Are you fascinated by how the body works and passionate about improving how people move, work, exercise and play sports? This course provides students with the opportunity to pursue a dual award and attain both a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Therapy and Training and a Master of Science in Athletic Therapy and Strength and Conditioning.

DCU’s BSc in Athletic Therapy and Training is a highly respected, professionally accredited degree for students who aspire to work in injury prevention, assessment, rehabilitation, and athletic performance. This four-year programme trains future athletic therapists to care for active populations—ranging from elite athletes to recreational exercisers.

Students also have the option to progress into the Integrated MSc in Athletic Therapy and Strength and Conditioning (Year 5)—an advanced degree that further deepens expertise in performance enhancement, return-to-play protocols, and high-performance conditioning.

Why Choose This Programme?

Accredited & Industry-Recognised – Approved by the Athletic Rehabilitation Therapy Ireland (ARTI) and aligned with international standards.

Practical-Focused Curriculum – Strong emphasis on hands-on clinical skills, injury prevention, diagnostics, and rehab.

Integrated Work Placements – Includes over 1,000 hours of clinical/internship placements with sports teams, clinics, or rehabilitation settings.

Optional Integrated Master's Year – Stay on for a 5th year (MSc) to specialise in Strength & Conditioning, with cutting-edge training for elite performance careers.

Global Career Pathways – Graduates are recognised internationally, including in North America, Europe, and Australia.

Programme Structure

Location: DCU Glasnevin Campus

Duration:

• BSc – 4 Years
• Integrated MSc (Optional) – 5 Years Total
• Work Placement: Year 3 and Year 4 (minimum 1,000 clinical hours)

Key Modules:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Sports Injury Assessment and Rehabilitation
• Exercise Prescription
• Biomechanics
• Strength and Conditioning
• Manual Therapy Techniques
• Functional Movement and Return to Play
• Psychology of Injury and Recovery
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice

The MSc year focuses on advanced Strength and Conditioning, athlete monitoring, data-driven training strategies, and leadership in high-performance sport settings.

Learning Outcomes

By graduation, students will be able to:

• Diagnose and manage sports injuries using evidence-based protocols
• Design tailored rehabilitation programs for diverse athletic populations
• Apply manual therapy, functional movement screening, and reconditioning techniques
• Lead performance training and return-to-play strategies
• Conduct scientific research in sports health and human performance

Career Opportunities

Graduates are employed across:

• ?Professional and Amateur Sports Teams
• Sports Medicine and Physiotherapy Clinics
• Strength & Conditioning Facilities
• High-Performance Centres
• Universities and Research Institutions
• Military and Tactical Athlete Programs

Job Titles Include:

Athletic Therapist, Rehab Specialist, S&C Coach, Sports Scientist, Performance Analyst, Clinical Exercise Specialist

Pathways to Professional Recognition

Graduates are eligible for membership with ARTI, which enables recognition abroad (e.g., Canadian Athletic Therapists Association, NATA-USA). Many also pursue further study in Physiotherapy, Sports Medicine, or Research.

Integrated Master’s Option (Year 5)

Students who meet academic requirements after Year 4 may choose to continue to an MSc in Athletic Therapy and Strength and Conditioning.

• Additional Tuition Fee: €19,200 (Year 5)
• Ideal for those aiming to specialise in elite sports, injury management, and peak performance systems.

*Scholarships – Special Note*

Scholarship for Non-EU Students:

International applicants may be eligible for a €2,000 scholarship, awarded based on academic merit. All Non-EU students are automatically considered during admission.