Fastest Online Sports Psychology Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from a fast-track online sports psychology degree program?

Students enrolled in online sports psychology degree programs can expect a comprehensive curriculum that blends psychology, kinesiology, and coaching principles. These programs usually offer flexibility, enabling learners to study at their own pace while balancing other commitments.

Coursework often includes essential topics, such as motivation, performance enhancement, mental health, and athlete behavior. Interactive components, including virtual discussions, case studies, and practical assignments, help students apply theoretical knowledge.

Many programs also incorporate internships or capstone projects to provide hands-on experience. These prepare graduates for careers in coaching, mental performance consulting, or advanced clinical studies.

Where can I work with an online sports psychology degree program?

Graduates of online sports psychology degree programs can work in diverse settings that support athletic performance and mental well-being.

Many find roles with professional athletic teams and Olympic organizations, helping elite athletes manage pressure and enhance focus. Others work with school athletic teams at the elementary, high school, or collegiate levels to support young athletes’ mental development.

Opportunities also exist in concussion centers and sports rehabilitation centers, where specialists aid recovery and psychological resilience. Academic medical centers and research institutions offer additional roles focused on advancing the science of sports psychology through clinical studies and performance research.

How much can I make with an online sports psychology degree program?

Graduates of an online sports psychology degree program can expect competitive earnings, especially as demand grows for mental health expertise in athletic performance. In the U.S., the average annual salary for sport psychologists was $92,813 in July 2025, according to ZipRecruiter. 

While salaries can vary based on location, experience, and level of education, sport psychologists tend to earn well compared to other professions. Overall, psychologists across the country earned a median annual wage of $94,310 as of May 2024 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025).

This suggests that salaries for sport psychologists are in line with national averages, with room for growth depending on credentials and career trajectory.

List of Online Sports Psychology Degree Programs for 2025

1. Capella University

Capella University offers an online Master of Science (MS) degree program in psychology with a sport psychology concentration. The program curriculum includes courses in learning theories in psychology, principles of sport psychology, biological basis of behavior, quantitative design and analysis, as well as current issues in sport psychology.

• Program Length: At least 15 months
• Specialization: Sport Psychology
• Cost per Credit: $525 (GuidedPath)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 58 quarter credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. National University

National University offers an online Master of Arts (MA) degree program in sport and performance psychology. The program includes courses in sport and performance psychology, performance enhancement, mindful performance, leadership and team building, and counseling skills.

• Program Length: Contact the university for information on program duration.
• Specializations: Applied Mental Performance; Theoretical Mental Performance
• Cost per Year: $13,669
• Required Credits to Graduate: At least 67.5 quarter credits
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

3. Springfield College

Springfield College offers an online Master of Education (MEd) degree program in sport and exercise psychology. The program curriculum includes courses in stress management, applied sport and exercise psychology, professional ethics and standards, counseling theories, and sport in society.

• Program Length: 1 to 2 years
• Specializations: Sport and Exercise Psychology
• Cost per Credit: $745
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36 credits
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

4. Adams State University

Adams State University offers an online MS in Kinesiology with an applied sport psychology concentration. The program curriculum includes courses in the psychology of coaching, sports physiology, positive psychology, mental health in sport, and mental strength and conditioning.

• Program Length: 1 to 2 years
• Specialization: Applied Sport Psychology
• Cost per Credit: $461.80
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36 credits
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville

Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville offers an online MS in Kinesiology with a specialization in exercise and sport psychology. The program curriculum includes courses in exercise and sport psychology, sport sociology, and research methods in kinesiology. Elective courses include counseling skills for sport psychology, the psychology of coaching, and an internship.

• Program Length: 12 to 22 months
• Specialization: Exercise and Sport Psychology
• Cost per Credit: Contact the university for tuition information.
• Required Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
• Accreditation: HLC

How long does it take to complete a fast-track online sports psychology degree program?

Online sports psychology degree programs at the master’s level usually take 1.5 to 3 years to complete, depending on a student’s enrollment status and the program’s structure. These programs generally require 30 to 48 credit hours and cover key topics, such as foundational psychology, performance enhancement, research methods, and applied practice.

Students interested in accelerated study options may also explore the fastest online bachelor's degree in sports management programs, which can serve as a stepping stone into advanced psychology or sports-related graduate programs.

The program length allows for both theoretical learning and the development of practical skills through internships or supervised experiences. Some programs include a thesis or capstone project, which can add to the timeline but deepens students’ research abilities and specialization.

The flexible online format helps accommodate working professionals, but the comprehensive curriculum ensures that graduates are well-prepared for clinical roles, consulting, or doctoral studies.

How does an online sports psychology degree program compare to an on-campus program?

While on-campus and online sports psychology degree programs lead to the same credentials, several key differences in format and learning experience exist. You may ask, “Is an online psychology degree credible?” The answer is yes, especially when offered by accredited academic institutions. The following are three major distinctions:

• Learning Environment: On-campus programs offer face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers and promotes in-person collaboration and networking. In contrast, online programs deliver coursework virtually, enabling students to participate from anywhere with internet access.
• Schedule Flexibility: Online programs usually provide asynchronous classes and give students the flexibility to study at their own pace and fit coursework around work or personal commitments. On-campus programs often follow a fixed class schedule, which may be more suitable for individuals seeking structured learning.
• Hands-on Training: While both formats may include internships or practicum experiences, on-campus students may have easier access to in-person training opportunities through university-affiliated clinics or athletic departments. Online students may need to coordinate field experiences locally.

What is the average cost of an online sports psychology degree program?

The cost of online sports psychology degree programs varies widely. Several factors influence tuition rates, including institution type, the student’s residency status, the student’s enrollment status, and program length.

Public universities often offer lower tuition for residents, while private schools may have higher base rates but more generous financial aid. Additional costs may include technology fees, textbooks, and potential travel expenses for in-person internships or practicums.

Some online sports psychology degree programs offer accelerated tracks, which can reduce overall tuition by shortening the study period. Professionals seeking leadership roles in mental health may also explore the fastest doctorate in behavioral health leadership online to gain advanced expertise while potentially streamlining costs. Financial aid options, such as scholarships and employer tuition assistance, can also help offset costs and make these programs more accessible for working professionals.

The chart below provides a visualization of the cost of online sports psychology degree programs per credit, according to current tuition data from the featured academic institutions.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online sports psychology degree program?

Students enrolling in online sports psychology degree programs have access to various financial aid options to help manage tuition costs. These may include scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance, which are designed to make advanced education more affordable and accessible.

• Psi Chi Graduate Scholarships: The International Honor Society in Psychology (Psi Chi) offers the Psi Chi Graduate Scholarships, which provide graduate students in the field of psychology with financial assistance. Psi Chi gives out eight scholarships of $3,000 each to cover tuition, institutional fees, and required course materials, among others.
• Council of Graduate Departments of Psychology (COGDOP) Graduate Student Scholarships: The COGDOP offers 21 graduate student scholarships of up to $5,000. The scholarships must be allocated for research costs associated with master’s theses or doctoral dissertations. Examples of these COGDOP programs include the Harry and Miriam Levinson Scholarship ($5,000), the William and Dorothy Bevan Scholarship ($3,000), and the Charles and Carol Spielberger Scholarship ($5,000).
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Employer tuition assistance is a benefit some companies offer to support employees pursuing higher education. It can cover part or all of tuition costs for relevant programs.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online sports psychology degree program?

Before enrolling in an online sports psychology degree program, applicants must meet several key prerequisites that ensure readiness for graduate-level coursework. These requirements are similar in structure to those seen in PsyD in clinical psychology requirements, albeit aligned with the sports psychology field. The following are three main requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Most programs require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution, preferably in psychology, kinesiology, sports science, or a related field. This foundational education ensures that students have the necessary background to succeed in advanced coursework.
• Minimum GPA: Many schools set a minimum undergraduate GPA requirement. A strong academic record demonstrates the applicant’s ability to handle rigorous academic demands.
• Letters of Recommendation: Programs usually request two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references. These letters help admissions committees assess the applicant’s qualifications, motivation, and potential for success in the field of sports psychology.

What courses are typically in an online sports psychology degree program?

Online sports psychology degree programs offer several key courses that build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to support athletes’ mental performance and well-being. Common courses include the following:

• Principles of Sport Psychology: This foundational course introduces core concepts, such as motivation, focus, confidence, and arousal regulation. It provides the basis for understanding athlete behavior and performance.
• Mental Health in Sport: Students explore mental health challenges commonly faced by athletes, including anxiety, depression, and burnout, as well as strategies for promoting emotional well-being within competitive environments.
• Mental Strength and Conditioning: This course focuses on mental skills training, including visualization, goal-setting, and resilience, to help athletes enhance performance under pressure. Students interested in broader healthcare leadership may also pursue a fast track MSN healthcare quality and patient safety to complement their understanding of mental health management in clinical and organizational settings.
• The Psychology of Coaching: Students learn about effective leadership, communication, and motivation techniques. This course prepares them to work collaboratively with coaches and athletes.
• Counseling Skills: This course teaches foundational counseling techniques, such as active listening, empathy, and ethical communication, which are essential for providing support to athletes in both individual and group settings.

What types of specializations are available in online sports psychology degree programs?

Online sports psychology degree programs often offer specializations that enable students to tailor their education to specific career interests. For those wondering, “What are the different areas of psychology?” Sports psychology is just one of many, with unique specializations within the field.

The following are three common specializations:

• Performance Enhancement: This specialization focuses on mental skills training techniques, such as visualization, focus, and goal-setting. It prepares students to work with athletes to improve consistency, confidence, and competitive performance.
• Clinical Sport Psychology: Designed for individuals pursuing licensure, this track integrates mental health training with sport-specific counseling. Students learn to address issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma in athletic populations.
• Youth and School Sports: This specialization prepares students to work with young athletes in school or developmental sports settings. It emphasizes age-appropriate motivation strategies, positive coaching, and early mental health intervention.

The chart below provides a visualization of the employment levels of occupations in the field of sport psychology in the US in 2023, according to 2025 data from the US BLS.

How do you choose the best online sports psychology degree programs?

When choosing the best online sports psychology degree program, students should consider several key criteria to ensure that the program aligns with their academic and career goals. The following are three main factors to evaluate:

• Accreditation and Faculty Expertise: Look for degree programs offered by accredited academic institutions with experienced faculty who specialize in sports psychology or related fields. Accreditation ensures that academic quality, while expert faculty enhance learning and mentorship.
• Curriculum and Specializations: Review the course offerings and available specializations to ensure that the program covers key topics, such as mental performance, coaching, and counseling. Students interested in expanding into clinical practice may also explore an accelerated online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner program to gain expertise in women’s health alongside psychological training.
• Internship and Practicum Opportunities: Strong programs provide hands-on training through internships, practicums, or capstone projects. These experiences are critical for applying theoretical knowledge, building a professional network, and meeting licensure or certification requirements.

What career paths are available to graduates of online sports psychology degree programs?

Graduates of online sports psychology degree programs can pursue several rewarding roles that blend mental performance, physical health, and personal development. Many of these roles are considered among the best psychology jobs due to their impact and versatility:

• Clinical Psychologists: Psychologists specializing in sports psychology work with athletes to enhance performance, manage stress, and recover from injury. Professionals with advanced licensure can also address clinical mental health concerns.
• Coaches and Scouts: Coaches and scouts use sports psychology principles to improve athlete motivation, build team cohesion, and evaluate talent. This role often combines practical coaching experience with a psychological understanding of performance.
• Exercise Physiologists: Exercise physiologists develop fitness and rehabilitation plans that integrate physical training with mental resilience strategies. They help clients achieve peak performance or recover from injury.
• Health Education Specialists: Health education specialists create programs that promote mental and physical wellness among athletes and active populations. They often work at schools, athletic organizations, or public health agencies.
• School and Career Counselors and Advisors: School and career counselors and advisors can apply sports psychology techniques to guide student-athletes in managing academic, athletic, and career decisions, offering support during critical transition periods. Professionals seeking to enhance their expertise may consider shortest counseling psychology masters programs online to gain advanced skills in counseling and psychological support.

The chart below provides a visualization of the median annual wages of occupations in the field of psychology in the US in May 2024, according to 2025 data from the US BLS.

What is the job market like for graduates of online sports psychology degree programs?

The job market for graduates with an online sports psychology degree shows stable and promising growth from 2023 to 2033 across several related careers (US BLS, 2025). Many graduates also transition into broader psychology fields, including organizational psychologist jobs, which apply psychological principles to improve workplace performance and team dynamics.

• Psychologists (7%): Employment for psychologists in the US is expected to grow faster than average, with an average of about 13,000 new job openings per year as demand for mental health and performance counseling rises.
• Coaches and Scouts (9%): Employment for coaches and scouts across the country has been projected to expand significantly due to increasing interest in sports instruction and talent recruitment, with approximately 41,800 annual openings over the decade.
• Exercise Physiologists (10%): Employment for exercise physiologists in the US is expected to see one of the fastest growth rates in health and fitness fields, adding an average of around 1,600 new positions each year as preventive and rehabilitative care gains emphasis.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Fast-Track Online Sports Psychology Degree Programs

How Do Accreditation and Licensing Impact Online Sports Psychology Degree Programs?

Accreditation and licensing serve as key benchmarks for program quality and professional legitimacy. Accredited programs adhere to rigorous academic standards and ethical practices, ensuring that course content, faculty credentials, and support services meet established industry benchmarks. This adherence not only enhances the credibility of the degree but also aligns with state-specific licensing requirements, which are critical for seamless entry into professional practice. Evaluating these factors helps prospective students make informed decisions by balancing quality and cost effectiveness with resources like online psychology degree programs affordable.

Can additional certifications enhance career prospects in sports psychology?

Integrating targeted certifications can provide a competitive edge in the evolving field of sports psychology. Supplementary credentials, such as specialized certifications in behavior analysis or mental performance coaching, can broaden the scope of professional practice and open up diverse career pathways. For instance, acquiring expertise through programs like the most affordable BCBA online programs may support roles that intersect behavioral science with sports dynamics. These certifications are designed to complement academic training by reinforcing practical skills, enhancing client engagement, and elevating treatment outcomes, which can be especially beneficial when pursuing advanced responsibilities or interdisciplinary positions.

Other Things You Need to Know About Accelerated Online Sports Psychology Degree Programs

Which degree is best for sports psychology?

The best degree for sports psychology is a bachelor's or master’s degree in psychology, sports psychology, or kinesiology, often followed by a doctorate for clinical or licensed practice roles.

What are the two types of sports psychology?

The two types of sports psychology are clinical sports psychology and educational sports psychology. Clinical sports psychology focuses on mental health issues, while educational sports psychology emphasizes performance enhancement and mental skills training for athletes.

Who is the father of sport psychology?

Coleman Griffith is considered the father of sport psychology in the US for pioneering research in athletic performance and establishing the first sports psychology laboratory in the country in the 1920s.

What is the highest-paid sport psychologist?

In the US, the average annual salary for sport psychologists was $92,813 in July 2025 (ZipRecruiter, 2025). Notably, an individual must be a licensed psychologist to acquire sport psychology as a proficiency as recognized by the APA. Moreover, psychologists in the highest 10% across the country in terms of wage earned over $157,330 in May 2024 (US BLS, 2025).