purdue sports psychology phd

Sport Psychology PhD Programs: Ranking the Top 6

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If you have a passion for sports and understanding the human brain, then sport psychology is a great way to combine your interests into a fulfilling career. It’s exciting and rewarding to help athletes with their mental game. However, before you can fulfill that dream, you must obtain a degree in sport psychology sport psychology . Below, we have listed some of the best sport psychology doctoral programs for those who either already have a master’s degree or others who looking into pursuing a sport psychology career.

6 Sports Psychology PhD Programs

1.  Purdue University Sport and Exercise Psychology

You can earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. The university is accredited by the APA and NCACS. Another doctorate program offered is Dual Doctor of Philosophy in Sport and Exercise Psychology and Master of Public Health. Purdue University’s sport psychology PhD programs are research-focused. Topics covered include sport and exercise psychology, human development, statistics, and research methods. The coursework is tailored to each student’s interests and prior experience. It takes about four years to complete Purdue’s sports psychology PhD program. Tuition for residents is around $5,000 for the fall/spring semester. Non-residents usually pay around $14,400 in tuition. Summer tuition is $7,000 for non-residents and $2,500 for residents.

2.  Florida State University Sport Psychology

FSU’s sports psychology program is one of the best sports psychology PhD programs that offers real-world experience. You can deliver sports psychology services to varsity and club teams on campus. Florida State University also helps its sports psychology graduate students offer services to athletes in the area. You’ll learn how to enhance sports skill performance and guide athletes in solving sports-related problems. This graduate program gives students a solid foundation in sports psychology. It’s accredited by the SACS-COC. To apply for FSU’s sports psychology PhD program, you must have a graduate degree with a 3.5 GPA or above. You must have also obtained the degree from an accredited institution. In addition, requirements to apply also include three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. The average tuition for students in the graduate sports psychology PhD program is $11,543.

3.  Springfield College Sport and Exercise Psychology

Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts offers a Sport and Exercise Psychology doctoral program. It is one of the best sports psychology PhD programs for graduating with the requirements met for AASP certification. An AASP certificate qualifies one to work as a sports psychology consultant. This doctoral program is accredited by the NEASC too. It covers the psychological, sociological, scientific, and research aspects of sports psychology. With a sport and exercise psychology PhD from Springfield College, you could teach at all education levels. You could also teach sociology and philosophy of sport. Another option for students after graduating is conducting research in sports and exercise psychology. You could work as a sport psychology consultant for the national governing bodies of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) too. On average, students pay $28,985 in annual tuition.

4.  Oregon State University Graduate Studies in Sport and Exercise Psychology

You can earn a PhD in exercise and sport science with a concentration in sport psychology at Oregon State University. It has one of the best sports psychology PhD programs with an emphasis on the social psychology of being physically active. There is also an emphasis on research; you must complete 12 credit hours in research methods and a dissertation. 18 credit hours must come from complementary coursework as well, such as psychosocial factors of physical activity, motivation in exercise, and recreational sports administration. In contrast to most sports psychology PhD programs, you don’t need a master’s degree to apply for Oregon State University’s sport psychology program. However, most students who are accepted have a master’s. Requirements to apply include a minimum 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and GRE scores.

5.  University of North Texas Ph.D. Counseling Psychology with an Emphasis in Sport Psychology

At the University of North Texas, you can earn a PhD in counseling psychology with a sport and exercise psychology concentration. You’ll learn the basics of practical counseling psychology and acquire the necessary skills and experience for working with athletes. During the doctorate program, you’ll be expected to complete a practicum to gain real-world experience working with sports teams and athletes. Applicants to University of North Texas’ sports psychology PhD program must have a 2.8 GPA from an undergraduate program or a 3.4 GPA from a master’s program, a resume, as well as a statement of career goals.

6.  University of the Rockies Doctor of Psychology, Sport, and Performance Psychology

University of the Rockies in Denver, Colorado offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology and Sport and Performance Psychology concentration. Their doctorate program teaches you how to empower teams and athletes with techniques that improve their performance. Consequently, you’ll be able to help athletes with important mental aspects of the sport, such as self-mastery, awareness, actualization, and peak experience. This degree program includes seminars on mind-body practices, human development, coaching, and cultural diversity. After obtaining a doctorate degree from University of the Rockies, you’ll be qualified to offer consulting services in high performance environments, conduct research in sports psychology, and also work in academics. Requirements for the degree include 62 program coursework credits, in-residence weekends in Denver, a dissertation, and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00. The entire program costs $70,084 in tuition and fees.

The six universities above have the best sports psychology PhD programs to join. Obtaining your PhD is an important milestone, so you want to take the time to select the right program for you. While each of these doctorate programs is good, it depends on what your career goals are. Focus on selecting the program that best supports your career goals. Which of these sports psychology programs do you think is best to join? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Sports Psychology PHD Programs in the U.S.A.

Resource:   Ultimate Online Guide to Becoming a Sports Psychologist (Mini-Course)

If you are interested in pursuing a degree that will deliver the latest mental training strategies for enhancing athletic performance at all sport levels, the following are the top doctoral programs that are available in sports psychology in the United States today. We present them in alphabetical order.

Boston University

Graduate school of education.

With a total headcount of over 33,000 students at the undergraduate and graduate level, Boston University is one of the nation’s largest private non-profit research institutions. BU sits on a 133-acre urban campus along the Charles River in New England’s largest city. As an elite member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, it is no surprise that BU is ranked as the 41st best college and 14th top up-and-coming school in the United States by the U.S. News and World Report. As the country’s 51st best education school, the Graduate School of Education is also acclaimed for having the 46th best graduate psychology programs.

Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology: Concentration in Sport/Performance Psychology

Built with a traditional scientist-practitioner model for the development of counseling practice abilities along with psychological theory, the Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology offers a unique concentration on the contributions of Sport/Performance Psychology to human wellness. While there is a non-licensure track offered, the majority of doctoral students follow the licensure track to seek state licensure as a psychologist through the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards in Massachusetts. With a curriculum that generally takes five academic years full-time beyond completion of psychology master’s programs, the program prepares graduates to work primarily in academic settings to assist athletes, performing artists, teams, and sports organizations at all educational levels realize their optimal performance.

Accreditations

• New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)

Contact Information

Two Silber Way Boston, MA 02215 (617) 358-4766 [email protected] Program Website

Florida State University

College of education.

First established in 1851 as a major selective public institution of higher learning with a world-class reputation for cutting-edge research, Florida State University is located on a 448-acre sprawling urban campus in the heart of the state’s capital city of Tallahassee with more than 30,000 students. Despite being the oldest continuous university in the state, FSU is still highly regarded nationwide for being the 91st best college and 40th top public school by the U.S. News and World Report. As the 39th best education school in the United States, the College of Education also is home to the 60th best psychology doctoral programs.

Doctorate in Sport Psychology

Designed to provide a foundational knowledge in sport psychology theory and research as a Track II program, the Doctorate in Sport Psychology program prepares qualified graduate students for assuming academic teaching and/or research positions at the university level in accordance with the scientist-practitioner model of training. Due to the specific emphasis on the psychological theories involved in athletics, some graduates may also wish to pursue careers as coaching educators or consulting professionals with amateur and professional athletes through various sports organizations. As a three year full-time program beyond the master’s degree, the curriculum requires the successful completion of advanced courses, disciplinary specialization electives, a comprehensive examination, original dissertation research, and an oral dissertation defense for graduation with a Ph.D. in Sport Psychology.

• Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)

1114 West Call Street Tallahassee, FL 32306 (850) 644-8786 [email protected] Program Website

John F. Kennedy University

College of graduate and professional studies.

Based on a suburban campus in the town of Pleasant Hill and overlooking the San Francisco Bay with satellite locations in San Jose and Berkeley, John F. Kennedy University was founded in 1964 as an accredited independent non-profit institution within the National University System. In particular, the College of Graduate and Professional Studies offers a broad variety of flexible program options that have been designed to prepare students for enriching their educational experiences to meet career leadership goals in a supportive and transformative environment.

M.A in Sport Psychology – Clinical Psy.D. Dual Degree

For graduate students who are interested in working within a clinical mental health setting while using clinical skills to work with amateur or professional athletes, there is an innovative program available that allows individuals to work towards earning a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Sport Psychology along with a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology concurrently. Rooted in the valuable opportunity to work with both clinical patients and athletes to build the knowledge needed for both fields, the program is specifically designed to produce practitioners rather than researchers. After earning both degrees within five years of rigorous full-time studies, students are able to pursue certification through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) as well as earn licensure in California.

• American Psychological Association (APA) Commission on Accreditation (CoA)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

100 Ellinwood Way Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 (925) 969-3414 [email protected] Program Website

Oregon State University

College of public health and human sciences.

Situated on a beautiful 422-acre suburban campus in the town of Corvallis within just an hour’s drive from the sparkling coastline of the Pacific Ocean, Oregon State University is the state’s largest four-year comprehensive public land-grant and sea-grant research institution with a diverse community of over 26,000 students. Not only has Corvallis been consistently named among the safest cities to live in the United States, but OSU has also been ranked as the 142nd best college and 73rd top public school in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report. Furthermore, the College of Public Health and Human Services is home to some of the 101st best graduate psychology programs in the country.

Ph.D. Program in Sport and Exercise Psychology

With a research-oriented emphasis on the social psychology of physical activity, the Ph.D. Program in Sport and Exercise Psychology is designed to address how social and psychological factors influence human participation as well as performance in exercise activities. As a full-time program that requires at least four years of full-time study beyond an accredited master’s degree, the Ph.D. curriculum covers topics in motivation, self-perception, group dynamics, leadership, behavior change, human movement, physical disabilities, epidemiology, and other principles of sport psychology. Through a theory-to-practice approach, the program aims to enable students to learn about current research and conduct original research that can be applied to practical situations in the field of sport or exercise psychology.

• Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

123 Women’s Building Corvallis, OR 97331 (541) 737-3220 [email protected] Program Website

Purdue University

Department of health and kinesiology.

Headquartered on a vast 2,468-acre urban flagship campus in the city of West Lafayette, with four satellite locations scattered throughout the state of Indiana in the university system, Purdue University is one of the nation’s major comprehensive public land-grant research institutions, with more than 200 areas of study. With many of its programs consistently ranking among the best in the United States, Purdue is currently ranked as the 68th best college and 24th top public school in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report. Moreover, the Department of Health and Kinesiology is renowned for offering two of the country’s 46th best graduate psychology programs.

Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology

Structured with a research emphasis on studying social relationships, emotional processes, self-perceptions, and adaptation to adversity in relation to physical activity, the Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology program requires the completion of at least four years of full-time advanced graduate studies beyond the master’s degree. With the goal of training graduate students to pursue employment in academic and research settings, the program enables students to customize their coursework in collaboration with an experienced faculty member who shares similar research interests. That being said, students can expect to take courses in the areas of human lifespan development, social psychology, communications, sociology, research methodologies, kinesiology, health assessment, stress/coping, and motivational processes in sport and exercise.

• Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)
• Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA)

800 West Stadium Avenue West Lafayette, IN 47907 (765) 496-9483 [email protected] Program Website

San Diego University for Integrative Studies

Department of psychology.

First established in 1999 on an urban campus in the heart of Old Town in San Diego with a complementary distance learning program online from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection, San Diego University for Integrative Studies is a small private unaccredited institution that offers programs focused on the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit. Within the Department of Psychology, students have the freedom to choose programs focused on sport psychology, posture therapy, expressive arts therapy, transpersonal psychology, psychobiomechanics, and even Tibetan Buddhist studies.

Ph.D. in Psychology: Specialization in Sport Counseling

In an effort to prepare well-qualified graduates for consulting with individual athletes, sports teams, athletic organizations, committees, and national governing bodies, the Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Sport Psychology program is designed to provide the advanced knowledge base needed to effectively teach and coach in programs tailored to meet the unique needs of this population. Through a combination of advanced seminars with intensive research and internship experiences, the program enhances students’ professional skills to enhance their capabilities for better serving others. After completing a minimum of 85 quarter units in the licensing track at the graduate level, graduates will qualify for pursuing licensure as a psychologist to practice within California.

• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) – Candidacy

3900 Harney Street San Diego, CA 92110 (619) 297-1999 [email protected] Program Website

Temple University

Department of kinesiology.

Positioned on a 330-acre metropolitan campus in the downtown hub of Philadelphia with a community of over 39,000 students, Temple University is a major leading public research institution. With the distinction of being the fourth largest provider of professional education in the United States, Temple is currently ranked as the 121st best college, 60th top public school, and 24th best university for veterans in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report. Within the College of Health Professions, the Department of Kinesiology is home to one of the doctoral psychology programs that have been ranked as the 52nd best in the country.

Ph.D. in Kinesiology with Concentration in Psychology of Human Movement

Ideal for graduate students who are seeking a program with a specific focus on the scientific research study of human behavior in relation to exercise, sports, and other forms of human physical activities, the Ph.D. in Kinesiology offers a concentration in Psychology of Human Movement. Through a combination of theory, research, and clinical practice in diverse areas of the field, the program aims to prepare graduates for teaching and/or research positions at Carnegie Research I institutions across the nation. Depending on specialized interests, students will learn more about performance enhancement, time management, athletic injury, substance abuse and eating disorders, motivation, gender issues, and sport psychology.

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

1316 West Ontario Street Philadelphia, PA 19122 (215) 204-8718 [email protected] Program Website

University of Missouri

As the only university in the state to participate in Division I-A intercollegiate college athletics, the University of Missouri is a large comprehensive four-year public research institution of more than 34,000 students based on a 1,262-acre urban campus in Columbia surrounded by botanical gardens. According to the U.S. News and World Report, Mizzou is ranked as the 97th best college, 44th top public school, and 12th best university for veterans in the nation. Furthermore, the College of Education has been declared the 55th best education school with the 52nd top graduate psychology programs in the United States.

Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology with Subspecialty in Sport Psychology

With the mission of qualifying graduates to become licensed counseling psychologists in Missouri, as well as certified consultants through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP), the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology with a subspecialty in Sport Psychology is offered to eligible graduate students with a master’s degree who have a strong interest in learning more about human behavior associated with sports and/or exercise. Founded with a unique partnership with the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics’ Comprehensive Integrated Sport Psychology Service Delivery Program, the program is designed to provide students with strong preparation in psychological principles, as well as hands-on field experience in applied practice settings. Applicants must have achieved a combined GRE score of 1000 or higher and have maintained a minimum GPA of 3.0 or better for admissions.

118 Hill Hall Columbia, MO 65211 (573) 882-0699 [email protected] Program Website

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

First founded in 1891 as an elite student-centered public research institution focused on fostering intellectual inquiry, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro is located on a 210-acre urban campus in the central region of the state at the midway point between the major metropolitan areas of Washington, DC and Atlanta. Home to more than 14,800 students, UNCG is ranked as the 190th best college and 108th top public school in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report. Even more importantly, the Department of Kinesiology is acclaimed for offering one of the 92nd best graduate psychology degree programs in the U.S.

Established with the goal of enhancing human functioning by acquiring cutting-edge knowledge on the study of cognitive, psychological, physiological, social, and emotional factors that influence exercise behaviors, the Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology program features a seamless integration of theory with research and practice in the effects of physical activity. As a four-year full-time advanced professional program, graduate students should pursue this degree if they are interested in pursuing career options as professors, researchers, coaches, exercise leaders, or sport psychology consultants with a wide variety of athletic organizations.

1400 Spring Garden Street Greensboro, NC 27402 (336) 334-5573 [email protected] Program Website

University of North Texas

Well-known for being the country’s 25th largest student-focused public research institution with a total headcount of over 36,000 students, the University of North Texas is based on a 875-acre urban campus in the city of Denton within a close distance to the booming Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Within one of the nation’s most diverse universities, the Department of Psychology is highly regarded for offering the 141st best psychology doctoral programs in the entire United States by the U.S. News and World Report.

Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology with Emphasis in Sport Psychology

Offered through a unique elective cluster within a doctoral program that has been fully accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) for excellence, the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Sport Psychology combined program is structured to provide an in-depth training to graduate students seeking to become independent licensed psychologists for working with athletic organizations. Within the scientist-practitioner model, the program provides students extensive applied learning experiences through sport psychology practicum to work directly with athletes, coaches, teams, and whole sport agencies. While students with an accredited master’s degree can finish in four to five years, those with only an undergraduate degree are also welcomed for completion in at least six years.

1611 West Mulberry Street Denton, TX 76203 (940) 369-7767 [email protected] Program Website

West Virginia University

College of physical activity and sport sciences.

Situated on an immense 2,737-acre suburban campus in the small city of Morgantown, West Virginia University is an elite comprehensive public land-grant research institution with more than 23,000 students. As home to the nation’s 14th most affordable out-of-state tuition rates, WVU is ranked as the 170th best college, 94th top public school, and 41st best university for veterans in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report. The College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences is also home to one of the 78th best graduate psychology degree programs in the country.

Available for qualified graduate students who are entering with either an undergraduate degree or master’s degree in a related human service field, the Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology program has been created to prepare individuals for obtaining certification through the Association of Applied Sports Psychology (AASP) through a diverse curriculum covering topics in sports, exercise, injury, and counseling. For completion of the program in the scientist-practitioner model of psychology, students must successfully complete a minimum of 65 credits in advanced major coursework along with intensive internship and practicum experiences throughout the state.

P.O. Box 6116 Morgantown, WV 26506 (304) 293-3393 [email protected] Program Website

Although many individuals mistakenly believe that sports psychology is solely focused on professional athletic organizations, this specialized field area actually offers a broad range of applied practice options with athletes and non-athletes seeking to improve their performance. Sports psychologists may be interested in teaching at the university level, conducting research, coaching youth sports, or consulting with athletic organizations. Regardless of your professional goals in the growing field, be sure to check out these doctoral programs in sports psychology in the United States to acquire exceptional experiences in sports performance.

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Exercise Psychology Graduate Program

Department of Health and Kinesiology

Exercise psychology is the study of psychological factors and theories related to physical activity, including sport and exercise. Housed in the Purdue University Department of Health and Kinesiology, the program is theory-driven and informed by research across epidemiology, health psychology, kinesiology and public health. The Exercise Psychology Program aims to design effective interventions and evidence-based programs to help people of all ages adopt and maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. It aims to understand why interventions work or do not work, identify intervention components that work best and determine for whom interventions work best.

Program Highlights

• The mentor-based program allows students to work directly with one of the exercise psychology graduate faculty mentors.
• Students will have many opportunities to be involved in sport and exercise psychology research, teaching and writing and presenting papers at national conferences.
• Students may learn and conduct a variety research methods, including longitudinal methods, questionnaire and survey design, systematic review and meta-analysis, community-research partnerships, oxygen consumption evaluation using a metabolic cart, assessment of neuroelectrical brain signals by electroencephalogram (EEG), measurement of demographic characteristics, acute and chronic exercise interventions, and more.

Potential Careers

• University faculty
• Sport and exercise psychologist

Program Quick Facts

Degree Type Master’s, Doctoral

Program Length Master’s: On average, two years of full-time study PhD: On average, an additional three to five years of full-time study beyond the master’s degree

Location West Lafayette

College College of Health and Human Sciences, Department of Health and Kinesiology

Research Areas

Factors related to physical activity

• Health behavior theory, longitudinal methods and questionnaire and survey design
• Physical activity assessment, systematic review and meta-analysis
• Physical activity and physiological/behavioral correlates in relation to the brain and cognition at both behavioral and neural levels

Research Facilities

• Sports and Exercise Psychology Laboratory
• Physical Activity and NeuroCognitive Health (PANCH) Lab

Research Opportunities

• Maintenance of physical activity
• Community research partnerships for enhanced measures, program acceptability and knowledge transfer
• Single bouts of exercise and different types of memory in children
• Resistance exercise and memory, cognitive control and cognitive performance
• Steve Amireault

Admissions/Requirements

• Associate's
• Business Psychology
• Child Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Sport Psychology
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• Pennsylvania

Sport Psychology Degree and Career Guide

• Author: Audrey Stoffle
• Editorial Process

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 training to work 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) . Jobs suited for a master’s degree with certification include coaches, trainers, athletic directors, and even business professionals. It is possible to earn an undergraduate degree in sports psychology, but these are typically in preparation to earn a master’s or doctoral degree.

Quick Facts

• There are 12 not-for-profit colleges and universities with sport psychology programs. 1
• No schools offer a certificate in sport psychology. 1
• 1 school offers an associate degree in sport psychology. 1
• 6 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in sport psychology. 1
• 7 schools offer a master’s or advanced degree in sport psychology. 1

Table of Contents

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. Admission requirements include a minimum GPA of 3.0 and higher-than-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

Select Sport Psychology Degree Programs

Traditional master’s programs, 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’ professional skills to work with athletes to improve their performance by examining how psychological factors affect performance and growth. The MASPP program can also prepare individuals to pursue a doctoral degree in sport psychology. The focus of this program is on applied and practical techniques, with hands-on experience through consulting and coaching placements as well as through the Center for Performance Excellence (CPEX), a student-led consultation service supervised by faculty for underserved and minority populations. Students must complete 72 credits of coursework, which is 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 (SPP) 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).

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 a non-thesis track. The MS degree allows students to pursue their research interests and is recommended for those who plan on continuing to 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 Certified Mental Performance Consultants (CMPC) through the AASP; rather than a thesis, this track culminates in a written portfolio and oral defense of their applied work. Admission requirements include undergraduate prerequisites of Anatomy and Physiology I and II as well as Physiology of Exercise. Springfield College also offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sport and Exercise Psychology.

Traditional Doctoral Programs

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 (thesis/dissertation) that will be complemented by their coursework and contribute to their dissertation. Each student works closely with a supervising faculty member to develop and implement a project that aligns with the faculty’s research. 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 complementary to their field of research and dissertation, including topics in advanced sport psychology, research methods, research analysis, human development, and social psychology. PhD students typically take at least 34 graduate credit hours beyond the master’s degree or 52 graduate credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. Admission requirements include transcripts, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation.

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.

University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Psychology with an elective cluster in sport psychology. The program gives students a broad education in practical counseling psychology and builds the specific skills and experience needed to work with athletes, coaches, and sports teams. Specialized courses for this program include Exercise and Sport Psychology, Social Psychology of Sport, and Applied Sport Psychology. Students must also complete a practicum, in which they gain real-world experience working with athletes and sports teams under the supervision of a faculty member. Graduates will be prepared to pursue licensure as a psychologist in any state as well as certification as a sport consultant through the AASP. Students entering the program with a master’s degree with at least 15 transferable credit hours can complete the sport psychology program in five years, including the one-year predoctoral internship; students entering with a bachelor’s typically complete the program in six years. Students applying to the program must complete an online application and submit transcripts that prove a minimum of a 3.5 GPA from a master’s program or a 3.0 GPA from an undergraduate program. Students must also submit a resume, letters of recommendation, and a statement of career goals. GRE scores are not required as of May 2023.

Online and Hybrid Programs

Pennwest global online.

PennWest Global Online (PennWest) offers an online Master of Science (MS) in Exercise Science and Health Promotion with a concentration in Sport Psychology. Students in this program enjoy one-on-one mentoring from faculty mentors, along with flexible scheduling options. The PennWest sport psychology concentration is designed for coaches and professionals in fitness or healthcare, equipping them to understand the effects of injury, assist in rehabilitation and recovery, explore performance enhancement and intervention methods, and refer patients to other specialists when necessary. The core 30-credit hour Exercise Science and Health Promotion program can be completed in 12 months of full-time study or 17 months of part-time study. Optional focus areas add 9 to 15 credit hours and include Applied Sport Science; Group Fitness Leadership; Nutrition; Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention; Wellness and Fitness; Tactical Strength and Conditioning; Wellness Coaching; and Rehabilitation Science. Post-bachelor’s certificates in sport psychology comprising 12 credit hours are offered at PennWest in all of these focus areas as well. Admission requirements include a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA, although applicants with lower GPAs are still invited to apply for conditional admission with additional requirements.

National University

National University’s Master of Arts (MA) in Performance Psychology program can be completed online or on-site and focuses on sport science, performance psychology techniques, enhancing performance, and counseling athletes and other performers. Students must complete 15 courses comprising 67.5 quarter credits as well as hands-on experience. Courses are taken in four-week blocks, with multiple start dates offered for maximum flexibility. Students can specialize in Applied Mental Performance or Theoretical Mental Performance. Examples of courses in the program include Performance Enhancement; Assessment Strategies; Mindfulness; Ethics Sport and Performance Psychology; and Motor Behavior. The coursework completed at National will prepare students to take the next steps to become certified by the AASP. The program prepares students to work with college and professional athletes, with children in school and community sports groups, as coaches, and in performing arts settings.

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 optional certification as a 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 $99,560 on average in May 2022. 4 Projections for jobs in the field of psychology (including clinical, counseling, and school psychologists as well as those in the “all other” category) report an average job growth of 6.2% through 2030. 5

Additional Resources

• APA’s Exercise and Sport Psychology (Division 47) : Supports and provides resources for professionals in exercise and sport psychology.
• American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) : Organization offering Board-certification for professional psychologists of all specialties.
• Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) : A professional organization for sport psychologists that provides certification and promotes research in performance and sport psychology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a doctorate degree to be a sport psychologist.

To be a licensed clinical psychologist, a doctoral degree is required. Though you cannot technically call yourself a “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. National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/ 2. American Board of Professional Psychology: https://abpp.org/ 3. Association for Applied and Sport Psychology: https://appliedsportpsych.org/ 4. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2022 Occupational Employment and Wages, Psychologists, All Other: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193039.htm 5. Projections Central: https://projectionscentral.org/Projections/LongTerm

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Psychology & Research Methodology

Graduate Programs

To attain the expertise needed to address major issues in education, students enroll in our research-oriented doctoral program. This program requires a dissertation and entails 60 hours of graduate credit beyond a completed master’s degree. These credits include 45-50 credit hours of graduate courses and 10-15 credit hours of dissertation research designed by each student with the approvals of his or her advisory committee and the departmental graduate committee.

Each student’s primary area of study includes foundational education courses, specialized education courses, and five research methods courses. Graduate students in educational psychology or gifted education receive credit for courses in which they earn a grade of “B” or higher.

This residential program has rolling admission . Incomplete applications are not reviewed. Applications must be fully complete and submitted (including all required materials) and all application fees paid prior to the deadline in order for applications to be considered and reviewed. For a list of all required materials for this program application, please see the “Admissions” section below.

• July 1 is the deadline for Fall applications.
• November 15 is the deadline for Spring applications.
• March 15 is the deadline for Summer applications.

*Those applicants interested in being considered for any available PhD funding should submit completed applications by December 1 for the following Fall semester .

This program does not lead to licensure in the state of Indiana or elsewhere. Contact the College of Education Office of Teacher Education and Licensure (OTEL) at [email protected] before continuing with program application if you have questions regarding licensure or contact your state Department of Education about how this program may translate to licensure in your state of residence.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Application Instructions for the Educational Psychology and Research Methodology PhD program from the Office of Graduate Studies:

In addition to a submitted application (and any applicable application fees paid), all completed materials must be submitted by the application deadline in order for an application to be considered complete and forwarded on to faculty and the Purdue Graduate School for review.

Here are the materials required for this application:

• Transcripts (from all universities attended)
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• 3 Recommendations
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal History Statement
• International Applicants must meet English Proficiency Requirements set by the Purdue Graduate School

We encourage prospective students to submit an application early, even if not all required materials are uploaded. Applications are not forwarded on for faculty review until all required materials are uploaded.

When submitting your application for this program, please select the following options:

• Select a Campus: Purdue West Lafayette (PWL)
• Select your proposed graduate major: Educational Studies
• Please select an Area of Interest: Educational Psychology
• Please select a Degree Objective: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Primary Course Delivery: Residential

Program Requirements

I. departmental foundation requirement.

Two graduate level foundational statistics courses by advisement (6) One departmental advanced research methods course (3):

• EDPS 63000 – Research Procedures in Education

II. Primary Area Core Requirements

Two of the following (6):

• EDPS 53000 – Advanced Educational Psychology
• EDPS 53600 – Achievement Motivation and Performance
• EDPS 53500 – Personal and Social Development

Nine credits of enrollment in Variable Title/Variable Credit Seminars (9) One course (other than EDPS 53300/EDPS 63000) by advisement in research methodology/measurement (3)

III. Primary Area of Specialization

Four electives by advisement. Must be different from courses taken to meet requirements in II above (12)

IV. Related Area

Three electives by advisement from an area of study outside of educational psychology (must be different from courses taken to meet Requirements in II & III above). (9)

V. Thesis Credits

Multiple enrollments in EDPS 69900 (Research PhD Thesis) are expected while working on the thesis. Typically, students take 15-21 hours of EDPS 69900 credit for a PhD degree. (15) Total Credits: 63+

Supplemental Program Information

Areas of specialization.

Typical specializations include:

• Cognition and Learning
• Self-Regulated Learning
• Educational Measurement
• Data Analytics
• Personal-Social Development and Schooling

See Educational Psychology and Research Methodology Faculty for their areas of expertise.

NOT accepting graduate students: Brenda Downing, Youli Mantzicopoulos, and David Sears.

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Hua-Hua Chang

Brenda downing, yingying jiang, chantal levesque-bristol, yukiko maeda, p. youli mantzicopoulos-james, helen patrick, toni kempler rogat, ala samarapungavan, david sears, anne traynor.

Course Registration, payment, drops/withdraws, and removing holds: [email protected] Career accounts: ITaP (765) 494-4000

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Supported Degree Objectives

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Master of Science (MS)

Required Supporting Documents

• Transcripts
• Recommendation Letters
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal History Statement
• PhD Recommended Scores: 86th percentile on Verbal, 47th percentile on Quantitative
• MS Recommended Scores: 50th percentile on Verbal, 40th percentile on Quantitative
• Clinical Program requires general and recommends psychology subtest

English Proficiency Requirements

• https://international.iupui.edu/admissions/how-apply/graduate/english.html

Doctoral Degree Program Requirements

• 3.2 or equivalent (A=4.0)

Master's Degree Program Requirements

Application Deadlines

Program Contact Information

This program accepts the Graduate School's basic requirements as described on the English Proficiency Requirements page.

About the Program

The Psychological Sciences major provides a broad foundation in psychology, but also provides maximum flexibility in psychology course selection. Students learn about applied and basic aspects of psychology as well as have a chance to take advanced courses that give an authentic experience in diverse areas of psychology. This major leaves plenty of space for additional courses in other areas of interest and provides excellent preparation for graduate and professional programs. This program is often chosen by students interested in careers as therapists or in other human services areas, or by students who plan careers in other areas of psychology, business, or health. 

Department of Psychological Sciences website

Psychological Science Major Change (CODO) Requirements     

Degree Requirements

120 credits required, departmental/program major course requirements (36 credits).

• A cumulative GPA of 2.3 is required for all courses used to meet major (Areas A-C) requirements.

A) Psychology Required Courses (9 credits)

• PSY 12000 - Elementary Psychology Credits: 3.00 (satisfies Human Cultures: Behavioral & Social Sciences for core)
• PSY 20100 - Introduction To Statistics In Psychology Credits: 3.00 ♦
• PSY 20300 - Introduction To Research Methods In Psychology Credits: 3.00 ♦

B) Psychology Selectives (12 credits)

Select two courses from each of the following groups.

• PSY 20000 - Introduction To Cognitive Psychology Credits: 3.00
• PSY 22200 - Introduction To Behavioral Neuroscience Credits: 3.00
• PSY 31400 - Introduction To Learning Credits: 3.00
• PSY 23500 - Child Psychology Credits: 3.00
• PSY 24000 - Introduction To Social Psychology Credits: 3.00
• PSY 27200 - Introduction To Industrial-Organizational Psychology Credits: 3.00
• PSY 35000 - Abnormal Psychology Credits: 3.00

C) Additional Psychology Courses (15 credits)

Select five additional 3-credit Psychology courses (15 credits) numbered 30000-59900. PSY 31400 & PSY 35000 may NOT be used to satisfy Area C and only one of the following 3-credit courses may be used for Area C: PSY 39000, PSY 39100, PSY 39800, PSY 49200, or PSY 49800.  (PSY courses in this section may also satisfy some Selective Requirements)

Courses numbered 30000 or higher from locations other than Purdue-WL cannot be used to fulfill requirement C unless the outside course has been officially designated as equivalent to an approved Purdue-WL PSY course numbered 30000 or higher; other courses will be reviewed for approval on an ad hoc basis.

Optional Concentration

Research-Focused Honors Optional Concentration for PSYS & BBS    

Other Departmental/Program Course Requirements (31-68 credits)

• COM 11400 - Fundamentals Of Speech Communication Credits: 3.00 ♦ (satisfies Oral Communication for core)
• ENGL 10600 - First Year Composition With Conferences Credits: 4.00 ♦ (satisfies Written Communication and Information Literacy for core) or
• ENGL 10800 - First Year Composition Credits: 3.00 ♦ (satisfies Written Communication and Information Literacy for core) or
• HONR 19903 - Interdisciplinary Approaches In Writing Credits: 3.00 ♦ (satisfies Written Communication and Information Literacy for core)
• MA 15300 - College Algebra Credits: 3.00 ♦ (satisfies Quantitative Reasoning for core) or
• MA 15800 - Precalculus - Functions And Trigonometry Credits: 3.00 ♦ (satisfies Quantitative Reasoning for core) or
• MA 16010 - Applied Calculus I Credits: 3.00 ♦ (satisfies Quantitative Reasoning for core) or
• MA 16100 - Plane Analytic Geometry And Calculus I Credits: 5.00 ♦ (satisfies Quantitative Reasoning for core) or
• MA 16500 - Analytic Geometry And Calculus I Credits: 4.00 ♦ (satisfies Quantitative Reasoning for core)
• Cultural/International Diversity Selective - Credit Hours: 0.00 -16.00 credits
• Economics/Finance Selective - Credit Hours: 3.00
• Management & Leadership Selective - Credit Hours: 3.00 ( IF PSY 27200 is selected for PSYS Major Area B, this requirement is satisfied.)

*Natural Sciences, Math, & Information Technology Selectives must total 9 or more credits.

• Natural Sciences, Math, & Information Technology Selective - select from  Group 1  list - Credit Hours: 2.00 - 4.00*  (IF course chosen is also on University Science Core list, one Science Core requirement will be satisfied) 
• Natural Sciences, Math, & Information Technology Selective - Credit Hours: 2.00 - 5.00*  (IF course chosen is also on University Science Core list, one Science Core requirement will be satisfied.) 
• Natural Sciences, Math, & Information Technology Selective - Credit Hours: 1.00 - 5.00*; Must have lab component unless one of the other courses selected has lab component.   (IF course chosen is also on University Science Technology & Society Core list, then Science Technology & Society core requirement will be satisfied)
• Social Ethics Selective - Credit Hours: 3.00  (IF PSY 46400 or PSY 58100 is chosen for PSYS Major Area C, this requirement is satisfied.)
• Human Cultures: Humanities core - Credit Hours: 3.00-4.00  (IF a foreign language is chosen for Cultural/International Diversity Selective, this requirement is satisfied.) (satisfies Humanities for core)
• Science - Credit Hours: 2.00-5.00  (IF course chosen for Selective Group 1 is also on University Science Core list, this requirement is satisfied.) (satisfies Science for core)
• Science - Credit Hours: 2.00-5.00  (IF course chosen for Selective Group 2 is also on University Science Core list, this requirement is satisfied.) (satisfies Science for core)
• Science, Technology & Society - Credit Hours: 1.00-3.00 (IF course chosen for Selective is also on University Science, Technology & Society Core list, this requirement is satisfied.)

Electives (16-53 credits)

Supplemental list.

Psychological Sciences Supplemental Information    

GPA Requirements

• 2.0 GPA required for graduation.

Course Requirements and Notes

• Courses that satisfy University Core requirements may also be used to satisfy Selective requirements, if applicable.
• Courses that satisfy major requirements (Areas A-C) may also be used to satisfy Selective requirements, if applicable.

Pass/No Pass Policy

• A student may elect the Pass / Not-Pass grading option for elective courses only, unless an academic unit requires that a specific departmental course/s be taken Pass / Not-Pass.  Students may elect to take University Core Curriculum courses Pass / Not-Pass; however, some major Plans of Study require courses that also fulfill UCC foundational outcomes.  In such cases, students may not elect the Pass / Not-Pass option.  A maximum of 24 credits of elective courses under the Pass / Not-pass grading option can be used toward graduation requirements. For further information, students should refer to the College of Health and Human Sciences Pass / Not-Pass Policy.

Transfer Credit Policy

Courses numbered 30000 or higher from locations other than Purdue-WL cannot be used to satisfy Major Requirement Area C unless the outside course has been officially designated as equivalent to an approved Purdue-WL PSY course numbered 30000 or higher; other courses will be reviewed for approval on an ad hoc basis.

University Requirements

University core requirements, for a complete listing of university core course selectives, visit the provost’s website ..

• Human Cultures: Behavioral/Social Science (BSS)
• Human Cultures: Humanities (HUM)
• Information Literacy (IL)
• Oral Communication (OC)
• Quantitative Reasoning (QR)
• Science #1 (SCI)
• Science #2 (SCI)
• Science, Technology, and Society (STS)
• Written Communication (WC) 

Civics Literacy Proficiency Requirement

The civics literacy proficiency activities are designed to develop civic knowledge of purdue students in an effort to graduate a more informed citizenry. for more information visit the civics literacy proficiency  website..

Students will complete the Proficiency by passing a test of civic knowledge, and completing one of three paths:

• Attending six approved civics-related events and completing an assessment for each; or
• Completing 12 podcasts created by the Purdue Center for C-SPAN Scholarship and Engagement that use C-SPAN material and completing an assessment for each; or
• Earning a passing grade for one of  these approved courses (or transferring in approved AP or departmental credit in lieu of taking a course).

Upper Level Requirement

• Resident study at Purdue University for at least two semesters and the enrollment in and completion of at least 32 semester hours of coursework required and approved for the completion of the degree. These courses are expected to be at least junior-level (30000+) courses.
• Students should be able to fulfill most , if not all , of these credits within their major requirements; there should be a clear pathway for students to complete any credits not completed within their major.

Additional Information

• Students may NOT major in both Psychological Sciences (PSYS) and Brain & Behavioral Sciences (BBS).

Sample 4-Year Plan

Fall 1st year.

• PSY 12000 - Elementary Psychology Credits: 3.00 ♦
• COM 11400 - Fundamentals Of Speech Communication Credits: 3.00 ♦
• MA 15300 - College Algebra Credits: 3.00 ♦ or
• MA 15800 - Precalculus - Functions And Trigonometry Credits: 3.00 ♦ or
• MA 16010 - Applied Calculus I Credits: 3.00 ♦ or
• MA 16100 - Plane Analytic Geometry And Calculus I Credits: 5.00 ♦ or
• MA 16500 - Analytic Geometry And Calculus I Credits: 4.00 ♦
• Cultural/International Diversity Selective - Credit Hours: 3.00
• Elective - Credit Hours: 3.00

15-17 Credits

Spring 1st year.

• ENGL 10600 - First Year Composition With Conferences Credits: 4.00 ♦ or
• ENGL 10800 - First Year Composition Credits: 3.00  ♦ or
• HONR 19903 - Interdisciplinary Approaches In Writing Credits: 3.00 ♦
• PSYS Major Area B2 ♦ - Credit Hours: 3.00
• Cultural/International Diversity Selective - Credit Hours: 3.00 
• NSM&IT Selective + Science #1  - Credit Hours: 3.00 

15 - 16 Credits

Fall 2nd year.

• PSYS Major Area B1 ♦ - Credit Hours: 3.00
• NSM&IT Selective + Science #2 - Credit Hours: 3.00

Spring 2nd Year

• Human Cultures: Humanities core - Credit Hours: 3.00

Fall 3rd Year

• PSYS Major Area C - Credit Hours: 3.00
• NSM&IT Selective + Sci, Tech, & Society - Credit Hours: 3.00

Spring 3rd Year

• Social Ethics Selective - Credit Hours: 3.00

Fall 4th Year

Spring 4th year.

• Management & Leadership Selective - Credit Hours: 3.00

Pre-Requisite Information

For pre-requisite information, click here .

World Language Courses

World Language proficiency requirements vary by program. The following list is inclusive of all world languages PWL offers for credit; for acceptable languages and proficiency levels, see your advisor. (ASL-American Sign Language; ARAB-Arabic; CHNS-Chinese; FR-French; GER-German; GREK-Greek(Ancient); HEBR-Hebrew(Biblical); HEBR-Hebrew(Modern); ITAL-Italian; JPNS-Japanese; KOR-Korean; LATN-Latin; PTGS=Portuguese; RUSS-Russian; SPAN-Spanish)

Critical Course

The ♦ course is considered critical.

In alignment with the Degree Map Guidance for Indiana’s Public Colleges and Universities, published by the Commission for Higher Education (pursuant to HEA 1348-2013), a Critical Course is identified as “one that a student must be able to pass to persist and succeed in a particular major. Students who want to be nurses, for example, should know that they are expected to be proficient in courses like biology in order to be successful. These would be identified by the institutions for each degree program.”

The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. Consultation with an advisor may result in an altered plan customized for an individual student. The myPurduePlan powered by DegreeWorks is the knowledge source for specific requirements and completion.

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Online Master's Degree in Psychology

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Master’s Degree in Psychology Overview

Come back and earn your master’s degree in psychology online. Be ready to make a difference helping others, empowering people, and driving change.

• Prepare to obtain a certification in addictions.
• Learn from psychology practitioners with extensive experience in the field. They know what it takes to build a successful, rewarding career in psychology.
• Gain hands-on experience you can use right away through a curriculum that emphasizes practical application.
• Forensic psychology
• Industrial/organizational psychology
• General psychology

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

Personal Support

Work directly with faculty through online discussion boards and office hours, and get 1-on-1 support from academic and career advisors. The graduate resource center and addictions student site offer additional resources, including no-cost individual tutoring.

Connected Community

Explore organizations such as the Psychology Club, Psi Chi International Honor Society, and Autism Speaks U for networking and leadership opportunities.

Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

The HLC ( HLCommission.org ) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Admissions Requirements

A bachelor’s degree is required to enroll in a graduate program. You will need to provide an official transcript that shows completion of your bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, though an unofficial copy may be provided during the application process. Refer to the University Catalog or speak to an Advisor to learn more.

Purdue Global Career Outcomes 2020–2021

94% of graduates in Purdue Global’s Master of Science in Psychology program were employed or continued their education within 18 months of graduation.

Each year, our Center for Career Advancement sends a NACE First Destination survey to our graduating class to learn more about their career choices and potential income within 18 months of graduation. We’re proud of our recent Purdue Global alumni accomplishments.

What Courses Will I Take?

Curriculum focuses on the processes that guide the individual human experience and behavior, as well as the core knowledge, theories, and research in the field of psychology.

Select a thesis or a captsone course as the program's culminating experience.

Sample Courses

• Foundations of Professional Psychology
• Testing, Measurement, and Assessment
• Applied Statistics for Psychology
• Advanced Research Methods
• Life Span Development

Upcoming Start Dates

We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life, and work schedules.

Psychology Concentrations

Choose from four psychology concentrations that allow you to develop specialized expertise in your chosen career path.

Prepare to counsel clients who have problems with alcohol, drugs, gambling, and eating disorders.

Note: Indiana students are required to obtain 700 hours of university–sponsored practicum to seek state licensure as an addiction counselor.

Apply evidence-based psychological theories and concepts to develop strategies that advocate for populations in settings across the criminal and civil legal systems.

Apply psychological principles to the business world and explore the theories, methods, and practice of I/O psychology.

Study learning and behavior approaches, neuropsychological perspectives and technologies, issues in psychopathology, and cognitive psychology.

NAADAC Approved and NASAC Accredited

Purdue Global is a NAADAC Approved Education Provider. In addition, The Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in addictions is accredited by the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC) .

Students who complete the addictions concentration will meet the coursework requirements to take the optional National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NCC AP) Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) certification exam.

Note: Applicants must meet additional requirements to qualify, including field experience and licensure requirements.

Ways to Save on Time and Tuition

Purdue Global works with students to find ways to reduce costs and make education more accessible. Contact us to learn about opportunities to save on your educational costs.

Earn credit for prior coursework completed at eligible institutions.

Learn about federal financial aid programs available for many of our degree programs.

Learn about federal and state grants and loan programs that may be available.

Employees of Purdue Global partner organizations may be eligible for special tuition reductions .

Graduate tuition savings for military include a 17–30% reduction per credit for current servicemembers and, 14% per credit for veterans for graduate programs.

Earn credit for your military training . We offer credit for ACE-evaluated training and CLEP and DANTES examinations.

International students living outside of the United States are eligible for a 25% international student tuition reduction .

View the total cost of attendance for your program.

Calculate Your Time and Cost

Estimate how much your prior learning credits can reduce your tuition and time to graduation.

Due to increased demand for psychological services in schools, hospitals, and social service agencies, employment in this field is expected to grow from 2021 to 2031.

With a master’s degree in psychology from Purdue Global, you could find opportunities in areas such as human resources, employee assistance groups, business research facilities, educational settings, drug and alcohol treatment programs, criminal justice organizations, and law enforcement and civil legal settings.

Average Salary

In Your State

General labor market and salary data are provided by Lightcast and may not represent the outcomes experienced by Purdue Global graduates in these programs. Purdue Global graduates in these programs may earn salaries substantially different or less than the amounts listed above. Salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education, and opportunities for employment that are outside of Purdue Global's control.

Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

Take a Career Assessment

Discover your work interests, and use them to chart your ideal career path.

Download the Program Brochure

Download our brochure to learn more about the online Master of Science in Psychology and the benefits of earning your degree at Purdue Global.

Prepare yourself for success with a master’s degree in psychology.

Get to Know Our Faculty

Purdue Global faculty members are real-world practitioners who bring knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and industry experience.

Faculty members who have advanced degrees

Faculty members who hold a doctorate

Faculty publications in 2022–2023

Professional development hours logged by faculty in 2022–2023

Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school- or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, July 2023. 2022–2023 academic year.

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

* Estimated Graduation Date and Average Completion: Estimated graduation date is based on the assumption that you will enroll in time to begin classes on the next upcoming start date, will remain enrolled for each consecutive term, and will maintain satisfactory academic standing in each term to progress toward completion of your program. Completion time is based on a full-time schedule. Programs will take longer for part-time students to complete.

Certification and Licensure: The Master of Science in Psychology is not focused on the clinical practice of psychology and does not lead to licensure or certification as a psychologist, mental health counselor, or therapist. Refer to Purdue Global's State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific licensure information. Visit www.NAADAC.org and/or www.BACB.com for additional state-specific licensure requirements. It is important to note that, while earning a master’s degree in psychology may qualify students to work in the helping professions, a doctorate degree is required to become a psychologist and a medical degree is required to become a psychiatrist. Students are responsible for understanding the requirements of optional certification exams. The University cannot guarantee students will be eligible to sit for or pass exams. In some cases, work experience, additional coursework beyond the Purdue Global program, fieldwork, and/or background checks may be necessary to be eligible to take or to successfully pass the exams.

Job Growth—Psychologists: Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Psychologists, www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm . National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth.