Much importance is placed on understanding the anatomy of the body. Year One begins with anatomy and the basic sciences, giving you an understanding of the pathophysiology of injury. You will also study the theory and practice that underpin physical conditioning to prevent and rehabilitate injury, and enhance health and performance. In Year Two you will start to learn how to assess, treat and rehabilitate injuries and develop further the theory and practice of training. You will also undertake First Aid and Emergency Care in order to prepare you to provide pitch-side assistance to various sports. In addition, you will start the Clinic modules that will continue each semester for the whole course. These modules will provide you with clinical field experience as well as allow you to assist in the student-led sports injury clinic based within the School. Year Three will see you expand your knowledge, as well as learning in-depth principles of rehabilitation, therapeutic modalities and soft tissue therapies. In the first half of Year Four you will gain three to five months experience working full-time in a clinical setting in Ireland or abroad (including athletic therapy and training facilities in American and Canadian universities). The latter half of the fourth year includes a major research project.

The clinical experience gained in Year Four gives you a genuine competitive edge with employers when you graduate. Career prospects include: Sports injury clinics Sports clubs and teams National governing bodies of sports associations Health and fitness centres Self-employed athletic therapist and trainer