A Registered Charity in the United Kingdom
In Recognition of Wisdom
The first ever international academic institution to introduce a recognised degree in martial arts — uniting theoretical study and practical mastery under one standard.
Welcome
The Society of Martial Arts is the first ever international academic institution to introduce a recognised degree programme — one that includes both theoretical and practical components — for the practitioners of martial arts. Since its inception, the Society has grown from its earliest phase to its present world-renowned status.
For centuries these arts were frowned upon as mere fighting styles. Now they have gained their rightful standing. We have pioneered an educational system far beyond certificate level, to university status — an elevation that has generated interest even among those outside the martial arts, in academic fields.
We welcome you to the SMA for a mutually beneficial and lasting membership. Our foundation will be strengthened by the generations to come. Let them remember us as the forefathers who strove for recognition; future lecturers of martial arts will be the result of our initiative. Your decision to enrol with the SMA is the first step towards a historic change in martial arts.
The Society's Purpose
“Martial arts are identified with fighting, and yet, through the practice of martial disciplines, exponents have found increased spiritual awareness. A paradox emerges — a concept of inner peace beyond fighting. No one can train in a martial art without, at some stage, becoming aware of this fundamental theme. To realise it is to be halfway towards grasping the true value of martial arts.”
The SMA's definition of martial arts — adapted from Peter Lewis, The Martial Arts: Origin, Philosophy, Practice
To provide a range of quality educational programmes that give all students effective and efficient progress in careers in martial arts and related fields. The SMA is committed to continuous professional development and acts as a centre of excellence for martial arts studies and research worldwide.
Martial arts encompass a broad field of study — philosophy, history, physiology, psychology, research, coaching technique, and biomechanics. Unlike other sports, they comprise many styles fostered in different regions of the world. The SMA recognises both the individuality of each art and the possibility of entwining two or more systems at their root levels.
History
The Society of Martial Arts is a registered charity in the United Kingdom. Its story begins with a single act of recognition — the writing of the world's first degree in martial arts.
The world's first ever degree in martial arts is written by Dr. Eugene de Silva in the United Kingdom.
The Society of Martial Arts is founded by Dr. Eugene de Silva in the United Kingdom. In the same year, a circle of distinguished martial artists and academics joined the Society and supported its mission, holding various positions over time. They are recognised as its founding members.
Founding Members
Many martial artists joined as the Society prepared for its first international conference at Manchester Metropolitan University. Members joining in this period included:
Members
The names of other members will be added in time. If you are a current member and would like your name displayed here, please send us a message.
11 July 1997 — The First International Conference on Martial Arts and Research, held at Manchester Metropolitan University with the support of the Sports and Exercise Science Centre (Crewe and Alsager Faculty). This conference included the first Graduation of the SMA.
24 June 1999 — The Second International Conference on Martial Arts and Research, held at the University of Salford jointly with the Department of Health and Social Work. Included a Graduation of the SMA.
25 November 2000 — The Third International Conference, held at the University of Salford, supported by Health Sciences and Social Care.
15 June 2002 — The Fourth International Conference on Martial Arts, held at the University of Salford, supported by the Department of Health.
20 July 2003 — The Fifth International Conference on Martial Arts, held at Bolton Arena, Bolton.
Membership
Membership progression reflects increasing levels of academic achievement, professional competence, research contribution, and service to the martial arts profession.
Founder Fellow is a distinguished category of Fellowship awarded to Fellows who make significant and continuing contributions to the Society. Organizational Membership is available to approved institutions and organizations.
Open to individuals undertaking approved studies, training, coaching, or research in martial arts, combat sports, physical education, sport science, coaching science, exercise science, self defence, or related disciplines.
Applicants may qualify through one of the following routes:
Graduate Members may be admitted to Membership following a period of approved professional practice, teaching, coaching, administration, research, publication, or other significant contribution to martial arts or related disciplines. Consideration may also be given to applicants holding relevant postgraduate qualifications, including master's degrees, professional master's awards, or equivalent postgraduate qualifications in martial arts, sport science, education, coaching, health sciences, or related fields.
Fellowship is the Society's senior professional membership grade, awarded to Members who have demonstrated distinguished achievement through leadership, teaching, coaching, research, publication, innovation, professional practice, administration, or service to the martial arts profession and the Society.
A special category recognizing Fellows who maintain an active and continuing role in the development, governance, advancement, and strategic direction of the Society.
All academic qualifications, professional experience, exemptions, equivalencies, and membership applications shall be evaluated by the Council for Educational Qualifications Assessments of the Society of Martial Arts.
Conferences
The Society has convened international conferences on martial arts and research since 1997, in partnership with universities across the United Kingdom. A full record of proceedings, programmes, and graduations is being prepared.
Detailed conference archive — coming soon.
Regulations
The Society's general regulations, code of conduct, and quality procedures govern admission, membership, and the conduct of all grades of members. These are provided to members and applicants directly.
This section is to be updated.
Office Bearers
The Society was established and guided by the following honorary office bearers.
Gallery
“First Contact”
Dr. Eugene de Silva (President) after presenting fellowships at the Clash of the Titans, Birmingham, U.K., 1995.
(Left to right) Peter Consterdine, Dr. Eugene de Silva, Ronnie Green, Laurie Glossop, John Dawson, Robert Sykes, Geoffrey Thompson.
Missing from the picture: Late Tom Hibbert M.B.E. and Dr. Peter Lewis.
Further photographs from the Society's conferences and graduations will be added here.
Join the Society
Whether you are a practitioner, a coach, an academic, or an institution, the Society welcomes those who share its commitment to recognising martial arts as a field of genuine study. To enquire about membership, or to have your name added to our roll of members, send us a message.
Membership enquiries and contact details will be confirmed here.
