Exercise and Sport Psychology
Overview
The exercise and sport psychology program integrates theory, research and practice, and includes the study of cognitive, emotional, psychological and social factors that influence sport and exercise behaviors, as well as the effects of physical activity on psychological factors. This program also has close ties to SIUE's Division I athletics program.
Students may enroll in elective courses to match their educational experience to their career objectives in addition to coursework in:
- Sport psychology
- Exercise psychology
- Exercise and sport psychology for special populations
- Sport sociology
- Psychology of coaching
- Physical activity promotion
A number of distinct advantages are available at SIUE, including:
- Development of knowledge and skills in students' areas of interest through strong faculty mentoring
- An optimal student-faculty ratio, ensuring students receive personalized attention
- Advising focused on career success through the selection of courses, research topics and applied experiences
- Required courses are offered in the afternoon or evening to meet the needs of professionals
Program Format
This 100% online program can be completed in 12-22 months.
Courses can be completed from the convenience of home while connecting virtually with faculty and classmates. Students are required to participate in online classes scheduled during evening hours. Students can also enroll in some asynchronous online courses where scheduled meeting times are not required.
Please note: International students are ineligible to receive a student visa for this program.
Why Exercise and Sport Psychology
Exercise and sport psychology can provide you with the basis for understanding the thought processes and attitudes of athletes and individuals involved in sport or exercise activities. With this understanding, you can learn to help others improve their performance and/or psychological well-being.
The exercise and sport psychology specialization focuses on the psychosocial factors that influence, and are influenced by, physical activity. While this specialization will appeal to individuals currently teaching and/or coaching, it is also designed to provide a solid foundation for students desiring to further their graduate education in fields associated with behavioral medicine, including:
- Exercise psychology
- Sport psychology
- Athletic training
- Health psychology
Focusing on strategies for enhancing sport performance or adherence to exercise, for example, the exercise and sport psychology specialization provides students with knowledge and skills that can be readily applied to numerous aspects of their own lives, as well as to the lives of their professional clients.
What can I do with a degree in exercise and sport psychology?
Our alumni pursue exciting careers and advanced studies. See for yourself.
Graduates of the exercise and sport psychology specialization are prepared for jobs in:
- Mental training
- Fitness
- Campus recreation
- Exercise administration
- Sport administration
- Coaching
- Personal training
- Sport psychology
- Exercise and rehab settings
Some graduates choose to continue their education at the doctoral level.
This program satisfies some of the coursework required for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) certification. CMPC also requires 400 hours of mentored experience followed by a certification exam. Please contact the program director if you have any questions.
Current Program Research Projects
- The Effect of Imagery Assisted Virtual Reality on Psychological Skills in Athletes
- Use of Imagery on Self-Efficacy and Performance in Athletics
- The Role of Community-Based Organizations in Physical Activity Promotion
- Psychosocial Factors Associated with Exercise Behavior
For additional information, please contact Ben Webb, PhD, graduate program director.
Faculty
View current Department of Applied Health faculty.
