module in the Suffolk Graduate series is designed to prepare you for a successful transition from academic study to the professional world. The focus shifts towards career exploration, professional development, and the refinement of both personal and professional goals. Through a combination of workshops, seminars, and individual consultations, students will engage in a range of activities aimed at enhancing their readiness for employment.

You will begin by conducting in-depth self-assessment exercises to better understand their strengths, interests, and aspirations. This process will support the development of clear and focused professional goals, culminating in the creation of a concise career plan. The module also places strong emphasis on employability skills, guiding you through the refinement of CVs, cover letters, and online professional profiles, including LinkedIn, to ensure they present themselves effectively to potential employers.

Interview preparation is another key component, with you participating in mock interviews, receiving personalised feedback, and developing effective strategies suited to a variety of job settings. In addition, you will learn to build strong networking skills by exploring techniques for forming professional relationships and participating in industry events.

Throughout the module, you will also gain valuable insights into the job market. They will explore current industry trends, identify key employers in their fields of interest, and develop a clear understanding of the expectations and demands of today’s employers. Overall, this module equips you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate the job market successfully and to pursue fulfilling and meaningful professional careers.

In this module, you will engage in a comprehensive set of activities designed to support their transition into the professional world. They will begin by defining and articulating their personal and professional career goals, setting a clear direction for their future. Through in-depth career research, you will explore a range of potential career paths, gaining insight into the opportunities available in their chosen fields. They will develop a professional portfolio that highlights their skills, experiences, and achievements, and learn how to craft a tailored CV and cover letter to suit specific job applications.

To prepare for employment, you will also practise and refine their interview techniques, equipping themselves with the skills needed to perform confidently in a variety of interview settings. They will develop effective networking strategies and learn how to build and maintain professional relationships that can support their career growth. An understanding of current industry trends and employer expectations will be fostered, helping students to align their goals and skills with the realities of the job market.

Additionally, you will create and implement a personal development plan aimed at supporting ongoing career advancement. Throughout the process, they will be encouraged to develop self-awareness by identifying their strengths and recognising areas for improvement. Ultimately, the module will promote a proactive approach to career management and encourage a commitment to lifelong learning as a foundation for continued personal and professional success.