Best Bachelor’s in Sports Psychology Degree Programs
Sports psychology is a rapidly growing field that combines the principles of psychology and sports to help athletes improve their performance, overcome mental barriers, and maintain the discipline necessary for success. Sports psychologists don’t themselves step onto the field or court, but they’re an important support person behind some of the best athletes that do.
Earning a bachelor’s in sports psychology can help you enter this exciting field. A bachelor’s degree will introduce you to psychology and have a particular emphasis on using psychological grounding to improve athletic performance.
Upon graduating, you’ll have career opportunities as a sports psychologist, sports counselor, strength and conditioning coach, or assistant coach if you previously played at a high level. You’ll work directly with players and coaches, either as a member of the coaching staff or a member of the administrative staff.
In some cases, sports psychology graduates pivot from athletics to the corporate world. Many of the same motivational principles apply to performance in each arena. Even if the corporate world isn’t your intention, it’s good to know you have options.
Sports psychologists are employed by collegiate and professional sports teams, leagues, camps and specialty seminars. With an online sports psychology bachelor’s degree, you could be one of the psychologists collaborating with these athletic organizations. To find out how to earn one, see the information below.
2025 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Psychology Programs
Looking for the best online bachelor's in sports psychology programs? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked top programs to help you start your career. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with other commitments. Distance learning options allow students to pursue their passion for sports psychology from anywhere. Find out which programs made the list and how they can fit your goals. Learn more about our rankings at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu
Bachelor's - Sport and Performance Psychology, BS
Online Learning - Visit Website
California Baptist University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology, designed to prepare students for careers in enhancing athletic and personal performance through psychological principles. This 100% online program, accredited by WSCUC, requires no ACT or SAT for admission, making it accessible to a wide range of students. With a focus on cognitive psychology, exercise physiology, and ethical practices, the program is structured to be completed in just 16 months, offering classes that start every 8 weeks across three semesters annually. At $520 per unit, the program is both affordable and flexible, catering to transfer students and those seeking a faith-integrated curriculum. Graduates are well-equipped for roles in athletic coaching, mental health, and performance consulting, supported by a Southern Baptist-affiliated institution that is also military-friendly.
- 100% Online Degree
- 49 Total Program Units
- 16 Months to Complete
- $520 Per Unit Cost
- Classes Start Every 8 Weeks
- Three Semesters Annually
- Transfer-Friendly Program
- WSCUC Accredited Degree
- Multiple Career Pathways
- Faith-Integrated Curriculum
Kent State University at Kent
Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu
Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Kent State University at Kent offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology, tailored for those aiming to enhance athletic performance through psychological principles. This program delves into motivation, mental training, and performance strategies, equipping students with the knowledge to support athletes and professionals in sports settings. The 120-credit curriculum is entirely online, providing flexibility for students to balance their studies with other commitments. Graduates can pursue various career paths, from coaching to performance consulting. Notably, the program emphasizes ethical practice and practical skill development, preparing students for real-world applications. While the program is online, it maintains a rigorous academic standard, requiring no entrance exams for admission, making it accessible to a wide range of students.
- 100% online degree program
- 120 total credit hours
- Graduate in 4 years
- Focuses on performance psychology
- Tuition ~$52,200 for Ohio residents
- Multiple career pathway options
- Psychological performance focus
- Practical skills development
- Ethical practice principles
- Research and intervention training
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Bachelor's - Counseling and Applied Psychological Science
Concentration: Sport and Performance Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
Arizona State University's online Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science with a concentration in Sport and Performance Counseling is designed for students passionate about applying psychological principles to sports. This 120-credit program, structured over 40 classes each lasting 7.5 weeks, starts on 03/17/2025. It delves into the psychological aspects of athletic performance, offering skills in stress management and motivation enhancement. A standout feature is the required internship in sport or mental health settings, providing hands-on experience. While it doesn't directly lead to becoming a sport psychologist, it prepares students for careers in coaching, wellness, and for advanced studies. No ACT or SAT is mentioned as required.
- Online Bachelor of Science program
- 120 total credit hours
- 40 total classes
- 7.5 weeks per class
- Next start date: 03/17/2025
- Concentration in Sport Performance
- Internship in sport/mental health
- No direct sport psychologist path
- Prepares for advanced studies
- Career paths in coaching, wellness
What Will I Learn in an Online Sports Psychology Degree Program?
A bachelor’s degree in sports medicine is a four-year program that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the field of athletic healthcare. An online program requires 120-130 credit hours of coursework, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of sports medicine. Most programs include both classes, and a practicum or internship.
The curriculum includes a mix of general education courses, theoretical psychology courses, and applied psychology classes specifically related to sports. Some of the courses that students may take during the program include:
- Introduction to Sports Psychology
- Physiology of Exercise and Sport
- Psychological Aspects of Injury and Rehabilitation
- Sport and Exercise Motivation
- Psychological Skills Training for Athletes
- Group Dynamics in Sports Teams
- Ethics in Sports Psychology
Admissions Requirements for a Bachelor’s in Sports Psychology
Admission to online sports psychology programs can be a competitive process. Requirements sometimes vary by institution, but here are common elements that most schools require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Transcripts meeting the school’s GPA and other requirements (usually 2.5-3.0)
- Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or other professionals
- Essay or personal outlining your goals and interests in the field
- In-person or virtual interview with the admissions committee (in some cases)
Many schools now use the Common Application, but some colleges (e.g. Faulkner University) still use their own application.
2025 Affordable Bachelor's in Sports Psychology Program Options
Finding an affordable master's in addiction counseling is key for students across the USA. The right program balances cost with quality education. In 2025, options range from low-cost to more expensive, but all aim to prepare students for a bachelor's level career. The table highlights tuition ranges and program features, helping you compare. Affordable choices make advanced education accessible, especially in high-demand areas like addiction counseling. Look for economical programs that fit your budget without sacrificing key learning opportunities.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Kent State University at Kent |
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| Kent State University at Trumbull |
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| Kent State University at Ashtabula |
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2025 Shortest Sports Psychology Bachelor's Program Options
Finding the fastest or shortest addiction counseling master's program can help students start their careers sooner. The table lists schools across the USA offering these programs, focusing on key details like graduation and retention rates. Shorter programs are ideal for those eager to enter the field quickly, especially in high-demand areas. By 2025, bachelor's level options will be available, providing flexible paths for students in various states and cities. These programs are designed to meet the growing need for qualified professionals in addiction counseling.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| University of South Carolina-Columbia |
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| Kent State University at Kent |
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| California Baptist University |
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List of Sports Psychology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Find an online or campus-based bachelor’s program in sports psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.
Alabama
Montgomery, AL
Faulkner University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Sports Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Online Bachelor of Science offered
- Tuition $325 per semester hour
- Small class sizes (15 students)
- Faith-based curriculum
- Flexible online format
- Career paths in athletic support
- High school graduate requirement
- ACT/SAT score requirements
Arizona
Tempe, AZ
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
- Bachelor's - Counseling and Applied Psychological Science
Concentration: Sport and Performance Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- Online Bachelor of Science program
- 120 total credit hours
- 40 total classes
- 7.5 weeks per class
- Next start date: 03/17/2025
- Concentration in Sport Performance
- Internship in sport/mental health
- No direct sport psychologist path
California
Riverside, CA
California Baptist University
- Bachelor's - Sport and Performance Psychology, BS
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree
- 49 Total Program Units
- 16 Months to Complete
- $520 Per Unit Cost
- Classes Start Every 8 Weeks
- Three Semesters Annually
- Transfer-Friendly Program
- WSCUC Accredited Degree
San Diego, CA
National University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Four-week course format
- Year-round enrollment available
- Online and in-person options
- 13 major requirement courses
- 180 total quarter units needed
- Upper division electives offered
- Focuses on performance psychology
- Prepares for graduate studies
Ohio
Ashtabula, OH
Kent State University at Ashtabula
- Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online degree program
- 120 total credit hours
- Graduate in 4 years
- Focuses on psychological performance
- Multiple career pathways available
- Ohio resident tuition ~$52,200
- Non-resident tuition ~$53,400
- Multiple admission pathways
Burton, OH
Kent State University at Geauga
- Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online degree program
- 120 total credit hours
- 4-year graduation timeline
- Focuses on psychological processes
- Multiple career pathways available
- Competitive tuition rates
- Regional campus admissions
- Practicum in sport performance
East Liverpool, OH
Kent State University at East Liverpool
- Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- 120 total credit hours
- Graduate in 4 years
- Ohio residents: $52,200 tuition
- Non-Ohio residents: $53,400 tuition
- Open admission for regional campuses
- Multiple career pathways
- Focuses on psychological performance
Kent, OH
Kent State University at Kent
- Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online degree program
- 120 total credit hours
- Graduate in 4 years
- Focuses on performance psychology
- Tuition ~$52,200 for Ohio residents
- Multiple career pathway options
- Psychological performance focus
- Practical skills development
New Philadelphia, OH
Kent State University at Tuscarawas
- Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online degree program
- 120 total credit hours
- 4-year graduation timeline
- Ohio resident tuition: $52,200
- Competitive program with 7% job growth
- Focuses on performance psychology
- Multiple career pathway options
- Flexible admissions requirements
North Canton, OH
Kent State University at Stark
- Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online degree program
- 120 total credit hours
- Graduate in 4 years
- Ohio resident tuition: $594.78/credit
- Focus on psychological performance processes
- Wide range of sport-related careers
- Unique psychological performance focus
- Prepares for advanced graduate studies
Salem, OH
Kent State University at Salem
- Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree Program
- 120 Total Credit Hours
- Graduate in 4 Years
- Ohio Resident Tuition: $52,200
- Non-Ohio Resident Tuition: $53,400
- Open Admission for Regional Campuses
- Focuses on Psychological Performance
- Prepares for Sports Psychology Careers
Warren, OH
Kent State University at Trumbull
- Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online degree program
- 120 total credit hours
- Graduate in 4 years
- Ohio residents: $52,200 total tuition
- Non-Ohio residents: $53,400 total tuition
- Focuses on psychological performance
- Prepares for diverse sport careers
- Mental skills performance enhancement
Texas
Dallas, TX
Parker University
- Bachelor's - Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online degree program
- Dedicated sport psychology focus
- 9% industry growth rate
- Median income $81,040
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Courses in psychological theory
- Exercise physiology included
- Biomechanics curriculum
Houston, TX
University of St Thomas
- Bachelor's - B.A./M.A. in Applied Sports and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Applied Sports and Performance Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 5-year BA/MA combined program
- No longer enrolling new students
- Total program credits: 70
- Includes practicum and internship
- Sport Psychology course available
- Requires minimum 2.0 GPA
- Multiple psychology electives
- Professional certification preparation
