Course description
The Sports Psychology course is an important add on skill for Sports Coaches and is aimed at individuals who are working with teams or athletes, as well as those who work in the leisure industry.
The Sports Psychology course is designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge to change behavior in a sporting context. It will enable participants to develop an understanding of the psychological principles that underpin coaching techniques.
The 2 key areas of interest in sports psychology are:
Understanding how psychology can be applied to improve motivation and performance and
Understanding how sports and athletics can improve mental health and overall well-being
These two areas encompass a range of topics including:
Motivation to persist and achieve
Psychological considerations in sport injury and rehabilitation
Counseling techniques with athletes
Assessing talent
Exercise adherence and well-being
Self-perceptions related to achieving
Expertise in sport
Youth sport
Performance enhancement and self-regulation techniques
While popular perceptions often presume that Sports Psychology is only concerned with professional athletics, this specialty area includes a broad range of scientific, clinical and applied topics involving sports and exercise.
Qualifications gained
FETAC Level 6 Component Certificate in Sports Psychology
Entry requirements
Entry to this course is by direct application to the college. There are no previous academic requirements.
Course structure
This is a part time course delivered 1 evening a week or day release.
Course content modules
The Development of Sports Psychology
Sports Psychology and Performance
Arousal, Stress and Anxiety
Concept of Motivation in Sport
Goal Setting
Leadership and Coaching
Distance Learning and Online Courses are offered in a number of different formats, these include correspondence courses (by post), online via computer or a combination of online and classroom instruction (blended learning).. 
Further Education and PLCs (Post Leaving Cert Courses) have become a popular alternative to the CAO system here in Ireland. PLC Courses are validated by QQI (Quality & Qualifications Ireland) at levels 5 & 6 of the NFQ.. 
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) helps to keep skills and knowledge up to date and ensures the standard of registrations & qualifications are maintained.. 
Evening courses and part time learning options are a great way to enhance a CV, to socialise and make friends, as well as learn something completely new. There are an abundance of night courses and evening classes available.. 
Ireland has moved from a short-term emergency response approach to a medium-term approach to managing risk and repairing the damage that COVID-19 has inflicted on society. The priority guiding the plan will be to keep schools open, while keeping people safe and protecting communities and the economy.