Four years later, that curiosity has developed into both an academic pathway and a practical career direction.

Graduating in 2026 with a degree in Applied Psychology, he found that one of the most rewarding aspects of the programme was its strong emphasis on real-world application. Throughout the course, psychological theories and interventions were consistently connected to everyday settings, allowing students to see how academic learning could be translated into meaningful practice.

"The applied aspect of the degree was a major highlight for me," he reflects. "Every module showed how theories could be used in real-world scenarios, and every lecture gave me something new to take away."

The breadth of modules offered throughout the programme also played an important role in shaping his future ambitions. Exposure to a wide range of psychological topics provided a strong foundation and helped him identify areas of interest for postgraduate study.

Beyond subject knowledge, the programme equipped him with a toolkit of practical and transferable skills. Learning how to conduct academic research, write literature reviews, analyse data using SPSS, and critically engage with psychological literature prepared him well for further study. Equally valuable was the programme's focus on continuous assessment and presentation work, helping build confidence in communication and public speaking.

These skills continue to serve him well as he pursues a Master's in Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology at South East Technological University (SETU) in Waterford.

Alongside his postgraduate studies, he is putting his learning into practice as Director of Football at his local football club. In this role, he applies psychological theories and interventions in coaching environments, supporting young athletes and contributing to the broader development of the club.

"The skills I developed during my degree have helped me both academically and professionally," he says. "I've become much more comfortable presenting ideas, introducing new strategies, and applying psychology in practical settings."

Looking ahead, Luke hopes to continue his academic journey through further study while building a career in the world of sport and athletics. His ambition is to combine the knowledge gained through both his undergraduate and postgraduate education to support athletes and help them perform at their best.

Luke's story is a testament to the practical impact of an Applied Psychology degree and the diverse opportunities available to IADT graduates. From the lecture theatre to the football pitch, he is already demonstrating how psychology can make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Class of 2026
BA (Hons) Applied Psychology, IADT