Sports Psychology Programs in New York

Sports psychology is a fascinating field that combines principles of psychology with the world of sports. It delves into understanding how psychological factors influence performance, motivation, and overall well-being in athletes. As the importance of mental health and performance optimization in sports continues to gain recognition, the demand for professionals in sports psychology has increased significantly. In New York, there are various programs available for individuals interested in pursuing a career in this exciting field.

Despite New York's reputation as a hub for education and innovation, the state is limited in its offerings for sports psychology programs at the undergraduate or graduate level. However, aspiring sports psychologists in New York have several alternative options to consider, including online programs and institutions located in neighboring states like New Jersey.

Sports Psychology Degree programs in the State of New York
SportsPsychology.org Staff Writer | Updated/Verified: Aug 11, 2025

2026 Best Sports Psychology Programs in New York

New York stands at the forefront of sports psychology education, offering some of the most comprehensive and innovative programs in the country. Sportspsychology.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the top institutions that provide exceptional training for aspiring sports psychologists. Our expert team has analyzed program curricula, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and student outcomes to identify the best educational pathways for those passionate about understanding the mental dynamics of athletic performance. These programs prepare students to work with athletes, coaches, and teams across various competitive levels, from high school sports to professional leagues. Our comprehensive rankings highlight the unique strengths of each institution. More details about our comprehensive evaluation process can be found on our ranking methodology page.
#1

Ithaca College

Ithaca, NY - Private 4-year - ithaca.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Sciences

Concentration: Mental Performance - Campus Based - Visit Website

Ithaca College's Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Sciences provides an immersive Mental Performance concentration targeting emerging sports psychology professionals. The 16-month program strategically prepares students for Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credentialing through comprehensive training in performance enhancement techniques. Students benefit from flexible thesis and non-thesis track options, accumulating 60-80 mentored hours while developing advanced psychological interventions for athletes. The curriculum emphasizes practical skill development across diverse athletic settings, positioning graduates for dynamic careers in sports performance psychology. Competitive applicants should note the Fall 2025 application opens with a May 1st deadline and utilizes a rolling admission process.

  • 16-month graduate program
  • Three specialized track options
  • CMPC certification preparation
  • Fall 2025 application open
  • Application deadline May 1st
  • Rolling admission process
  • 60-80 mentored hours
  • Thesis and non-thesis tracks
  • Diverse career opportunities
  • Sports performance focus
*Source: U.S. DOE National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 collection.

Do Sports Psychology Programs Exist in New York?

Despite the limited sports psychology programs within New York, there are several reputable institutions nearby that offer degrees and certifications in this field. These programs equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to work effectively with athletes, coaches, and sports organizations.

Bachelor's Degree in Sports Psychology

A Bachelor's degree in Sports Psychology provides students with a foundational understanding of psychology as it applies to athletics. Students learn about topics such as motivation, performance enhancement, sports-related injuries, and the psychological aspects of coaching and leadership. While New York may not offer dedicated undergraduate programs in sports psychology, there are institutions in nearby states that provide excellent options for aspiring sports psychologists.

Some of the closest Bachelor's degree programs in sports psychology include Rutgers University in New Jersey and Kent State University in Ohio. Both institutions offer comprehensive programs that combine coursework in psychology with a focus on sports-related topics. Additionally, online options such as Arizona State University provide flexibility for students who may prefer distance learning or have other commitments.

Master's Degree in Sports Psychology

A Master's degree in Sports Psychology delves deeper into the theoretical and applied aspects of the field, preparing graduates for careers in counseling, performance enhancement, coaching, and research. New York is home to Ithaca College’s Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Sciences with a concentration Mental Performance. You can even find these programs in neighboring states. Springfield College in Massachusetts and Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania both offer these programs.

Some of the top Master's degree programs in sports psychology include Lock Haven University and Cappella University. These programs typically offer opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, research projects, and practical training sessions.

Graduate Certificates in Sports Psychology

For individuals who may already hold a degree in psychology or a related field and are looking to specialize in sports psychology, graduate certificates offer a focused and efficient option. While graduate certificates may not be as comprehensive as Master's degree programs, they provide valuable knowledge and skills that can enhance a practitioner’s qualifications in the field.

Several institutions across the United States offer graduate certificates in sports psychology, including Seton Hall in New Jersey and California Southern University which also offers an online option. These programs often cover topics such as sport and exercise psychology, performance enhancement techniques, and applied counseling strategies tailored to athletes.

Doctorate Degree in Sports Psychology

A Doctorate degree in Sports Psychology is the highest level of education in the field and is typically pursued by individuals interested in advanced research, academia, or clinical practice. While New York may not offer specific doctoral programs in sports psychology, there are prestigious institutions nationwide that provide excellent options for aspiring scholars and practitioners.

Some of the leading universities offering Doctorate degrees in sports psychology include West Virginia University and the University of Tennessee. These programs emphasize advanced research methodologies, clinical practice, and interdisciplinary approaches to understanding the psychological aspects of sport and physical activity.

Sports Psychologist Licensure & Certification in New York

To practice as a sports psychologist in New York, professionals must fulfill specific licensure requirements set by the New York State Education Department. The licensure process involves several steps:

  • Educational Requirements: Aspiring sports psychologists in New York must obtain a doctoral degree in psychology or a related field from an accredited institution. This degree provides a comprehensive foundation in psychological theories, research methodologies, and clinical practices.
  • Supervised Clinical Experience: Alongside completing their doctoral program, individuals must gain supervised clinical experience. This involves working under the guidance of experienced licensed psychologists or sports psychologists acquiring practical training in providing counseling and mental performance enhancement techniques to athletes.
  • Licensing Examination: After fulfilling the educational and clinical requirements, candidates must pass a licensing examination administered by the New York State Education Department. This examination assesses their knowledge of psychology principles, ethics, and the application of psychological techniques in sports settings.

In addition to licensure, sports psychologists can pursue certifications to enhance their credentials further and demonstrate specialized expertise. Two popular certifications in the field of sports psychology are the Board Certified in Sport Psychology (BCS) and Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credentials. These certifications require a combination of education, supervised practice, and passing a certification examination.

By meeting licensure requirements and obtaining relevant certifications through organizations such as the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP), sports psychologists in New York can establish themselves as qualified professionals in the field. Their expertise in understanding and enhancing the psychological aspects of sports performance can significantly contribute to athletes’ success and overall well-being.

Sports Psychology Career Opportunities in New York

New York offers diverse career opportunities in sports psychology. Graduates can find employment in various settings, including professional sports organizations, college athletic departments, sports academies, rehabilitation centers, and private practice. Common employers in the state include:

Sports psychologists in New York can work directly with athletes, providing individual counseling, performance enhancement techniques, and mental health support. They can collaborate with coaches, trainers, and medical professionals to develop comprehensive athlete support programs. With the increasing recognition of mental health’s significance in sports, numerous opportunities exist for sports psychologists to make a profound impact on athletes’ lives and athletic performance.

List of Sports Psychology Programs Offered in New York

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Ithaca, NY

Ithaca College

  • Master's - Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Sciences

    Concentration: Mental Performance - Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month graduate program
    • Three specialized track options
    • CMPC certification preparation
    • Fall 2025 application open
    • Application deadline May 1st
    • Rolling admission process
    • 60-80 mentored hours
    • Thesis and non-thesis tracks
*Data derived from the 2023 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

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