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Dr. Mariwan Shafiq Tahir
I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and Sport Sciences – Salahaddin University in 1998–1999 ;and Master’s Degree – University of Baghdad in 2005 ; and Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology – Salahaddin University in 2012
Academic Title: Assistant Professor (granted in 2016) .
Current Position Head of the Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences
Administrative and Academic Experience:
- Coordinator of the Theoretical Sciences Branch – for 3 years
- Coordinator of the Team Sports Branch – for 3 years
- Member of the Examination Committee – for no less than 15 years
- Head of the Examination Committee – for 4 years
- Faculty Representative – for 2 years
he College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences is dedicated to preparing scientifically and professionally qualified graduates in the fields of physical education and sports sciences. This is achieved through accredited academic programs, applied scientific research, and effective partnerships with educational and sports institutions. The College is committed to upholding the values of integrity, excellence, innovation, and social responsibility to support the development of sports, health, and sustainable progress in the region.
VisionTo be a leading and innovative academic center in the preparation of sports leaders, scientific research, and community service—contributing effectively to the development of the sports movement and the promotion of public health in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, in alignment with national and international standards..
- Develop Academic Programs: Design and regularly update undergraduate and postgraduate curricula in line with international quality standards and labor market demands
- Enhance Scientific Research: Promote high-quality, applied research in physical education and sports sciences, and encourage active participation in academic publications and conferences.
- Build Human Capacities: Strengthen the competencies of academic, technical, and administrative staff through targeted training and continuous professional development.
- Expand Community Service and Partnerships: Increase the College’s impact on society through sports initiatives, consulting services, and training programs, while developing partnerships with educational and athletic institutions.
- Promote Sports and Educational Values: Foster the principles of sportsmanship, discipline, teamwork, fairness, and equality in both academic and extracurricular activities.
- Improve Infrastructure and Technology: Modernize classrooms, laboratories, and sports facilities, and integrate contemporary technologies into teaching and training environments
- Ensure Quality and Academic Accreditation: Implement comprehensive quality assurance systems and pursue both national and international accreditation for academic programs.
Degree Program Overview
College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences Salahaddin University – Erbil
The College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences offers a comprehensive academic program designed to prepare students for professional careers in sports education, coaching, rehabilitation, and scientific research. The degree program is structured in accordance with national higher education standards and international trends in sports sciences.
Degree Offered:
- Bachelor of Physical Education and Sports Sciences (B.Sc.) – 4 years
- Master’s Degree in Sports Sciences (M.Sc.)
- Ph.D. in Sports Management and Sciences
Program Objectives:
- To provide students with foundational knowledge in sports sciences and physical education.
- To develop practical teaching, coaching, and leadership skills in various sports disciplines.
- To prepare graduates for roles in schools, clubs, federations, rehabilitation centers, and sports institutions.
- To foster scientific research and innovation in sports and physical activity.
- To contribute to community health, wellness, and athletic development.
Curriculum Structure:
The undergraduate program consists of theoretical and practical courses in:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Kinesiology and Biomechanics
- Sports Psychology and Sociology
- Training Science and Coaching
- Sports Management and Event Organization
- Teaching Methodologies
- Athletics, Swimming, Gymnastics, Team Sports, and more
Learning Methods:
- Classroom instruction
- Laboratory work and field practice
- Practical coaching sessions
- Community-based sports initiatives
- Final-year applied teaching in schools
Career Opportunities:
Graduates are qualified to work as:
- Physical education teachers
- Professional coaches
- Sports program coordinators
- Researchers and academic staff
- Sports managers and administrators
First Year – First Semester (Bologna System)
| No. | Module Title | Credit Hours | Weekly Hours (T+P) | M Code | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| theoretical | practical | ||||
| 1 | Basketball Skills | 6 | 1 | 4 | PESS1101 |
| 2 | English | 3 | 1 | 2 | PESS1102 |
| 3 | Physical Fitness | 6 | 1 | 4 | PESS1103 |
| 4 | Computer Skills | 3 | 1 | 2 | PESS1104 |
| 5 | Anatomy | 6 | 4 | PESS1105 | |
| 6 | Track and Field I | 6 | 1 | 4 | PESS1106 |
First Year – Second Semester (Bologna System)
| No. | Module Title | Credit Hours | Weekly Hours | M Code | |
| theoretical | practical | ||||
| 1 | English for Specific Purposes (ESP) | 3 | 1 | 2 | PESS1201 |
| 2 | Academic Skills | 6 | 2 | 2 | PESS1202 |
| 3 | Scouts | 6 | 1 | 4 | PESS1203 |
| 4 | soccer | 6 | 1 | 4 | PESS1204 |
| 5 | Swimming | 6 | 1 | 4 | PESS1205 |
| 6 | Kurdnasi | 3 | 3 | 0 | PESS1206 |
Second Year – First Semester
| No. | Module Title | Credit Hours | Weekly Hours | M Code | |
| theoretical | practical | ||||
| 1 | Sport Phsiology | 4 | 4 | PE2101 | |
| 2 | Biomechanics | 4 | 4 | PE2102 | |
| 3 | Principles of Teaching Methods | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE2103 |
| 4 | Track Events | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE2104 |
| 5 | VolleyBall (Skills) | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE2105 |
| 6 | Gymnastics | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE2106 |
Second Year –Second Semester
| No. | Module Title | Credit Hours | Weekly Hours | M Code | |
| theoretical | practical | ||||
| 1 | Principles of Sports Training | 4 | 4 | - | PE2201 |
| 2 | Motor Learning | 3 | 4 | - | PE2202 |
| 3 | Basketball (Judgment) | 3 | 1 | 2 | PE2203 |
| 4 | Handball (Skills) | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE2204 |
| 5 | Rhythmic Gymnastics (Female) | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE2205 |
| 6 | Boxing and Wrestling (Men) | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE2206 |
| 7 | Weightlifting | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE2207 |
Third Year – First Semester
| No. | Module Title | Credit Hours | Weekly Hours | M Code | |
| theoretical | practical | ||||
| 1 | Scientific Research | 4 | 4 | - | PE3101 |
| 2 | Principles of Statistics | 4 | 4 | - | PE3102 |
| 3 | Teaching Methods | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE3103 |
| 4 | swimming | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE3104 |
| 5 | Handball (Judgment) | 2 | 1 | 2 | PE3105 |
| 6 | soccer (Judgment) | 2 | 1 | 2 | PE3106 |
Third Year –Second Semester
| No. | Module Title | Credit Hours | Weekly Hours | M Code | |
| theoretical | practical | ||||
| 1 | Sport Medicine | 4 | 4 | - | PE3201 |
| 2 | Measurement and Evaluation | 4 | 4 | - | PE3202 |
| 3 | VolleyBall | 2 | 1 | 2 | PE3203 |
| 4 | Tennis | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE3204 |
| 5 | Gymnastic (Judgment) | 2 | - | 4 | PE3205 |
| 6 | Fencing | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE3206 |
| 7 | Observation and Application | 2 | - | 4 | PE3207 |
Fourth Year – First Semester
| No. | Module Title | Credit Hours | Weekly Hours | M Code | |
| theoretical | practical | ||||
| 1 | Sports Management and Organization | 4 | 4 | - | PE4101 |
| 2 | Sport training | 4 | 4 | - | PE4102 |
| 3 | Applied Sports Training | 2 | - | 4 | PE4103 |
| 4 | Table Tennis and Badminton | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE4104 |
| 5 | Volleyball: Planning and Training | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE4105 |
| 6 | Elective | 2 | 2 | - | PE4106 |
Fourth Year – Second Semester
| No. | Module Title | Credit Hours | Weekly Hours | M Code | |
| theoretical | practical | ||||
| 1 | Sports Psychology | 4 | 4 | - | PE4201 |
| 2 | Research Project | 4 | 1 | 4 | PE4202 |
| 3 | Basketball: Planning and Training | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE4203 |
| 4 | Futsal | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE4204 |
| 5 | Heptathlon and Decathlon | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE4205 |
| 6 | Handball: Planning and Training | 3 | 1 | 4 | PE4206 |
Admissions
College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
Salahaddin University – Erbil
The College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences welcomes passionate and motivated students who aspire to build careers in education, sports training, health, and fitness. Our admissions process is designed to select candidates who meet academic requirements and demonstrate physical and mental readiness for the program.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements:
- Completion of secondary school (scientific or literary branch) with a satisfactory GPA, as per regulations of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Ministry of Higher Education.
- Successful completion of the Physical Fitness and Skills Test, conducted by the college.
- Medical fitness approval from a certified health institution.
- Compliance with all admission rules set forth by Salahaddin University and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Admission Process:
- Apply through the Kurdistan Regions online application system during the official application period.
- Choose “College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences – Salahaddin University” as one of your preferences.
- Participate in the practical exam and physical evaluation at the college.
- Await the official acceptance announcement based on academic scores and exam results.
Graduate Admission Requirements (Master’s & Ph.D.):
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree in physical education or a related field from an accredited institution.
- A competitive GPA as required by the postgraduate directorate.
- Passing scores on entrance exams (subject-based and English proficiency).
- Interview and/or research proposal (for Ph.D. applicants).
- Additional criteria as set by the college’s Graduate Studies Committee.
Important Notes:
- Female and male applicants are equally encouraged to apply.
- The physical test includes running, jumping, coordination, and general athletic ability.
- Admission quotas may vary annually depending on available seats.
We are committed to admitting students with the potential to thrive academically and physically in our dynamic and challenging program.
Graduate Employability
College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
Salahaddin University – Erbil
Graduates of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional values needed to thrive in a wide range of careers within the sports, education, health, and fitness sectors. The college’s curriculum is designed to align with labor market demands and to foster both theoretical understanding and practical competence.
Career Pathways for Graduates:
- Physical Education Teachers in public and private schools.
- Professional Coaches in sports clubs, teams, and federations.
- Sports Trainers and Fitness Instructors in gyms, academies, and wellness centers.
- Sports Administrators in governmental or non-governmental organizations.
- Rehabilitation and Movement Specialists in health and physiotherapy centers.
- Youth Program Coordinators in community and recreational initiatives.
- Lecturers and Researchersin academic and research institutions.
- Event Managers and Sports Marketers in the sports industry.
Skills and Competencies Developed:
- Teaching and leadership in physical education and sports.
- Coaching techniques for both individual and team sports.
- Planning and managing training programs.
- Designing inclusive fitness and wellness activities.
- Conducting scientific research in sports sciences.
- Communication, teamwork, and decision-making in dynamic environments.
Support for Employability:
- Strong links with schools, sports clubs, federations, and institutions for internships and training.
- Teaching practicum in final year to gain real-world experience.
- Career guidance and workshops offered by the college and university career centers.
- Alumni network that supports graduates through mentorship and job referrals.
The college takes pride in its contribution to society by producing qualified professionals who are committed to improving health, education, and athletic performance in the Kurdistan Region and beyond.
Zanco Journal of Physical Education and Sport Sciences - Vol. 1 No. 1 (2024) 
- Analytical study of some kinematics variables for the last steps in the javelin event and their relationship with performance
- The effect of meaning guidance approach on the ego identity of fencing players in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
- The effect of cold water on the transitional speed and agility of basketball players
- Building a measure of self-perception discrepancy for students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at Saladin University - Erbil
- The effect of ballistic trainings on handling accuracy in football
- The effect of balance exercises with neuromuscular coordination in the aquatic environment and natural surfaces in developing some physical abilities and triple jump activity achievement
Zanco Journal of Physical Education and Sport Sciences - Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025)
- The effect of an educational program using blended learning on learning some basic skills and cognitive achievement in tennis for students
- Constructing a scale of aggressive behaviors of students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences towards professors from the perspective of the teaching staff at the Salahaddin University-Erbil
- Constructing a scale to evaluate the academic and personal qualities of faculty members at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the Salahaddin University-Erbil from the students’ point of view
- Participation and obstacles to physical activity among the elderly and retirees in Erbil Governorate public parks and retiree centres
- The effect of Wheatley's strategy on Retention Some of the Basic Skills for volleyball for student of physical education Salahaddin University – Erbil
- The effect of learning program according to sensory preferences exercises (auditory, visual and motion (touch)) in learning some basic skills in handball
- The effectiveness of a recreational program to reduce competition anxiety for beginners in fencing in Erbil
- Electronic management and its role in improving administrative performance from the perspective of teaching staff in the faculties of physical education and sports sciences at some universities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
Academic Advising
College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
Salahaddin University – Erbil
Academic advising is an essential part of student success at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. The college provides structured and continuous academic support to guide students throughout their educational journey, ensuring academic achievement, timely graduation, and personal development.
Purpose of Academic Advising:
- To help students plan their academic path and select appropriate courses.
- To provide guidance on degree requirements and academic regulations.
- To support students in overcoming academic challenges.
- To encourage engagement in co-curricular and professional development opportunities.
- To foster a strong advisor-student relationship for mentoring and career planning.
Advising Services Include:
- Orientation sessions for new students.
- One-on-one academic counseling by faculty advisors.
- Monitoring academic progress and performance.
- Support for students on probation or facing academic difficulties.
- Guidance on postgraduate study options and career pathways.
Advisor Responsibilities:
- Provide accurate information about course prerequisites, graduation requirements, and university policies.
- Assist students in building effective study plans.
- Refer students to appropriate university resources when necessary (counseling, tutoring, etc.).
- Maintain confidentiality and build trust with advisees.
Student Responsibilities:
- Schedule and attend advising appointments regularly.
- Be prepared to discuss academic goals and concerns.
- Take responsibility for academic decisions and progress.
- Follow up on recommendations and referrals made by the advisor.
Academic advising at the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences is not only a service—it's a partnership aimed at empowering students to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.
Internship Opportunities
College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
Salahaddin University – Erbil
The College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences strongly emphasizes practical training as a core component of the academic program. Internship opportunities allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments, develop professional skills, and gain valuable experience essential for their future careers.
Key Features of the Internship Program:
- Mandatory internships integrated into the curriculum, typically during the final year.
- Placement in a variety of settings such as schools, sports clubs, rehabilitation centers, fitness academies, and community organizations.
- Supervision and evaluation by both college faculty and host institution mentors.
- Opportunities to engage in coaching, teaching, event organization, fitness training, and research assistance.
- Development of professional networks and career readiness.
Benefits for Students:
- Gain hands-on experience relevant to their field of study.
- Enhance communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
- Build a professional portfolio and resume.
- Increase employability upon graduation through practical exposure.
The college collaborates with numerous local institutions to ensure students receive diverse and high-quality internship placements.
Career Services
College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences
Salahaddin University – Erbil
The College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences is dedicated to supporting students and graduates in their career development and job placement. Our career services provide resources and guidance to help students transition smoothly from academic life to professional careers.
Services Offered:
- Career counseling and individual advising sessions.
- Workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies.
- Internship placement assistance and employer networking events.
- Job fairs and recruitment drives in collaboration with local sports organizations and educational institutions.
- Alumni support and mentorship programs .
Goals of Career Services:
- Equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful employment.
- Facilitate connections between students and potential employers
- Promote lifelong career development and professional growth.
- Support graduates in adapting to evolving labor market demands
We strive to empower our students and graduates to achieve fulfilling and sustainable careers in the sports, education