WorldMAC Academy

Since their introduction into the United Kingdom the martial arts have been largely unrecognised by successive governments, and as a consequence instructors and students of these formidable and often dangerous arts have never been registered or controlled. Teaching the martial arts is no different to teaching any other subjects, and whilst there have been many calls for recognized and fully accredited qualifications, nothing of any real worth has transpired. The World Martial Arts Council is determined to bring about change regarding accountability and teaching standards within the martial arts, and is presently engaged in establishing the WorldMAC Academy in partnership with a British university that will provide full and part-time courses, together with distance learning programmes that lead to fully recognized and accredited academic qualifications. There are many people that would make the martial arts a full-time career, but to date there has never been any opportunities to study for suitable qualifications. The awarding of National Vocational Qualifications at their various levels does not go far enough in providing the level of knowledge and competence required to become a proficient martial arts instructor, and many view these as a complete waste of time, money and effort. Teaching is a subject that requires far more than physical fitness, and there are many related subjects that need to be incorporated into any academic programme if the necessary standards of knowledge, competence and ability are to be achieved. Through its international database the World Martial Arts Council will endeavour to engage the very best instructors that will help with the introduction of certificate, diploma and degree courses, and work with the participating university on the preparation and content of all academic programmes. In addition to attendances at the university, the World Martial Arts Council will provide students with the opportunity to undertake practical and physical training at the UK and Asian centres of excellence. 

* Full updates and progress reports will be given at regular intervals in this section. 

 

Martial Arts Theory & Practice

Joint BA (Honours) Degree

This joint BA (Honours) degree awarded by a British university involves general study of the martial arts and combining this with one or more other subjects.  Martial Arts Theory and Practice explores different aspects of philosophical thinking and how cultural practices, religion and modern martial arts are linked, together with their history and evolution.  Apart from martial arts tuition from leading guest instructors, a range of taught modules that include anatomy and physiology, and martial arts theories in both a philosophical and practical sense are part of the curriculum.  There is a focus on motivational techniques, child protection, self-defence law, meditation, fitness and other associated subjects, plus ample opportunity to participate in external seminars, courses, competitions, and exchange visits with overseas students involved with a diversity of martial arts and interests.  Endemic in the programme is the development of knowledge, research and practical skills, understanding, an awareness of martial arts applications in a variety of settings or situations and opportunities to work with people from schools and different associations, all of which are essential for those wishing to excel in martial arts, become teachers, or anyone seeking recognized and accredited qualifications for a career in sports and recreation.

 

This university course involves either full or part time study over a period of 3 to 6 years, and all applicants must have the necessary entry requirements.  Due to the fact martial arts form a dynamic sector within the sports and recreation industries and have more participants than many other mainstream activities, the possibility of extending this course on an international basis to include distance learning modules is now under consideration.  The World Martial Arts Council thoroughly endorses this programme; will work closely with the university; and provide any required assistance to ensure this innovative and long overdue accredited academic programme acquires the respect and success it deserves.  In addition, since meeting the Programme Leader from the university, the World Martial Arts Council has proposed an annual University Martial Arts Team Challenge involving the participation of martial arts students from universities across the globe.  If accepted, this event will take place over a period of one or two weeks at a different venue each year, which would provide the opportunity for participating students to travel overseas and experience the rich and diverse cultures the world has to offer.  To progress this idea further, the World Martial Arts Council has offered to provide the expertise of highly qualified members, instructors, referees and officials, and to introduce foreign universities already involved in martial arts and cultural programmes to this exciting concept.             

 

* Contact us for a list of accepted qualifications, tuition fees and alternative start dates. 

 

 

© WorldMAC Ltd. 2009