Sport Psychology Masters Degrees

Masters in Sport Psychology are quickly becoming a necessary prerequisite in order to be competitive in the field. In addition, the field of sports psychology may boast unique top opportunities for those interested in sports, health, or exercise.

There may be a limited number of potential career opportunities available to sports psychologists. However, earning a master’s degree in sports psychology will allow students to apply for certification by the Association for Applied Sports Psychology (AASP) or the American Board of Sports Psychology, which might help enhance their best career options in the field. The CMPC certification is only one of the many benefits of this degree program.

What is a Masters in Sport Psychology?

A master’s degree in sport psychology is a terminal degree that prepares students for a career in sports psychology. The program focuses on the psychological factors that influence sports and physical activity, integrating theory-based research with applied concepts.

The coursework for a Masters in Sport Psychology varies depending on the school and concentration. Generally, it includes topics such as human development, motivation, physiology, performance enhancement, mental health issues in sports, exercise science, and kinesiology. Most programs also require students to complete a practicum or internship experience working with athletes or coaching staff.

Masters in Sport Psychology Application Requirements

Admission requirements vary by program however, common prerequisites will require students to: have a completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, often with a minimum GPA; report a Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score; and in some cases submit a written statement of purpose.

How long is a sports psychology Masters?

The average length of time to complete a Masters in Sport Psychology program is two years, although some programs may be completed in as little as 18 months.

Masters in Sport Psychology: Concentrations

There are several opportunities for students to pursue specializations within the field of sports psychology. For instance, Oregon State University allows students to select from specific concentrations in motivation in physical activity, psychosocial factors in physical activity, and lifespan sport and exercise psychology. Alternatively, Florida State University, while also allowing students to choose elective courses, also affords a limited number of students with the opportunity to participate in a practicum experience rather than taking a specific and predetermined academic track.

What can you do with a Masters in Sport Psychology degree?

There are many career options available to those with a master’s degree in sports psychology. For example, students may find work as mental health counselors, performance consultants, certified mental performance consultant, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or coaches at the high school, collegiate, or professional level. In addition, many graduates go on to pursue doctoral degrees and research positions within academia.

Potential Job and Salary for Psychologists

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the medial annual salary for psychologists was $85,330 in May 2022. In addition, is expected a 6% growth in employment of psychologists between 2022 and 2032.

Earn a Masters in Sports Psychology

Earning a master’s degree in sports psychology alone may not guarantee a student’s success in the field, but it might help to distinguish students in this competitive market. Therefore students interested in pursuing a master’s degree in sports psychology should strategically explore programs based on the learning format and location that best fits their needs, as well as the courses and concentrations offered in order to determine which will provide the best foundation for their desired career.

GradSchools.com offers 14 Graduate Schools with in Sport Psychology Masters Programs