Bournemouth University’s MSc in Strength and Conditioning Awarded IUSCA Degree Accreditation

The International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association (IUSCA) is pleased to announce that Bournemouth University’s MSc in Strength and Conditioning has been awarded IUSCA Degree Accreditation, recognising the programme’s commitment to academic rigour, applied practice, and professional relevance. This achievement positions Bournemouth University among a growing group of institutions whose strength and conditioning (S&C) degrees meet the highest international standards.

The IUSCA Degree Accreditation is the only framework that embeds fully integrated professional certification within S&C degree programmes. Through this model, students on Bournemouth’s MSc course can graduate with the IUSCA IQF Level 7 Accredited International Strength and Conditioning Practitioner by Master’s Degree (aISCP*m), an internationally recognised certification that equips graduates with the skills to thrive within the profession. The IUSCA Degree Accreditation is aligned with the International Qualification Framework (IQF), with independent oversight provided by the IQF-IRC to ensure global standards and transparency in S&C certification.

Graduates of the accredited course will demonstrate the hallmark qualities of an IUSCA Accredited International Strength and Conditioning Practitioner (aISCP):

• The ability to utilise scientific thinking to facilitate independent thought within S&C

• Breadth and depth of knowledge within S&C

• The ability to write and communicate with clarity and effectiveness

• Demonstrated technical abilities

• Significant experience as a practitioner (1,500 hours)

• The ability to review and evaluate their own and others’ practice and performance

Dr Andrew Callaway, Course Leader for the MSc Strength and Conditioning at Bournemouth University, commented:

“We are delighted that our MSc Strength & Conditioning has achieved IUSCA Degree Accreditation. This recognition reflects a programme built around BU’s approach, combining research-informed teaching with applied practice to develop capable and industry-ready practitioners. The curriculum has been shaped through consultation with employers and governing bodies, ensuring strong alignment with contemporary professional standards. Students gain extensive hands-on experience through placements, guided coaching practice, and access to our specialist strength and conditioning suite and Human Performance Laboratories. This accreditation is a testament to the expertise of our academic team, the quality of our facilities, and our commitment to delivering a highly practical and professionally relevant learning environment. We are proud that graduates will leave with an internationally recognised certification and the skills to thrive within high-performance sport.”

Andrew Langford, Director of the IUSCA, added:

“Bournemouth University has built a robust and forward-thinking MSc in Strength and Conditioning, with a strong emphasis on applied experience and employability. Their commitment to aligning with global standards through IUSCA Accreditation ensures that graduates are fully prepared to enter the profession with both the academic and practical credentials required for success.”

Students on the programme also benefit from unlimited access to IUSCA Video resources and Short Courses, further supporting continuous professional development and engagement with contemporary best practices.

With IUSCA Accreditation now in place, Bournemouth University affirms its place as a leading provider of strength and conditioning education, combining scientific integrity, practitioner development, and industry connectivity within a single, professionally validated pathway.

To learn more about the MSc in Strength and Conditioning at Bournemouth University, visit: https://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/study/courses/msc-strength-conditioning

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About Bournemouth University: Bournemouth University is a modern and innovative UK institution with a strong focus on employability, research-led teaching, and industry partnerships. The Department of Rehabilitation and Sport Sciences offers a range of programmes designed to prepare students for successful careers in health, sport performance, and applied sciences.

About IUSCA: The International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association (IUSCA) is the global leader in setting and accrediting standards in S&C education. IUSCA Degree Accreditation ensures that graduates leave university with the professional competencies, technical skills, and real-world experience needed to excel in strength and conditioning practice across the world. Through its accreditation programs, International Qualification Framework (IQF), professional development resources, and research initiatives, the IUSCA aims to elevate standards and support the ongoing professional growth of practitioners across the sector.