Master of Science in Kinesiology – Sports Psychology
The Master of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sports Psychology is a rigorous graduate program designed for professionals seeking to master the mental and emotional dimensions of human performance, leadership, and well-being. This degree prepares graduates for advanced roles in mental performance coaching, player development, and wellness leadership within collegiate, professional, and ministry-based settings. Anchored in a Christian worldview, the curriculum emphasizes the integration of faith and high-level performance, viewing the athlete or performer through the lens of calling and whole-life discipleship. Please note that while this program provides expert training in mental performance, clinical licensure typically requires additional specialized academic and supervised pathways.
ADMISSIONS
Program Requirements
Admissions into the Master of Science in Kinesiology – Sports Psychology program are based on a holistic review of each applicant’s academic record, professional background, and commitment to faith-based excellence in performance coaching.
- A bachelor’s degree, preferably in kinesiology, psychology, or a related performance field.
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for full admission.
- Documented professional or volunteer experience in sport, fitness, or ministry contexts.
- Three professional references that speak to your character and performance potential.
- A structured Statement of Purpose outlining your professional calling and research interests.
- Commitment to ongoing academic standards, including a 3.0 graduate GPA and a final practicum or capstone project involving supervised applied work.
Mental Performance Coach
Apply psychological principles to enhance performance in non-clinical settings, helping athletes develop mental toughness and focused discipline.
Team Consultant & Culture Leader
Work with ministries, schools, or elite teams to optimize group dynamics, ethics, and team-wide wellness through a faith-based lens.
Transforming Performance: Career Pathways
The MS in Kinesiology – Sports Psychology equips you to bridge the gap between physical talent and psychological mastery. Our graduates are prepared to lead with a Christian worldview, fostering resilience and peak performance in athletes, teams, and organizations.
Sample roles represent non-clinical mental performance pathways. Students seeking clinical psychology licensure should consult with an advisor regarding additional supervised hours and state-specific requirements for professional clinical practice.
Director of Player Development
Lead long-term athlete growth strategies, integrating character formation and specialized leadership training within professional or collegiate environments.
Student-Athlete Support Director
Oversee academic and emotional support systems for student-athletes, ensuring whole-life discipleship and balanced success in sports and studies.
Required Hours
The MS in Kinesiology – Sports Psychology curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive mastery of mental performance and research. Below is a sample breakdown of the credit requirements.
18 Hours
Core Curriculum
9 Hours
Electives
6 Hours
Practicum/Capstone
33-36 Total Graduate Hours
Flexible Pathways for Professionals
The MS in Kinesiology – Sports Psychology program is uniquely designed to accommodate the demands of working professionals through flexible evening and online learning options. Our commitment goes beyond digital platforms, offering students direct access to close mentorship from faculty experts who are leaders in the field. Students often have the opportunity to serve alongside university teams, chaplains, and student-athlete support staff, gaining hands-on experience in high-performance environments while receiving tailored support services designed specifically for graduate-level adult learners.
Ready to take the next step? Connect with a graduate advisor today to explore how this program can advance your calling in sports psychology.