Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Health and Exercise Sciences with Massage Therapy, Munster Technological University

Cork, Ulster

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This honours degree program offers students a chance to develop expertise in health, exercise, sports, and massage therapy. The coursework combines practical training such as massage casework, aquatic therapy, fitness testing, and applied anatomy, along with theoretical knowledge focused on wellness, behaviour change, and body function. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on community engagement, community-based massage practice, wellness education, and broad skill development. Graduates will gain confidence in professional and communication skills, providing a solid foundation for careers in health and fitness, massage therapy, and wellness promotion. The program prepares students for accreditation with IMTA as massage therapists and offers potential eligibility for professional fitness instructor registration, including group exercise, gym instruction, and personal training.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students interested in a mix of practical hands-on therapy and scientific understanding of health and wellness. It emphasizes community engagement and broad skill development, making graduates confident in their professional abilities. Additionally, graduates will be eligible for massage therapist accreditation and may qualify for further professional registration in fitness and health sectors, providing excellent career versatility.

Specialisation

The program combines health and exercise sciences with a focus on massage therapy, including active training modules in massage techniques, aquatic therapy, and functional assessment, alongside theoretical subjects like wellbeing science and exercise referral. This integrated approach equips students with both practical skills and scientific understanding needed for a successful career in massage therapy and health promotion.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

12.19L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Admission requires a CAO points score of 307 in 2024, along with meeting minimum entry requirements including six subjects in the Leaving Certificate, with a minimum of H5 in two subjects and O6/H7 in four others, including Mathematics and either English or Irish. Applicants must also provide certification of fitness for vigorous physical activity, and vetting by An Garda Síochána is mandatory.

English language test

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

110

Career prospects

Graduates will be qualified health and fitness professionals, wellness educators, and massage therapists. They can work in various settings such as leisure centres, hotels, spas, community and clinical environments, and private practices. Careers include massage therapy, sports massage, rehabilitation, health promotion, coaching, and physical education, especially with young and older adult groups. Opportunities also extend to community centres, workplaces, and entrepreneurial ventures in wellness.

FAQs

Can I progress into Physiotherapy from this course?

Yes, some graduates with at least a Second Class Honours Grade I have been accepted into MSc Physiotherapy programs in Ireland and the UK, which are two-year full-time postgraduate courses.

Are there exit awards available if I don’t complete my full degree?

Yes, students who complete year two can receive a Higher Certificate, while those finishing year three can obtain an Ordinary Degree if they choose not to progress further.