Best Online Bachelor’s in Sports Psychology Degree Programs

Sports psychology is a rapidly growing field that combines the principles of psychology and sports to help athletes improve their performance, overcome mental barriers, and maintain the discipline necessary for success. Sports psychologists don’t themselves step onto the field or court, but they’re an important support person behind some of the best athletes that do.

Earning a bachelor’s in sports psychology can help you enter this exciting field. A bachelor’s degree will introduce you to psychology and have a particular emphasis on using psychological grounding to improve athletic performance.

Upon graduating, you’ll have career opportunities as a sports psychologist, sports counselor, strength and conditioning coach, or assistant coach if you previously played at a high level. You’ll work directly with players and coaches, either as a member of the coaching staff or a member of the administrative staff.

In some cases, sports psychology graduates pivot from athletics to the corporate world. Many of the same motivational principles apply to performance in each arena. Even if the corporate world isn’t your intention, it’s good to know you have options.

Sports psychologists are employed by collegiate and professional sports teams, leagues, camps and specialty seminars. With an online sports psychology bachelor’s degree, you could be one of the psychologists collaborating with these athletic organizations. To find out how to earn one, see the information below.

What Will I Learn in an Online Sports Psychology Degree Program?

A bachelor’s degree in sports medicine is a four-year program that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the field of athletic healthcare. An online program requires 120-130 credit hours of coursework, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of sports medicine. Most programs include both classes, and a practicum or internship.

The curriculum includes a mix of general education courses, theoretical psychology courses, and applied psychology classes specifically related to sports. Some of the courses that students may take during the program include:

• Introduction to Sports Psychology

• Physiology of Exercise and Sport

• Psychological Aspects of Injury and Rehabilitation

• Sport and Exercise Motivation

• Psychological Skills Training for Athletes

• Group Dynamics in Sports Teams

• Ethics in Sports Psychology

Admissions Requirements for a Bachelor’s in Sports Psychology

Admission to online sports psychology programs can be a competitive process. Requirements sometimes vary by institution, but here are common elements that most schools require:

• High school diploma or GED

• Transcripts meeting the school’s GPA and other requirements (usually 2.5-3.0)

• Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT

• Letters of recommendation from teachers or other professionals

• Essay or personal outlining your goals and interests in the field

• In-person or virtual interview with the admissions committee (in some cases)

Many schools now use the Common Application, but some colleges (e.g. Faulkner University) still use their own application.

List of Sports Psychology Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based bachelor’s program in sports psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.