Best Master’s in Sports Psychology Degree Programs
Curious about what it takes to help athletes make the mental leaps that allow them to succeed? Earning a master’s degree in sports psychology can help you understand both the science behind sports, exercise physiology, and the mind-body connection. After earning your master’s in sports psychology, you’ll have the experience necessary to start your career in sports psychology and apply for jobs in a variety of settings, including working with professional sports organizations, university athletic programs, athletic training groups, rehabilitation centers, and more.
Here, we’ll take a look at what you can expect to learn as you make your way through an online sports psychology master’s degree program, how long it will likely take you to complete your program, and what you’ll need to keep in mind as you begin the application process.
2025 Best Online Master's in Sports Psychology Programs
Looking for the best online master's in sports psychology programs? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked top programs to help you find the right fit. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with work or personal life. They are perfect for those who prefer distance learning or need remote options. Our rankings consider key factors to ensure quality education. Learn more about how we rank these programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC - Public 4-Year - uncg.edu
Master's - Kinesiology, M.S. Sport and Exercise Psychology Concentration
Concentration: Sport and Exercise Psychology (coursework-only, online) - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers an online Master of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sport and Exercise Psychology, tailored for professionals aiming to deepen their understanding of psychological factors in physical activity. This 30-credit, coursework-only program is designed to be completed in two years, featuring asynchronous online courses for maximum flexibility. With a focus on integrating theory and research, students are prepared for careers in coaching, mental skills consulting, and more. The program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. Highlights include expert faculty mentorship and a curriculum that supports diverse career paths in the field of sport and exercise psychology.
- Fully online program
- 30 credit hours total
- Two years to complete
- Six credits per semester
- Asynchronous online courses
- Flexible learning experience
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Prepares for diverse careers
- Integrates theory and research
- School of Health Sciences
National University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's Master of Science in Sport Psychology is a 100% online program designed for professionals aiming to enhance athletic performance through psychological principles. This 36-credit program can be completed in 18-21 months, offering flexibility with weekly course starts. It prepares students for certification as mental performance consultants, focusing on performance enhancement across various sports levels. The curriculum includes advanced training in research methods and psychological techniques, with no entrance exam required. Ideal for those seeking careers in youth, collegiate, or professional sports settings.
- 100% Online Master's Program
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion Time
- Weekly Course Starts
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Focuses on Performance Enhancement
- Career Opportunities in Multiple Industries
Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Applied Mental Performance - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology at National University specializes in Applied Mental Performance, offering an online program that can be finished in 14-22 months. With no GRE requirement, this AASP-certified pathway includes over 200 direct client contact hours, emphasizing performance enhancement and ethical practice. Students gain mentored training in counseling and psychological assessment, preparing for roles supporting athletes and performers. The program highlights multicultural competence and offers two specialization tracks, making it a comprehensive choice for aspiring mental performance consultants.
- Online Master's degree program
- 14-22 months completion time
- No GRE required for admission
- AASP certification pathway
- 200+ direct client contact hours
- Two specialization tracks available
- Comprehensive mentored training
- Performance psychology focus
- Ethical practice emphasis
- Multicultural competence training
Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Theoretical Mental Performance - Online Learning - Visit Website
National University presents a Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology with a concentration in Theoretical Mental Performance. This online program, requiring no GRE, spans 14-22 months and aligns with AASP certification standards. It features a mentored practicum with 200 direct client contact hours, focusing on performance enhancement and multicultural approaches. The curriculum is designed for those aiming to become performance consultants or mental health professionals, offering a quarterly unit-based structure with a $0 application fee but requiring a comprehensive written exam.
- Online Master's Degree
- No GRE Required
- 14-22 month completion
- AASP certification track
- Mentored practicum experience
- 200 direct client contact hours
- Specializations in Applied/Theoretical Mental Performance
- $0 application fee
- Comprehensive Written Exam required
- Quarterly unit-based program
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
Edwardsville, IL - Public 4-Year - siue.edu
Master's - MS in Kinesiology
Concentration: Exercise and Sport Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville's MS in Kinesiology with a concentration in Exercise and Sport Psychology stands out for its hybrid format, combining online flexibility with the depth of in-person learning. This program is tailored for those aiming to delve into the psychological aspects of sports and exercise, offering a curriculum that spans mental training, performance enhancement, and well-being. Notably, it prepares students for the CMPC Certification and opens doors to careers in sports psychology, fitness, and behavioral medicine. The program's hybrid nature ensures accessibility without compromising on the quality of education, making it a prime choice for aspiring professionals. Entrance exams are not explicitly mentioned as required, suggesting a holistic review process.
- 100% Online Program
- 12-22 Months Completion
- Evening/Asynchronous Courses
- CMPC Certification Preparation
- Career-Focused Curriculum
- Mentorship from Faculty
- Multiple Career Pathways
- Research Opportunities
- Professional Development Focus
- Personalized Career Advising
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CT - Public 4-Year - southernct.edu
Master's - Exercise Science, M.S.
Concentration: Sport Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Connecticut State University offers a hybrid Master of Science in Exercise Science with a concentration in Sport Psychology, designed for those aiming to become certified mental performance consultants. This 33-34 credit program blends coursework from Health and Movement Sciences, Counseling, and Psychology to prepare students for roles enhancing athletic performance through mental strategies. The curriculum meets Association of Applied Sport Psychology certification standards, focusing on performance enhancement, counseling, and intervention techniques. Ideal for working professionals, the program starts in the fall, with an application deadline preference before May 1. No entrance exam is mentioned as required, making it accessible for eligible candidates seeking to advance in sports psychology.
- Sport Psychology concentration available
- 33-34 graduate credits
- CMPC certification preparation
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Prepares for mental performance consulting
- Multiple department involvement
- Performance enhancement focus
- Work with athletes and teams
- Fall cohort start
- Application preference before May 1
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Bloomsburg, PA - Public 4-Year - commonwealthu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania offers a Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology entirely online, catering to professionals seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality. This program stands out for its asynchronous delivery, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. Notably, it does not require a GRE for admission, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants. With options for full or part-time enrollment, students can complete the program in one to two years. The curriculum is designed to align with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) certification, providing a clear pathway to becoming a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC). Admission requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, and the university accepts up to 6 transfer credits, offering multiple start terms throughout the year for convenience.
- 100% Online Asynchronous Delivery
- Full/Part-Time Options Available
- No GRE Required
- Complete in 1-2 Years
- CMPC Certification Pathway
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Multiple Start Terms
- Transferable Up to 6 Credits
Troy University
Troy, AL - Public 4-Year - troy.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Kinesiology
Concentration: Sports Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Troy University's hybrid Master of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sports Psychology is designed for those aiming to excel in the dynamic field of sports psychology. This program uniquely combines online coursework with practical experiences, allowing students to explore the psychological aspects of athletic performance without the need for GRE scores. Emphasizing interdepartmental collaboration between Kinesiology and Psychology, the curriculum covers sports nutrition, performance enhancement, and mental health strategies for athletes. Ideal for military personnel and others seeking flexibility, this program equips graduates with the skills to support athletes in diverse settings, from amateur to professional levels.
- Graduate-level Sports Psychology program
- Interdepartmental collaboration
- Research and practical experiences
- Growing career field
- Online program availability
- Partnership between Kinesiology and Psychology departments
- Courses in sports nutrition, performance
- Supports diverse sports settings
Northcentral University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northcentral University offers an online Master of Science in Sport Psychology, tailored for those aiming to excel in mental performance consulting. This 36-credit program, completable in 18-21 months, immerses students in performance enhancement strategies, ethical considerations, and psychological foundations applicable to various sports environments. With weekly course starts, the program accommodates busy schedules while preparing graduates for roles across youth, collegiate, and professional sports sectors. Notably, it aligns with CMPC certification standards and offers a FastForward pathway to doctoral studies, making it a prime choice for advancing careers in sports psychology without the need for an entrance exam.
- 100% Online Degree
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion
- New Course Start Every Monday
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Flexible Learning Schedule
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI - Public 4-Year - nmu.edu
Master's - Applied Sport Psychology, M.S.
Concentration: Certification as a Mental Performance Consultant - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northern Michigan University's online Master's in Applied Sport Psychology specializes in Certification as a Mental Performance Consultant, offering a flexible, asynchronous program ideal for professionals and athletes. This program stands out for its focus on mental performance consulting, preparing graduates for roles in coaching and sports consulting without requiring an entrance exam. Highlights include two certification tracks, catering to the growing demand in sports psychology, and an interdisciplinary approach that blends theory with practical application. The program is military-friendly and designed for those seeking to advance their careers in this rapidly expanding field.
- Online asynchronous master's degree
- Two certification track options
- Designed for busy professionals
- Growing job market demand
- Mental performance consultant focus
- Limited psychologist licensure option
- Interdisciplinary program approach
Master's - Applied Sport Psychology, M.S.
Concentration: Licensure as a Limited Psychologist - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northern Michigan University provides an online Master's in Applied Sport Psychology with a concentration on Licensure as a Limited Psychologist. This program is tailored for individuals aiming to merge clinical psychology with sports performance, offering asynchronous coursework for flexibility. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for working professionals and athletes. The curriculum is designed by the Health/Human Performance department, focusing on mental performance consulting and limited psychologist licensure, with projections indicating a 10% growth in job market demand. This military-friendly program emphasizes practical skills for a dynamic career in sports psychology.
- Online asynchronous master's degree
- Two certification track options
- Mental performance consultant track
- Limited psychologist licensure track
- Developed by Health/Human Performance
- Designed for working professionals
- Expected field demand increase
- 10% job market growth projection
Springfield College
Springfield, MA - Private 4-year - springfield.edu
Master's - MEd in Sport and Exercise Psychology Online
Online Learning - Visit Website
Springfield College offers an online Master of Education in Sport and Exercise Psychology, tailored for professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in psychological performance enhancement. This 36-credit program blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates for roles in sport psychology and coaching. The curriculum is delivered asynchronously online, providing flexibility for full or part-time students to complete the degree in as little as 18 months. A standout feature is the 135-hour applied internship, offering hands-on experience in optimizing athletes' mental performance. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. The program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, with start dates in September and course options spanning 7 or 15 weeks.
- 36-credit MEd program
- 100% online asynchronous
- Start in September
- Full or part-time options
- Complete in 18 months
- 7 or 15 week courses
- 135-hour applied internship
- Diverse student backgrounds welcome
Texas A & M University-Kingsville
Kingsville, TX - Public 4-Year - tamuk.edu
Master's - M.S. in Kinesiology
Concentration: Performance Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas A&M University-Kingsville's hybrid M.S. in Kinesiology with a Performance Psychology concentration is tailored for those aiming to excel in sports psychology. This program stands out for its flexibility, offering course-only, research project, and thesis tracks across 30 to 36 credit hours. It uniquely prepares students for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) exam, blending online coursework with traditional face-to-face learning. Ideal for aspiring professionals in athletic performance and mental training, the program does not explicitly require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a broader range of students. Its focus on practical and research-based learning in performance psychology ensures graduates are well-equipped for diverse careers in the field.
- Performance Psychology Concentration
- 36 or 30 credit hours
- Traditional face-to-face format
- Research project option available
- Thesis track offered
- CMPC exam preparation
- Multiple degree plan options
What Will I Learn in an Online Sports Psychology Master’s Degree Program?
Your online sports psychology program may be specific to the psychology of a single sport, or you may take on an issue that affects a variety of sports, such as recovery after an injury or sport sociology. Most sports psychology master’s degree programs take about two years to complete. If you decide to participate in an internship program or a practicum experience, it may take you longer to complete your degree.
As you go through your sports psychology master’s program, you’ll cover many topics, including:
- Injury rehabilitation psychology: Getting hurt can be a major mental setback for athletes. In your sports psychology master’s degree program, you’ll learn how you can support athletes after they’re injured, working with them to help them get their heads back in the game as they recover.
- Sport psychology: In your core courses, you’ll learn how to help athletes use visualization, motivation, and the connection between their mind and body to help them maximize their abilities. You’ll explore how different mental focus techniques affect athlete performance and work to develop plans to help athletes change their mindsets and mental game plans to boost performance.
- Psychology of exercise and health: When you’re working with athletes, you’re not only helping them perform well on game day–you’ll also work to help them give the right amount of effort when they’re working out off the court or the field. Having a full understanding of the psychology of exercise and health allows you to understand the challenges your athletes face, and can help you support them in developing a game plan that can take their athleticism to the next level.
You may also need to complete a creative project or research project as a part of your master’s degree in sports psychology. This can be an exciting chance for you to delve into an area of your own interest and can allow you to connect with others who are working to research the area of sports psychology in which you’d like to make a career.
Admissions Requirements for a Master’s in Sports Psychology
The admissions requirements for online sports psychology master’s programs differ from school to school, so it’s smart to check the school’s website or reach out to the admissions office to learn more about what you can do to maximize your chances of an admission offer. Most master’s in sports psychology programs require a competitive GPA (typically 2.75 or higher), letters of recommendation from your employer or professors, and a statement of purpose. You may also need to meet with faculty members for an in-person or video interview to gain admission to a sports psychology program.
2025 Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Program Options
Finding an affordable master's in sports psychology is key for students aiming to enter this field without heavy debt. The table lists options across the USA, highlighting program features and tuition ranges. It helps compare low-cost and economical choices for 2025. Schools in various states offer these programs, making it easier to find one that fits your budget. Affordable education opens doors for more students to pursue their passion in sports psychology.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of West Alabama |
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| Barry University |
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| University of North Carolina at Greensboro |
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2025 Shortest Sports Psychology Master's Program Options
Finding the shortest sports psychology master's programs can save time and money. These programs help students start careers faster. The table lists options across the USA, including details like graduation and retention rates. Quickest programs often appeal to those eager to enter the field. They focus on essential skills without unnecessary delays. This is key for students balancing work or other commitments. By 2025, more may seek these efficient paths to a master's degree in sports psychology.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University Campus Immersion |
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| Western Washington University |
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| University of North Carolina at Greensboro |
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List of Sports Psychology Master’s Degree Programs
Find an online or campus-based master’s program in sports psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.
Alabama
Livingston, AL
University of West Alabama
- Master's - Master of Science in Experimental Psychology
Concentration: Sports Psychology - Online Learning - Website
- Online Sports Psychology Option
- 39-54 total credit hours
- Next start date March 17
- $429 per credit hour
- Practicum included
- Thesis or exam option
- Prepare for doctoral studies
- Advanced sports psychology course
Troy, AL
Troy University
- Master's - Master of Science in Kinesiology
Concentration: Sports Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Graduate-level Sports Psychology program
- Interdepartmental collaboration
- Research and practical experiences
- Growing career field
- Online program availability
- Partnership between Kinesiology and Psychology departments
- Courses in sports nutrition, performance
- Supports diverse sports settings
California
Pasadena, CA
Saybrook University
- Master's - MS in Sport Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Two-year Master's Degree
- 40 Total Credits
- Virtual Learning Experience
- Optional Community Learning
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Professional Resume Required
- Personal Statement Needed
San Diego, CA
National University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Applied Mental Performance - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's degree program
- 14-22 months completion time
- No GRE required for admission
- AASP certification pathway
- 200+ direct client contact hours
- Two specialization tracks available
- Comprehensive mentored training
- Performance psychology focus
- Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Theoretical Mental Performance - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's Degree
- No GRE Required
- 14-22 month completion
- AASP certification track
- Mentored practicum experience
- 200 direct client contact hours
- Specializations in Applied/Theoretical Mental Performance
- $0 application fee
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Master's Program
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion Time
- Weekly Course Starts
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Focuses on Performance Enhancement
Northcentral University
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion
- New Course Start Every Monday
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Flexible Learning Schedule
Colorado
Alamosa, CO
Adams State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Kinesiology
Concentration: Applied Sport Psychology - Online Learning - Website
- Online 36-credit program
- Two-year completion timeline
- Applied Sport Psychology emphasis
- Practical internship experiences
- Comprehensive research methods
- Nine specialized sport psychology courses
- Mental strength training focus
- Ethical practice coursework
Connecticut
New Haven, CT
Southern Connecticut State University
- Master's - Exercise Science, M.S.
Concentration: Sport Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Sport Psychology concentration available
- 33-34 graduate credits
- CMPC certification preparation
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Prepares for mental performance consulting
- Multiple department involvement
- Performance enhancement focus
- Work with athletes and teams
Illinois
Edwardsville, IL
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
- Master's - MS in Kinesiology
Concentration: Exercise and Sport Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 100% Online Program
- 12-22 Months Completion
- Evening/Asynchronous Courses
- CMPC Certification Preparation
- Career-Focused Curriculum
- Mentorship from Faculty
- Multiple Career Pathways
- Research Opportunities
Massachusetts
Springfield, MA
Springfield College
- Master's - MEd in Sport and Exercise Psychology Online
Online Learning - Website
- 36-credit MEd program
- 100% online asynchronous
- Start in September
- Full or part-time options
- Complete in 18 months
- 7 or 15 week courses
- 135-hour applied internship
- Diverse student backgrounds welcome
Michigan
Marquette, MI
Northern Michigan University
- Master's - Applied Sport Psychology, M.S.
Concentration: Certification as a Mental Performance Consultant - Online Learning - Website
- Online asynchronous master's degree
- Two certification track options
- Designed for busy professionals
- Growing job market demand
- Mental performance consultant focus
- Limited psychologist licensure option
- Interdisciplinary program approach
- Master's - Applied Sport Psychology, M.S.
Concentration: Licensure as a Limited Psychologist - Online Learning - Website
- Online asynchronous master's degree
- Two certification track options
- Mental performance consultant track
- Limited psychologist licensure track
- Developed by Health/Human Performance
- Designed for working professionals
- Expected field demand increase
- 10% job market growth projection
North Carolina
Greensboro, NC
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Master's - Kinesiology, M.S. Sport and Exercise Psychology Concentration
Concentration: Sport and Exercise Psychology (coursework-only, online) - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program
- 30 credit hours total
- Two years to complete
- Six credits per semester
- Asynchronous online courses
- Flexible learning experience
- Expert faculty mentorship
- Prepares for diverse careers
New Mexico
Hobbs, NM
University of the Southwest
- Master's - Master of Science in Sports Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Master of Science in Sports Psychology
- Prepares for diverse professional outcomes
- Focuses on psychological performance techniques
- Supports team and individual athletic success
- Addresses psychological aspects of competition
Pennsylvania
Bloomsburg, PA
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Asynchronous Delivery
- Full/Part-Time Options Available
- No GRE Required
- Complete in 1-2 Years
- CMPC Certification Pathway
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Multiple Start Terms
- Transferable Up to 6 Credits
Texas
Kingsville, TX
Texas A & M University-Kingsville
- Master's - M.S. in Kinesiology
Concentration: Performance Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Performance Psychology Concentration
- 36 or 30 credit hours
- Traditional face-to-face format
- Research project option available
- Thesis track offered
- CMPC exam preparation
- Multiple degree plan options
