The Institute of Technology, Carlow (ITC) in Ireland has launched a new three-year sport and exercise degree course in partnership with the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA).

Starting in September 2009, the Level 7 Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sport and Exercise in GAA will offer an academic qualification that also incorporates coaching, fitness, player development and club administration. In addition to a wider business or communications curriculum, which will relate to the development of the sport, the coaching and fitness element will cover all aspects of GAA, including hurling, camogie and gaelic football.

The course will be delivered by the School of Business and Humanities and the School of Science at ITC, along with the GAA's Comhairle Laighean (Leinster Council). Ruaidhri Neavyn, ITC president, said: "This programme, we believe, represents new thinking and innovation in relation to the development of the sport as well as having the added advantage of creating a solid link with education."

Nickey Brennan, GAA president, added: "Although all codes of the GAA are recreational sports organised by volunteers, there are many opportunities for individuals to develop a career in administration and coaching roles at club, county, provincial and national level. "The GAA is committed to investment in its games and view this partnership as a key opportunity for students to participate in a unique programme that is GAA focused."