Orla Hayes, BSc Health & Performance Science* Graduate
"I wanted to study Health & Performance Science in UCD as I had a keen interest in working in athletic development and sports science after my studies. Over the course of the three years, I learned about human physiology, athletic development, nutrition, and athlete psychology along with other key areas. The core aspects of the course such as individual and group work, critical thinking, and applied case study investigation, along with the support from mentors and lecturers, gave me the skills to positively transfer my knowledge into real life sporting environments. The skills and knowledge I obtained supported me in securing a full-time intern position in Athletic Performance which I started at the end of my BSc. I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in athlete development or sport performance".
* The BSc Health & Performance Science programme will be replaced with the BSc Sport, Health & Exercise programme in September 2025. See the FAQs for further details.
Peter Tierney, BSc Health & Performance Science* Graduate
"I always had a keen interest in supporting others and health & fitness, so the BSc in Health & Performance Science alongside Physiotherapy were degree options that I considered at UCD.
I chose the BSc in Health & Performance Science and loved the mix of lectures, practical sessions and group work. In addition to this, the course allowed me to gain practical experience in the college’s high performance gym working with elite athletes, and outside of UCD. Being able to put in practice some of the things I was learning was an amazing way to grow. I also enjoyed the group work, as it allowed me to develop skills working with other people, delegating and organising multiple work streams".
* The BSc Health & Performance Science programme will be replaced with the BSc Sport, Health & Exercise programme in September 2025. See the FAQs for further details.
Orla Prendergast, BSc Sport & Exercise Management Graduate
"I chose Sport & Exercise Management due to my personal interest in sport and desire to learn more about the business of sport. The course exceeded my expectations regarding the range of topics covered. The extensive range of modules ensures students receive a complete understanding of the sports industry. I particularly enjoyed the 10-week placement in a sports organisation after second year which provided me with the perfect opportunity to gain my first experience working in the sports industry. I am a member of the Irish Women’s Cricket team and had numerous tours and competitions to juggle alongside completing this degree. The staff and lecturers were always extremely helpful and accommodating in ensuring I kept up to date with course lectures and content. I would definitely recommend this course".
Ciara O'Shea, BSc Sport & Exercise Management Graduate
"I chose to study the BSc Sport & Exercise Management programme as it combined my love for sport with business. The range of subjects covered in this course provided me with an excellent basis for working within the sports industry. The work placement was an invaluable way to put the knowledge and skills I gained in the first two years into practice. After graduating I was delighted to secure a position on the Sport Ireland ASPIRE Graduate Employment Programme where I worked with Cycling Ireland. Since finishing the graduate programme I have taken on a full-time role within the National Governing Body in its Marketing Department".
Carrie O'Keefe, BSc Sport & Exercise Management Graduate
"The BSc Sport & Exercise Management programme in UCD was perfect for me. The course includes a wide variety of modules and it was so interesting to gain a deeper understanding of the sports industry from a business perspective. After graduation I applied for the ASPIRE Graduate Employment Programme with Sport Ireland where I got the opportunity to work with the Irish Judo Association. I am still working there almost two years later as its Marketing and Communications Administrator. This course gave me all the tools I needed to start my role and hit the ground running. It is ideal if you have a passion for sports and envision a career in the sports industry in the future.".
Read more about how our alumni are contributing to their communities and professions in the Alumni Stories section.