Becoming a sports therapist in Ireland is a rewarding journey that requires dedication, education, and practical experience.
Aspiring sports therapists play a crucial role in supporting athletes' health, preventing injuries, and optimising performance, making it a dynamic and fulfilling career path.
If you're considering pursuing a career in sports therapy, you may be wondering how long it takes to achieve your goal.
In this article, we'll explore the typical path to becoming a sports therapist in Ireland, including options for accelerated entry to fast-track your path to success.
Success Story: Lindsey Haddock – Head of the Exercise Rehabilitation, NIFL Premiership team & Northern Cricket Union Sports Therapist
Traditional Route:
The traditional route to becoming a sports therapist in Ireland involves completing a Bachelor's degree program in Sports Therapy. Typically, this involves three or four years of full-time study, during which students gain comprehensive knowledge in sports science, anatomy, injury assessment, rehabilitation techniques, and practical experience in clinical settings. Upon graduation, students are equipped with the skills and qualifications needed to pursue licensure or accreditation as a sports therapist.
Accelerated Entry Option:
For individuals who already hold a relevant Level 6 qualification in a related field, such as fitness instruction or sports coaching, there may be opportunities for accelerated entry into a Bachelor's degree program in Sports Therapy. Portobello Institute offers an accelerated pathway for such candidates, allowing them to gain advanced entry onto the BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy degree program. With this option, students can complete the degree in just two years, accelerating their career progression and entry into the field of sports therapy.
BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy at Portobello Institute:
Portobello Institute is a leading provider of sports therapy education in Ireland, offering a comprehensive BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy degree program. This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to excel in the field of sports therapy. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including sports injury assessment, rehabilitation techniques, manual therapy, exercise prescription, and professional practice.
Upon completing this level 8 honours degree, you will hold a BSc (Hons) in Sports Therapy awarded by University of Essex (UoE).
You will be registered as a student of the University of Essex.
When you begin this course you are invited to become registered as a student member of The Society of Sports Therapists. You may become a full member of the society when you complete your degree. Sports Therapists who are members of SST are recognised globally for the high standards they have attained during their training and are employed by leading clubs throughout the sporting world. Members of the Society of Sports Therapy are eligible for Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance.
This BSc (Hons) in Sports Therapy is recognised by AECC University College to apply to progress to MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-reg).
Advanced Entry Option:
The advanced entry option at Portobello Institute allows individuals with a relevant Level 6 qualification to fast-track their degree completion. By meeting specific entry requirements and completing a rigorous assessment process, candidates can gain entry into the second year of the BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy degree program. This accelerated pathway enables students to complete the degree in just two years, saving time and accelerating their career progression in sports therapy.
In conclusion, the path to becoming a sports therapist in Ireland typically involves completing a Bachelor's degree program in Sports Therapy, which typically takes three years of full-time study.
However, for individuals with relevant qualifications, such as a Level 6 certification, accelerated entry options are available, allowing them to complete the degree in just two years.
Portobello Institute offers a reputable BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy degree program, with options for both traditional and accelerated entry, providing aspiring sports therapists with a flexible and efficient pathway to achieving their career goals.
Whether you choose the traditional route or opt for accelerated entry, pursuing a career in sports therapy is a rewarding journey that offers endless opportunities to make a positive impact in the field of sports and wellness.
Portobello Institute has a dynamic sports department with a range of top qualifications for the next step in your career.
- BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy
- BA (Hons) Physical Education
- Graduate Diploma in Physical Education
- MSc Sports Performance Analysis
- MSc Physiotherapy
Our expert advisor Brandon McLean is available to support you to choose the course that is right for you by emailing him brandon.mclean@portobelloinstitute.com, calling 01 892 0035 or booking a one-to-one consultation call.
