Sport Psychology

In Florida State University’s Sport Psychology graduate programs, you will receive a solid understanding of theory and research as it relates to sport psychology. 

Specifically, you will gain an understanding of the science of the psychology of athlete performance and welfare. You will also have opportunities to join research teams, build research skills, and, in our Sport Psychology Laboratory, learn to use technologies that support research projects in the field of sport psychology. Learn more about our Sport Psychology Laboratory here

While the focus of our graduate programs is on the science of sport psychology, we also offer optional opportunities to apply this understanding by working with athletes to help them learn to use mental skills that enhance their performance and welfare. We have established links allowing hands-on experiences with clubs and teams operating at the recreational, youth, high school, college, and semi-professional levels in the local area. Mentorship is provided to students who are involved in applied work and seeking Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) status. 

Master’s students typically obtain 40-80 hours of direct contact hours with athletes over two years; 200 are required for CMPC certification. Students will also receive 20 hours of mentorship countable towards CMPC; 50 are required for CMPC certification. PhD students can expect to obtain more hours. Note that the mentorship offered does not lead to licensure, meaning students are not able to use the title “sport psychologist” upon graduation. 

The rigorous training provided in the science of sport psychology enables our graduates to confidently enter employment in higher education and the sport and performance industries. Our former students work in universities all over the world and help support mental performance in a wide range of settings including college and professional sports and the military.