Doctor of Sport
    Duration1 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    GBP 26,970 / year(s)

    Doctor of Sport

    About

    Champion Innovation in Sport: Where Research Meets Real-World Impact

    The Doctor of Sport (DSport) at Northumbria is designed to train skilled researcher-practitioners who bridge the gap between academia and the complex realities of sports and exercise professions. This unique course is embedded in industry, such that your research is inseparable from, and informed by, your experiences in practice. Crucially, your experience will enable you to adopt a demand-driven approach to research and position you at the nexus between scholarship and industry in ways that drives knowledge generation and knowledge mobilisation.

    Throughout the studies, you'll design research that addresses workplace opportunities, solves complex problems, generates novel understanding, and promotes ethical, professional practice. You'll refine your research skills and learn to critically evaluate and apply your findings to inform change and produce tangible impact. By the end, you'll not only develop advanced expertise but also contribute original, evidence-based scholarship that benefit your professional practice, your organisation, and the broader field.

    The heart of the course is a doctoral thesis tailored to your career goals. This work reflects your growth as a researcher and practitioner, offering insights that drive meaningful change and enhance the systems where you work. It's a journey of growth, innovation, and practical impact!

    This course is also available as part-time study.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    Entry Requirements 2025/26

    Standard Entry

    Applicants should normally have:

    A Master's degree in a relevant sport and/or exercise subject area . Other relevant science or health related subjects may be considered on an individual basis.

    Additional requirements

    • A 1000 word research proposal, outlining your area of research, for guidance on writing your research proposal, please see here.
    • Applicants should demonstrate (in their personal statement or research proposal) that they are working or volunteering in a sport and/or exercise environment that allows them direct access to appropriate populations to be able to meet the programme outcomes.
    • Applicants will be required to attend an (online) interview

    Please note that acceptance is also subject to available supervisor expertise in the department to support your area of Research

    International qualifications:

    Students who have studied a non-UK qualification, can see how their qualifications compare to the standard entry criteria, by selecting the country that they received the qualification in, from our country pages. Visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry?

    Approval of international qualifications must be sought and attained from the British Psychological Society.

    English language requirements:

    International applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with 6 in each component (or approved equivalent*).

    Career

    Careers & Employability

    The doctorate is designed to help you grow as a skilled researcher-practitioner, blending academic research with real-world application. It also opens pathways to potential academic careers if desired. 

    You’ll develop practical skills like problem-solving, ethical decision-making, creative thinking, and advanced research techniques, all tailored to address real challenges in your field. The doctorate emphasises impactful, high-quality research, helping you design effective, ethical solutions for complex problems in your professional practice. 

    Throughout your studies, you'll have access to the Graduate Futures Team, who offer personalised career advice, resources, and opportunities like volunteering, internships, and work experience to support your career growth. 

    We have a fantastic service for students' to use to gain advice and tips on furthering careers and enhancing their employability.

    Careers and Employment Services

    Fee Information

    Doctor of Sport

    Northumbria University

    Northumbria University

    United Kingdom

    United Kingdom, Newcastle upon Tyne