Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology (MS-SPP)

The Master of Science in sport and performance psychology (MS-SPP) offers advanced training for leaders in psychology, coaching, education, healthcare, business and administration. Using positive psychology and the applied sport psychology scientist-practitioner model of training, the program is designed to help students develop the necessary skills to take their performance to the next level.

The curriculum has been designed specifically to allow students to complete coursework required to obtain certification as a Certified Mental Performance Consultant® (CMPC®) through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Students are advised to remain informed of current CMPC® standards and work directly with program faculty to assure compliance with both graduation and CMPC® requirements.

Mission Statement

The mission of the sport and performance psychology programs is to develop competent sport and performance psychology scientist-practitioners who affirm the uniqueness and value of all people. Graduates will be equipped to lead effectively, apply theoretical principles within their chosen profession, implement evidence-based interventions in a variety of performance domains, and improve the performance and mental well-being of individuals and groups.

Admission Requirements - MS-SPP

UWS admits new students into the MS-SPP program in fall (October) and spring (April) academic quarters. Applicants should carefully review the program’s selection criteria to ensure they are making the best possible presentation of their qualifications. The application for admission is available on the UWS website.

In addition to the general entry requirements for the College of Graduate Studies, students must also meet specific entry requirements listed below for the sport and performance psychology program.

• Official transcripts showing successful completion of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA.
• Write and submit a personal essay addressing a provided prompt.
• Applicants are required to participate in a group meet and greet session with the MS-SPP director or a program faculty member.
• Two letters of recommendation, at least one of which must be academic in nature.
• Current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Application fee.
• Pass a comprehensive criminal history background check (requirement at admission).

Students may not be simultaneously enrolled in a program in clinical mental health counseling and a program in sport and performance psychology. Students may not be enrolled in two SPP programs simultaneously.

Graduation Requirements - MS-SPP

The MS-SPP degree is conferred upon an individual who has fulfilled the following requirements:

• Maintenance of enrollment eligibility through satisfactory academic performance, professional development and behavior.
• Successful completion, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, of all required coursework.

Concentrations - MS-SPP

Students can select between 2 optional concentrations designed to allow specialization in an area of interest. A student who wishes to change their concentration may contact their student success advisor at [email protected].

Positive Coaching Concentration

The positive coaching concentration allows students to enhance and expand their roles as athletic/business coaches, administrators, or supervisors/managers within their chosen field. Coupled with the required courses, students selecting the positive coaching concentration combine their knowledge of sport and performance psychology with the principles of positive psychology to make an immediate impact in their coaching practice.

Applied Practice Concentration

The applied practice concentration allows students to complete a portion of the mentorship hours toward becoming a Certified Mental Performance Consultant® (CMPC®). Combined with the 10 required courses, students selecting the applied practice concentration are mentored toward eventual professional practice in sport and performance psychology.

Program Learning Outcomes - MS-SPP

Graduates of the MS-SPP program will be able to be able to:

1. Evaluate the predominant theories and emergent trends within the discipline of sport and performance psychology
2. Distinguish between various ethical codes within the mental health counseling and performance consulting professions, and articulate the rationale for disparities among them.
3. Demonstrate, through discussion, presentation, and in writing, the development of a professional consulting philosophy integrating the disciplines of psychology, sport science, and counseling.
4. Create performance enhancement interventions incorporating a variety of research-supported techniques to improve performance and overall wellness.
5. Develop culturally responsive consulting strategies based upon the relationships, issues, and trends within a multicultural society.
6. Utilize allied theories and concepts to develop an integrated approach to sport and performance consulting. (applied practice concentration)
7. Synthesize the current research and theory within positive psychology to develop coaching and leadership interventions both within and outside of sport. (positive coaching concentration)