If you’re interested in sports psychology, you can earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or even a doctorate degree in this field. A sports psychologist is a licensed mental health professional with the necessary training to help athletes improve their performance and focus. Many collegiate teams as well as national sports organizations hire sports psychologists to help their athletes cope with frustration as well as achieve their goals and continue their athletic careers.

My Degree and What It’s Good For

Sports psychology degree programs are growing and for good reason. Many schools, sports training facilities, and athletic organizations need qualified mental health professionals to deliver a variety of services to their athletes. Depending on what program you choose, you’ll likely complete a series of coursework that covers such topics as:

• Applied Motor Learning
• Athletic Motivation
• Motivational Coaching
• Multiculturalism in Sports Psychology
• Sports Psychology Research Methods
• Therapeutic Counseling for Athletes

My Earning Potential

Your earning potential will vary depending on a number of factors. Your employer, years of experience, education, and location will determine your salary. In May 2011, The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a mean annual wage of $73,090 for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists. Specific salary data for sports psychologists was not available. But given the clinical background you’ll receive as a sports psychology student, you may earn a similar wage.

Sports Psychology Degree Programs