WHAT’S YOUR NEW year’s resolution? There’s something about the fresh start of the year that feels like the right time to take stock of where you are in life and if you’re living by your values. January has always motivated the masses to think ‘How can I improve?’ and more specifically ‘What do I need to improve on?’.

Career is often the area that we want to maximise with the new year but it can be challenging to find the time to upskill when we are already working at capacity. And therein lies the paradox of growth – do I study to enhance my career or buckle down at work so that I can afford to go back to college? That’s how Ben Houston felt, but then he realised he didn’t have to choose.

He always had the goal of going back to study one day when the time is right, but there was always something more pressing to focus on.  It was while he was employed full time with the Irish Defence Forces that he decided to pursue further studies – impressively he weaved the Master’s around his busy schedule while also working part-time with Sligo Rovers Academy and his own business Precision Performance as a performance coach. The experience he gained by studying at ATU has proved invaluable. After Ben graduated with an MSc in Sports Performance Practice from ATU, he went on to refine his coaching philosophy and elevate the standard of performance support that he offers.

My MSc at ATU provided the framework to refine my coaching philosophy and elevate the standard of performance support I offer.

Ben Houston, MSc in Sports Performance Practice from ATU

Ben had wanted to advance his knowledge and formalise his practical experience in strength and conditioning. Along with a goal of understanding the science behind performance and gaining professional accreditation standards. The Master’s was a natural next step in his personal and professional development and an easy choice due to its practical focus, expert lecturers, and flexible structure.

The flexible learning structure was a major advantage. Online delivery allowed me to balance study with family life, work and coaching commitments, while still engaging in high-quality academic discussion and applied learning.

One of the top priorities at ATU is providing students with the means to learn on their own terms. This means that you can find courses which fit into your own schedule — even if you’re working full-time, raising a family, or simply prefer to study in a flexible fashion. 

The main challenge for Ben was always going to be time management during busy periods especially at his full time job at the Irish Defence Forces, but the support of his family and his lecturers and recorded classes made it manageable. The flexibility of the courses at ATU allows you to learn at your own pace while in full-time employment – a rare and crucial opportunity for most of us looking to go back to studying at a later age.

Not only is it convenient that the course doesn’t get in the way of a full time job but it directly benefits your current employer. The modules that Ben chose had immediate relevance. He was able to implement new strategies and ideas in real time with the academy teams. Both Precision Performance and Sligo Rovers Academy benefited directly.

Ben advises anyone considering studying a flexible learning programme to back yourself and commit to the process.

The flexibility allows you to learn at your own pace but the key is to stay organised by engaging with your fellow classmates and treating each module as an opportunity to enhance your professional toolkit.

If it weren’t for the flexibility ATU offers in its courses, Ben would not have been able to pursue his dreams. Whilst it can be a challenge to get the balance correct, it is all worth it in the end.

A new year is the perfect time to invest in yourself, your goals and your career. Embark on your learning journey your way. The deadline to apply for courses is Tuesday 6th January 2026 and classes commence for these courses on the 19th of January 2026.

ATU is proud to offer over 100 online & flexible learning programmes for a January 2026 start. As a leader in online & flexible learning, ATU provides opportunities for part-time study through various delivery modes, including online, blended, and on-campus learning. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, change paths, or explore a new field, ATU’s online & flexible learning programmes can help you achieve your goals.

Explore the full list of ATU’s flexible learning courses and take the first step toward building the future you’ve always envisioned. Explore the January Start programmes at ATU and if you don’t see something of interest, ATU has over 400 programmes opening for application in February 2026 for a September start, register your interest now.