MSc in Positive Health Coaching

This programme will provide you with the skills and knowledge to:

• Acquire a systematic understanding of knowledge of the foundational scientific principles that underpin lifestyle medicine, positive psychology and positive approaches to healthcare.
• Acquire and demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to critically evaluate and challenge assumptions, values and beliefs underpinning traditional and emerging approaches to healthcare.
• Acquire and critically apply a range of foundational methods and tools to assess and improve one’s own health and to understand the application of such approaches to others and to healthcare systems.
• Acquire a systematic understanding of the factors that shape the wider health environment and demonstrate the capacity to identify key stakeholders and understand their roles in relation to the emergence and future development of positive healthcare approaches, especially in the context of diseases of lifestyle.
• Demonstrate the capacity to critically evaluate and apply emerging positive health interventions using an evidence-informed approach.
• Critically appraise a selection of relevant current literature, synthesise judgements on scientific validity and best practice based on available evidence and reflect on the implications for one’s own understanding and application.
• Acquire and apply knowledge of theories of change relating to coaching psychology and psychological theories relating to behavioural change.
• Demonstrate the ability to deploy conversational skills during coaching conversations.
• Acquire and demonstrate the capacity to assimilate best practice in theory and application of the most commonly employed research methodologies.
• Demonstrate the ability to identify the most appropriate interventions and techniques from the fields of coaching and positive psychology.
• Examine and be able to articulate the importance of ethics and integrity in coaching practice.
• Demonstrate an ability to undertake critical reflective practice to enhance coaching ability and continue to grow as a professional.

Timetables will be made available to students during their orientation module.

There are nine onsite days in total for the masters programme.

Onsite days include

• One day for orientation (9-4pm).
• Two days for Module 4 – Foundations of Evidence-based Coaching.
• Two days for Module 5 – Positive Psychology Coaching.
• Two days for Module 6 – Becoming a Reflective Practitioner.
• Two days for Module 7 – Research Methods and Methodology (Year 2).

Webinars are weekly, with most live online sessions occurring on Thursday afternoon from 1-2pm with the few exceptions of some happening on a Friday. These sessions take place from 2-3pm to facilitate overseas guest faculty.

The schedule for each day will be available at the commencement of each module. Students are strongly encouraged to attend all scheduled teaching days listed.

Sometimes there are also additional tutorials or assignment clinics which are recommended/optional to attend and those dates will be released when each module goes live.

All sessions are recorded and can be viewed at a time that suits your needs. During orientation you will be shown where to find your module schedules on the virtual learning environment (VLE).

Please note that RCSI reserves the right to make changes to the academic timetables, and any updates will be communicated to students accordingly.

Assessment is continuous.

This programme is accredited by the National University of Ireland and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences.

We understand that workload can be a concern for students, but we want to reassure you that we have your best interests at heart.

Our courses are designed in line with the guidelines set by the Higher Education Authority (HEA). A typical 10-credit module would require approximately 200-250 hours of your time. This includes attending engaging lectures, productive tutorials, independent study and completing thought-provoking assignments.

You'll find that many of the modules in our programmes are structured around 10 credits each, offering you a balanced and comprehensive learning experience. However, it's worth mentioning that the final module in year two of our MSc is worth 20 credits, tailored to enrich your year two portfolio.

We understand that each module is unique, and the workload might vary depending on the specific nature and requirements. Some modules may require more attention and effort, while others might be more approachable.

Our faculty is dedicated to guiding you through your academic journey, ensuring that you have the support you need to succeed. When you join the programme you will have dedicated programme coordinators and programme directors to answer any questions or concerns along the way.

Remember the issues you may face while on the programme are most likely ones we have dealt with before so please feel free to approach us in your time of need. We are here to ensure that your educational journey is the most enjoyable and fulfilling experience possible.

Rest assured, we value your time and dedication, and we encourage you to manage your time effectively. Remember, your passion for learning, combined with our expert guidance, will pave the way for your academic excellence.