Programme Plan for Executive Master of Sports Medicine (2026–2028)

Maintaining optimal health and performance is essential for athletes at all levels and requires a comprehensive understanding of sports medicine and its practical application. As the number of medical professionals working with both elite and recreational athletes continues to grow, so does the need for specialised competence in this field.

Many doctors and health professionals are expected to support athletes in matters related to health, injury, illness, prevention, and performance, but do not always have sufficient formal training in sports medicine. This may lead to uncertainty, inconsistent practice, or inadequate support in complex clinical situations.

This Executive Master’s programme builds on the IOC Diploma in Sports Medicine, which was established to strengthen the competence of sports medicine practitioners across all IOC member countries. The diploma has contributed to building a global professional network and to improving standards of care for athletes worldwide. This master’s programme extends that foundation by providing formal academic training in research methods and independent scientific work. The overall aim is to strengthen sports medicine expertise internationally and thereby improve athlete health, well-being, and performance far beyond the Olympic arena.

Graduates of the programme will be qualified for advanced professional roles within sports medicine, athlete health, and performance support in sport, healthcare, and related sectors where specialised expertise is needed. The programme prepares candidates to provide evidence-based guidance and care for athletes at all levels, from recreational participants to elite and Olympic-level competitors, as well as for physically active individuals in the wider population.

The programme may also provide a relevant basis for further academic development, including doctoral studies in sports medicine, health sciences, or related disciplines, subject to the admission requirements of the relevant institution.

All applicants must meet the following requirements

• Medical Doctoral Degree
• 2 years of documented relevant work experience
• Completed and passed the international Olympic Committee Diploma in Sports Medicine
• English language proficiency

Documentation requirements

Applicants must provide documentation of financing for the tuition fee.

After completing the programme the student is expected to achieve the following learning outcomes

Knowledge

The student

• has advanced knowledge of relevant theories and research within their chosen field.
• understands research design, methodology, and ethical guidelines applicable to sport science research.
• has in-depth theoretical insight into the topic being investigated in the master’s thesis.

Skills

The student can

• plan, facilitate, and carry out research and development (R&D) projects.
• critically evaluate existing research and theories within their field.
• apply research methods correctly and ethically in the chosen field, including the ability to design, conduct, analyze, and interpret research effectively.
• communicate their project and research findings clearly and effectively, both in writing and orally.
• work independently on a large and complex project over an extended period.

General Competence

The student

• can manage an independent scientific project in accordance with academic and ethical standards.
• demonstrates the ability to take responsibility for their own learning and professional development.
• can reflect critically on methodological choices and research results.
• understands and applies ethical guidelines for research within their field.
• is qualified to engage in advanced academic or professional work within sport sciences.

The IOC Diploma in Sports Medicine provides the academic foundation for further study at master’s level. In addition, students complete 10 ECTS credits in statistics and methodology during the programme. This course are delivered online by the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences.

The main component of the programme is the master’s thesis, which consists of an independent research project carried out by the student in collaboration with supervisors. The project is normally conducted in the student’s home country or home institution. The student is expected to take increasing responsibility for planning, implementation, academic writing, and progress throughout the programme.

Statistics and methodology are assessed through written assessments.

The master’s thesis is assessed on the basis of the written thesis and an oral examination. The final grade is based on an overall evaluation of both components.

As students complete the programme from their home country and the programme is fully online, exchange is not a relevant component of this study programme.

Facilitation, students, partner university

The programme is designed as an externally funded programme and is open to qualified applicants who meet the admission requirements. Recruitment is therefore not limited to existing institutional partnerships.