In Focus: Ahead In Sport - Be A Student Of The Game
Offering a traditional University pathway via a modern approach to delivery this three-year virtual programme was specifically designed for those who are, or aspiring to be, involved in the football industry
The Programme
The BSc(Hons) Football Industry is the latest offering from football and education specialists Ahead In Sport, delivered in collaboration with UCEN Manchester and Sheffield Hallam University. Combining industry expertise and research within an academic qualification, the programme provides players and support staff with the opportunity to access Higher Education in a modern and flexible way which is reflective of industry needs.
With its unique and innovative online delivery model, students combine their studies with existing football commitments or employment, build on individual experiences within the game and ensure they prepare themselves for the transition from playing or enabling those in support roles to advance their off-field careers.
In addition, through a commitment to widen access and participation, it provides a solution to the issues faced by those who may otherwise be disengaged from studying for a degree, such as their training and playing schedule, being transferred or loaned to another club, the time or location demands of their current employment or a lack of traditional formal entry qualifications.
Due to the industry facing nature of the degree it attracts applicants from a broad range of roles within football, is eligible for the PFA Education Bursary and supported by the League Football Education (LFE).
Current students include professional players and academy graduates from all levels of the men’s and women’s game. Those students who are active in non-playing roles include Coaching, Media, Scouting and Recruitment, Administration, Community Development and Social Inclusion.
The course content reflects the growth of employment opportunities in the football industry, with topics covered including Talent Identification, High-Performance, Technology in Football and Coaching and allows students to develop their love of football into a sustainable and successful future career through a combination of activities, lectures and seminars delivered online.
Taught by football and sport industry professionals who possess an expert level of knowledge, best practice and lived experiences, students also benefit from our Masterclass series offering exclusive insight and are supported by our Industry Mentor Programme, providing access to a wide range of networks and vocational opportunities.
Student Testimonials
“We are advised to prepare ourselves if football doesn’t work out and this was something I wanted to take seriously and plan for. ” Kieran Lloyd – Wigan Athletic FC
“Informed by research and industry insights it reflects the ever-changing demands of the football industry and gives students an opportunity to develop their passion for the game into a sustainable career.’’ Nicola McCullough – Director of Education, Ahead In Sport
“You learn so much through the workbooks and webinars. I am a Goalkeeper Coach and I have introduced what I am learning into my professional practice. There are so many aspects of the industry to learn about, it’s a great opportunity and I have met so many people through this course that I didn’t think I would have the opportunity to know.” Yusuf Mersin – Ex-Liverpool u21 & Crawley Town
“A lot of women players think about a second career, fortunately the professional women’s game is now at a point where we can just play football and we don’t have to work, which is great but when we retire, we’ve got to have something in mind. I always thought that I would stay within football, but I didn’t exactly know what role that would be and with this course the modules cover a wide spectrum of different areas of football you can work in. I thought it would be interesting for me to learn more about the different roles and see what fits for me and where I’d want to go.” Emily Ramsey – Everton FC & England
”Before you knew it, I was out of contract and that was it really, it was tough. After graduating with a First-Class Honours degree, I’ve been working full-time at a school with children with special educational needs, which I really enjoy. It’s very rewarding in a different way, helping and supporting the students. The things you get from this degree, the teaching staff and other students, means you can take it into all different aspects of life and so many skills are transferable, and that’s exactly what I’m doing day to day now.” Joe Hancott – Ex- Portsmouth FC
Recruiting now for September 2024 potential applicants can find out more by visiting: aheadinsport.com or email: info@aheadinsport.com
