ABOUT THIS COURSE
The National Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy has been designed to provide learners with the requisite knowledge, understanding and skills to work with non-pathological (non-injured) muscle tissue. This course of study will develop your knowledge and understanding of the theory underpinning the practice of sports massage therapy, including Anatomy & Physiology, Principles of Health & Fitness and Soft Tissue Dysfunction. In addition, you will develop the understanding, skills and techniques to plan, prepare for and apply a range of sports massage methods to both athletic and non-athletic clients.
Anatomy & Physiology for Sports Massage
- Understand the structure and functions of the skin and nervous system.
- Understand the structure and functions of the skeletal system and joints.
- Understand the structure and functions of the muscular system.
- Understand the structure and functions of the endocrine and lymphatic systems.
- Understand the structure and functions of the cardio-respiratory system.
- Understand the structure and functions of the digestive and urinary systems.
- Understand the effects of sports massage on the body systems.
Principles of Health & Fitness
- Understand the benefits of an active and healthy lifestyle.
- Understand the effects of exercise on the body.
- Know the components of fitness and principles of training.
- Understand the importance of healthy eating.
Principles of Soft Tissue Dysfunction and Injury
- Understand soft tissue dysfunction.
- Understand the process of repair of soft tissue.
Professional Practice in Sports Massage
- Understand legislation and scope of practice regarding sports massage practice.
- Understand the standards relevant to the sports massage profession.
- Understand the principles of professional practice in sports massage.
- Understand how to produce, maintain and store client records.
Providing Different Sports Massage Treatments
- Understand massage and different treatment therapies.
- Understand the environment and resources required for sports massage treatments.
- Understand how to assess and screen clients for sports massage treatments.
- Be able to carry out client assessments and devise treatment plans.
- Understand and be able to evaluate sports massage treatments.
Course Start Date: September 1st 2024 – 2 Courses are Available
Theory/online modules are released on September 1st, 2024, followed by practical sessions starting October 12th, 2024. Practical contact days are:
Weekday Course Option:
Thursdays - 9:30am to 4:30pm. Dates: October 10 & 24, November 7 & 21, December 5.
Weekend Course Option:
Saturdays - 9:30am to 4:30pm. Dates: October 12 & 26, November 9 & 23, December 7.
Theory, research and assignments are completed outside of practical training days via recorded online lectures and video tutorials. All practical training days occur at our college location in Kildare.
Learners are required to complete 50 recorded practice hours including 10 recorded case studies as part of their self-directed learning. This clinical practice ensures that course learners meet strict accreditation requirements.
Limited Places Available
The National Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy runs twice a year (March & September) from our college location in Kildare. Weekday and weekend course options are available. Our next course start date is September 1st 2024. Student places are limited.
Early registration is advisable.
Course Tuition Fee: From €1,595
Course tuition fee includes access to our online classroom, course notes, online teaching materials, e-books and the access to equipment and materials for practical sessions (massage beds, towels, oils, taping and strapping materials). International Learner Registration, Assessment and Certification Fee: €100.
€1,595 is our early bird option (€200 discount) which must be paid in full prior to the course start date. The regular course fee of €1,795 can be paid over 4 instalments during the programme. Course tuition fees and external registration/examination fees must be paid in full prior to final assessments and grading of assignments.
A refundable course deposit of €195 must be paid to reserve a student place on this programme.
Course Fee Option 1: Early Bird Tuition Fee = €1,595 (€200 discount).
Deposit = €195 (refundable up until August 1st, 2024).
Final Tuition Payment of €1,400 paid before your course start date of September 1st, 2024.
International Learner Registration and Assessment Fee of €100 is due October 1st, 2024.
Course Fee Option 2: Standard Tuition Fee = €1,795.
Deposit = €195 (Refundable up until August 1st, 2024).
4 Payments of €400 due September 1st to December 1st, 2024.
International Learner Registration and Assessment Fee of €100 is due October 1st, 2024.
Eligibility
The National Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy is open to applicants who have a keen interest in working with athletes and the general public, performing sports massage treatments. This primary programme of education is suitable for individuals with or without any prior qualifications. The content is delivered to facilitate adult learners of mixed ability. Course learners must be computer literate and have access to a computer with broadband availability. Course notes, power-points, video tutorials, e-books and assignments are only available online. Completed assignments are also required to be uploaded online.
Major Awards
- National Diploma in Sports Massage (NSC)
- UKL3/IRL5 Diploma in Massage Therapy for Sports (Focus Awards - RQF/OFQUAL Registered Awarding Body)
The Focus Awards qualification is comparable to Level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Ireland and has international recognition. NSC/Focus Awards qualifications allow graduates to obtain professional indemnity insurance to practice in Ireland, the UK and across Europe. The National Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy consists of 5 modules, taught part-time through blended learning and completed over a 4 month period (September 2024 to December 2024). This is a blended learning programme which involves online lectures, video tutorials and written assignments, coupled with practical in-person sessions.
KildareWeekday CourseStarting September
5 PLACES LEFT
KildareWeekend CourseStarting September
9 PLACES LEFT
DublinWeekday CourseStarting September
FULL!
BOOK YOUR PLACE BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!
Meet Your Instructor
George Martin, BSc. PGDip. MSc. MTEd.
Founder, Academic Director & Lecturer
Call at 085 800 1221 or email [email protected].
George Martin oversees all academic qualifications offered through the National Sports College. He also lectures in Anatomy & Physiology, Sport Science, Strength & Conditioning, Personal Training, Gym Instruction, Exercise to Music, Sports Massage and Business Management. George has over 25 years experience in the sport/health fitness industry as an instructor, coach, tutor, therapist and manager.
Education:
- BSc. (Hons) in Sport Science (QQI Level 8)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Training & Education (QQI Level 9)
- MSc. in Strength & Conditioning (QQI Level 9)
- Master of Arts in Training & Education (QQI Level 9)
- International Certificate in Exercise & Health Studies
- National Qualification in Sport & Remedial Massage Therapy
- Certified Tutor Coach (Coaching Ireland)
- Train the Trainer Certified (QQI Level 6)
- Certificate in Management Processes (QQI Level 6)
- Certificate in Information Technology & Computer Studies
- Registered Sport & Active Leisure Assessor
See what our students say!
Recently finished a course at NSC and was super impressed by how thorough it was. George and Allison were amazing and there to answer questions and give practical advice that really helped me out. They really know their stuff and are always ready to help!
Sarah D.
I had a fantastic experience at NSC. The course was top-notch, but what really stood out was the support I received outside the classroom. George and Allison were always there to help with any questions I had about notes and exams. Their willingness to provide extra assistance made a huge difference, helping me understand the material better and feel more prepared for exams.
Eamonn O'C.
My time at the National Sports College was great. The course quality was excellent. What I appreciated most was the support from George and Allison outside of class. They were always available to answer questions about the notes and exams. Their dedication made the learning experience smooth and stress-free. For anyone looking for a course with exceptional support, I highly recommend NSC. They truly care about their students' success.
Collin Byrne
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need a qualification to participate on this course?
No. This course does not require previous certification.
What will I be qualified to do when I complete the course?
On successful completion you will be able to treat and relive pain, injury and dysfunction in muscle and soft tissue.
Will I be able to work with sports teams?
Many graduates go on to work with a variety of sporting teams.
Is this qualification accredited?
Yes. This qualification is accredited by Ireland’s Nationally accredited body, Focus Awards.
Is this qualification accepted internationally?
Yes. This qualification can be used internationally.
Will I be able to get a job in a fitness centre or health club?
Yes. Gym Instructors commonly work in such places
Can I pay by instalments?
Yes. We offer multiple payment options.
Can I get a grant for course fees?
Yes. Some participants on our courses can avail of government grants when applying for our courses. We can assist in this process.
How long does this course last?
The course lasts 16 weeks.
Where is this course available?
We currently offer this course in Dublin & Kildare.
How will I be assessed?
Students are assessed with practical work along with a written exam.
What do I have to do outside class times?
Work outside class consists of studying and completing course assignments.
What is the exam success rate?
The vast majority of our students pass all examinations first time with few needing to repeat the exam.
What age group participates in this course?
The age range of members on our courses ranges from 18 to 55 years old. Anyone can do it!
Will I need to get insurance?
We strongly recommend all students hold a professional indemnity insurance policy. This covers them against legal action taken by a client as a result of an injury which was caused by following the student’s professional advice.