1. Coursework: You will develop a research question, design a robust methodology, collect and analyse data, and produce a comprehensive report. The report should adhere to good research and reporting practices and include a clear introduction and background, detailed methodology, presentation of results, and a discussion interpreting your findings. Emphasis is placed on demonstrating rigorous research design, critical analysis, and the ability to integrate relevant literature to support your conclusions.

2. Presentation: You will present the findings of your independent research project in a simulated conference setting where you are expected to justify the methodological design of the research and reflect on the strengths and limitations of the project.

This module develops your knowledge, understanding, and competence in the planning, conduct, and reporting of scientific research within Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, Sports and Exercise Science, or Sports Psychology.

Working under supervision, you will plan and undertake an independent research project in Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, Sports and Exercise Science, or Sports Psychology and professional interests. You will identify a suitable research topic, justify its relevance through a critical review of the literature, and design an appropriate methodological approach. You will then collect, manage, and analyse data using appropriate analytical techniques, interpreting your findings with reference to existing evidence and methodological considerations.

To support your overall development, you will also complete an oral viva in which you critically reflect on your project and articulate how this module and your broader final-year learning have contributed to your research capability, professional judgement, and transferable skills. This includes demonstrating readiness for employment or further study through evidence of independent working, problem-solving, and effective communication.

This flexible module enables you to pursue a research topic and methodological approach that align with your interests, experience, and career aspirations, while ensuring you gain the essential skills required to design, conduct, and report high-quality scientific research.

1. Apply appropriate research methods and techniques to review, consolidate, and extend your knowledge and understanding of Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, Sports and Exercise Science, or Sports Psychology and independently initiate, design, and carry out a structured research project.

Learning Outcome: Application & problem-solving

2. Accurately deploy established techniques of scientific analysis and enquiry, including data collection, statistical interpretation, and methodological evaluation, in line with disciplinary standards of good research practice.

Learning Outcome: Critical reasoning & collaboration, Research skills

3. Demonstrate an appreciation of the uncertainty, ambiguity, and limitations inherent in scientific research, recognising how these factors influence methodological choices, interpretation of findings, and the strength of conclusions drawn.

Learning Outcome: Reflection, Communication

We are committed to providing an engaging, inclusive, and supportive learning environment that develops students’ knowledge, clinical reasoning, and practical skills.

A central feature of our approach is simulation-based learning, which allows students to engage with realistic clinical scenarios in a safe and structured setting. Learning is carefully scaffolded: students begin with peer-to-peer role-play, exploring fundamental concepts, communication, and interpersonal skills; progress to case study simulations, applying evidence-based knowledge to increasingly complex injury scenarios; and ultimately integrate these skills into real-world practice within the University’s commercial clinics at Level 5 and 6. This structured progression ensures a seamless transition from theory to professional application while preparing students for graduate employability.

The module is delivered predominantly face-to-face, combining theoretical understanding with hands-on practical experience to support deeper learning and to develop practical competence. Students refine their manual and technical skills through guided practice, live demonstrations, and independent tasks, consolidating knowledge while building confidence in healthcare and sport settings.

To further support self-directed and reflective learning, students have access to our telehealth and greenscreen facilities, enabling the creation of digital learning resources for revision, skill development, and reflective practice. These activities encourage active engagement, critical thinking, and the integration of evidence-based knowledge into practical decision-making.

Industry standard Teaching Clinic and Rehabilitation Zone

State-of-the-Art Telehealth Hub

Higgins, J. P. (2008). Cochrane handbook for systematic reviews of interventions. Cochrane Collaboration and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Purssell, E., & McCrae, N. (2020). How to perform a systematic literature review: a guide for healthcare researchers, practitioners and students. Springer Nature.

Ward, K. (Ed.). (2024). Routledge Handbook of Sports and Exercise Therapy. Taylor & Francis.

Sestak, Z. (2013). How to write a paper. G. M. Hall (Ed.). John Wiley & Sons.

Greenhalgh, T. M., & Dijkstra, P. (2024). How to Read a Paper: the Basics of Evidence-Based Healthcare. John Wiley & Sons.

Ready to take the lead on your own research project?
In this module, you’ll design and carry out an independent research study in an area of sports therapy and rehabilitation that interests you. You’ll plan, conduct, and report your findings, from reviewing literature and designing the trial methods to collecting and analysing data. You’ll also reflect on your learning and present your findings in a viva, showcasing your research skills, professional judgement, and readiness for your next steps, whether that’s employment or further study.