Last Updated on September 1, 2023

In this guide…
Why study a sport psychology degree?
Are sport psychology degree holders in demand?
What should I study at the undergraduate level to prepare for a career in sport psychology?
What will I learn in a sport psychology program?
How to choose the right sport psychology program for you?
The importance of internships/practica & experience outside the classroom
The versatility of sport psychology expertise
Sport Psychology Degree FAQs

Why study a sport psychology degree?

Imagine being able to combine your love for sports with your fascination for understanding how the human mind works. That’s exactly what sport psychology offers – the chance to delve into the world of both athletics and psychology, helping athletes and performers reach their full potential. According to the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP), the organization that administers the only accredited certification for mental performance in North America, “sport and performance psychology focuses on providing every performer the resources to power their inner edge by strengthening the ability to perform, as well as the ability to thrive.”

Let’s break down why you might want to explore this exciting field:

1. Passion for Sports: If you’re the kind of person who can’t get enough of sports – whether it’s playing, watching, or just talking about them – sport psychology could be the perfect fit for you. You’ll get to study how the mind affects sports performance, which could lead to amazing insights that athletes can use to improve.

2. Unleash Inner Potential: Ever wonder what separates a good athlete from a great one? Often, it’s the mental aspect. Sport psychology equips you with tools to help individuals overcome challenges like anxiety, lack of confidence, and pressure, enabling them to perform at their absolute best.

3. Flexible Career Paths: The days of working only from 9 to 5 are evolving. Sport psychology offers careers that are adaptable and often don’t follow the traditional office hours. Sport (and performance) psychology helps individuals and organizations be better versions of themselves personally and professionally through mental training. This means you could be working with athletes, artists, or even the military in various exciting settings.

Are sport psychology degree holders in demand?

It’s important to know that sport psychology roles often involve two main areas: mental health and mental performance. Only those who specialize as licensed mental health professionals, like clinical or counseling psychologists, can offer both types of services. This is explained in detail in the Mental Health and Mental Performance Services Continuum: How to Identify the Right Provider. The outlook for careers in sport psychology varies based on the type of services you’re trained to provide.

The job outlook for mental health services in sport psychology looks quite promising. There’s been a growing demand for sport psychologists, and this trend caught the attention of the American Psychological Association, which listed sport psychology as one of the 10 trends in psychology to watch in 2019. The importance of treating mental health with the same care as physical health for athletes has gained momentum, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.

This led to the creation of numerous sport psychologist positions in college and professional sports. For instance, the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee established a Mental Health Department in 2019, hiring mental health professionals with sport psychology expertise to provide support and resources to Team USA athletes. The same goes for the NCAA and its Division I schools, which are hiring more sport psychologists to tackle the mental health challenges in college sports. In some cases, the number of positions available might even exceed the number of qualified professionals.

However, the outlook for careers in mental performance services isn’t as ideal, at least for now. Most high-level sports, including college and pro levels, prefer mental performance consultants who are also sport psychologists – a title and certification only available to those who have training in mental health as licensed psychologists.

Nevertheless, there’s been a rise in job opportunities, especially in Major League Baseball and the military, where sport psychology professionals are in high demand. Many mental performance consultants have started their own consulting businesses, working either part-time or full-time due to the limited number of full-time positions. This often requires additional skills like business management, entrepreneurship, and marketing. You can find more details about the career outlook for mental performance in the 2020 Compensation Report for Mental Performance Work produced by AASP.

What should I study at the undergraduate level to prepare for a career in sport psychology?

Although it is not necessary to have a psychology or sport-related major for your undergraduate degree, having such a major or relevant experience applying psychology in your professional experience (e.g., mental health training, sport coaching) gives you an edge in your graduate school application. According to the APA Sport Psychology Proficiency, specialized knowledge includes the following areas:

· Theory and research in social, historical, cultural, and developmental foundations of sport psychology.

· Issues and techniques of sport-specific psychological assessment and mental skills training for performance enhancement and participation satisfaction.

· Clinical and counseling issues with athletes.

· Organizational and systemic aspects of sport consulting.

· Developmental and social issues related to sport participation.

· Biobehavioral bases of sport and exercise (e.g., exercise physiology, motor learning, sports medicine).

· Specific knowledge of training science and technical requirements of sport and competition, International Olympic Committee (IOC), National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) rules, etc.

So, anything you can study or do (through work or leadership experience) related to these areas could help you with the application and preparation for a sport psychology career.

What will I learn in a sport psychology program?

For a sport psychology program that focuses on practice (rather than research), you are expected to study and learn about the following eight knowledge areas required to pursue the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credential:

1. Professional Ethics and Standards: Studies in this area provide an understanding of the ethics and standards related to professional practice in psychology or sport disciplines.

2. Sport Psychology: Studies in this area provide an understanding of the theory, research, and practice of sport psychology.

3. Sport Science: Studies in this area provide an understanding of the physiological, biomechanical, motor, sociocultural, and philosophical bases of behavior in sport.

4. Psychopathology: Studies in this area provide an understanding of psychopathology and etiology of mental disorders.

5. Helping Relationships: Studies in this area provide an understanding of helping and consulting processes.

6. Research Methods and Statistics: Studies in this area provide an understanding of research methodology and statistical analysis.

7. Psychological Foundations of Behavior: Studies in this area provide an understanding of the biological, cognitive, affective, social, and individual difference bases of behavior.

8. Diversity and Culture: Studies in this area provide an understanding of diversity, multiculturalism, and cultural awareness. If you want to know more about the coursework and other requirements, you can read the CMPC Handbook for details. To become a sport psychologist with the licensure to conduct mental health diagnoses and treatments beyond mental performance consulting, you will study and learn more about various mental health related issues through your coursework in counseling/clinical psychology in addition to these eight knowledge areas.

How to choose the right sport psychology program for you?

Deciding on the perfect sport psychology program involves several steps tailored to your goals and aspirations. Are you interested in mental health counseling, mental performance consulting, or both? Do you aim to earn a master’s degree or possibly a doctorate?

If you opt for a master’s degree, it typically takes two years of full-time study to complete. Clinical master’s programs might take longer and include an internship in the third year. These programs often lead to Master of Science (M.S.) or Master of Arts (M.A.) degrees, depending on

whether they focus on scientific research or applied knowledge and experiences. A Master of Education (M.Ed.) usually replaces a thesis with practical experience. A master’s degree can equip you for entry-level positions in the field, particularly if you’re focused on applied practice.

On the other hand, doctoral programs are more research-centered and involve coursework to develop research and analytical skills. There are three main types of doctoral programs in sport psychology: some require a prior master’s degree, while others combine master’s and doctoral studies.

A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) emphasizes research and prepares graduates for teaching and research careers. A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) concentrates on counseling and clinical psychology, beneficial for those interested in working with athletes’ mental health. A Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) combines research and application.

Doctoral programs usually entail completing a dissertation, showcasing original research or innovative ideas contributing to the field. A doctorate opens doors to senior-level roles or careers in academia or applied practice. If you’re interested in academic research or teaching, pursuing a doctoral degree might be essential.

Once you’ve chosen your desired path and degree level, consider the focus of each sport psychology program. Some programs emphasize mental performance, focusing on teaching mental skills to athletes and performers without directly addressing mental health concerns. Others concentrate on mental health, providing coursework and practical experiences in psychology or counseling departments, catering to athletes and non-athletes alike.

When exploring applied programs, inquire about the quantity and quality of practicum and internship experiences. For mental performance, learn about coursework and mentored hours toward the CMPC credential. For mental health, check if the program is accredited by organizations like the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), or the American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation (APA-CoA).

Programs accredited by these three agencies typically lead to clinical licensure and a national board certification after the completion of necessary requirements. Visit program websites and click on the menu item labeled “Students” or “Programs” to learn more about practicum/internship requirements and program accreditation. You may also be able to find out what jobs the program graduates tend to get to be informed about employability after obtaining the degree from a program.

After identifying program focuses, consider the specific details. Many sport psychology programs follow a cohort model, where students progress together. This camaraderie provides peer support and networking opportunities. However, there might be less flexibility in class scheduling. Beyond the program, investigate on-campus and off-campus involvement opportunities.

In recent years, especially since the pandemic, online education has become popular, including for sport psychology programs that have been traditionally offered in person. Online programs offer flexibility and convenience for students to learn from anywhere and at any time. Individuals who work full-time or have family obligations may benefit from this option.

However, online programs may not provide as much direct guidance, social support, and practicum/internship experiences compared to in-person programs. Due to differences in geographical locations and time zones, communication with professors and peers could be challenging.

Remember, choosing a program involves both professional and personal factors, like proximity to family, climate preferences, and extracurricular activities. Taking all these aspects into account will help you find the ideal sport psychology program that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

The importance of internships/practica & experience outside the classroom

If you’re excited about putting sport psychology into practice, then gaining hands-on experience through internships and practica during your graduate program is crucial. These experiences help you develop skills, accumulate knowledge, and earn CMPC hours. While programs might use different terms and structures for internships and practica, let’s delve into some key aspects. Remember, researching each program and seeking advice from professionals and program alumni is important for a comprehensive understanding.

Internships and practica in mental performance and clinical contexts differ significantly. If your goal is to become a CMPC, assisting teams and individuals with mental performance enhancement, you’ll need supervised hours from internships and practica within your graduate program. Conversely, aspiring sport psychologists or mental health practitioners, who work with athletes and non-athletes on mental health concerns, should focus on accruing hours for their future licensure. Generally, mental performance internships are less standardized compared to clinical ones.

While these experiences are essential for CMPC or licensure requirements, they hold intrinsic value. An ancient Chinese saying goes, “Traveling 10,000 miles is better than reading 10,000 books.” In the realm of sport psychology, this translates to practical experience being more impactful than theoretical learning alone.

Through internships and practica, you’re exposed to diverse client groups and environments. This exposure not only hones your skills but also helps you identify your strengths and areas for growth. Moreover, these opportunities refine your career aspirations and build your resume as you uncover your preferences for certain types of work. For example, you might discover that working with young or older athletes resonates more with you than collegiate athletes, which is often the first thought.

Beyond the practice of sport psychology, internships and practica familiarize you with professional norms, especially in sports and performance contexts. This professionalism encompasses effective communication (both written and verbal), adhering to dress codes, managing emotions, and handling conflicts. Moreover, these experiences enable you to network with professionals such as coaches, athletic trainers, and athletic directors. These connections could prove invaluable for career planning and job applications. Ultimately, internships and practica serve as a stepping stone towards your sport psychology career, preparing you for your journey and your first job in the field.

The versatility of sport psychology expertise

When supporting athletes and individuals in high-performance fields, mental performance consultants, even without clinical training, address vital mental performance aspects like confidence, competitive anxiety, focus, motivation, and resilience. For those with clinical

training, they can handle mental health concerns while also providing mental performance guidance. They may help clients deal with issues like depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and stress tied to sports and personal life. Interestingly, as mental health worries ease, athletes might even see improvements in their performance.

Though we’ve mainly discussed athletes and sports, sport psychology – or performance psychology more broadly – is valuable for anyone who needs to perform. Think of managers and employees in workplaces, musicians and performers, doctors and nurses, and more. Remarkably, the military employs a significant number of mental performance consultants.

Consider this: while an athlete’s lack of confidence or focus might result in a lost match, military personnel’s lack of these factors could lead to lost battles and lives. Hence, the reach of sport psychology goes far beyond sports. You can find examples of what Certified Mental Performance Consultants (CMPCs) do and whom they work with in the CMPC Fact Sheet.

Building your professional network in sport psychology

You might have heard the saying, “It’s not just what you know, but who you know.” There’s some truth to this – knowing the right people offers opportunities, but what you know is equally important. Building your professional network should have already begun, as your connections in sport and performance are a foundation. Your next step is to expand your network, connecting with people who can offer chances to work in the field of sport psychology and in the settings you’re interested in. An excellent article on Who’s in Your Network? Networking Tips for Young Professionals suggests the 3P’s framework to help you strategically build your network.

After graduation: what lies ahead

This question is a real head-scratcher, and the answer depends on the choices you make in your career and education journey. If you’re aiming for a master’s degree and a career as a mental performance consultant, whether you’ll have all the required hours (totaling 400, with a specific 200 hours of direct client interaction) for the CMPC certification varies. If you do meet these hours, it’s a good idea to take the CMPC exam promptly, which is a stepping stone for most entry-level mental performance consulting roles.

Keep in mind, though, that CMPC is like a badge that shows your basic abilities. It might take more expertise, skills, and real-world encounters before you’re ready to join a competitive sports team or other high-performance groups. But don’t worry, some organizations, like the military, have slightly lower requirements for new positions and can provide extra guidance to employees without their CMPC yet.

Now, if you’re thinking of going for a doctoral degree and becoming a sport psychologist dealing with both mental performance and mental health matters, expect to spend another full-time year in mental health work after your degree (often called a post-doc). This experience helps fulfill the prerequisites for the psychologist licensure exam. Once you’re a licensed psychologist, the path becomes clearer. You can venture into various sport psychologist roles in different competitive sports (think college sports or Team USA) and even non-sport environments.

But hey, these are the typical routes. Many mental performance consultants and sport psychologists decide to step outside the box. They might start their own private practice, join virtual mental performance consulting or coaching groups, or put their expertise to use in “non-sport psychology jobs” like coaching, teaching, or administrative roles in sports or academics.

In reality, there’s no one-size-fits-all path. Speaking with recent graduates from different sport psychology programs can give you a great sense of how diverse the field is and what kind of experiences and jobs might be waiting for you or not.

For more insights from Dr. Alan Chu and to hear the story of how he found his way into sport psychoogy, check out his Expert Interview with Sports Degrees Online.

Sport Psychology Degree FAQs

“I have been successful – my teams have won state championships and league titles and all that jazz – but my biggest successes are best measured in the smiles I help kids put on their faces and in the transferrable skills that former players of mine are able to use as they strive to become the best versions of themselves on and off the courts.“

Dr. Jesse Steinfeldt, Indiana University