masters in sports psychology onlineIn this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable online master’s in sports psychology programs.

The American Psychological Association defines sport psychology as a proficiency that uses psychological knowledge and skills to address the optimal performance and overall well-being of athletes. Graduate programs in sports psychology prepare individuals for careers in coaching, sport or athletic administration, and sport psychology. Online options are available from some of the nation’s top institutions. These school offers master’s in sports psychology online degrees that won’t interfere with your daytime obligations, such as work and family.

Top 30 Most Affordable Online Master’s in Sports Psychology Programs Methodology

We looked at approximately 115 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered affordable master’s in sports psychology online degree programs. We also considered programs in athletic and sport coaching, kinesiology, sport exercise, sport science, and other closely related degree programs that offered sport psychology classes. To narrow our original pool of schools, we applied the following criteria: Regional or national accreditation, institution and program rankings by U.S. News and World Report, and graduate tuition that did not exceed $50,000. We listed the top 30 master’s in sport psychology online programs according to raw affordability.

Below is our list of the top 30 most affordable online master’s in sports psychology programs.

#30 – University of Denver

Online Master’s in Sport Coaching

Denver, Colorado

Website

University of Denver - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Ranked & accredited – University of Denver’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $49,695

The University of Denver’s online master’s in sports coaching combines affordable tuition and rigorous curriculum designed to help students become successful mentor, leaders, and coaches at the secondary and postsecondary levels. The program is housed within the University of Denver Graduate School of Psychology and focuses on the physical, mental, and academic development of student athletes. The program is delivered entirely online and is designed for current and aspiring coaches at all junctures of their careers. The program is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Courses may include athletic and performance nutrition, biomechanics of athletic performance, motor learning and sport pedagogy, and sociocultural aspects of sport coaching. U.S. News and World Report ranks The University of Denver #96 in national universities.

#29 – Drexel University

Online Master’s in Sport Coaching Leadership

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Website

Drexel University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Ranked with U.S. News! Drexel University’s master’s in sports psychology online degree program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $34,995

Drexel University’s online master’s in sports coaching is designed for full or part-time coaches seeking to build upon their knowledge and skill of student athlete development through a graduate program that combines the flexibility of online course delivery and the rigor of a top accredited national university. The program is taught by Drexel’s full-time faculty and focuses on several areas such as budgeting and fiscal management, NCAA compliance, sports psychology, athletic performance, and recruiting. Students can choose from sport-specific concentrations in lacrosse and rowing. Courses are divided into four 10-week quarters and include coaching theory and principles, development and fundraising strategies in sport, equipment management and rigging for high performance, and sport performance and energy systems. U.S. News and World Report ranks Drexel University #102 in national universities.

#28 – A. T. Still University

Online Master’s in Kinesiology

Kirksville, Missouri

Website

A. T. Still University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
A.T. Still University offers affordable options for a master’s in sports psychology online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $29,166

A.T. Still University’s online kinesiology degree is designed for working professionals to complete their graduate education without having to put their career on hold. The program focuses on developing practitioners ready to push their programs and businesses forward through deepened knowledge in functional anatomy, kinesiology, behavior, and assessment. The program is geared to current or aspiring fitness professionals, educators, coaches, club owners, and athletic personnel. The program is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Courses include advanced fitness nutrition, evidence-based practice and research methods, functional assessment of movement patterns, exercise and sport related nutrition, and motivational strategies for physical activity among older adults.

#27 – California Southern University

Online Master’s in Sports Psychology

Irvine, California

Website

California Southern University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
The master’s in sports psychology online program at California Southern University is ranked and accredited.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,890

California Southern University offers an affordable master’s in sports psychology online designed to prepare practitioners for a variety of exciting careers. Graduates go on to careers in coaching, counseling, consulting, and more. The skills and knowledge learned in the degree are transferable to a variety of contexts and professions. The degree is housed within California Southern’s School of Behavioral Sciences and features courses such as applied sport psychology, current issues in sport psychology, enhancing performance preparation and motivation, and the psychology of coaching. And because all of the coursework is delivered online, the degree is an excellent option for working professionals seeking graduate coursework without career interruption.

#26 – Northcentral University

Online Master’s in Athletic Coaching

San Diego, California

Website

Northcentral University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
15 months! Northcentral University’s master’s in sports psychology online program moves at a quick pace.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,917

Northcentral University offers an online master’s in sports coaching for current or aspiring coaches at all levels. The program seeks to develop skills and competencies in all areas of coaching such as leadership, nutrition, exercise science, ethics, performance, and compliance. The 30-credit program includes ten 3-credit courses that can be completed in just 15 months. The program is delivered entirely online with no campus requirements. Additionally, the coursework requires no scheduled lectures or group assignments, which means students have maximum flexibility to learn on their own time. All faculty members have doctoral degrees and interact with students in a one-on-one manner.

#25 – Barry University

Online Master’s in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology

Miami, Florida

Website

Barry University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Human performance! Barry University – master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,820

Barry University’s master’s in sports psychology online offers a comprehensive curriculum towards the development of skills and knowledge to influence the processes that drive human performance in sport and exercise. Courses focus on the mental and physical aspects of performance with coursework that includes behavior modification, introduction to neuropsychology, physiology of treatment and substance abuse, sport and exercise psychology professional practice, and sport and exercise psychology service delivery. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, UGPA of 3.0 or above, acceptable GRE score, two letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and resume. U.S. News and World Report rank Barry University #230 in national universities.

#24 – Medaille College

Online Master’s in Psychology with Sports Psychology Concentration

Buffalo, New York

Website

Medaille College - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's Sports Psychology Online
Fast-paced program! Medaille College’s master’s in sports psychology online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,240

Medaille College’s online master’s in sports psychology offers flexibility with rigor in a program that can be completed in just one year. Students can take anywhere from 1-4 courses in a semester with each course lasting  seven weeks. The psychology program offers a sports psychology concentration that prepares students for leadership careers such as sports psychologists, coaching, consulting, and more. Admission requirements include a professional resume, personal statement, and two professional letters of recommendation. A Skype or telephone call is recommended. Medaille College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education to confer the degree of master’s of psychology to those who successfully complete coursework and other requirements. Medaille ranks #142 in regional universities North according to U.S. News and World Report.

#23 – California University of Pennsylvania

Online Master’s in Sport Psychology

California, Pennsylvania

Website

California University of Pennsylvania - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
The master’s in sports psychology online program at California University of Pennsylvania is fully online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,672

California University of Pennsylvania offers a comprehensive and affordable master’s in sports psychology online that teaches students how to help athletes achieve peak physical and mental performance. The program can be completed in 12 months attending full-time or 17 months part-time. The sports psychology degree requires completion of 36 credits. Students also have the option of choosing a dual concentration in sports psychology and either applied sport science, group fitness leadership, nutrition, performance enhancement and injury prevention, wellness and fitness, rehabilitation science, or wellness coaching. Courses may include business and entrepreneurship in the fitness industry, essentials of human movement, and nutrition for peak performance. U.S. News and World Report rank The California University of Pennsylvania #142 in regional universities North.

#22 – Lock Haven University

Online Master’s in Sport Science

Lock Haven, Pennsylvania

Website

Lock Haven University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Affordability! Lock Haven University’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,896

Lock Haven University offers an online master’s in sports psychology through the Lock Haven University Department of Sport Studies. The program draws faculty from The Stephen Poorman College of Business, Information Systems, and Human Services. The 30-credit offering is delivered fully online and can be completed in just one year with full-time attendance. Students can also attend part-time. Courses may include counseling skills for sport psychology, ethics in applied sport psychology, multicultural and ethnic diversity for sport psychology consulting, and stress management for the physically active. U.S. News and World Report ranks Lock Haven University #126 in regional universities North.

#21 – University of Mary

Online Master’s in Kinesiology

Bismarck, North Dakota

Website

University of Mary - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Ranked and affordable! University of Mary’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,630

The University of Mary offers a hybrid online kinesiology degree that combines distance courses with intermittent campus visitations. The program focuses on teaching students in-depth skills and knowledge related to biomechanics and analysis of movement needed to excel in career fields such as coaching rehabilitation, or in further schooling. Featured courses include critique and design of research, diversity in cultural and human relations, ethics in education and human performance, and foundations and concepts in human performance. Admission criteria include a bachelor’s degree in athletic training, exercise science, physical education or related field and minimum UGPA of 3.0. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Mary #111 in regional universities Midwest.

#20 – National University

Online Master’s in Performance Psychology

La Jolla, California

Website

National University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Meets national standards! National University’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,480

National University’s master’s in sports psychology online ranks as one of the most affordable programs of its kind. The program requires completion of 67.5 quarter units of which the student may transfer up to 13.5 credits from another program or institution upon approval of National University. Courses may include counseling in performance psychology, ethics in performance psychology, multicultural issues in performance consulting, and stages of adult development. The program is delivered fully online, making it a plausible option for working professionals who desire graduate education without career interruption. Completion of the coursework meets the academic requirement for certification by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology.

#19 – California Baptist University

Online Master’s in Kinesiology

Riverside, California

Website

California Baptist University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Regionally ranked! California Baptist University’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,130

Similar to an online master’s in sports psychology, the California Baptist University master’s in kinesiology online degree prepares students to work with individuals to perform at their best. The degree crosses several disciplines and provides graduates with deep knowledge of movement, fitness, and wellness. These skills can be parlayed into a variety of careers such as fitness trainers, gym owners, coaches, consultants, educators, and athletic administration. The entire 30-credit program can be completed in just 12 months. Courses may include advanced study of sport and exercise physiology, ethics and leadership in kinesiology, fitness testing and exercise prescription for special populations, and legal aspects of kinesiology. U.S. News and World Report rank California Baptist #32 in regional universities West.

#18 – Southeastern University

Online Master’s in Kinesiology

Lakeland, Florida

Website

Southeastern University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Only 33 credits! Southeastern University’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,155

Southeastern University offers a hybrid online kinesiology degree blending online coursework with classroom requirements that prepares students for a variety of career paths upon graduation. Students have gone on to careers as college instructors, fitness professionals, high school physical education teachers, head coaches, athletic administrators, consultants, and more. Completers of the program are eligible to receive a physical education teaching certificate and high school athletic director certificate from the Association of Christian Schools International. The program is 33 credits and ranks as one of the most affordable of its kind in the industry. Southeastern University ranks 107 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.

#17 – University of Florida

Online Master’s in Sport Management

Gainesville, Florida

Website

University of Florida - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Ranked & affordable! Multiple specializations offered in University of Florida’s master’s in sports management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,737

The University of Florida offers a degree similar to an online sports psychology program that focuses on sport management and performance. The master of science in sport management offers specializations in athlete development, high performance coaching, and sport law. Courses within the program include athlete training and development, finance for sport organizations, psychology and physiology of high performing athletes, and risk management and legal issues relating to sport. Students who choose the athlete development specialization qualify to further pursue certification via the Professional Association of Athlete Development Specialists. U.S. News and World Report ranks The University of Florida in several categories including #35 in national universities.

#16 – Removed by Editor

#15 – University of Northern Colorado

Online Master’s in Sport Coaching

Greeley, Colorado

Website

University of Northern Colorado - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
30 credits! University of Northern Colorado’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,444

The University of Northern Colorado’s online master’s in sport coaching is very similar to an online master’s in sports psychology. The program includes as one of its main learning outcomes and objectives to teach graduates the psychological aspects of sport and performance. The 30-credit hour master’s program includes courses such as bridging theory and practice in sports coaching, evaluation of coaching using technology, sport administration for sport coaching, sports coaching principles and perspectives, and training and conditioning principles for sports coaches. The program holds level 5 accreditation from the National Committee for Accreditation of Coaching Education, only one of seven institutions to be awarded such a designation. U.S. News and World Report rank University of Northern Colorado #230 in national universities.

#14 – The University of Texas

Online Master’s in Kinesiology

Austin, Texas

Website

The University of Texas - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Affordability! UT’s master’s in sports psychology online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,742

The University of Texas Consortium offers an online kinesiology degree combining the resources of four University of Texas institutions to provide one of the most affordable and flexible online kinesiology graduate programs in the country. Coursework may include advanced exercise physiology, analysis of teaching and coaching behavior, administration of physical education and activities, and advanced scientific principles of strength training and conditioning. Students take online courses taught by faculty at all four institutions, but need only apply to one university. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in athletic administration, coaching, physical education, fitness entrepreneurship, and more. The online aspect makes the program an excellent solution for current or aspiring students who work full-time and are not able to attend traditional courses on campus.

#13 – Xavier University

Online Master’s in Coaching Education and Athlete Development

Cincinnati, Ohio

Website

Xavier University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Ranked with U.S. News! Xavier University’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,716

The Xavier University online master’s in sports coaching ranks as one of the most affordable online degree programs of its kind. The 33-credit program is delivered entirely online, making it an excellent option for current or aspiring coaches and athletic personnel to pursue graduate education without sacrificing their personal and professional obligations. The cohort-based program is designed to be completed in just 24 months and requires students to take six credits per term during fall, spring, and summer semesters. Coursework includes coaching ethics and philosophy, psychosocial aspects of coaching, sport leadership and team building, sport pedagogy and coaching analysis, and the science of performance. U.S. News and World Report rank Xavier University #8 in regional universities Midwest.

#12 – University of Missouri

Online Master’s in Educational, School and Counseling Psychology

Columbia, Missouri

Website

University of Missouri - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
100% online! University of Missouri’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,017

The University of Missouri offers an online master’s in sports coaching through its College of Education. The program includes an emphasis on positive coaching that focuses on the complete development of student athletes as whole beings. The degree has a great amount of utility for coaches, athletic administrators, wellness coordinators, academic advisors, and P.E. teachers, and more. The 100% online delivery means individuals who are not able to attend on-campus courses can still pursue a rigorous and accredited graduate degree from a state flagship university. Courses include administration of athletic programs, applied positive coaching, foundations of sport performance, and legal aspects of sport and coaching. U.S. News and World Report rank University of Missouri #129 in national universities.

#11 – West Virginia University

Online Master’s in Sport Coaching

Morgantown, West Virginia

Website

West Virginia University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Only ten classes! West Virginia University’s master’s in sport coaching online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,990

West Virginia University offers an online master’s in sports coaching requiring the completion of 30 credits spread across 10 classes. The curriculum is designed according to the International Sport Coaching Framework that focuses on athletic performance, character development, and overall well-being. Current or aspiring coaches and athletic personnel are welcome to apply to the program. A bachelor’s degree from any field is accepted and does not have to be related to coaching, physical education or kinesiology. Students must have access to working with youth in their own communities through a school or community-based organization. Courses include coaching techniques, interscholastic sport organization and administration, motor behavior for sport coaches, and psychology of coaching. U.S. News and World Report ranks West Virginia University #205 in national universities.

#10 – University of Western States

Online Master’s in Sport and Performance Psychology

Portland, Oregon

Website

University of Western States - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Ideal for working students! University of Western States – master’s in sports psychology online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,950

The University of Western States offers students an online master’s in sports psychology that requires 53-quarter credits (35.3-semester credits). The degree is delivered entirely online making it one of the most convenient and flexible options for full-time working individuals not able to take on-campus classes. The program offers a concentration in positive coaching and prepares students for a sports related career or further doctoral study. Career options include athletic administration, coaching, college teaching, consulting, academic advising, counseling, and more. The University of Western States specializes in healthcare related careers and is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

#9 – Ohio University

Online Master’s in Coaching Education

Athens, Ohio

Website

Ohio University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
No GRE scores required! Ohio University’s master’s in sports psychology online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,720

Ohio University offers an online sports psychology program that prepares graduates for successful careers as athletic coaches. The curriculum is built on the National Standards for Sport Coaches and features classes such as coaching performance evaluation, finance for athletic coaches, injury prevention and risk management in coaching, performance and conditioning for athletic coaches, and research and analysis methods for athletic coaches. Program admission requires a minimum 2.7 GPA, minimum three years of coaching experience, three letters of recommendation, resume, and bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. No GRE scores are required. U.S. News and World Report ranks Ohio University #171 in national universities.

#8 – University of Southern Mississippi

Online Master’s in Sport Coaching Education

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Website

University of Southern Mississippi - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
100% online! University of Southern Mississippi’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,624

The University of Southern Mississippi provides interested learners with an online master’s in sports coaching. The degree offers a great amount of career utility as graduates go on to careers as sports coaches, college scouts, strength and conditioning coaches, athletic administrators, and more. The degree focuses on the development of the complete athlete from a mental, emotional, and performance viewpoint. The 100% online delivery means working professionals can keep their commitments, and place-bound students now have access to accredited graduate education even without a campus nearby. Coursework includes advanced development of strength and conditioning programs, advanced sport coaching methodology, foundations and trends in kinesiology, organizational leadership and management in sport, and sports psychology. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southern Miss #230 in national universities.

#7 – John F. Kennedy University

Online Master’s in Sports Psychology

Pleasant Hill, California

Website

John F. Kennedy University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Ranked & affordable! John F. Kennedy University’s master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,500

John F. Kennedy University offers an online sports psychology program dedicated to the athletic and mental development of people of all ages. Graduates learn the skills and knowledge required to assist individuals in reaching their full athletic and mental potential. Courses include cognitive and affective bases of behavior, counseling skills, ethics and professional issues in sport psychology, and social and historical issues in sport. The program is practitioner based and provides students with a plethora of hands-on learning through field experiences of over 600 hours. U.S. News and World Report recognize John F. Kennedy University in its 2019 cohort of best regional universities West.

#6 – Concordia University

Online Master’s in Coaching and Athletics Administration

Irvine, California

Website

Concordia University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
15 months! Concordia University’s master’s in sports psychology online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,774

Concordia University at Irvine offers one of the top ranked, most affordable online master’s in sports coaching. The 36-credit program can be completed in just 15 months from start to finish. And because the degree is delivered entirely online, students do not need to discontinue their current careers or sacrifice their personal obligations for the sake of graduate education. Core classes include culminating project, ethics and sport, legal aspect of sport, principles of coaching and leadership, and research methods and analysis. U.S. News and World Report rates Concordia University Irvine as a top tier regional university and ranks the institution #37 in best regional universities West for its 2019 cohort.

#5 – Adams State University

Online Master’s in Applied Sport Psychology

Alamosa, California

Website

Adams State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
100% online! Adams State University – master’s in sports psychology online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,311

Adams State University’s master’s in sports psychology online is rated one of the most affordable degrees of its kind in the country. The degree also offers flexibility through its 100% online delivery, which makes it an outstanding choice for working professionals or those not able to relocate. The 36-credit program takes just two years to complete and provides students with an internship opportunity to gain hands-on experience. The curriculum is practitioner focused and teaches students the skills necessary to be a successful sports psychologist. Completion of the program assists students towards the attainment of Certified Mental Performance Consultant through the Association of Applied Sport Psychology, widely considered the top designation in the field. U.S. News and World Report ranks Adams State #96 in regional universities West.

#4 – University of West Alabama

Online Master’s in Experimental Psychology

Livingston, Alabama

Website

University of West Alabama - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
The master’s in sports psychology online program at University of West Alabama is ranked and affordable.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,868

The University of West Alabama offers a leading master’s in sports psychology online designed to prepare graduates for clinical applications of sports and health-related psychology principles and skills. Courses within the curriculum include advanced sports psychology, the diagnosis process for mental disorders, psychology and sociology of human performance, and techniques of counseling. The program provides a wide array of health and sports related career paths into occupations such as coaching, scouting, health and performance consulting, athletic administration, and college teaching. Applicants do not need an undergraduate degree in a related field, but must have successfully completed nine hours of undergraduate psychology courses. U.S. News and World Report rank West Alabama #107 in regional universities South.

#3 – University of South Dakota

Online Master’s in Kinesiology and Sport Management

Vermillion, South Dakota

Website

University of South Dakota - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Ranked & affordable. University of South Dakota’s master’s in sports psychology online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,835

The University of South Dakota offers a very robust and comprehensive online kinesiology degree that includes teaching and training in the areas of human movement and performance along with athletic administration and leadership. Graduates are well versed in the skills needed to assist athletes with their performance as well as the leadership qualities needed to run an organization or department. Courses include applied physiology of exercise, evaluation of research in kinesiology and sport management, foundations of statistics, laboratory techniques in exercise physiology, and mechanics of motor learning. U.S. News and World Report rank University of South Dakota #226 in national universities.

#2 – American Military University

Online Master’s in Sports and Health Sciences

Charles Town, West Virginia

Website

American Military University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
Transfer credits accepted! American Military University’s master’s in sports psychology online degree programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,600

American Military University’s online sports psychology program provides an accredited and affordable graduate education for current or aspiring sports and health science professionals. Students can choose from concentrations in exercise science and human performance and health and wellness management. The program is accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to confer the master’s degree to those who successfully complete requirements. The 36-credit offering can be completed in just two years with full-time enrollment. Additionally, students can transfer in up to 15 credits from other institutions or programs upon approval. U.S. News and World Report recognizes American Military University in its 2019 cohort of top regional universities South.

#1 – University of North Georgia

Online Master’s in Kinesiology

Dahlonega, Georgia

Website

University of North Georgia - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Sports Psychology Online Programs 2019
#1 most affordable master’s in sports psychology online – University of North Georgia.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,926

As an alternative to an online sports psychology program, The University of North Georgia offers a master’s degree in science with a major in kinesiology. The program is specifically for physical educators or those in related occupations to learn advanced knowledge and skills required to help athletes achieve their potential in both mental and physical performance. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with at least a 2.75 GPA. Additionally, students must achieve a minimum combined score of 301 on the GRE exam as well as following all application guidelines as stated by the North Georgia graduate admission school. U.S. News and World Report ranks North Georgia #58 in regional universities South.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with a master’s in sports psychology online degree?

While psychology-related occupations are well established and have a long history, a career in sports psychology is a fairly new phenomenon. The job is a specialty niche within the field of psychology, and there is a great amount of variance within the field in terms of types of organizations and contexts as well as pay. Individuals with a master’s degree in sports psychology can follow several paths into fruitful careers where they help athletes of all levels reach their peak physical and mental performance.

The three major pathways into a career as a sports psychologist are through institutions of higher education, the military, and private practice. There are dozens of Division I institutions that have sports psychologists on staff to assist student athletes with the mental preparation to play their sport. Additionally, they assist students with balancing the demands of being a full-time student and athlete.

According to the American Psychological Association, the largest employer of sports psychologists is the United States Military. Dealing with high stress and competitive situations are common for soldiers. Sports psychologists, known as Performance Enhancement Specialists, work with soldiers on properly handling adversity before, after, and during conflict. Moreover, they work with families and friends on coping with tragedy and loss.

The third type of career for a sports psychologist is owning or participating in a private practice. These sports psychologists may work with elite level athletes, weekend warriors, or both to help them develop mental toughness that drives results.

What is the job outlook for individuals graduating with a master’s in sports psychology online degree?

The job outlook for individuals graduating with an online master’s in sports psychology is quite strong according to our research gathered from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and PayScale.com. Both leading data analytics organizations expect the occupational growth rate to far outpace the average rate for all occupations. According to BLS, psychologists’ occupations will increase 14 percent from 2016-2026.

The United States sports market generates an estimated $400 billion in revenue annually. Passion for sports and performance is a cultural staple embedded into western society. As such, the demand for individuals with the skills and knowledge to help athletes at all levels, from professionals to weekend warriors, is only increasing as people want to reach their athletic potential. As research advances, it is clear that mental performance is a major determinant in how athletes perform physically.

Sport psychologist opportunities are not just limited to the field of competition either. Job opportunities are opening up in a wide range of occupations as sports psychologists help executives, military personnel, salespeople, and performers deal with adversity within the competitive contexts of their jobs. In short, sports psychologists’ ability to help people properly deal with adversity can be applied to several career fields and contexts, thus increasing demand for their services.

How much will I earn with a master’s in sports psychology online degree?

As with most occupations, there are several variables that dictate earnings. Factors such as geographic location, years of experience, type of organization, and economic climate all play salient roles in how much someone with an online master’s in sports psychology will earn.

According to data analytics and software company PayScale, the average annual salary for a sports psychologist is $68,853. The bottom 10% of earners make $49K per year while the top 10% bring home an average salary of $110K. Because the field is relatively new, PayScale states 43% of sports psychologists are in the nascent stages of their careers having just 1-4 years of experience. This bodes well for earnings as this shows individuals who are first entering the field can earn an attractive salary. In total, 74% of PayScale’s sample of sports psychologists have nine years of experience or less.

When disaggregating the data further to dissect how industry might play a role in compensation, the metrics show sports psychologists working in postsecondary education and the military earn less than their peers working for boutique, private sports psychologist practices. Individuals working for colleges, universities, and the military have more stable and consistent pay and benefits, while their counterparts working in private practices have far more earning potential, but assume much more risk. Sports psychologists who are fortunate enough to have client lists full of elite college and professional athletes can easily earn well into the high six-figure range, although this is not common.

What are the admission requirements for master’s in sports psychology online degree programs?

Admission standards for an online master’s in sports psychology vary greatly. As with the majority of programs, the admission standards are largely predicated on the ranking and prestige of the institution. Highly selective programs tend to have far more competitive and rigorous admission criteria such as top GRE scores, undergraduate GPAs, and prerequisite courses. Less selective institutions often waive graduate record admission (GRE) scores should applicants have experience in the field, a solid undergraduate GPA, or a master’s degree.

Selective institutions often look for candidates with GRE scores for both quantitative and qualitative that range in the 75th percentile and above. Additionally, these institutions also want to see writing scores ranging from 4-6. Undergraduate GPAs should be a minimum of 3.0 or above, with most candidates having a 3.3 or higher. Because sports psychology is a relatively new field, it is not always a requirement to have experience in the field or an academic background in psychology. The most selective schools like applicants to have a completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution along with approximately nine semester credits of undergraduate psychology courses completed with a minimum grade of a “B.” Programs specializing in coaching will require a minimum of two years’ coaching experience.

Less selective institutions will often require an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher combined with a bachelor’s degree from a nationally or regionally accredited institution. These institutions will often not require GRE or MAT test scores as part of their application process. Applicants are always welcome to send them in, but those without scores will not be penalized as they are not a metric that is considered in the application.

How long does it take to earn a master’s in sports psychology online degree?

Online degrees are known for their flexibility that allows students to earn their graduate degree on a part or full-time basis. As such, completion times vary depending on the student’s personal situation and the completion parameters established by the individual institution and program. The majority of online master’s in sports psychology programs can be completed in approximately two years based on full-time enrollment. The typical full-time credit load at the graduate level is six semester credits (two classes per term). Many institutions shorten their classes to 6-8 weeks in length, which allows students to complete two in one semester without having to take more than one class at a time.

Shorter programs range from 12 to 15 months when students attend full-time. Some programs can be completed within this timeframe with zero transfer credits from other programs or institutions while some programs factor in transfer credits when disclosing timeframes. Efficiency and speed are often important factors for online graduate students, but maximum time to complete should be factored in when choosing which institution to apply.

Online students typically have obligations such as family and work. With this in mind, many programs allow students to fluctuate their enrollment between full and part-time. It is quite common for students to attend on a part-time basis throughout the duration of their program. The majority of programs also allow students to “stop out” for a semester without having to reapply. Most programs allow students a maximum of 5-6 years to complete the degree. Should they exceed the timeframe, they are required to reapply and may potentially have to complete additional courses.

BCO Staff
May 2019

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This concludes our list of the top 30 most affordable master’s in sports psychology online programs.