Sport Science (M.Sc.) – Movement and Wellbeing

This module teaches you how to design and conduct research. You will learn how to formulate scientific questions, analyze data using qualitative and quantitative methods, and critically reflect on research findings.

Which research questions do we address in this module?

• How can scientific knowledge be systematically generated and evaluated?
• What are the strengths and limitations of qualitative and quantitative research methods?
• How do statistical models help in interpreting complex data?
• What are the epistemological foundations of movement science research?

Which courses will you attend in this module?

(a) Multivariate Statistics and Data Analysis (Lecture, 4 Credits, 3 hours/week)
(b) Gaining Knowledge in Science (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hour/week)
(c) Combined Qualitative and Quantitative Methods (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hour/week)
(d) Test Theory and Questionnaire Design (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hour/week)

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

Written Exam (60 min) covering content from courses (a), (b), (c), and (d).

This module explores health science and public health. You will gain insights into how healthcare systems function, the role of health psychology, and workplace health promotion. You will also learn about nutrition and metabolism.

Which research questions do we address in this module?

• How do different healthcare systems influence public health outcomes?
• What psychological factors contribute to health promotion and disease prevention?
• How does workplace health promotion impact employee wellbeing?
• What role does nutrition play in movement and wellbeing?

Which courses will you attend in this module?

(a) Health Systems, Public Health and Health Policy (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hour/week)
(b) Workplace Health Management and Health Promotion (Lecture, 2 Credits, 2 hour/week)
(c) Health Psychology (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hour/week)
(d) Nutritional Physiology (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hour/week)

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

Written Exam (60 min) covering content from courses (a), (b), (c), and (d).

This module focuses on psychophysiological processes in movement science. You will learn how to apply modern performance diagnostics and understand mental training techniques and team dynamics in movement contexts.

Which research questions do we address in this module?

• How do system theory and cybernetics explain movement and performance regulation?
• What neurophysiological methods are used in movement diagnostics?
• How do psychological interventions impact movement performance and team dynamics?

Which courses will you attend in this module?

(a) Static and Dynamic Systems Theory (Lecture, 3 Credits, 1 hour/week)
(b) Holistic Diagnosis and Control of Performance (Lecture, 4 Credits, 2 hours/week)
(c) Applied Sports Psychology (Lecture, 4 Credits, 2 hours/week)

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

Written Exam (60 min) covering content from courses (a), (b), and (c).

This module provides an introduction to business and neuroscience in sports. You will learn how to start a business in the health and sports sector, understand neuromarketing, and explore different nutrition models. The module is assessed through a portfolio.

Which research questions do we address in this module?

• What are the economic and managerial aspects of the sports and health industry?
• How can neuroscience be applied to decision-making and performance?
• What role does nutrition play in movement and cognitive performance?

Which courses will you attend in this module?

(a) Business Start-up (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hour/week)
(b) Neuroscience (Lecture, 2 Credits, 2 hours/week)
(c) Personnel Management (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hour/week)
(d) Nutritional Concepts (Lecture, 2 Credits, 1 hours/week)

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

Portfolio Assessment covering content from courses (a), (b), (c), and (d).
A portfolio is defined as the independent composition, selection and compilation of a limited number of written documents on the topics of a module and products produced in the corresponding courses (see Examination Regulation §13.3)

This module is highly practical. You will work on a real-world research project, applying movement psychology and biometric measurement techniques to analyze movement, brain activity, and performance.

Which research questions do we address in this module?

• How can biometric data be used to analyze and improve movement performance?
• What are effective intervention strategies in movement psychology?
• How does motor learning interact with brain activity and movement control?

Which courses will you attend in this module?

(a) Movement and Wellbeing (Project, 4 Credits, 3 hours/week)
(b) Applied Psychology (Lecture, 4 Credits, 2 hours/week)
(c) Sport, Movement and Brain Activity (Seminar, 3 Credits, 1 hour/week)

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

• Portfolio Assessment covering content from course (a).
• Written Exam (60 min) covering content from courses (b) and (c).

Portfolio Assessment covering content from courses (a), (b), (c), and (d).
A portfolio is defined as the independent composition, selection and compilation of a limited number of written documents on the topics of a module and products produced in the corresponding courses (see Examination Regulation §13.3)

The internship is an integral part of the Master’s program, allowing students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings while exploring potential career paths in sports science, health promotion, and related fields.

Which courses will you attend in this module?

In addition to providing proof of a total of 450 internship hours, you must also provide proof of participation in the internship colloquium (10.5 hours). Further information on this can be found in the Internship Guidelines.

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

To successfully complete this module, you must:

• Regularly and actively participate in the internship
• Submit a detailed internship report reflecting on your experiences
• Attend an internship colloquium

To offer maximum flexibility, students can complete their internship through one of the following options:

Option 1: Integration into the Study Abroad Programs – Module 7 (India) & Module 8 (China)

Students can fulfill their internship hours as part of the study abroad experience in India (Ayurveda & Yoga) or China (Traditional Chinese Medicine). This allows for hands-on experience in international health and movement practices, guided by experts at our partner universities.
If you choose to complete your internship as part of Module 7 or Module 8, your practical experience is embedded in the academic program at our partner universities – no separate internship placement is required.

Option 2: Independent Internships

Students who do not wish to complete the full internship abroad or prefer to split their internship hours between study abroad and another institution can arrange an independent internship. This must be completed at state-recognized and accredited institutions that have a clear connection to one of the major areas of study in the program.

⚠️ Before starting an independent internship, you must:

• Register with the internship coordinator (Dr. Hendrik Beckmann)
• Submit an internship approval form

Internship Guidelines

All important information about the internship can be found in the Internship Guidelines.

This module takes you to our partner university in Ujire, India, where you will immerse yourself in the traditional Indian health practices of Ayurveda and Yoga. The stay lasts approximately 8 weeks, usually beginning in the first week of February. You will gain both theoretical and practical insights into the history, philosophy, and applications of Ayurveda and Yoga in health and movement science..

Which research questions do we address in this module?

• How can Ayurvedic principles be integrated into movement science?
• What physiological and psychological effects does yoga have on movement and wellbeing?
• How does traditional Ayurvedic diagnosis compare to Western medical approaches?

Which courses will you attend in this module?

(a) Ayurveda and Yoga I (Seminar, 4 Credits, 2 hours/week)
(b) Ayurveda and Yoga II (Seminar, 4 Credits, 2 hours/week)

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

Term Paper covering content from course (b).

• For term papers in the courses of Prof. Schöllhorn (and co-workers) the guidelines regarding content and form have to be followed: Download Guidelines for Term Papers.
• The topic of the term paper must be approved by Prof. Schöllhorn.

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Current information

Stay abroad in Ujire, India

📅 Period: From the beginning of February to the beginning of April
The official date has not yet been determined.

Study Abroad Process & Logistics

Once the official dates for the study period abroad (first and last teaching days on-site) are published under Current Information, you must register for the program with Mrs. Katrin Utzinger.

It is recommended to coordinate with your fellow students and arrange group flights. Whether or not you opt for additional travel insurance is up to you.

⚠️ Important: Make sure you arrive in Ujire before the first teaching day, as classes start early in the morning. Attendance is mandatory until the final teaching day in order to receive course credit.

You do not need to book accommodation, as students will stay in shared rooms (2-3 beds) in the university dormitories on campus. You will also have full access to cafeteria meals during your stay.

Estimated Costs

The estimated total cost for the study period in Ujire, including flights, visa, accommodation, and meals, is approximately €1,500. This estimate does not take into account the money you spend in your free time.

Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarship information in English

This module is conducted at the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (China), where you will gain in-depth knowledge of TCM and its applications in movement and health. The study abroad period lasts approximately 9 weeks, typically starting in the first week of September. You will explore both theoretical and practical aspects of TCM, including Qigong techniques, acupressure, and diagnostic methods.

Which research questions do we address in this module?

• How does Traditional Chinese Medicine approach movement and wellbeing?
• What are the effects of Qigong and acupuncture on physical and mental health?
• How do diagnostic techniques in TCM compare to Western medical approaches?

Which courses will you attend in this module?

(a) Traditional Chinese Medicine and Qigong I (Seminar, 4 Credits, 2 hours/week)
(b) Traditional Chinese Medicine and Qigong II (Seminar, 4 Credits, 2 hours/week)

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

Term Paper covering content from courses (a) or (b).

• For term papers in the courses of Prof. Schöllhorn (and co-workers) the guidelines regarding content and form have to be followed: Download Guidelines for Term Papers.
• The topic of the term paper must be approved by Prof. Schöllhorn.

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Current information

Stay abroad in Shanghai, China

📅 Period: From the beginning of September to the beginning of November
The official date has not yet been determined.

Study Abroad Process & Logistics

Once the official dates for the study period abroad (first and last teaching days on-site) are published under Current Information, you must register for the program with Mrs. Katrin Utzinger.

It is recommended to coordinate with your fellow students and arrange group flights. Whether or not you opt for additional travel insurance is up to you.

⚠️ Important: Make sure you arrive in Shanghai before the first teaching day, as classes start early in the morning. Attendance is mandatory until the final teaching day in order to receive course credit.

⚠️ Unlike the Ujire program, accommodation in Shanghai must be arranged individually. The university may provide recommendations, but students are responsible for finding suitable housing. Daily meals are also not included in the estimated costs.

Estimated Costs

The estimated total cost for the study period in Shanghai, including flights, visa, and accommodation, is approximately €2,500. Daily expenses for food and personal costs are not included in this estimate. This estimate also does not take into account the money you spend in your free time.

Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarship information in English

⚠️Please note:

• The regulations of module 9.1 only apply to students who can provide proof of a Bachelor's degree in sport, exercise or sports science.
• For students without a Bachelor's degree in sport, exercise or sports science, the regulations of module 9.2 apply.

9.1 Regulations for students with a Bachelor's degree in sport, exercise, or sport science

This module allows you to develop personal and professional skills. You can choose from various elective courses covering topics like communication, scientific writing, or intercultural competence. This module is not graded.

Key topics:

• Social skills (e.g., negotiation, conflict management)
• Methodological skills (e.g., media literacy, presentation techniques)
• Self-management (e.g., time & stress management)
• Scientific foundations & practical applications

Courses Catalog Key Skills

This course catalogue only addresses students with a Bachelor's degree in sport, exercise or sport science as well as students without a Bachelor's degree in sport, exercise, or sport science whose prior knowledge in one or more areas (1-3, see below) has been recognised.

Courses Catalog Key Skills – module 9.1: English | German 

We also recommend that international students take advantage of the courses offered by the Gutenberg International School (GIS). These courses are specially designed for international students. They are offered in English or at intermediate German level.

9.2 Regulations for students without a Bachelor's degree in sport, exercise, or sport science

Students who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree in sport, exercise, or sport science must complete specific introductory course (1-3) during their first year as part of the module Key Qualifications. These courses provide foundational knowledge necessary for advanced study in the program.

Required Courses:

1. Course(s) of at least 2 hours per week from the field of exercise and movement science, or sports psychology, or sports medicine.
2. Course(s) of at least 2 hours per week from the field of sport pedagogy, or sport sociology, or sport history.
3. Course(s) of at least 2 hours per week from the field of statistics and research methods.

Successful participation in these courses usually is assessed through a written examination (at least 45 minutes), covering all three subject areas. A minimum passing grade ("sufficient") is required.

Recognition of Prior Academic Knowledge

Students who have already completed equivalent coursework at a university may apply for recognition of prior learning. However, coursework completed at private institutions, sports associations, or sports clubs cannot be recognized.

• If a student’s prior university coursework covers one or more required fields (1-3), they will be exempt from those courses, and the examination duration will be reduced proportionally.
• In place of the exempted course(s), students must take (an) alternative course(s) from module 9.1.

Course Availability & Examination Schedule

The introductory courses (fields 1-3) are usually offered between the first and second semesters or at the beginning of the second semester. The specific course topics within each field depend on the teaching capacity of the institute.

⚠️ Examinations for these courses typically take place in late December or early January.

The Master’s Thesis is the final step in your studies. You will conduct independent research on a topic of your choice, apply scientific methods, and present your findings in an oral defense.

Which examinations must you complete in this module?

• Master’s Thesis
• Oral Defense (30 min Presentation)

Applications are only accepted through the official JGU application portal.

📅 Application period: October 1st – November 15th

📅 Start of studies: April of the following year

🔗 More details: JGU Application Guide

You need a Bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields:

• Sport Science, Exercise Science
• Social Sciences
• Health Sciences
• Life Sciences
• A closely related field

If your degree is from a different discipline, you may still apply, but the final decision is made by the programme directors after your selection interview.

⚠️ Important: If you haven’t yet completed your degree, you can still apply with proof of at least 135 ECTS credits.

🔗 More details on eligibility

Required documents (upload as PDFs):

1. School-leaving certificate (university entrance qualification)
2. Bachelor’s degree certificate OR transcript of records (if degree not yet completed)
3. Proof of English language proficiency (see below)

⚠️ Do not send documents via email. Applications are only processed via the online portal.

📌 Upon enrolment, original documents or additional documents (e.g., proof of insurance) may be required.

You must provide proof of B2-level English proficiency through one of the following:

• Completion of a university degree taught in English
• First Certificate in English (FCE), CAE, or CPE
• IELTS (min. score 5.5)
• TOEFL: CBT 213 | IBT 79 | PBT 550
• TELC B2
• A five-year school education completed with at least the grade “sufficient”

The selection process consists of two stages:

1. Formal review (Admissions Department checks all documents)
2. Selection interview (Academic review by the Institute of Sport Science)
   This is your opportunity to discuss your motivation, academic background, and experiences.
   

📅 Interviews take place between mid-December and mid-January

📅 Invitations are sent out end of November / early December.

Format: Online video interview

Language: The interview (as well as all lectures and exams) is conducted in English.

Yes. If your previous degree is from outside Germany, you must apply for official recognition.

⏳ Processing time: 6-8 weeks

💡 Start this process early!

🔗 Degree recognition for international applicants

For formal questions (documents, deadlines, technical issues), contact:

Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)

📧 zsb@uni-mainz.de | ☎️ 0049 6131 39-22 122

🔗 ZSB Website

Yes! The programme includes international modules in India and China.

📅 India: February – March (before Semester 3)

📅 China: September – October (after Semester 3)

💰 Costs:

• Approx. €1,500 (India)
• Approx. €2,500 (China)
  These costs exclude personal expenses.

💡 Funding: JGU offers scholarship opportunities, but you must apply separately.

💡 If you cannot participate due to financial constraints, a substitute programme is available.

🔗 Details in the Module 7 & 8 descriptions

No German language knowledge is required. The entire programme is taught in English.

There is no general attendance requirement. However, some practical courses or specific seminars may require active participation.

📌 Your lecturers will inform you at the start of the semester what they expect from you as active participation. Active participation can comprise short essays, homework, quizzes, presentations etc.

⚠️ No proof of active participation is required for lectures.

The Master’s in Movement and Wellbeing is a full-time, in-person programme.

📅 Semester dates & lecture periods: JGU Academic Calendar

📌 Exams (written & oral) usually take place within 3 weeks after the lecture period ends.

📌 Deadlines for projects & term papers are set individually by lecturers.

If you do not have a Bachelor’s degree in Sport Science, you must complete introductory courses in Sport Science during your first year. These courses are part of Module 9.2 and conclude with an examination.

Usually there are no tuition fees for this programme. However, students must pay a semester contribution of approximately €330 per semester. This fee includes:

• A public transport ticket for Mainz & surrounding areas
• Access to university facilities & student services

🔗 More details on Financial Matters

The Studierendenwerk Mainz provides affordable student housing.

⚠️ Apply as early as possible. You do not need to be enrolled or admitted to a university at the time of application. Submit your certificate of enrollment via the rental portal as soon as you receive it. The question of enrollment only becomes relevant for you when you want to decide whether you want to sign a tenancy agreement.

🔗 Student housing options

Graduates of the Sport Science: Movement and Wellbeing program have various career opportunities in applied research, sports science consulting, health promotion, and professional coaching. Many alumni work in sports organizations, rehabilitation centers, health institutions, or research institutes. Additionally, the program provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies in sport science or related fields.

Alumni?