Program Overview
Through coursework, research, and a practicum experience, students develop skills to enhance athletic performance, address mental health concerns, and prepare for careers in sport psychology and related fields. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and provides opportunities for students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Sport Psychology concentration within the Psychology B.S. Students explore how psychological factors influence athletic performance and how participating in sport and exercise impacts physical health and psychological well-being. The program emphasizes developing mental skills for improving performance and assisting athletes facing various mental health issues.
Objectives:
- Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles related to sport and exercise.
- Foster the ability to apply psychological theories and techniques to enhance athletic performance and address mental health concerns in athletes.
- Develop critical thinking and research skills to analyze and interpret sport psychology research.
- Prepare students for potential careers in sport psychology, counseling, coaching, and related fields.
Description:
The program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience through coursework, research opportunities, and a 120-hour practicum placement. Students gain insights into topics such as:
- Motivation and achievement in sport
- Stress and anxiety management
- Mental imagery and visualization
- Team dynamics and leadership
- Injury rehabilitation and recovery
- Nutrition and eating disorders
- Substance abuse prevention The program culminates in a senior thesis and a practicum experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and gain valuable hands-on experience.
Outline:
Course Schedule:
The program typically follows a four-year curriculum with a specific course sequence.
- Freshman Year: Introduces core psychology concepts, research methods, and general education requirements.
- Sophomore Year: Explores human development, social psychology, physiological psychology, and sensation & perception.
- Junior Year: Delves into psychology research methods, cognitive psychology, and specific areas of sport psychology.
- Senior Year: Focuses on conducting a research thesis, completing a practicum, and taking electives in areas of interest.
Individual Modules:
Freshman Year:
- PSYC1010 General Psychology
- INFS1020 Intro to Decision Support Systems
- HIST/POLS History/Political Science Core Course
- CSEN1010 Reading & Writing Strategies
- HUMA1010 Humanities Art & Music
Sophomore Year:
- ECON1010 Survey of Economics
- SOCI1010 Principles of Sociology
- MATH1050 Math Reasoning/Applications or higher
- CSCM1030 Public Speaking & Persuasion
- PSYC3500 Child Psychology OR PSYC3550 Human Growth & Development
- Literature Elective
- PSYC3600 Social Psychology
Junior Year:
- PSYC3100 Methods in Behavioral Research
- PSYC3450 Cognitive Psychology
- Course in Minor
- Course in Minor
- Open Elective
Senior Year:
- PSYC4823 Psychology Thesis
- PSYC4813 Psychology Practicum
- Course in Minor
- Open Elective
- Open Elective The senior year practicum involves 120 hours of supervised experience in a sport psychology-related setting. Students work with athletes, coaches, or organizations to gain practical experience and apply classroom learnings. They are required to keep a journal, document their experiences, and write a reflective paper comparing their experiences with theoretical knowledge.
Assessment:
Assessment methods may include:
- Exams: Tests and quizzes to evaluate understanding of key concepts and theories.
- Papers and assignments: Written assignments to demonstrate critical thinking, research skills, and application of knowledge.
- Presentations: Opportunities to present research findings or discuss topics related to sport psychology.
- Practicum evaluation: Supervisors assess students' performance during their practicum placement.
- Thesis defense: Students defend their research thesis before a faculty committee.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: Presentations by faculty members to introduce key concepts and theories.
- Discussions: Interactive sessions where students engage in discussions and share their perspectives.
- Case studies: Analyzing real-world scenarios to apply psychological principles to practical situations.
- Guest speakers: Experts in the field sharing their experiences and insights.
- Technology: Utilizing online resources and learning platforms to enhance the learning experience.
Faculty:
The program is led by experienced faculty members with expertise in various areas of sport psychology. They are actively involved in research and have extensive practical experience in the field.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes a hands-on approach through the practicum experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Additionally, the program may offer opportunities for students to engage in research projects, attend conferences, and network with professionals in the field.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the Sport Psychology program may pursue careers in various fields, including:
- Sport psychologist
- Counseling psychologist
- Athletic trainer
- Coach
- Mental health professional
- Fitness and wellness specialist
- Human resources professional
- Educator
Opportunities:
Graduates may find employment in various settings, such as:
- Professional sports teams
- Colleges and universities
- Private practices
- Community organizations
- Fitness centers
- Schools
Outcomes:
The program aims to prepare students for successful careers in sport psychology and related fields. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience to make a positive impact in the lives of athletes and individuals seeking to improve their mental well-being.
Other:
Sample Courses:
- Exercise and Health Psychology
- Human Growth and Development
- Psychology of Sport
Major Credits:
60
