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Sport and Exercise Medicine (Dubai) MSc / PGDip
- CampusDubai
- Start dateSeptember 2026Duration1 year full time, 2-3 years part time
- AwardMaster of Science / Postgraduate Diploma
- Entry requirements2:1 undergraduate Honours degree in MBBS or (pre-registration) Physiotherapy
- Fees (UK/Ireland)September 2026: AED 139,173 per year (full-time) / AED 69,587 per year (part-time)
Course overview
Become part of the next generation of experts in sports medicine as you build the skills to propel yourself into a rewarding career in elite sports. Explore the dynamic world of Sports and Exercise Medicine and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Science.
This degree is perfect for physiotherapists and doctors aiming to move into, or progress, in elite sports and exercise or musculoskeletal medicine. Dive into the roles and significance of interdisciplinary teams within elite sports and exercise medicine. Deepen your understanding of how to prevent injuries and illnesses. Assess and diagnose sports-related issues, and master rehabilitation techniques to support athletes returning to play.
Course structure
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis. While the exact content may change, here’s what you can expect to study each semester. This is based on a full-time Masters course.
Term 1
Term 1
In Term One, you will dive straight into undertaking research activities to boost your competence in knowledge generation and implementation. You will undertake a range of compulsory modules with the opportunity to tailor your degree to your interests, such as Research Methods and Sports Medicine 1 which focuses on injury and illnesses assessment. Your dissertation project will be launched this term and run through to term 3. Select from our optional modules and choose to study mixed methods research or Advanced MSK Physiotherapy (lower limb focus).
Term 2
Term 2
During Term two, you will integrate evidence based practice with clinical skills to develop your rehabilitation and management skills in Sports Medicine 2. You will also be able to select your second optional module including Innovations in professional development, Advanced MSK Physiotherapy (upper limb focus), or Work based continuing professional development.
Term 3
Term 3
In your final term, you will integrate all your learning from your studies, by undertaking a period of mentored clinical practice with one of our external sporting, musculoskeletal partners and complete your research dissertation.
Why study Sport and Exercise Medicine?
Our course is unique in its focus on professional practice and clinical mentorship within a sports medicine or musculoskeletal environment. Foster adaptability, cross-cultural and commercial awareness, the perfect preparation for the dynamic challenges of sports medicine. Sharpen your clinical reasoning skills in sports medicine and cultivate transferable skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, critical thinking and practical skills, that are sought-after by employers.
- A degree to suit you
- Flexible study to fit around your personal commitments
- World-class facilities
- Distinguished research and teaching staff
This programme is accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Course delivery
At the University of Birmingham, Dubai, research and teaching go hand in hand. You will experience multiple teaching and learning methods throughout the course which will be supported by self-directed learning.
Lecture
Tutorial
Seminar
1:1 Supervision
Mixed teaching methods – learn through lectures, tutorials and seminars as well as practical skills training and 1:1 supervision.
Interactive and collaborative teaching – all learning will be centred around contemporary evidence-based musculoskeletal sports practice. You will benefit from reflective and problem-solving approaches.
Assessments vary across modules. You will undertake written and oral case reports, practical assessments and you will write up a research study.
Module information
The Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Sports and Exercise Medicine is awarded with successful completion of six 20 credit masters level modules. Cumulative total of 120 M level credits. The award of Master of Science (MSc) in Sports and Exercise Medicine will be awarded following successful completion of the Research Dissertation (60 credits) to provide a cumulative total of 180 M level credits.
Year: 1
2026/27 Session
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Continuing Professional Development and Mentored Practice | 20 |
| Creating and Applying Evidence | 20 |
| Dissertation | 60 |
| Sports Medicine Assessment | 20 |
| Sports Medicine Rehabilitation | 20 |
You must choose two modules (40 credits) from the following list:
Teaching staff
Karthikeyan Muthumayandi
Programme director for MSc Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Karthikeyan Muthumayandi, Programme director for MSc Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Entry requirements
To secure your place at the University of Birmingham Dubai, you must meet both our general entry requirements and the specific criteria for your chosen course. Your application will be carefully reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will determine if you will receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours Degree
in undergraduate MBBS or (pre-registration) Physiotherapy qualification. You must also have registration either as medical doctor or practicing physiotherapist in the country where you are currently/have been practicing.
You will also need to submit the following documentation in support of your application:
- Supporting evidence of appropriate continuing professional development (CPD)
- Two academic/employer references
- Transcripts of degree (certified and translated into English if appropriate)
- Personal statement
- English language requirement
If you meet the entry criteria, you will be invited to an in-person/online interview to discuss your motivations and eligibility for the programme.
English language requirements
In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation.
- AED 139,173
Full-time (September 2026)
- AED 69,587
Part-time (September 2026)
Paying your tuition fees
We charge an annual tuition fee. The fees quoted are by full time or part time per year of study. For those studying courses over two or more years, the tuition fee will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can be paid in full or in three instalments per year of study.
Scholarships
Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. For students with the potential to thrive here, we have a number of scholarships available at our Dubai campus.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Career opportunities
Identifying and responding to opportunities from professional practice, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and attributes that lead to exciting, rewarding, and valuable careers. Through the developments in practice and influence, you will ensure that sport, physical activity, and rehabilitation can change the world in diverse and inclusive ways. Typical career pathways include working in elite sport full or part-time.
Careers Network
In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life at our Dubai campus.
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.
Living in Dubai
Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
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