MSc Social Science Research (Sport and Exercise Science)

Our MSc Social Science Research (Sport and Exercise Science) will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the key methodological and philosophical debates that shape the social sciences.

The programme is designed to produce graduates with rigorous research and analytical skills, who are well equipped to progress onto being high-level researchers in their chosen field of study.

You will gain an understanding of the key epistemological and ontological debates that frame social science research, while developing advanced knowledge of the methodologies, processes, designs and practices involved in social science research.

You will acquire in-depth training in the conduct and management of research, from its commencement to its conclusion, and explore and reflect on your developing research skills in the context of your areas of research interest. In particular, you will be able to apply your new skills and knowledge in the context of sport, exercise and health science research, drawing on the expertise of one of the world's leading centres of expertise in the field.

Research within the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences is multidisciplinary, drawing on the full spectrum of natural and social sciences, and is focused on issues of contemporary concern at international, national and local levels. We engage in strong partnerships with leading schools, institutes and universities across the world in the research fields of sport, exercise, education, health and wellbeing. The broad scope of this research has led to developments in the treatment of eating disorders; improved understanding of the effects of sedentary lifestyles and the benefits of physical activity; academic support to enhance sport coaching; advice to international sport organisations and governments on policies and procedures; guidance and support for elite athletes (both able-bodied and disabled) to achieve their full potential, and the use of exercise in treating health conditions.

Recent research projects have included: human rights in sport; levels of BAME representation in football leadership and coaching; safeguarding in, around and through sport, and Sport For A Better World? - a social scientific investigation of the Sport for Development and Peace (SDP) sector.

We are ranked 1st in the UK for the overall quality of our research, and 1st in the UK for research outputs, impact and research environment (based on GPA x Volume), (REF 2014).

The programme is in full compliance with the Economic and Social Research Council’s requirements for an MSc in Social Science Research. On completion of the course, a student will have met the training requirements for PhD funding from the ESRC, opening up the possibility of securing PhD funding from the ESRC.

At Loughborough you will be part of a university with a unique sporting heritage that attracts athletes, industry leaders and policy makers from around the world. Based on our campus is SportPark – home to many of the UK’s sports organisations and governing bodies – and the National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine – East Midlands (NCSEM), an Olympic legacy project delivering education, research and clinical services in sport, exercise and physical activity. It aims to apply world-class expertise to policies and practice that will benefit the health and wellbeing of the nation.