Master of Science in Sport Psychology

The Master of Science in Sport Psychology (MSPSYSP) degree program helps you develop the skills and personal and professional growth needed for sport psychology by critically analyzing a broad range of theories and practical knowledge. With an integrated learning experience, you will have the opportunity to engage in fieldwork and supervision.

This degree may appeal to individuals who would like to work with athletes and other high-performance people on the psychological aspects of their performance. This program may also appeal to those who are already working in a mental health/counseling environment and are looking to broaden their clientele and engage in non-clinical work. Other current professionals working in the athletic field, including coaches, physical therapists, strength and conditioning coaches, and athletic administrators may be able to enhance their marketability and advance their careers by having this secondary degree and expertise in sport psychology. Additionally, individuals working in other high-performance fields such as law enforcement, military, and executive coaching may benefit from this type of educational training.

Northcentral University’s Master of Science in Sport Psychology includes coursework that has been identified as appropriate by the Certification Council of the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Explore theories and principles in sport psychology to inform professional contexts and promote performance enhancement
• Examine research methods and data analysis in sport psychology
• Apply psychological principles and research to personal, social, and organizational issues
• Develop a personalized approach to professional services
• Employ ethical principles of sport psychology in academic and professional matters
• Examine diversity issues in professional contexts

Career Potential*

• Mental performance consultant for youth, high school, collegiate, and professional athletes
• Mental performance consultant for business, military, law enforcement, and other high-performance industries
• College or university faculty

NCU’s psychology programs are not licensure programs and do not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology or counseling professional; However, this specialization complies with the eight knowledge areas required for the Certification Council for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC). In addition, during the optional fieldwork experiences, you will have the opportunity to complete hours that can count towards the mentored experience required for the CMPC certification.