20 Best Sports Psychology Online Masters Degree Programs

Sport psychology is an exciting career choice for people who want to help athletes go from good to great. The athletes do this by:

overcoming mental barriers
building confidence
remaining disciplined

Sport psychology is a recognized area of psychology that helps athletes of all ages and abilities reach their full potential both on and off the field. They draw from the principles of:

kinesiology
research
counseling
biomechanics

Earning an online master’s in sport psychology can give you the knowledge and skills to work directly with athletes or teams to improve performance. A master’s in sport psychology online can also provide a solid foundation for PhD level work to become certified by the Association for Applied Sports Psychology.

We created this ranking of the top 20 best online master’s in sports psychology to highlight some of the best programs in the country. To develop our ranking, we used information provided by the National Center for Education Statistics. We considered accredited schools offering a master’s in sport psychology or a sport psychology related area (human performance, performance coaching, applied sport psychology). We looked for programs with:

a comprehensive curriculum
expert level faculty
flexible online courses

We then applied our ranking criteria to determine the top 20 best online master’s in sports psychology.

Ranking the Top Online Sport Psychology Master’s Degree Programs 2021

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1 or less= 3 Points
13:1 to 17:1= 2 Points
Greater than 17:1= 1 Point

Average Graduate Student Tuition

Less than $7,000 per year= 3 Points
$7,000 to $10,000 per year= 2 Points
More than $10,000 per year= 1 Point

Overall Graduation Rate

Less than 50%= 1 Point
Between 50% and 70%= 2 Points
Greater than 70%= 3 Points

Below are the 20 schools that offer the best online master’s in sport psychology programs in the United States.

SUMMARY RANKING OF THE TOP 10 ONLINE MASTER’S IN SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY:

University of Missouri
University of Denver
University of West Alabama
Concordia University – Irvine
Lock Haven University
Ohio University
University of Florida
Rider University
Drexel University
American Military University

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What can I do with an online master’s in Sports Psychology?
Is an online master’s in Sports Psychology degree worth it?
Is Sports Psychology a good career?
How long does it take to complete an online master’s in Sports Psychology?
Are there professional organizations for Sports Psychology?
Are there any licenses and certifications required for an online master’s in Sports Psychology?
How much does it cost to get an online master’s in Sports Psychology?
What are some examples of courses needed for an online master’s in Sports Psychology?
How much money can you make after earning an online master’s in Sports Psychology?
What are the admissions requirements for an online master’s in Sports Psychology?

#20 – Capella University – Minneapolis, Minnesota

MS in Psychology-Sport Psychology Specialization Online

Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $14,747/year
Overall Graduation Rate: N/A
Points: 2
Capella University offers a high-quality master’s in sport psychology online. Students will gain the expertise needed to help athletes be successful in all areas of their sport from practice to recovery. By specializing in athletic performance, students can identify barriers and issues facing athletes and develop strategies to push beyond them. Courses include:

Performance Enhancement in Sports
Principles of Sport Psychology
Applied Sport Psychology

Two flexible online learning formats are available. Whether you are an independent learner, or need a little more structure, Capella has you covered.

#19 – A. T. Still University – Kirksville, Missouri

MS in Kinesiology Exercise and Sport Psychology Track

For more information: A.T. Still University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $36,336/year
Overall Graduation Rate: N/A
Points: 4
A.T. Still University offers a master’s in kinesiology with a track in exercise and sport psychology online. This budget-friendly, online, sport psychology master’s program includes courses in:

Applied Sport Psychology
Exercise and Mental Health
Psychology, Physical Activity, and Health

This 42-credit hour online master’s program offers an experiences-based curriculum that promotes leadership skills and professional development. All courses are taught by industry experts who are also experienced in effective online instruction. A highlight of this online sport psychology master’s program is the week-long conference at the ATSU Human Movement Institute. There, students gain valuable face-to-face training and hands-on instruction.

#18 – University of the Southwest – Hobbs, New Mexico

Online Masters of Science in Sports Psychology

For more information: University of the Southwest

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $22,500/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 32%
Points: 4
The high-value online master’s in sports psychology from the University of the Southwest is a 100% online program that allows students to earn their degree on their own time and schedule. Students will gain an understanding of the theories and principles of the psychology and physical effects of sport participation. Courses are designed to teach students effective methods that:

boost athlete performance
help them recover fully from injuries
overcome emotional obstacles that can hinder their performance

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles including coach and mentor.

#17 – United States Sports Academy – Daphne, Alabama

Master of Sports Science Online-Sports Studies

Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $19,440/year
Overall Graduation Rate: N/A
Points: 4
The United States Sports Academy is the only free-standing sports university in the country. They offer an online master’s in sport studies. It is a highly personalized program designed to meet the students’ professional needs. Courses are offered online. This allows students to work from almost anywhere in the world. Course offerings include:

Psychological Aspects of Health and Fitness Programming
Sport Psychology
Sports Performance Enhancement

There are two start dates every month, eliminating the need to wait on a traditional semester schedule. This 33-credit hour program can be completed in about two years of full-time study.

#16 – National University – La Jolla, California

Master of Arts in Performance Psychology

Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $15,480/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 29%
Points: 4
National University offers an affordable master’s in performance psychology with coursework that contributes to the academic requirements needed for certification by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. The entire program can be completed online and there are no on-campus requirements. Students will study empirical and theoretical research while practicing the application of performance enhancement assessments and techniques used in the field. Course requirements include:

Performance Consulting Skills
Ethics in Performance Pay
Organizational Behavior

The program features monthly start dates and accelerated classes. Graduates can apply their skills in a variety of settings including:

fine arts
schools
sport organizations

#15 – Medaille College – Buffalo, New York

MA in Psychology-Sport Psychology

For more information: Madaille College
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $21,621/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 38%
Points: 5
Medaille College offers a low-cost online master’s in sport psychology for students planning to enter the field of sport performance or coaching. Courses focus on principles in:

sport psychology
sport counseling
coaching

Students benefit from an experiential education that prepares them for success in their field or while studying sport psychology at the doctoral level. The flexible schedule is ideal for working professionals who seek advanced training but are unable to attend a traditional campus-based program. Students can choose to complete a thesis or a professional internship depending on their future goals.

#14 – University of Western States – Portland, Oregon

Master of Science-Sport and Performance Psychology Online

Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,450/year
Overall Graduation Rate: N/A
Points: 5
The University of Western States features a top-value, online master’s in sport and performance psychology that prepares students to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC). This innovative program includes an optional concentration in positive coaching. The positive coaching concentration is one of the few programs in the country recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Sport psychology courses include:

Psychology of Performance Excellence
Personality and Counseling Theories
Applied Sport Psychology

Students create a professional and academic portfolio to showcase their knowledge and skills acquired during the program in the capstone course.

#13 – California University of Pennsylvania – California, Pennsylvania

Online Master of Science (M.S.) in Exercise Science and Health Promotion – Sport Psychology Concentration

Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,288/year in-state and $13,932/year out-of-state
Overall Graduation Rate: 50%
Points: 5
The cost-effective online master’s in sport psychology from California University of Pennsylvania is designed to help athletes develop strong mental fitness through evidence-based practices. Full-time students can earn their degree in just 12 months of study. Students will gain an understanding of psychological perspectives in sport performance and the psychological aspects of sport injury and rehabilitation. Customized program options are available by adding an additional focus area such as:

Applied Sport Science
Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention
Wellness Coaching

The program is designed for a variety of students including those working in:

health and fitness
personal training
education

#12 – University of Southern Mississippi – Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Sport Coaching Education MS Online

For more information: The University of Southern Mississippi
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,786/year in-state and $10,786/year out-of-state
Overall Graduation Rate: 49%
Points: 5
The University of Southern Mississippi offers a low-priced online master’s in sport coaching education. It teaches students how to motivate athletes and achieve greater performance. Course requirements include:

Sport Psychology
Advanced Sport Coaching Methodology
Sport Skill Analysis

Students can choose to complete a thesis or a practicum depending on their professional and educational goals. The program is tailored to meet the needs of working students. Students can take two classes each semester. They can finish their degree in about two years. Experienced professors give students a strong understanding of human mental and physical development and athletic evaluation.

#11 – Adams State University – Alamosa, Colorado

Online M.A. in Applied Sport Psychology

For more information: Adams State Univerrsity
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,830/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 30%
Points: 5
The low-priced online master’s in applied sport psychology from Adams State is a 36-credit hour program. It uses a scientist-practitioner model to prepare students to become a sport psychology professional. The program allows students to work toward the requirements needed become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. Courses include:

Diversity and Equity in Sport
Mental Strength and Conditioning
Applied Sport Psychology

Students can complete this high-quality master’s in sport psychology online in two years, including all coursework and internships.

#10 – American Military University – Charles Town, West Virginia

Online Master of Science in Sports and Health Sciences

Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,660/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 40%
Points: 5
The American Military University is a member of the accredited American Public University System. It offers an innovative online master’s in sports and health sciences with a concentration in exercise science and human performance. Students will learn concepts and applications that enhance athletic performance. Courses focus on areas like:

biomechanics
testing and evaluation
psychological aspects of performance

This is a 36-credit hour program. It gives students an understanding of how psychological behaviors like personality, motivation, and stress influence athletic performance. Graduates are able to work with athletes at all levels to overcome mental barriers and reach their full potential.

#9 – Drexel University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Master of Science (MS) Degree in Sport Coaching Leadership

Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $36,234/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 69%
Points: 6
Drexel University School of Education offers a budget friendly online master’s in sport psychology with their Sport Coaching Leadership program. Students will specialize in areas like:

coaching theory
goal setting
sport program development

An exciting one-week residency in Italy is strongly encouraged of all students. This residency gives students the opportunity to learn different perspectives and explore the field from an international lens. Students also complete three practicum experiences during their time in the program. This gives them the opportunity to apply their skills immediately. Online students can take advantage of cost savings through a 25% tuition discount and financial assistance programs to:

alumni
military members
other members of partnering organizations

#8 – Rider University – Lawrenceville, New Jersey

Master of Arts in Athletic Leadership – Sports Psychology Track Online

Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $20,508/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 67%
Points: 6
The top-value, online master’s in sports psychology from Rider University gives students the tools they need to help athletes reach their full potential. Courses are offered 100% online. Students can complete their degree in just two years. There are seven start dates throughout the year. Students can get started as soon as they are ready. Students learn from top coaches and trainers who share their success strategies with their students. Courses include:

Applied Sport Psychology
Clinical Sport Psychology
Assessment in Sport Psychology

To be considered for admission, students should have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and two professional letters of recommendation. There is no minimum GPA requirement. Graduate test scores are not needed to apply.

#7 – University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida

Online MS in Sport Management-High Performance Coaching

For more information: University of Florida
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,770/year in-state and $27,335/year out-of-state
Overall Graduation Rate: 88%
Points: 6

The University of Florida features a high-value online master’s in sport management with an emphasis in high performance coaching. High performance coaching utilizes the principles of psychology, coaching, and kinesiology to enhance athlete performance. Professors use the latest research in the industry to help students develop the ability to assess athletic performance and create appropriate programs to improve performance. Courses include:

Sport Psychology
Training High Performance Athletes
Sport Ethics

Graduates are prepared for exciting careers in:

coaching
strength and conditioning
sport administration

#6 – Ohio University – Athens, Ohio

Online Master of Coaching Education

For more information: Ohio University
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,444/year in-state and $17,436/year out-of-state
Overall Graduation Rate: 65%
Points: 6
If your passion is soccer, Ohio University offers a unique online master’s in soccer coaching education. The program teaches students how to get the best out of their athletes. The flexible format includes online courses. It also includes two five-day in-person residencies. Students move through the program one course at a time. This allows them to work while earning their degree. The program can be completed in just 20 months. Courses include:

Psychology of Coaching
Analysis of Sport Performance for Coaches
Ethics and Diversity in Athletic Coaching

Courses are taught by soccer coaching experts. To be considered for admission, students should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of a 2.75. They should also have three years of coaching experience.

#5 – Lock Haven University – Lock Haven, Pennsylvania

Online MS in Sport Science-Sport and Exercise Psychology track

Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,288/year in-state and $13,923/year out-of-state
Overall Graduation Rate: 54%
Points: 6
Lockhaven University features a low-cost online sport psychology master’s program. It prepares students for a variety of professional roles. Courses in this concentration have been approved by the Certification Council for certification through the Association of Applied Sport Psychology. Course offerings include:

Ethics in Applied Sport Psychology
Stress Management for the Physically Active
Counseling Skills for Sport Psychology

Students can choose to complete a three-credit capstone project or a six-credit field experience to complete the program. Graduates are well positioned for exciting careers as:

sports psychologists
sport educators
performance enhancement professionals

#4 – Concordia University – Irvine, California

Master’s in Coaching and Athletics Administration

For more information: Concordia University Irvine
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,121/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 63%
Points: 6
Concordia University Irvine offers an inexpensive online sport psychology master’s with their MS in Coaching and Athletics Administration. This exciting program can be completed in just 15 months with no on-campus residency requirements. The curriculum is designed by experienced educators who aspire to create transformational thought leaders. Course offerings include:

Psychology of Coaching
Applied Exercise Sciences and Strategies for Coaching
Ethics and Sport

Students complete four elective courses to tailor the program to meet their needs. Tuition is surprisingly affordable. All new students receive a $1,000 scholarship and payment plans are available to graduate students.

#3 – University of West Alabama – Livingston, Alabama

MS Experimental Psychology-Health and Sport Psychology

For more information: The University of West Alabama
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,678/year in-state and $13,356/year out-of-state
Overall Graduation Rate: 35%
Points: 6
One of the most unique programs to make our ranking is the MS in experimental psychology offered by the University of West Alabama. Students interested in the clinical applications in health and sports psychology can choose to complete the 36-credit hour health and sports psychology option. The program is a great choice for students seeking research experience that will be beneficial in a PhD program or those seeking specific training to advance their career. Courses include:

Psychology and Sociology of Human Performance
Advanced Cognitive Psychology
Techniques of Counseling

All students participate in a three-credit hour psychology practicum and must choose to complete a thesis or pass a comprehensive exam.

#2 – University of Denver – Denver, Colorado

MA in Sport Coaching Online

For more information: University of Denver
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition:
$52,596/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 77%
Points: 7
The Graduate School of Professional Psychology at the University of Denver offers a master’s in sport coaching in a flexible online format. The program prepares coaches of all levels to enhance their athletes’ and team performance. Courses are drawn from a variety of areas including sport science and psychology. The program is flexible and personalized to meet the needs of adult learners. Virtual and in-person professional development events keep students connected throughout the program. Course offerings include:

Sociocultural Aspects of Sport Coaching
Psychology of Athletic Performance
Philosophy and Ethics of Sport Coaching

All students complete a six-course applied coaching course sequence that allows students to work through real-world complex scenarios they are likely to encounter in the field. Students can complete their degree in as few as five semesters.

#1 – University of Missouri – Columbia, Missouri

Master of Education-Positive Coaching and Athletic Leadership Online

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,478/year in-state and $25,946/year out-of-state
Overall Graduation Rate: 71%
Points: 7
Our top choice for a high-quality, online master’s in sport psychology is offered by the University of Missouri. They offer a master’s in positive coaching and athletic leadership through the Department of Education, School and Counseling Psychology. Courses cover areas like:

emotional health and well-being of the athlete
sports psychology
positive psychology

This 100% online program is 30 credit hours and is a great choice for athletes, athletic coordinators, and wellness coordinators who want to enhance athletic performance. Students can earn their degree in just two-and-a-half-years.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What can I do with an online master’s in Sports Psychology?

An online master’s in sports psychology is a great choice for individuals who want to use the principles of psychology to help themselves or others improve their athletic performance. Some sport psychology graduates go into coaching or training. They help individual athletes or teams overcome mental barriers, work together as a cohesive team, and identify skills needed for further development. Sport psychology professionals are also found in clinical settings such as counseling centers or rehabilitation facilities. In these settings, sport psychology professionals help athletes overcome mental or emotional challenges that can come from injury, substance abuse, or depression. Other sport psychology professionals work in research settings at colleges or universities. They may be part of a research team working in areas like performance enhancement, goal setting, or motivation. Earning an online master’s in sports psychology is also a great foundation for doctoral study in psychology. Unsure if you are ready to pursue a sports psychology master’s program online? Many schools offer sports psychology certificates online. These certificate programs can be a great way to take courses related to the field without the commitment of a full online degree.

Is an online master’s in Sports Psychology degree worth it?

We believe earning a sports psychology master’s degree is definitely worth the time and investment. The potential for diversity and career advancement makes this an exciting field to be in. The pressure for athletes to succeed is immense and a good sport psychology professional can mean the difference between a good performance and a great performance. Sport psychologists can help athletes reach their full potential and be successful in their sport. Helping others succeed is exciting and inspiring. The intrinsic rewards coupled with an increased income make earning an affordable online master’s in sport psychology very beneficial.

Is Sports Psychology a good career?

According to an article published by the American Psychological Association, the demand for sport psychologists is on the rise due to issues with mental health, violence, and activism in sports. The field of sport psychology has expanded over the last few years. Sport psychology professionals in the past were heavily focused on individual and team performance. As their role expands, sport psychologists now help athletes overcome interpersonal issues and help them deal with mental health problems. This valuable insight has resulted in demand for sport psychologists in the military. The largest employer of sport psychology professionals is the U.S. Army. Our government has recognized the importance of having highly trained professionals in the field who are able to help soldiers focus and deal with highly stressful situations.

How long does it take to complete an online master’s in Sports Psychology?

Sport psychology master’s degree programs typically take about two years to complete. There are accelerated affordable online master’s in sports psychology programs that can be completed in less time. These programs are typically a good idea for students able to attend full-time or have a significant amount of transfer credits. A one-year online master’s in sports psychology is offered by some schools to students with significant experience in the field. Some of the best-value online master’s in sports psychology programs are those that take less time to complete, saving students a significant amount of money over the course of the program.

Are there professional organizations for Sports Psychology?

Association for Applied Sports Psychology – The AASP is a professional organization for sport and performance psychology practitioners. There are over 3,000 members from around the globe. AASP offers the Certified Mental Performance Consultant certification (CMPC) for professionals who meet the educational and experience requirements and can pass a certification exam. The CMPC is for those with a masters or doctorate degree and significant professional experience.
The AASP hosts an annual conference, regional conferences, and professional development activities that promote growth and learning. They also feature a directory that helps individuals locate a CMPC in their area.
International Society of Sports Psychology – The ISSP is a professional organization dedicated to promoting research, practice, and development of sport psychology throughout the globe. It is the only worldwide organization of scholars specifically focused on the domain of sport psychology. Members include researchers, psychologists, coaches, students, and athletes interested in the field.
The ISSP also hosts events like regional conferences, the World Congress, an annual think-tank, and professional development courses for practitioners. They also develop the International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology.
Division 47 of the American Psychological Association – Division 47: Society for Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology is the division of the APA for psychologists, exercise, and sport scientists interested in research, teaching, and service in sport psychology. They publish The Exercise and Sport Psychology Newsletter three times a year.
International Institute for Sport and Human Performance– The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Oregon is home to The International Institute for Sport and Human Performance. The Institute holds a collection of theses and dissertations in areas related to sport psychology going back to 1947. They hold professional development events and sponsor the Athletic Training Service Center which provides treatment to individuals injured while engaged in exercise activity.

Are there any licenses and certifications required for an online master’s in Sports Psychology?

Earning an online master’s in sports psychology does not require students earn a license or certification. Some sports psychology distance learning programs offer online sports psychology courses recognized by the AASP for consideration when applying for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant Certification.

How much does it cost to get an online master’s in Sports Psychology?

According to a study by Sallie Mae, the average amount spent on graduate school is $24,812.

53% is covered by student borrowing
24% is covered by student earnings including income and savings
15% is covered by grants, scholarships, fellowships, and tuition waivers
8%-covered by external contributions from family or friends

Some of the cheapest online master’s in sports psychology programs offer cost savings through scholarships, grants, and discounts to alumni or other special groups. You do not have to sacrifice quality when searching for an inexpensive online master’s in sport psychology. High-value online master’s in sports psychology programs offer the same rigorous curriculum as more expensive programs. The least expensive online master’s in sports psychology programs offer out-of-state students the same great tuition rates reserved for in-state students.
Financial aid is available for students pursuing an online master’s in sport psychology if the university holds regional accreditation. Financial aid may be in the form of loans or grants. It is always a good idea to check with your employer or any professional organizations you hold membership with to see if they offer any sort of financial assistance that could offset your cost.

What are some examples of courses needed for an online master’s in Sports Psychology?

Ethics
Coaching
Sport Psychology
Psychology of Human Performance
Applied Sport Psychology

You can review our sport psychology graduate programs rankings to see other popular course offerings.

How much money can you make after earning an online master’s in Sports Psychology?

The job outlook for professionals with a master’s in sport psychology is generally favorable. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the demand for entertainment and sports occupations will grow by 7% through 2029, faster than average across all other occupations. The median annual wage across the sport industry is $45,250/year. Sport psychology professionals going into coaching or scouting can expect to make about $34,840/year based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those working directly with athletes in a business management role can expect to earn about $90,870/year. Earning a cheap online master’s in sports psychology can significantly increase your return on investment.

What are the admissions requirements for an online master’s in Sports Psychology?

Once you have made the choice to pursue an online Master of Science in sports psychology, you need to find the right school. The best online master’s in sports psychology programs typically require a minimum undergraduate GPA and letters of reference to be considered for admission. Budget friendly online master’s in sports psychology programs may waive application fees. To earn your master’s degree online, you need to find the right program and submit your application. Fortunately, most schools share their requirements, cost, and expectations online on their school website. If your chosen school requires GRE scores, you will need to submit those or schedule time to take the exam. You will also need to make sure you complete the FAFSA to determine your financial aid eligibility. Low-cost online master’s in sports psychology programs may offer incentives to new students that can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollar.

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