Applied Sports Performance Analysis

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have:

A minimum of 2:1 in a relevant Sport (Performance Analysis, Sports Coaching or Sport Science) OR Mathematics, Statistics, or Data Science related programme AND prior experience in performance analysis, which can be demonstrated in one or more of the following: hands-on delivery (minimum of 20 hours), training and engagement with hardware and software as an analyst or coach (minimum of 20 hors) and/or completion of a research project focused on performance analysis (minimum of undergraduate research project).

Applicants with a 2:2 degree in a relevant programme (to include a transcript with no more than 4 modules graded at less than 50%) will be considered on a case by case basis AND prior experience in performance analysis, which can be demonstrated in one or more of the following: hands-on delivery (minimum of 50 hours), training and engagement with hardware and software as an analyst or coach (minimum of 50 hors) and/or completion of a research project focused on performance analysis (minimum of undergraduate research project).

All applicants shall be interviewed.

International students require IELTS of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in any component) or equivalent.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Sports Performance Analysis has become one of the fastest-growing areas in sports science, shaping decision-making at both elite and grassroots levels. Our course has been designed to provide you with the advanced knowledge and applied skills needed to thrive as a performance analyst in this rapidly evolving field, while offering the flexibility to fit study around your lifestyle.

The programme is delivered primarily through distance learning, supported by two intensive on-campus weeks for practical workshops and networking. At Worcester, you will have access to industry-standard software and workflows used by professional sports organisations, giving you experience with new and emerging technologies at the forefront of the discipline. The applied nature of the course forms the core of the programme, with a significant part being vocationally based.

You will build on the foundational skills and theory learnt on an undergraduate degree in sports coaching, sports science or performance analysis, while developing expertise in areas that matter most to employers, such as data collection and analysis, critical thinking, communication strategies for coaches and athletes, and professional practice. Through our Negotiated Professional Development Project, you will complete at least 100 hours of applied work, giving you hands-on experience and a portfolio that demonstrates your expertise.

You will be taught by research-active academics and experienced practitioners working on cutting-edge projects in sports performance analysis. Our teaching is research-inspired and evidence-based, ensuring you gain the latest insights and practical approaches. We understand that postgraduate study is a big step, which is why we provide tailored academic support and opportunities to practice your skills throughout the course. Our approach is collaborative: we listen, adapt, and work in partnership with you to help you succeed.

Key features

• Applied skills at the heart of the programme – Emphasis on developing and applying the practical skills of a performance analyst in real-world environments.
• Industry connections – Strong links with professional sports clubs and organisations to support applied learning and career development.
• Distance learning with practical immersion – Primarily online delivery with two intensive face-to-face weeks for hands-on workshops and networking.
• Software access beyond campus – We provide industry-standard software for use in your applied learning environment.
• Expert-led teaching – Created in collaboration with industry experts and delivered by world-renowned applied academics and practitioners.
• Authentic assessments – Tailored towards employability and skills development, including reflective professional portfolios and mini-projects addressing real applied performance questions.
• Excellent facilities, including two performance analysis laboratories, Motion & Performance Centre, 2,000-seat sports arena, two indoor sports centres, floodlit 3G astro, floodlit synthetic pitch, exercise physiology suite, sports science laboratories, gymnasia and dance studio

Overview

The MSc Sport (Applied Performance Analysis) has been specifically designed for students wishing to progress in their careers as a sports performance analysts, in either an athlete support or a research role. Sports performance analysis is an objective way of observing and recording performances to quantify key performance elements in a valid and consistent manner to inform future practice.

Sports performance analysts are now employed by virtually every professional club to provide coaches, athletes and other support staff with objective data to aid in improve sporting performance. Roles that sports performance analysts typically fulfil include coding performances to prepare reports and videos to evaluate past and/or future performances, identifying trends and patterns between teams/individuals through statistical analyses, using objective performance data to answer key performance related questions posed by coaches, players and/or other performance related staff etc.

In particular, the course aims to facilitate the development of theoretical and practical knowledge, understanding and professional skills of sport performance analysts working in or hoping to work in the sports performance industry. With this in mind the primary focus of content and the flexible learning delivery method is related to developing and enhancing the competencies of an applied sports performance analyst. This specific focus provides students with a greater depth of understanding and technical skills and will better prepare students to further their careers in the highly competitive field of applied sports performance analysis.

Information for international students

International students require IELTS of 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in any component) or equivalent.