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Faculty of Science & Health

The Active Female: Through the Lifespan

Module aim

This module will cover the significant physiological events that can occur throughout the female lifespan, from the teenager to post-menopause. It will provide an insight into the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postnatal and menopause discussing clinically applicable physiology and demands and how each stage impacts rehabilitation and exercise in the active female.

Who should apply?

This module is suitable for any healthcare professional or sports practitioner who works with active women. Suitable professions include: physiotherapists, athletic therapists, public health nurses, practice nurses and other specialist nurses or midwives, general practitioners, sport and exercise medicine physicians, osteopaths, chiropractors, sports scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, athletic development coaches, exercise physiologists, Pilates instructors and coaches. Applications from international learners are also welcomed.

Learning outcomes
  • Discuss how pelvic floor considerations and rehabilitation may differ according to significant life stages within the active female
  • Outline the key function of female reproductive endocrinology and how this applies to physical activity.
  • Detail how pregnancy needs to be considered in the active female for optimal maternal and fetal outcomes.
  • Describe how the postnatal period impacts the active female including timelines of recovery and delivery type.
  • Explain the process of the menopause and the impact within the active female.
Online delivery

This module will be 100% delivered online and is designed for those wanting to engage in education while working full-time. There will be a three hour per week commitment for 12 weeks with a mix of live classes, tutorials and online content. Learners should also allow for additional time for independent tasks and assignments.

Learners will be assessed via continuous assessment (e.g. through assignments and projects but not through a written exam).

All registered learners will have access to DCUs eLibrary and DCU’s student portal, Loop.

Entry requirements

Candidates will be expected to hold a primary Level 8 award (NFQ or equivalent) in an area of sport, healthcare profession, or health sciences or cognate area (e.g. athletic therapy, physiotherapy, sports science, exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, coaching, nursing etc.). In line with DCU policy, students who do not have the appropriate level of academic attainment for direct entry may apply for access via the Recognition of Prior Learning process (RPL). All RPL applicants will be invited to interview and be required to demonstrate that their learning is comparable in terms of academic level training and assessment.

Module Information

Commencing: September 2024

NFQ Level 9, 10 ECTS credits

Cost: €1250