Best Accredited Sport Psychology Degrees and Programs
Sport psychology, also called sports psychology or sport and performance psychology, is a proficiency recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA). There are two main degree paths to practicing in the field: a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) with a specialization (also called concentration, specialty, or emphasis) in sport psychology (leading to licensure as a sport psychologist) or a master’s degree with optional certification (leading to other non-clinical jobs in the field).
In all states, becoming a licensed sport and performance psychologist requires a doctoral degree in psychology with a postdoctoral specialization in sport and performance-related topics. Psychologists in sports and performance commonly specialize in applied sport psychology, clinical sports psychology, or academic sport psychology. A master’s degree in sport psychology is often paired with certification as a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Careers with a master’s degree include roles such as coach, trainer, athletic director, and mental wellness consultant. It is possible to earn an undergraduate degree in sports psychology, but such programs are typically intended as preparation for a master’s or doctoral degree.
Table of Contents
- Degree Requirements and Coursework
- Sport Psychology Master’s Program Comparison
- Affordable Sport Psychology Master’s Programs
- Select Sport Psychology Degree Programs
- Sport Psychologist Career Information
- Becoming a Sport Psychologist
- Job Description
- Salary and Job Outlook
- Additional Resources
- Frequently Asked Questions
Degree Requirements and Coursework
Graduate programs in psychology and sports psychology typically require a bachelor’s degree with a major in psychology, or a certain number of credits of psychology coursework, and possibly kinesiology or other sports-related courses. Typical admission requirements include a minimum GPA of 3.0 and above-average scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), as well as references and experience in athletics, coaching, psychology research, or other related environments.
Graduate students studying sport psychology learn the basics of professional psychology and clinical work, as well as topics related to working with athletes and other types of performers. Coursework in a sport psychology program may include:
- Advanced Kinesiology
- Applied Sport Psychology
- Ethics in Sports and Exercise
- Motivational Processes
- Psychology of Athletic Injury
- Sport and Exercise Psychology
- Sports in American Culture
- Stress in Sport and Exercise
Sport Psychology Master’s Programs
The following table compares master’s in sport psychology programs from not-for-profit schools across a range of factors. Sport psychology degrees may be housed in different departments, such as psychology or kinesiology, which may be an indicator of a program’s focus area. We also include whether the school offers PhD programs related to psychology and if any of those programs have APA accreditation, as these can be marks of overall academic and professional quality. Programs in bold offer online or hybrid options. As programs related to sport psychology may also use different terminologies, feel free to contact us with other programs that should be included here.
| School | Program | College/Department | In-State Tuition Per Credit Hour | Out-of-State Tuition Per Credit Hour | Total Required Credit Hours | Psych PhD Offered? | APA Accredited? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adams State University | MS in Kinesiology – Applied Sport Psychology | School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences | $595 | $595 | 36 | No | No |
| Adler University | MS in Sport & Human Performance | Department of Sport & Human Performance | $1,617 | $1,617 | 38 | Yes | Yes |
| Arizona State University | MS in Psychology, Sport Psychology | New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences | $1,438 | $4,121 | 30 | Yes | Yes |
| Ball State University | MS/MA in Sport and Exercise Psychology | School of Kinesiology | $464 | $1,269 | 33 | No | Yes |
| Barry University | MS in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology | College of Health Professions & Medical Sciences | $1,050 | $1,050 | 30-36 | No | No |
| California State University – Fresno | MS in Sport and Performance Psychology | Department of Kinesiology | $448 | $888 | 30 | No | No |
| California State University – Long Beach | MS in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology | Department of Kinesiology | $1,103 | $1,991 | 36 | No | No |
| Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania | MS in Sport and Performance Psychology | Department of Rehabilitation Sciences | $534 | $801 | 30 | No | No |
| Dominican University of California | MA in Applied Sport and Performance Psychology | School of Liberal Arts and Education | $1,246 | $1,246 | 53 | No | No |
| Florida State University | MS in Sport Psychology | Department of Educational Psychology and Learning Systems | $479 | $1,174 | 37 | Yes | Yes |
| Georgia Southern University | MS in Kinesiology, Sport and Exercise Psychology | Waters College of Health Professions | $284 | $1,183 | 36 | Yes | Yes |
| Illinois State University | MS in Kinesiology & Recreation – Psychology of Sport & Physical Activity | School of Kinesiology and Recreation | $423 | $878 | 33 | No | Yes |
| Indiana University Bloomington | MS in Kinesiology, Sport and Coaching Science | Department of Kinesiology | $1,196 | $3,416 | 35 | Yes | Yes |
| Menlo College | MA in Sport and Performance Psychology | College of Arts & Sciences | $1,103 | $1,103 | 36 | No | No |
| Minnesota State University – Mankato | MS in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology | College of Allied Health and Nursing | $635 | $795 | 36 | No | No |
| National University | MS in Sport Psychology | School of Psychology and Social Sciences | $943 | $943 | 36 | No | Yes |
| National University | MA in Sport and Performance Psychology | School of Psychology and Social Sciences | $455 | $455 | 45 | No | Yes |
| Northern Michigan University | MS in Applied Sport Psychology | College of Graduate Studies and Research | $739 | $739 | 30-32 | No | No |
| Oregon State University | MS in Kinesiology | Department of Kinesiology | $622 | $1,445 | 45 | Yes | No |
| Pennsylvania State University | MS in Kinesiology: Psychology of Physical Activity | Department of Kinesiology | $1,061 | $1,875 | 30 | Yes | Yes |
| Purdue University | MS in Kinesiology: Exercise Psychology | Department of Health and Kinesiology | $347 | $948 | 30 | Yes | Yes |
| Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville | MS in Exercise and Sport Psychology | Department of Applied Health | $384 | $384 | 30 | No | No |
| Springfield College | M.Ed./MS in Sport and Exercise Psychology | Department of Exercise Science | $715 | $1,212 | 36 | Yes | Yes |
| University of Denver | MA in Sport and Performance Psychology | Graduate School of Professional Psychology | $1,397 | $1,397 | 72 | No | Yes |
| University of Florida | MS in Applied Physiology & Kinesiology: Sport Psychology & Elite Human Performance | Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology | $550 | $550 | 30 | No | Yes |
| University of Illinois at Chicago | MS in Kinesiology, Performance, Sport and Exercise Psychology | College of Applied Health Sciences | $533 | $1,059 | 36 | Yes | Yes |
| University of Kentucky | MS in Sport and Exercise Psychology | College of Education | $826 | $2,061 | 39 | Yes | Yes |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | MS in Kinesiology: Applied Sport Psychology | Department of Kinesiology | $964 | $2,668 | 36 | No | Yes |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | MS in Kinesiology: Sport and Exercise Psychology | Department of Kinesiology | $716 | $2,418 | 30 | No | Yes |
| University of Tennessee – Knoxville | MS in Sport Psychology and Motor Behavior | Department of Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport Studies | $639 | $1,011 | 33 | Yes | Yes |
| University of Western States | MS in Sport and Performance Psychology | Department of Sport & Performance Psychology | $663 | $663 | 54 | No | No |
| University of Wisconsin – Green Bay | MS in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology | Department of Sport, Exercise & Performance Psychology | $306 | $642 | 39 | No | No |
| Western Washington University | MS in Kinesiology, Sport and Exercise Psychology | College of Humanities and Social Sciences | $655 | $1,406 | 30 | No | No |
Most Affordable Sport Psychology Master’s Programs
The following schools offer the most affordable master’s in sport psychology programs based on the in-state tuition per credit hour. Note that additional fees, such as out-of-state tuition, may apply. Check with schools of interest to confirm the expected cost of attendance.
- Georgia Southern University ($284)
- University of Wisconsin – Green Bay ($306)
- Purdue University ($347)
- Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville ($384)
- Illinois State University ($423)
- California State University – Fresno ($448)
- National University ($455)
- Ball State University ($464)
- Florida State University ($479)
- University of Illinois at Chicago ($533)
- Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania ($534)
- University of Florida ($550)
Select Sport Psychology Degree Programs
Traditional Master’s Programs
Springfield College
At Springfield College’s Department of Psychology, there are two options for students of sport psychology: a Master of Science (MS) in Sport and Exercise Psychology with a thesis option and a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Sport and Exercise Psychology, which is an applied, clinically-based track. The MS degree allows students to pursue their research interests and is recommended for those who plan on doctoral study. The M.Ed. degree focuses on connecting students with high school and collegiate sports programs and is recommended for students wishing to become CMPCs through the AASP. This track culminates in a written portfolio and oral defense of applied work and can be completed on campus or online. Admission requirements include undergraduate prerequisites in anatomy, physiology, and exercise and letters of recommendation. Springfield College also offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sport and Exercise Psychology.
University of Denver
The University of Denver’s (DU’s) Graduate School of Professional Psychology offers a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology (MASPP) designed for professionals working in athletics, performing arts, mental health, or health and fitness. The program develops students’ ability to work with athletes to improve performance by examining how psychological factors affect performance and growth. The MASPP program also prepares individuals to pursue doctoral study. Students must complete 72 credit hours, designed to be completed in two years. The program culminates in a master’s project capstone, in which students demonstrate their comprehensive knowledge of sport and performance psychology concepts and applications. Applicants to the program must submit transcripts showing a GPA of 3.5 or higher, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The University of Denver also offers an online Master of Arts (MA) in Sport Coaching, as well as an online Graduate Certificate in Strength and Conditioning and Fitness Coaching (SCFC).
Traditional Doctoral Programs
Oregon State University
Oregon State University’s (OSU’s) College of Public Health and Human Sciences offers a unique option for those interested in sport psychology graduate study. Students can earn a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Kinesiology with a concentration in Biophysical Kinesiology or Psychosocial Kinesiology. The Biophysical option focuses on biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor control, while the Psychosocial option focuses on motor development and the sociology and psychology of sport and exercise. The program emphasizes research and focuses on the study of the social psychology of being physically active. Completion of the degree requires 12 credit hours in research core coursework, 18 credit hours in the area of concentration, and additional coursework, bringing the total minimum credit hours for the program to 84. Admission requirements include a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement. An Adapted Physical Activity option is available as an add-on to the graduate program which prepares graduates to work with people with disabilities. A related Master of Science (MS) in Kinesiology is also offered at Oregon State.
Purdue University
Purdue University’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology offers an emphasis in Exercise Psychology focusing on research opportunities including maintenance of physical activity; community research partnerships; single bouts of exercise and types of memory in children; and resistance exercise and memory, cognitive performance, and cognitive control. PhD students take approximately four years to complete the program, which includes developing a program of research that will support their dissertation. In addition to the research project, students are required to participate in a seminar during their first year, take a comprehensive exam during their third year, and fulfill a publication requirement. Students choose coursework in topics such as advanced sport psychology, research methods, research analysis, human development, and social psychology. Admission requirements include transcripts, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation.
Online and Hybrid Programs
National University
National University offers two sport psychology master’s degrees, a Master of Arts (MA) in Performance Psychology (MASPP) program in a hybrid format and a Master of Science in Sport Psychology (MSSP) that can be completed entirely online. The MASPP focuses on sport science, performance psychology techniques, enhancing performance, and counseling athletes and other performers. After completing the first nine courses, students must pass a comprehensive exam before beginning specialty courses. The MSSP emphasizes preparation for the CMPC credential while preparing students for doctoral study. Both programs prepare students to work with college and professional athletes, children in school and community sports groups, and military athletes in clinical and applied settings.
Northern Michigan University
Northern Michigan University’s (NMU) Master of Science in Applied Sport Psychology is designed to be completed entirely online. Students are prepared for careers as coaches, mental performance consultants, and clinical sport professionals. To earn the degree, students must complete 30 to 32 credit hours and a graduate capstone project. Admissions requirements include an undergraduate GPA of 3.0, a personal statement, and a letter of recommendation. An undergraduate degree in a field closely related to sport psychology is strongly recommended, but not required. Graduates are qualified to pursue the CMPC credential from the AASP as well as the Master’s Limited Psychologist-Licensed Psychologist credential in the state of Michigan.
Sport Psychologist Career Information
How to Become a Sport Psychologist
Practicing sport psychologists must be licensed in all states, which requires a PsyD or a PhD in Psychology. However, clinical practice is not the only way to enter a career in sport psychology; many positions in the field can be entered with a master’s degree. In general, to become a sport psychologist, you will follow these steps:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field.
- Earn a master’s degree (optional) in sport psychology.
- Get an optional certification such as the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) by the AASP and begin practicing as a consultant.
- If you wish to become licensed and/or practice research, earn an accredited PsyD or PhD in Psychology with a specialization in sport psychology.
- Complete supervised clinical experience requirements for your state.
- Pass the required exams for your state, including the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
- Apply for and receive a license from your state’s board of psychology.
- Begin practicing as a sport psychologist.
- Complete continuing education requirements each year to keep your license current.
Job Description
A degree in sport and performance psychology can be useful for professionals in a variety of fields. Although a doctoral degree is required to be a licensed psychologist, a master’s degree in sport psychology can enhance the skills and knowledge of athletic coaches, physical education teachers, physical therapists and trainers, and others working with athletes or people in the performing arts. In addition to understanding the psychology of sport and performance, these professionals should be caring, patient, good listeners, and practical problem-solvers.
Having a master’s degree in sport psychology may lead to coaching jobs, working in supportive roles for licensed psychologists, or the administration of recreational sports and athletics. However, certain positions in this field require a doctoral degree. Some of the jobs available in the field of sport psychology include:
- Academic researcher*
- Athletic coach
- Clinical sport psychologist*
- Health program coordinator
- High school teacher
- Performance coach
- Private practice clinical sport psychologist*
- Professor or lecturer*
- Sport psychologist for a performing arts group*
- Sport psychologist for a club, college, Olympic, or professional team*
- Sport rehabilitation specialist
*A doctoral degree is usually required for this job title.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists in the “all other” category earned $110,300 on average in May 2023.1 Job projections in this category reflect an average job growth rate of 5% through 2032.2
Additional Resources
- American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP): Offers Board certification for professional psychologists of all specialties.
- American Psychological Association Division 47: Society for Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology: Supports and provides resources for professionals in exercise and sport psychology.
- Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP): Provides certification and promotes research in performance and sport psychology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a doctorate to be a sport psychologist?
To be a licensed clinical psychologist, a doctoral degree is required. Though you cannot legally use the title “sport psychologist” without a doctoral degree, a master’s in sports psychology can still be valuable for your career. For example, organizations such as the AASP offer certification programs for sport psychology master’s degree holders.3 Certifications like the AASP’s Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) designation vouch for professional expertise, can lead to more job opportunities, and increase earning potential.
Should I attend a traditional or online sports psychology program?
For a doctoral degree in sport psychology, a traditional program is highly recommended because of the applied nature of the coursework. An online master’s degree in sport psychology can be a good option for working students who need flexibility. In either case, make sure the program you select is accredited, especially if you aim to become a licensed clinical psychologist.
How long will it take for me to get a sports psychology degree?
Most doctoral programs in sport psychology take four to seven years of full-time study to complete. Some programs are postdoctoral and require additional specialization and study after earning a PhD in clinical psychology. Students typically complete a master’s program in two years of full-time study.
What can I do with a master’s in sport psychology?
While clinical sport psychologists must hold a doctoral degree, a master’s degree can offer solid preparation for further graduate study and can also be useful for prospective and current physical education teachers, coaches, and others working with people who perform in sports. A master’s degree in sport psychology can also be used to pursue CMPC certification through the AASP.
References:
1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, Psychologists, All Other: https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes193039.htm
2. Projections Central: https://projectionscentral.org/Projections/LongTerm