Diploma in Professional Football Studies
Your Gateway to a Career in Football
Level 6 Diploma, delivered by
University of Liverpool Management School
in partnership with Tranmere Rovers FC.
This 6 month course provides an in-depth understanding of the global football industry. The programme blends academic knowledge with practical football experience, offering students a unique opportunity to study at a professional football club while gaining accredited qualifications.
Why Choose This Diploma?
✔ Taught by the University of Liverpool – A globally recognised, triple-accredited institution
✔ Hands-on learning at Tranmere Rovers FC – Experience football operations in a real club setting
✔ Industry-recognised qualifications – Includes UEFA C Licence & FA Talent ID certifications
✔ Pathway to careers in football – Connect with top industry professionals
COURSE details
An immersive, tightly structured one year diploma, condensed into just 6 months
Stage 1:
Football Strategy – Learn how clubs develop winning strategies
Football Operations & Events – Understand matchday & non-matchday logistics
Football Marketing – Explore branding, sponsorships, and fan engagement
Personal Development – Enhance communication & leadership skills
Stage 2:
Football Finance – Manage club budgets & financial strategies
Communicating with Influence – Develop negotiation & leadership techniques
Managing People in Football – Learn about team dynamics & management
Professional Development – Gain essential skills for career progression
Football-Specific Training (OPTIONAL)
UEFA C Licence – FA-accredited coaching qualification
FA Talent Identification Level 1 & 2 – Scouting & player recruitment training
English Language Training – Available for international students
Location
Tranmere Rovers FC Stadium and Training Campus and University of Liverpool
Qualification
Level 6 Diploma
Start Dates
Sept 2025 & Jan 2026
Tuition Fee
£9,750 (GBP)
Non-Refundable Deposit
£1,000 (deducted from total fee)
Entry Requirements
Minimum 18 years old
Equivalent of IELTS 5.5 (English proficiency, formal qualification not required)
6-month visa (minimum) for international students
Preference given to students with undergraduate qualifications or work experience
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the online application form
Step 2: Submit proof of ID (age verification)
Step 3: Pay the £1,000 deposit within 30 days of receiving an offer
Step 4: Pay the full programme fee before the start date
📅 Enrol by September 1st, 2025 for the September 29th, 2025 start
📅 Enrol by December 12th, 2025 for the January 12th, 2026 start
Alan Thompson, Executive Director Tranmere Rovers alant@tranmererovers.co.uk
Dr. David Cockayne, Academic Programme Director david.cockayne@liverpool.ac.uk
DIPLOMA modules
Football Strategy:
Explore the intricate pyramid of football organisations, understanding its hierarchical structure and dynamics.
Analyse the governance and organisational structure within the football industry, identifying key stakeholders and their roles.
Conduct comprehensive stakeholder analysis and mapping, identifying influential individuals and organisations within the football ecosystem.
Delve into the allocation and management of football resources, including financial, human and infrastructural aspects.
Develop effective decision-making skills specific to the football industry, considering various factors and their impact on strategic outcomes.
Football Marketing:
Conduct in-depth market analysis specific to the football industry, examining market trends, consumer behaviour, and competition.
Formulate effective marketing strategies tailored to the unique characteristics and demands of the football industry.
Understand the concept of football brands and explore successful brand management strategies within the football context.
Explore fan-base analysis and gain valuable customer insights to develop targeted marketing initiatives that resonate with football enthusiasts.
Football Operations:
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies and complexities of football operations.
Learn the art of benchmarking for success in football operations, studying best practices and identifying areas for improvement.
Explore the interrelation between on-field performance and business operations, recognising how operational efficiency impacts overall success in football.
Football Finance:
Interpret and utilise key financial documents specific to the football industry, such as financial statements, budgets, and investment plans.
Understand and apply essential financial ratios and metrics within the context of football, analysing their implications for clubs and organisations.
Evaluate the relationship between financial data and decision-making processes in the football industry, recognising the influence of financial insights on strategic choices.
Communicating with Influence:
Develop a deep understanding of your audience, studying effective communication techniques tailored to different stakeholders within the football industry.
Explore the psychology of motivation and action, gaining insights into persuasive strategies to drive engagement and desired outcomes.
Master the art of public speaking, learning techniques to deliver impactful and compelling presentations within the football industry.
Managing People in Football:
Learn the intricacies of managing relationships with boards of directors and owners in the football industry, understanding their expectations and priorities.
Develop effective strategies for managing relationships with various stakeholders in football, including players, coaches, agents, sponsors, and fans.
Enhance team-building skills, recognising the importance of cohesion and collaboration within football organisations.
Hone negotiation skills specific to the football industry, understanding the dynamics and unique considerations involved in football-related negotiations.
Embrace diversity and inclusion within football, gaining insights into managing multicultural teams and fostering an inclusive environment for all stakeholders.