Manchester Metropolitan University is delighted to offer the Diversity and Inclusion in Sports Leadership Scholarship for students enrolling on the Master of Sport Directorship (MSD) programme for the academic year 2026/2027. This scholarship provides a £5,000 tuition fee discount to support talented postgraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds, helping to promote greater diversity, equality, and inclusion within sports leadership and management.
Manchester Metropolitan University has its roots in the Manchester Mechanics’ Institute, founded in 1824 to provide practical education for working people. Over time, it grew through the merger of several colleges and became a university in 1992. Today, Manchester Met is known for its strong focus on employability, applied learning, and industry connections.
Table of Briefs
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Diversity and Inclusion in Sports Leadership Scholarship |
| University | Manchester Metropolitan University |
| Programme | Master of Sport Directorship (MSD) |
| Study Level | Postgraduate Taught |
| Fee Status | UK tuition fees |
| Value | £5,000 tuition fee discount |
| Payment Breakdown | £1,650 in Year 1; £3,350 in Year 2 |
| Number of Awards | 4 scholarships |
| Year of Entry | 2026/2027 |
| Start Date | 28 September 2026 |
| Application Period | 01 January – 31 May 2026 |
Background
The Diversity and Inclusion in Sports Leadership Scholarship was introduced by Manchester Metropolitan University to address the long-standing underrepresentation of certain groups in senior sports leadership and management roles. Despite the global growth of the sports industry, leadership positions often lack diversity in terms of gender, ethnicity, disability representation, and sexual orientation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
-
Hold a firm offer to study the Master of Sport Directorship MSDÂ at Manchester Met for the 2026/2027 academic year
-
Be a new postgraduate taught student first year only
-
Pay course fees independently self-funded, student loan, or parental support
-
Not receive any other university scholarships, discounts, or fee reductions
Additionally, applicants must satisfy at least one of the criteria below:
-
Have a disability or work in supporting disability sports
-
Be a woman or work in female sports
-
Be from a Black, Asian, or minority ethnic background or support sport in these communities
-
Identify as LGBT+ or work in supporting LGBT+ sports
Note: Priority is given to applicants with a protected characteristic.
Benefits
-
Total Value: £5,000 tuition fee discount
-
Disbursement:
-
£1,650 in Year 1
-
£3,350 in Year 2
-
-
Type: Tuition fee reduction not cash payment
-
Duration: Applied across the duration of the MSD programme
If a student qualifies for multiple fee reductions, only the highest-value award will be applied.
Application Process
You can only apply after receiving an offer to study the MSD programme at Manchester Met.
Step-by-Step Process:
-
Carefully read the application advice and terms and conditions
-
Confirm you meet all eligibility criteria this unlocks the full application form
-
Complete the scholarship application form
-
Upload a current CV
-
Submit a 500-word written or digital statement explaining why you should be awarded the scholarship
-
Submit your application by 31 May 2026
Late applications will not be considered. If applications are high, shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 31 May 2026.
Conclusion
The Diversity and Inclusion in Sports Leadership Scholarship is more than financial support it is an investment in future leaders who will shape a more inclusive and representative sports industry. If you are passionate about driving change in sport and meet the eligibility criteria, this scholarship offers both financial relief and strong recognition of your commitment to diversity.