Programme Overview
The MSc in Rehabilitation Science and Football Performance is an advanced programme for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in football-focused rehabilitation and performance support. It develops the knowledge, applied skills, and strategic mindset needed to work confidently in modern football environments, where integrated support systems are now central to athlete care and development. Throughout the programme, students examine real performance challenges, investigate current evidence, and present informed solutions.
This MSc prepares ambitious practitioners for influential roles across elite football and related performance settings. With an emphasis on scientific understanding and applied decision-making, students build strong capability across injury profiling, return-to-play planning, neuromuscular assessment, and the effective use of performance technology such as GPS systems, force platforms, and wearable sensors. Alongside this technical foundation, the programme develops leadership, communication, and project management ability—skills essential for guiding multidisciplinary performance teams and contributing to long-term player development strategies.
Students also gain insight into the ethical and structural considerations that shape modern football, along with the collaborative skills needed to support athletes through demanding competitive cycles. A strong focus on critical thinking, reflective practice, and research supports students in applying evidence to varied football contexts.
This one-year master’s programme carries Irish accreditation from Quality Qualifications Ireland (QQI) at Level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. On completion of an additional module within the programme, students may also achieve a second qualification aligned to international academic standards.
Graduates of the MSc in Rehabilitation Science and Football Performance may progress to doctoral-level study at other institutions, depending on individual entry requirements.
The Master of Science in Rehabilitation Science and Football Performance is run in unison with Irish American University who award the programme under its accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is one of the world’s leading accrediting bodies. Students enrolled on this Masters programme will be conferred by Irish American University.
Furthermore, Setanta College Professional Advisory Board, other subject matter experts, and international sporting organisations have informed, reviewed, and approved the programme content. This includes World Rugby, the Titleist Performance Institute, and the NSCA who recognise our programmes and qualifications.
The modules covered in the course include:
- Research Methods & Data Management
- Athlete Monitoring & Coaching Technology
- Advanced Strength & Conditioning for Football
- Management & Prevention of Football Injuries
- Reflective Practice & Professional Skills
- Return to Play Frameworks in Football
- Final Applied Project
Much of the learning on the programme will occur through a mix of online courses and experiential learning, however, a key part of the programme will be the residentials. Whilst the content of each residential will be dependent upon the modules undertaken, the overarching objectives will be similar.
Our residentials are offered in the following locations:
- Ireland: GAA National Games Development Centre, Dublin.
- India: Padukone – Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence, Bengaluru.
The objectives:
- To provide hands-on instruction and experience in the practical elements of the course content. Even though the course is focused mainly on an evidence-based practice approach, practical competency in the application of theory to practice and in the ‘art’ and ‘craft’ of coaching will be emphasised. Further, the competence in the use of and interpretation of data using a wide range of coaching technologies and the coaching process will be central to the face to face environment and thus the residential will ensure that practitioners receive high-class instruction in the key practical elements required for effective industry practice.
- To allow for practical assessments and presentation-based assessments to be carried out.
- To provide contextualisation and critical discussion of the topics covered in the online material. This will essentially be a flipped classroom approach to teaching. This medium will allow practitioners to share experiences and provide a highly interactive learning environment.
Upon successful completion of this programme, graduates will be able to:
- Integrate advanced athlete monitoring and performance diagnostics to inform individualized rehabilitation strategies and optimize football-specific outcomes.
- Critically evaluate movement patterns and injury mechanisms using biomechanical and physiological data to support evidence-based return-toplay decisions.
- Apply contemporary rehabilitation technologies and methodologies—including wearable systems, neuromuscular profiling, and force diagnostics—to enhance recovery and prevent re-injury.
- Demonstrate leadership and collaborative competence within multidisciplinary teams, managing rehabilitation programmes that align with performance goals and ethical standards.
- Design and conduct applied research projects that contribute to the advancement of rehabilitation science and football performance, with a focus on translational impact.
- Navigate ethical, legal, and cultural considerations in athlete care, data management, and professional practice within diverse football environments.
- Anticipate and respond to emerging trends in rehabilitation and football science, showcasing adaptability, reflective practice, and a commitment to continuous professional development.
Setanta College is committed to providing accessible and inclusive pathways to postgraduate education, while ensuring that applicants are prepared to successfully engage with postgraduate study. To this end, the following entry routes are available:
- Academic Qualification Route (Direct Entry)
Applicants who have completed undergraduate studies (i.e. Bachelors degree or a qualification at Level 6 on the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) or equivalent) are eligible for direct entry to the programme.
- Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) Route
Applicants who do not hold an undergraduate degree (EQF level 6) may still be considered for entry if they can demonstrate:
- A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in sport, fitness, health, or a related performance domain.
- Relevant experience may include time spent as an athlete, coach, instructor, mentor, or practitioner across amateur or professional settings, community-based programmes, or performance environments.
- Evidence of reflective practice, ongoing professional development, and the capacity to engage with academic content.
All RPEL applicants will undergo an individual assessment process to determine suitability.
- Additional Documentation (Discretionary)
In some cases, particularly where applicants are applying through the RPEL route or hold a qualification from a non-cognate area, the College may request:
- A Letter of Interest, outlining the applicant’s motivation, relevant experience, and goals.
- A brief interview to discuss the applicant’s background and fit for the programme.
This step is intended to support the applicant and ensure readiness for study at Masters level (EQF level 7).
* Note: Applicants who are not deemed suitable following interview will be provided with a tailored entry pathway to the programme of interest. This may include:
- Completing a programme at a more appropriate level of study (e.g., EQF Level 5 or 6), or
- Undertaking a bridging programme specifically designed to support academic and personal success at Masters level of learning (EQF Level 7).
- English Language Proficiency
Where English is not the applicant’s first language, proficiency must be demonstrated by one of the following:
- IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no individual component below 5.5
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 88
- EF SET: Minimum score of C1
* Note: Other tests may be accepted. If you completed an alternative language assessment than those listed above, please enquire for acceptance.
- EU Students: €9,750
- International Students: $18,000
- Info:
- To secure your place on the MSc in Performance Coaching programme, you can pay a deposit of €/$500 and choose from five payment options, including paying in full, per module, or through instalments. See below for the full list of options:
- Deposit €/$500 | Remainder Before Course Start Date
- Deposit €/$500 | 50% Before Course Start Date and 50% Before Commencing Module 5
- Deposit €/$500 | 6 Equal Installments Paid Before the Start of Each Module
- Deposit €/$500 | 4 Installments of 25% before Modules 1,3,5,7
- Deposit €/$500 | 18 Equal Monthly Installments
- To secure your place on the MSc in Performance Coaching programme, you can pay a deposit of €/$500 and choose from five payment options, including paying in full, per module, or through instalments. See below for the full list of options:
Resource Download
Student Profiles
Simon Webster
Setanta Graduate
I wanted to do the MSc to further develop myself as a coach, and I feel that Setanta has given me the tools to help improve myself, as well as giving me a better understanding as to how I can action this within the real-life setting of professional sport.
The practical experiences the professors were able to share on the residential were incredible.
Yuvraj Salvi
Setanta Graduate
“I got detailed exposure to technology, both in theory and practicals. I also connected with premium quality S&C coaches who were my classmates.
It was quality knowledge that I use in my current practice, and valuable networking that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
Laura Dyson
Setanta Graduate
I chose the MSc in Performance Coaching with Setanta to continue challenging myself as a coach. Setanta’s strong reputation, the balance between practical coaching skills and academic knowledge, and the flexibility to study while living and working abroad in Aotearoa (New Zealand) made it the ideal choice.
The ability to immediately apply what I was learning in real-world settings made the experience even more valuable.
Nic Ferreira
Setanta Graduate
I loved the flexibility and practical aspects of the course. I have found it incredibly
interesting and have already been incorporating my learnings into my coaching.
Bernardo Botha
Setanta Graduate
The flexibility of the program, combined with the technical and interpersonal skills I’ve gained, makes it an ideal choice. The most beneficial part has been learning new things every day and applying them in my role.
Kunal Khaire
Setanta Graduate
Setanta has consistently been my go-to resource, answering my questions and providing expert guidance that has helped me excel in my career. The college’s focus on integrating technology for athlete development aligns perfectly with my approach to training and performance enhancement.
The educational experience enhanced my understanding of athlete assessment, programme design, and the application of scientific principles to boost athletic performance. The systematic approach to monitoring and adjusting training regimens using technology and data analysis has been critical in optimising player development.
Eimear Ryan
Setanta Graduate
The most beneficial part of studying with Setanta has been the flexibility of their online platform, which has allowed me to balance my coursework with my career as a nurse and strength and conditioning coach.
The practical, evidence-based content has provided valuable insights into both the psychological and physical aspects of sports and exercise, which I can directly apply to my coaching methods. Being able to study at my own pace has made it accessible and manageable, enabling me to continuously enhance my career while pursuing my passion for holistic health promotion.
Shalini Mantravadi
Setanta Graduate
I wanted to get more expertise in every aspect of strength and conditioning by diving deeper and acquire more knowledge which will help me in training elite players.
I leaned on most of the research papers shared on each module every time I got stuck (it could be about movement efficiency, testing protocols, managing athletes and nutrition).
I’ve practically used everything I’ve learned, which inspires me to learn more.
How you'll study
Your learning experience is built around applied study, hands-on development, and meaningful interaction with practitioners who work every day in football performance and rehabilitation. Each stage of the programme blends scientific depth with real-world application, giving you the confidence to work effectively within modern football environments.
Your studies combine online learning, weekly engagement, and practical development built around the realities of modern football performance. Lectures, tasks, and seminar-style discussions help you explore injury mechanisms, athlete monitoring, rehabilitation frameworks, and technology-driven decision-making. These sessions encourage clear thinking and purposeful action, giving you the capability to interpret data, design effective interventions, and contribute confidently within football environments.
A key feature of the programme is the residential week, where you deepen your skills through hands-on coaching, practical assessments, and exposure to GPS systems, force platforms, profiling tools, and collaborative case work. This is supported by ongoing reflective practice and professional skill development, helping you strengthen communication, leadership, and your role within multidisciplinary teams. The programme concludes with an applied project that targets a real challenge from your performance setting, allowing you to generate solutions with direct impact on rehabilitation and return-to-performance practice.
Online Learning
Applied Seminars
Practical Residential Week
Independent Study
Case-Based Learning
Final Applied Project
Download Brochure
For more in-depth details about the MSc in Rehabilitation Science & Football Performance, fill out the form to download the brochure.
Hear From Our Alumni
The MSc Strength and Conditioning course develops the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to enhance athletic performance and reduce injury risk. You’ll learn about the physiological and biomechanical adaptations that result from modern training methods and evaluate different models of periodization and contemporary Strength and Conditioning practices. Additionally, you’ll learn how to create and implement tailored annual training plans and use monitoring and recovery tools to optimise performance and recovery.
This course will prepare you to support a broad spectrum of clients, from elite athletes to special populations such as older adults, youth, females, and athletes with disabilities. There is a rich, hands-on practical focus to this course supported by outstanding Strength and Conditioning facilities and resources.
This course will prepare students for professional accreditation with organizations such as the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). This ensures that when you graduate you are ready to meet the professional standards and excel in the evolving field of Strength and Conditioning.
This course is delivered by friendly and approachable student-centred staff who facilitate a supportive, interactive, and nurturing learning environment that will help you excel and achieve your academic goals.
Placement
There is an opportunity for a year-long placement, which is undertaken after the completion of the core modules. Upon completion of the placement, students will receive a Postgraduate Placement Diploma in Professional Practice.
For Coaches, By Coaches
Trusted by Coaches & Organisations Globally
Flexible Study That Works With Your Career
An Education Grounded in Evidence and Application
When is the next deadline?
Application Deadline:
24th March 2026
Applications Open
Start Date:
7th April 2026
Applications Open
SPRING START Nov 15, 2025
Closed
FALL START Dec 15, 2025
Priority Scholarship Consideration
Our Philosophy
At Setanta, our philosophy is shaped by three connected pillars: Education, Application and Insight.
1.Education
Education provides the scientific and coaching foundations you need to understand performance, movement, and athlete development. We present knowledge in a way that empowers practitioners to think clearly and act with purpose.
2. Application
Application turns that learning into meaningful practice. Through practical workshops, case discussions, and performance-driven tasks, you learn how to coach, assess, communicate, and problem-solve in environments that mirror real sport.
3. Insight
Insight is developed through experience, reflection, and evidence. It’s the ability to make informed decisions, interpret information, and guide athletes through demanding training and competitive cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your learning experience is built around applied study, hands-on development, and meaningful interaction with practitioners who work every day in football performance and rehabilitation. Each stage of the programme blends scientific depth with real-world application, giving you the confidence to work effectively within modern football environments.
How flexible is the study format?
The programme blends online modules with applied work, supported by a residential week of high-impact practical learning. The structure is designed to work alongside professional commitments.
Do I need to be working with athletes to complete the course?
It’s beneficial, but not mandatory. Many assignments encourage real-world application, and those not currently coaching can draw from case studies, club placements, or supervised environments.
What happens during the residential week?
Residentials focus on hands-on coaching, practical assessments, technology-based performance monitoring, critical discussion, and collaborative learning.
Who is this MSc designed for?
This programme is built for coaches, rehabilitation practitioners, S&C staff, physios, sport scientists, and professionals working in football who want to advance their ability to manage rehabilitation, guide performance, and lead within multidisciplinary environments.
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