Sports Psychology Programs in California
Sports psychology plays a vital role in enhancing athlete performance and well-being. By understanding the psychological aspects of sports, athletes can improve their mental resilience, focus, and overall athletic results. California, a state known for its passion for sports and home to various athletic programs, offers exciting prospects for aspiring sports psychologists. Below, we will explore the sports psychology programs available in California, including degree options, online programs, licensure and certification requirements, and career opportunities.
Sports Psychology Programs in California
California provides a range of degree programs in sports psychology, depending on the educational background of the student. Universities in the state offer bachelor’s, master’s, and graduate certificates in sports psychology (however, there are currently no doctorate degrees). These programs equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological factors influencing sports performance, injury recovery, and overall athlete well-being.
- Bachelor’s Degree: California universities offer Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) programs in Sports Psychology. These undergraduate programs establish a foundation for comprehending the psychological factors that impact sports performance and prepare students for further specialization in the field.
- Master’s Degree: Master’s programs in Sports Psychology provide advanced coursework and practical training. Students can pursue a Master of Science (M.S.) or Master of Arts (M.A.) degree, acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to work with athletes in diverse settings.
- Graduate Certificate: Designed for individuals with a master’s or doctoral degree in a related field, graduate certificate programs offer focused training in sports psychology, allowing professionals to enhance their expertise in the field.
- Doctorate Degree: Doctoral programs in Sports Psychology, such as Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.), provide the highest level of education in the field. These programs emphasize research, advanced coursework, and clinical practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles and academic positions in sports psychology.
Notable sports psychology programs available in California include the Master of Arts in Applied Sport and Performance Psychology offered by the Dominican University of California, and the Master of Arts in Sport Psychology at California State University, Fullerton. These programs provide students with a solid foundation in sports psychology principles and practical skills to work with athletes and sports teams effectively.
Do Online Sports Psychology Programs Exist in California?
In response to the growing demand for flexible education, online sports psychology programs have gained popularity nationwide. California offers specific online sports psychology programs through various state universities, such as the Bachelor’s Degree in Sport and Performance Psychology offered by California Baptist University. These online programs enable students to pursue their studies remotely, providing flexibility for those with other commitments or residing outside the state.
Online sports psychology programs provide several advantages, including the ability to study at one’s own pace, access resources and materials from anywhere, and connect with professionals and students from diverse backgrounds. Aspiring sports psychologists in California can explore online programs offered by renowned universities within the state or in other states to expand their knowledge and skills in the field.
2025 Best Sports Psychology Programs in California
California stands at the forefront of sports psychology education, offering world-class programs that prepare athletes and professionals to excel in mental performance. Our team at sportspsychology.org has carefully analyzed and ranked the top sports psychology programs across the state, considering factors like faculty expertise, research opportunities, and student success rates. These programs provide cutting-edge training in mental skills, performance enhancement, and athlete wellness. Students can expect comprehensive curricula that blend academic rigor with practical experience. For a detailed breakdown of our evaluation process, visit our ranking methodology.
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu
Bachelor's - Sport and Performance Psychology, BS
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Bachelor of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology at California Baptist University offers a flexible, faith-integrated curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in mental health and performance optimization. This 49-unit program can be completed in 16 months, focusing on cognitive psychology, exercise physiology, and ethical practices. It is transfer-friendly, with classes starting every 8 weeks, and costs $520 per unit. Graduates are equipped for roles in athletic coaching and performance consulting. Requires ACT/SAT.
- 100% Online Degree
- 49 Total Program Units
- 16 Months to Complete
- $520 Per Unit Cost
- Classes Start Every 8 Weeks
- Three Semesters Annually
- Transfer-Friendly Program
- WSCUC Accredited Degree
- Multiple Career Pathways
- Faith-Integrated Curriculum
Master's - Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
California Baptist University's Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology is a campus-based program that prepares students to become mental performance consultants. It focuses on applying psychological strategies across various performance domains, including sports, performing arts, and combat. The curriculum is designed to meet certification requirements from the Association of Applied Sport Psychology, emphasizing counseling, performance enhancement, and psychological interventions. Highlights include a 43-unit program, multiple practicum experiences, and a focus on professional ethics and advanced research methodology. Requires GRE.
- Master of Science degree
- 43 total program units
- Certification preparation
- Broad performance domains
- Multiple practicum experiences
- Prerequisites include Psychology
- Anatomy/Physiology recommended
- Statistics course required
- Professional ethics focus
- Advanced research methodology
National University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's online Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology explores the psychological factors influencing athletic performance, motivation, and physical activity. Geared towards aspiring coaches and performance analysts, this program delves into mental skills training, cultural influences, and performance enhancement. The curriculum provides a foundation for graduate studies and diverse career paths in sports, wellness, and performance optimization.
- Four-week course format
- Year-round enrollment available
- Online and in-person options
- 13 major requirement courses
- 180 total quarter units needed
- Upper division electives offered
- Focuses on performance psychology
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Multidisciplinary curriculum
- Research design component included
Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's online Master of Science in Sport Psychology equips professionals to enhance mental wellness and athletic performance. This 36-credit program, completed in 18-21 months, aligns with CMPC certification standards. Flexible weekly starts accommodate working professionals. The curriculum covers psychological principles, research methods, and performance enhancement techniques applicable to youth, collegiate, and professional sports.
- 100% Online Master's Program
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion Time
- Weekly Course Starts
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Focuses on Performance Enhancement
- Career Opportunities in Multiple Industries
Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Applied Mental Performance - Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology at National University, with an Applied Mental Performance concentration, prepares students for mental performance consulting. This AASP-certified program provides over 200 direct client contact hours, focusing on performance enhancement, counseling, and assessment. The flexible, 14-22 month program requires no GRE.
- Online Master's degree program
- 14-22 months completion time
- No GRE required for admission
- AASP certification pathway
- 200+ direct client contact hours
- Two specialization tracks available
- Comprehensive mentored training
- Performance psychology focus
- Ethical practice emphasis
- Multicultural competence training
Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Theoretical Mental Performance - Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's online Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology, with a Theoretical Mental Performance concentration, offers advanced training in mental performance techniques. This 14-22 month program requires no GRE and aligns with AASP certification standards. Students gain practical experience through mentored practicums, focusing on performance enhancement, counseling, and multicultural approaches. The program includes 200 direct client contact hours.
- Online Master's Degree
- No GRE Required
- 14-22 month completion
- AASP certification track
- Mentored practicum experience
- 200 direct client contact hours
- Specializations in Applied/Theoretical Mental Performance
- $0 application fee
- Comprehensive Written Exam required
- Quarterly unit-based program
Doctorate - PhD Specialization in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Sport and Performance Psychology - Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's online PhD Specialization in Sport and Performance Psychology offers advanced training in mental performance coaching, leadership, and ethics. This 60-credit hour program, estimated to take 48 months, delves into sports injury rehabilitation, motivation, and cultural diversity. The flexible online format includes personalized mentorship, preparing graduates for research, coaching, and performance enhancement roles.
- 100% Online PhD Program
- New Start Date Every Monday
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- 20 Total Courses
- 48 Months to Complete
- No Scheduled Lecture Hours
- Weekly Course Assignments
- One-to-One Faculty Engagement
- Doctoral Faculty Mentorship
- Specialization in Sport Psychology
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA - Public 4-Year - sjsu.edu
Master's - Sport Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
San Jose State University's Sport Psychology program delivers an advanced graduate-level educational experience that uniquely bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application. Distinguished by its interdisciplinary approach, the program empowers students to explore complex psychological dynamics in athletic performance. Students benefit from faculty with profound research expertise, accessing specialized research labs and engaging in mentorship opportunities that extend beyond traditional academic boundaries. The curriculum strategically prepares graduates for diverse professional pathways, including coaching, clinical practice, academic research, and doctoral-level studies. With a legacy dating back to the 1940s, the program maintains a reputation for innovative sport psychology training that adapts to evolving athletic and mental performance landscapes.
- Interdisciplinary graduate program
- Customizable research focus
- Qualitative research lab available
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Diverse career preparation paths
- Historical roots since 1940s
- Graduate research methods courses
- Mentorship from experienced professors
California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA - Public 4-Year - fresnostate.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
California State University-Fresno's Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology offers an intensive 30-unit graduate program designed to equip professionals with cutting-edge mental performance skills. The curriculum strategically integrates sport psychology interventions, coaching techniques, and injury psychology to develop comprehensive practitioner expertise. Students benefit from a rigorous academic environment that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing them to work effectively with athletes across diverse competitive levels. The program's alignment with Association for Applied Sport Psychology core competencies ensures graduates are well-positioned to pursue Certified Mental Performance Consultant certification and engage in advanced research methodologies.
- 30-unit Master's degree
- AASP core competency aligned
- Thesis or project option
- Sport Psychology Lab
- CMPC certification preparation
- Research methods focus
- Internship opportunities available
- Graduate Teaching positions
- Advanced sport psychology courses
- Counseling techniques elective
Hope International University
Fullerton, CA - Private 4-year - hiu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hope International University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology, designed for students passionate about the psychological aspects of sports and performance. This on-campus program delves into human behavior, mental skills, and strategies for enhancing athletic performance. It prepares students for a variety of careers or further graduate studies by covering essential topics such as motivation, performance optimization, and sports psychology theory. The curriculum is research-oriented, offering students the opportunity to engage in internships and study abroad, enriching their educational experience and preparing them for the challenges of the sports psychology field. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Bachelor of Arts degree
- Prepares for graduate study
- Covers mental performance skills
- Multiple career opportunities
- Focuses on sports psychology theory
- Explore motivation and performance
- Research-oriented curriculum
- On-campus program
- Study abroad options
- Internship opportunities
Sports Psychologist Licensure & Certification in California
To practice as a sports psychologist in California, professionals must fulfill specific licensure requirements set by the California Board of Psychology. The licensure process involves several steps:
- Educational Requirements: Aspiring sports psychologists in California typically need to obtain a doctoral degree in psychology 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 entails working under the guidance of experienced licensed psychologists or sports psychologists and 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 California Board of Psychology. 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 California 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 California
California offers a wide range of career opportunities in sports psychology. Graduates can find employment in diverse settings, including professional sports organizations, college athletic departments, sports academies, rehabilitation centers, and private practice. Common employers in the state include:
- Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)
- San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
- University of Southern California Athletics Department
- Stanford University Athletics
Sports psychologists in California 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 the significance of mental health in sports, numerous opportunities exist for sports psychologists to make a profound impact on athletes’ lives and athletic performance.
2025 Affordable Sports Psychology Program Options
Finding affordable sports psychology programs can be tough. sportspsychology.org makes it easier by ranking top options that fit your budget. We look at cost, quality, and how well they prepare you for a career in sports psychology. Our rankings help you make a smart choice without breaking the bank. Check out our methodology to see how we pick the best programs. https://sportspsychology.org/rankings-methodology/
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| California Baptist University |
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| California State University-Fresno |
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| Hope International University |
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List of Sports Psychology Programs Offered in California
Fresno, CA
California State University-Fresno
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 30-unit Master's degree
- AASP core competency aligned
- Thesis or project option
- Sport Psychology Lab
- CMPC certification preparation
- Research methods focus
- Internship opportunities available
- Graduate Teaching positions
Fullerton, CA
Hope International University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Arts degree
- Prepares for graduate study
- Covers mental performance skills
- Multiple career opportunities
- Focuses on sports psychology theory
- Explore motivation and performance
- Research-oriented curriculum
- On-campus program
Pasadena, CA
Saybrook University
- Master's - MS in Sport Performance Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Two-year Master's Degree
- 40 Total Credits
- Virtual Learning Experience
- Optional Community Learning
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
- Professional Resume Required
- Personal Statement Needed
Riverside, CA
California Baptist University
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Science degree
- 43 total program units
- Certification preparation
- Broad performance domains
- Multiple practicum experiences
- Prerequisites include Psychology
- Anatomy/Physiology recommended
- Statistics course required
- Bachelor's - Sport and Performance Psychology, BS
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree
- 49 Total Program Units
- 16 Months to Complete
- $520 Per Unit Cost
- Classes Start Every 8 Weeks
- Three Semesters Annually
- Transfer-Friendly Program
- WSCUC Accredited Degree
San Diego, CA
National University
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Master's Program
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion Time
- Weekly Course Starts
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Focuses on Performance Enhancement
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Four-week course format
- Year-round enrollment available
- Online and in-person options
- 13 major requirement courses
- 180 total quarter units needed
- Upper division electives offered
- Focuses on performance psychology
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Doctorate - PhD Specialization in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Sport and Performance Psychology - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online PhD Program
- New Start Date Every Monday
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- 20 Total Courses
- 48 Months to Complete
- No Scheduled Lecture Hours
- Weekly Course Assignments
- One-to-One Faculty Engagement
- Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Applied Mental Performance - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's degree program
- 14-22 months completion time
- No GRE required for admission
- AASP certification pathway
- 200+ direct client contact hours
- Two specialization tracks available
- Comprehensive mentored training
- Performance psychology focus
- Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Theoretical Mental Performance - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's Degree
- No GRE Required
- 14-22 month completion
- AASP certification track
- Mentored practicum experience
- 200 direct client contact hours
- Specializations in Applied/Theoretical Mental Performance
- $0 application fee
Northcentral University
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion
- New Course Start Every Monday
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Flexible Learning Schedule
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
Concentration: Sport and Performance Psychology - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online PhD-PSY
- New Start Date Every Monday
- 48 Months Program Length
- 20 Total Courses
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- No Scheduled Lecture Hours
- Weekly Course Assignments
- Doctoral Faculty Mentorship
San Jose, CA
National University
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Master's Program
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion Time
- Weekly Course Starts
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Focuses on Performance Enhancement
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- Four-week course format
- Year-round enrollment available
- Online and in-person options
- 13 major requirement courses
- 180 total quarter units needed
- Upper division electives offered
- Focuses on performance psychology
- Prepares for graduate studies
- Doctorate - PhD Specialization in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Sport and Performance Psychology - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online PhD Program
- New Start Date Every Monday
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- 20 Total Courses
- 48 Months to Complete
- No Scheduled Lecture Hours
- Weekly Course Assignments
- One-to-One Faculty Engagement
- Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Applied Mental Performance - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's degree program
- 14-22 months completion time
- No GRE required for admission
- AASP certification pathway
- 200+ direct client contact hours
- Two specialization tracks available
- Comprehensive mentored training
- Performance psychology focus
- Master's - Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology
Concentration: Theoretical Mental Performance - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's Degree
- No GRE Required
- 14-22 month completion
- AASP certification track
- Mentored practicum experience
- 200 direct client contact hours
- Specializations in Applied/Theoretical Mental Performance
- $0 application fee
Northcentral University
- Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree
- 36 Total Credit Hours
- 12 Total Courses
- 18-21 Months Completion
- New Course Start Every Monday
- CMPC Certification Aligned
- FastForward PhD Pathway
- Flexible Learning Schedule
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
Concentration: Sport and Performance Psychology - Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online PhD-PSY
- New Start Date Every Monday
- 48 Months Program Length
- 20 Total Courses
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- No Scheduled Lecture Hours
- Weekly Course Assignments
- Doctoral Faculty Mentorship
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