Athletes striving to reach their peak performance need to be in top physical shape and mental health. Athletes need to maintain their mental health required to stay focused and overcome challenges. The best athletes work with sport and exercise psychology professionals who understand the connection between body health and mental health.
If you are a sports lover interested in psychology, then you may be considering a career as a sport psychologist. It is certainly a good time to do so. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in psychology are expected to increase by 6% between now and 2031.
That’s why Online Psychology Degrees went on the search for the 25 best online graduate programs in sports psychology available in the U.S. To begin, we consulted the National Center for Education Statistics. We made a list of all universities offering online sport psychology masters programs. We then narrowed down that list to just the best 25 online degrees by using the following points-based system.
Annual Graduate Tuition:
Under $20,000: 5 points
Under $30,000: 4 points
Under $40,000: 3 points
Under $50,000: 2 points
Under $60,000: 1 point
Annual Percentage of 20-Year Net Return on Investment (ROI):
9% and above: 5 points
7%-8%: 4 points
5%-6%: 3 points
3%-4%: 2 points
1%-2%:1 point
U.S. News & World Report Ranking: Best Psychology Schools
Top 5: 5 points
Top 10: 4 points
Top 20: 3 points
Top 30: 2 points
Top 50: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio:
10:1 and better: 5 points
12:1 and better: 4 points
15:1 and better: 3 points
17:1 and better: 2 points
20:1 and better: 1 point
Below are the 25 schools that offer the best online graduate sports psychology programs in the United States.
#25. Capella University
Minneapolis, Minnesota
MS in Psychology-Sport Psychology Specialization Online
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $17,250/year
Points: 2
Capella University offers one of the top cost-effective online sports psychology masters programs. This sport psychology program teaches sports psychology students to analyze and uncover issues that affect an athlete’s performance. Students can choose between two competency-based online degree programs learning formats that offer different levels of structure. Courses include:
- Performance Enhancement in Sports
- Applied Sport Psychology
- Current Issues in Sport Psychology
Graduates of this sport psychology program are prepared for a variety of exciting roles in:
- sport development
- education
- coaching
Learn more about sports psychology at Capella University
#24. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,405
Points: 3
Southern New Hampshire University offers one of the top affordable online sports psychology graduate programs. SNHU offers a highly customizable program. This sport psychology program will appeal to students interested in sport and exercise psychology. The program includes an eight-course psychology core covering areas like research and ethics. Elective offerings include:
- Sport and Society
- Leadership and Ethics
- Social Psychology
An optional internship experience is available for sports psychology students who need to gain professional work experience. Graduates of the program have the skills needed to succeed in:
- sport management
- helping athletes set goals
- overcome mental obstacles.
Learn more about sports psychology at Southern New Hampshire University
#23. Southeastern University
Lakeland, Florida
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $14,850
Points: 3
Southeastern University features a flexible online master’s in kinesiology that can be customized to meet the needs of students interested in sport and exercise psychology. The 33-credit hour curriculum includes eight-week courses and no required residencies. Students can tailor the program to meet their professional goals by completing:
- course projects
- field experiences
- research assignments that are in alignment
Course offerings include:
- Sports Science and Coaching
- Psychology of Human Performance
- Leadership in Sport Administration
Online students at Southeastern University have access to perks like free tutoring and career placement assistance.
Learn more about sports psychology at Southeastern University
#22. A. T. Still University
Kirksville, Missouri
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $23,940/year
Points: 4
The high-quality online master’s in kinesiology from A. T. Still University includes a program track in exercise and sports psychology track. Courses include:
- Applied Sport Psychology
- Exercise and Mental Health
- Principles of Adherence and Motivation
Graduate students will gain a strong foundation in areas like functional anatomy and exercise program design. Courses focus on evidence-based research so graduate students can feel confident their skills are recognized throughout the industry. A highlight of the program is a four-day residency at the Human Movement Institute in Arizona where students will learn the latest methodologies and concepts from industry experts.
Learn more about sports psychology at A.T. Still University
#21. University of the Southwest
Hobbs, New Mexico
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $22,500/year
Points: 4
The University of the Southwest is a regionally accredited online university offering an affordable online master’s in sports psychology. Graduate students can complete the degree on their own time and schedule. The curriculum focuses on the theories and principles of the psychological and physical effects of playing sports. Students will learn methods to:
- help their athletes improve their performance
- recover more quickly from injuries
- overcome emotional barriers
University of the Southwest has many different financial assistance options to make school affordable.
Learn more about sports psychology at University of the Southwest
#20. United States Sports Academy
Daphne, Alabama
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $19,440/year
Points: 4
United States Sports Academy offers one of the top sport psychology graduate programs. USSA features a Master of Sports Science created for leaders in the sports world. The concentration in sports studies is a highly customized program where students create their own curriculum. Courses are selected between the sports management and sport coaching departments. Sport and exercise psychology courses include:
- Psychological Aspects of Health and Fitness Programming
- Sports Psychology
- Sports Performance Enhancement
There are no on-campus residency requirements. This 33-credit hour program can be completed in about two years of study.
Learn more about sports psychology at the United States Sports Academy
#19. Northcentral University
La Jolla, California
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $16,983
Points: 4
Northcentral University features an affordable online sports psychology master’s degree covering a broad range of theories and skills. This program is a great choice for students who want to work with athletes and other high-performance groups to improve the mental and psychological aspects of their performance. Coursework has been deemed appropriate by the Certification Council of the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. The program also complies with the eight knowledge areas required for CMPC certification. Students work independently through the program. They can complete their degree in just 18-21 months.
Learn more about sports psychology at Northcentral University
#18. National University
La Jolla, California
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $15,480/year
Points: 4
National University is a large, non-profit university featuring a top online master’s in performance psychology. This innovative performance psychology program studies the latest in theory, practice, and applied techniques from a variety of areas including:
- sport psychology
- exercise physiology
- military psychology
Coursework in the master’s in performance psychology degree program contributes to the requirements needed to seek certification through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. Courses are offered in four-week increments. This allows students to focus on one subject at a time and complete their degree quickly. Students can apply at any time and new classes start monthly.
Learn more about sports psychology at National University
#17. Medaille College
Buffalo, New York
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $21,621/year
Points: 5
The online top master’s in psychology from Medaille College features a concentration in sport psychology. This master’s online program provides students with the advanced coursework needed to pursue a variety of careers including sport counseling and intervention. Online students in the sport psychology program receive a practitioner-based learning experience while enjoying the flexibility of a 100% online education. Students can complete their degree in just one year. There are no on-campus residency requirements.
Learn more about sports psychology at Medaille College
#16. Holy Names University
Oakland, California
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,054
Points: 5
Holy Names University features a cost-effective master’s in applied sport and performance psychology. This applied sport and performance psychology program offers an appropriate mix of hands-on training and current theory. Students will learn evidence-based techniques to improve the mental performance of athletes and teams. Courses include:
- Introduction to Applied Sport and Performance Psychology
- Introduction to Mental Skills Training
- Applied Mental Skills Training
A variety of program options are available including:
- on-campus
- hybrid
- online
There is a two-week on-campus residency. Courses are taught by internationally recognized faculty with industry experience.
Learn more about Sports Psychology at Holy Names University
#15. California Baptist University
Riverside, California
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $13,410
Points: 5
The online master’s in kinesiology from California Baptist University is an interdisciplinary program for students who want advanced knowledge and skills in fitness and wellness. Courses cover a variety of sport and exercise psychology areas like:
- exercise psychology
- fitness testing
- advanced exercise physiology
Students will participate in video lectures to:
- learn different assessment devices
- analyze physical testing results
- develop specialized plans for their clients
To complete their degree, students can choose to:
- complete a thesis
- complete graduate project
- pass a comprehensive exam
Learn more about sports psychology at California Baptist University
#14. University of Western States
Portland, Oregon
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,450/year
Points: 5
The high-quality online sport psychology program from the University of Western States was created for students planning to pursue a career in:
- psychology
- coaching
- education
- healthcare
- administration
The sport psychology program uses the scientist-practitioner model to help students take their career to the next level. Coursework prepares students for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant exam. The Courses include:
- Psychology of Performance Excellence
- Ethics and Professional Identity
- Psychological Preparation and Mental Skills Training
Students can complete a concentration in positive coaching. This unique concentration area is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Learn more about sports psychology at University of Western States
#13. California University of Pennsylvania
California, Pennsylvania
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,288/year in-state and $13,932/year out-of-state
Points: 5
California University of Pennsylvania offers an online master’s in sport psychology that gives students the tools they need to help athletes develop strong mental fitness. Students will learn effective performance and intervention methods to improve athletic performance. They will also learn about:
- the effects of injury
- rehabilitation and recovery
- how to incorporate referrals into their practice
More focus areas can be added including:
- Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention
- Wellness Coaching
- Rehabilitation Science
Full-time students can earn their degree in just a year.
Learn more about sports psychology at California University of Pennsylvania
#12. University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,786/year in-state and $10,786/year out-of-state
Points: 5
The University of Southern Mississippi features a low-cost online master’s in coaching and sports performance. Students in this top online sports psychology program will gain an advanced understanding of:
- human mental and physical development
- training techniques
- leadership techniques
New students are accepted during the fall, spring, and summer semesters. There are no face-to-face requirements. That makes this a great program for working students. Online students pay the low resident tuition rate. There are a variety of scholarship opportunities available for online students. Most students can complete their degree in about two years. Graduates are well suited for professional roles like strength and conditioning coach or college scout.
Learn more about sports psychology at University of Southern Mississippi
#11. Adams State University
Alamosa, Colorado
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,830/year
Points: 5
Adams State University features one of the top cost-effective online sports psych grad programs offering a variety of courses and practical experiences. The program allows students to work toward their Certified Mental Performance Consultant status with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. The Certified Mental Performance Consultant certification is helpful for resumé building and opening more opportunities. Courses include:
- Applied Sport Psychology
- Mental Strength and Conditioning
- Diversity and Equity in Sport
All courses are offered online which is great for students working or those unable to relocate. Students can complete their master’s degrees in just two years. Financial aid is available.
Learn more about sports psychology at Adams State University
#10. American Military University
Charles Town, West Virginia
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,660/year
Points: 5
American Military University is one of the top schools for sports psychology. It is a member of the accredited American Public University System offers a top value online master’s degree in sports and health sciences with concentration options in:
- exercise science and human performance
- health and wellness management
The exercise science and human performance concentration focuses on factors that influence performance and health. Course offerings include:
- Sport Psychology
- Essentials of Human Performance and Exercise Science
- Critical Thinking in the Sports and Health Industries
All students complete a capstone research project that showcases their knowledge and skills. Research projects help prospective sport psychologists develop their research methods, which will be helpful in the sports industry while working with sports teams.
Learn more about sports psychology at American Military University
#9. Drexel University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $36,234/year
Points: 6
The Drexel University School of Education features one of the top online programs for a best-value online master’s degree in sports coaching leadership. Drexel understands the need for sports leaders to:
- communicate effectively
- lead their athletes
- provide motivation and support to bring out the best in athletic performance
Students can specialize in a variety of areas including:
- coaching theory
- goal-setting
- recruiting, budgeting
This flexible program offers expert-level instruction in an online environment and an optional one-week residency in Italy. Students complete 45 graduate credits and can earn their degree in just two years of part-time study. Financial aid is available.
Learn more about sports psychology at Drexel University
#8. Rider University
Lawrenceville, New Jersey
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $20,508/year
Points: 6
Rider University offers one of the best sport psychology programs. The high-quality online master’s degree in sports psychology from Rider University can help develop an athletes’ mental edge. Students can choose from seven start dates throughout the year and earn their degree in less than two years. The comprehensive curriculum covers areas like:
- Applied Sport Psychology
- Clinical Sport Psychology
- Assessment in Sport Psychology
Courses are taught by dedicated faculty committed to the success of their students. Students gain real world experience through an internship in either coaching or administration.
Learn more about sports psychology at Rider University
#7. University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,770/year in-state and $27,335/year out-of-state
Points: 6
The University of Florida features one of the top affordable online sport psychology programs with a concentration in high-performance coaching. This unique program mixes sports management with cutting edge science in areas like:
- psychology
- kinesiology
- physiology
Students develop the skills needed to prepare coaches and athletic administrators to get the best out of their organizations. Coursework is offered through the departments of sport management and applied physiology and kinesiology. All online students are matched with a career coach who aligns with their specific area of interest.
Learn more about sports psychology at University of Florida
#6. Ohio University
Athens, Ohio
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,444/year in-state and $17,436/year out-of-state
Points: 6
Ohio University is one of the best schools for sports psychology. It features an affordable top online master’s of coaching education that underwent a complete overhaul in 2020. The flexible curriculum is designed for busy professionals. There are no on-campus residencies. Students can complete 30 credit hours of coursework in less than two years. Courses are taught by coaching experts and cover areas like:
- Psychology of Coaching
- Ethics and Diversity in Athletic Coaching
- Performance and Conditioning for Athletic Coaches
The ideal applicant has a minimum of three years of coaching experience and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75.
Learn more about sports psychology at Ohio University
#5. Lock Haven University
Lock Haven, Pennsylvania
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,288/year in-state and $13,923/year out-of-state
Points: 6
Lock Haven University features a top online sports psychology graduate program through The Stephen Poorman College of Business, Information Systems, and Human Services. This 30-credit hour, fully online program can be completed in just one year. They offer a sport and exercise psychology track for students interested in areas like:
- coaching
- fitness consulting
- counseling psychology
Sport and exercise psychology courses include:
- Stress Management for the Physically Active
- Sport and Exercise Psychology for Performance Enhancement
- Psych of Athletic Injury/Recovery
Students can choose to complete a capstone research project or a field experience depending on their personal and professional goals. Applicants are required to submit:
- official college transcripts
- three letters of recommendation
- a statement of their professional goals
Learn more about sports psychology at Lock Haven University
#4. Concordia University
Irvine, California
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,121/year
Points: 6
Concordia University offers one of the best sports psychology programs. CU offers a high-quality online master’s degree in coaching and athletics administration for students who want to empower others and become leaders in the field. Students can earn their degree in just 15 months of study, taking courses 100% online, face-to-face, or through a hybrid model. The program is designed by experienced educators and includes sport and exercise psychology courses like:
- Psychology of Coaching
- Student-Athlete Development and Leadership
- Ethics and Sport
All students complete a culminating research project and present a professional portfolio at the end of the program.
Learn more about sports psychology at Concordia University
#3. University of West Alabama
Livingston, Alabama
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,678/year in-state and $13,356/year out-of-state
Points: 6
The University of West Alabama is one of the top sport psychology schools. UWA offers an online master’s degree in experimental psychology with a concentration in health and sports psychology. This 36 credit hour program features courses like:
- Psychopharmacology
- Advanced Cognitive Psychology
- Psychology and Sociology of Human Performance
Courses are taught by PhD-level faculty in experimental psychology who also serve as mentors. All students take a three-credit-hour psychology practicum. To complete the program, students choose between a thesis or a comprehensive exam.
Learn more about sports psychology at University of West Alabama
#2. University of Denver
Denver, Colorado
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $35,305/year
Points: 7
The University of Denver is one of the top schools with sports psychology. The Graduate School of Professional Psychology at the University of Denver features a top-value sport coaching master’s online program led by an internationally respected coach educator. This highly personalized program through the Graduate School of Professional Psychology uses lifelike scenarios that make it easy to transfer knowledge and skills from the classroom to the workplace. Courses cover key areas like:
- Psychology of Athletic Performance
- Social-Psychology of the Body, Health and Performance
- Sociocultural Aspects of Sport Coaching
This 46-credit hour program can be completed in just two years.
Learn more about sports psychology at University of Denver
#1. University of Missouri
Columbia, Missouri
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,809/year
Points: 7
University of Missouri is one of the best sports psychology schools. Missouri Online is our top choice for an online degree in sports psychology. It features a unique master’s degree in positive coaching and athletic leadership online. This 40- credit hour program is delivered 100% online. Full-time students can earn their master’s degrees in just one year. Part-time students can complete the program in about two-and-a-half years. Courses cover important areas like:
- sports psychology
- positive psychology
- emotional health and well-being of the athlete
Courses are offered in eight-week sessions and most students take two courses per semester.
Learn more about sports psychology at University of Missouri
People Also Ask
What can I do with a master’s in sports and exercise psychology?
Having a master’s degree in sport and exercise psychology opens the door to a number of exciting careers, including clinical sport psychologist, sports rehabilitation therapist, and sports research specialist. Many university and professional sports teams coaches also have a master’s or doctoral degree in sport and exercise psychology.
What is a sports psychologist’s job?
Sport psychologists can work in private practice, or be employed by a school or team. It is the job of the sport psychologist to work directly with athletes and help them to overcome the mental hurdles of their sport, ultimately helping them to better their performance and achieve their goals.
What should I major in to become a sports psychologist?
Most sport and exercise psychology positions require at least a master’s degree in sport and exercise psychology. Common undergraduate majors for sports psychologists include kinesiology, sports medicine, and physiology.
What is the difference between a master’s in sports psychology and a doctoral degree in sports psychology?
Most sport and exercise psychology careers require only a master’s degree and not a doctoral degree. These include those who work directly with:
- athletes
- physical therapists
- personal trainers
- physical education teachers
- coaches
However, to become a licensed clinical psychologist, a sport psychologist would need to have a doctoral degree. Those interested in earning a doctoral degree should look into doctoral programs for an additional advanced degree.
What is the salary of a sports psychologist?
According to the website PayScale, the average annual salary for a sports psychologist is $76,266.
Related Resources:
- Are Sports Psychologists The Same As Coaches?
- Is Sports Psychology a Growing Field?
- What Does a Sports Psychologist Do?
- What is a Typical Day Like for a Sports Psychologist?
