Sports Psychology Programs in Kentucky

In Kentucky, the intersection of sports and psychology is gaining significant traction, offering a plethora of opportunities for individuals passionate about both disciplines. Sports psychology programs in the state are experiencing a surge in interest as athletes, coaches, and organizations recognize the critical role mental wellness plays in athletic performance. With a diverse array of academic institutions and sports programs, Kentucky provides fertile ground for aspiring sports psychologists to pursue their education and embark on rewarding careers in this dynamic field.

Sports Psychology Degree programs in the State of Kentucky
SportsPsychology.org Staff Writer | Updated/Verified: Aug 4, 2025

Sports Psychology Programs in Kentucky

Kentucky is home to a variety of degree programs in sports psychology at two different levels–master’s and bachelor’s. These degree programs give the student a comprehensive understanding of the psychological factors influencing sports performance, including overcoming anxiety and bouncing back mentally from injuries.

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Kentucky universities offer Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) programs in Sports Psychology. This 4-year undergraduate program lays a foundation for comprehending the psychological factors that impact sports performance and prepares students for further specialization in the field.
  • Master’s Degree: Master’s programs in Sports Psychology provide advanced coursework and practical training in sports psychology. Students can pursue a Master of Science (M.S.) or Master of Arts (M.A.) degree.
  • Graduate Certificate: Designed for individuals who hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field, graduate certificate programs offer focused training in sports psychology, giving professionals the ability to specialize in the field. Currently, no sports psychology graduate certificate programs exist in Kentucky.
  • 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 attainable. These advanced programs emphasize research, advanced coursework, and clinical practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles and high-level positions within sports psychology. Kentucky students looking to get their doctorate in sports psychology will have to do so in another state as there are currently no sports psychology doctorate degree programs available in Kentucky.

Sports psychology programs available in Kentucky include the Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Sports Psychology at the University of Kentucky and the Master of Science in Kinesiology with a specialization in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Western Kentucky University.

Do Online Sports Psychology Programs Exist in Kentucky?

Online degree programs have become an increasingly popular option for students in Kentucky and across the country. Online sports psychology programs offer many advantages, including:

  • The ability to study at one’s own pace
  • Access to resources and materials from anywhere
  • The opportunity to connect with professionals and students from different backgrounds

While no Kentucky Universities currently offer these options, students within the state are able to access online sports psychology curriculums from across the country from the comfort of their own homes.

2026 Best Sports Psychology Programs in Kentucky

Kentucky offers exceptional sports psychology programs that help athletes enhance mental performance and overcome psychological challenges. At sportspsychology.org, we've carefully evaluated universities across the state that provide top-tier training for aspiring sports psychologists. Our comprehensive research considers factors like faculty expertise, research opportunities, clinical experiences, and student success rates. These programs prepare professionals to work with athletes at various levels, from high school teams to professional sports organizations. Athletes and sports psychology students can find world-class educational pathways in Kentucky that combine rigorous academic training with practical, real-world mental performance strategies.
#1

Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY - Public 4-Year - wku.edu

Bachelor's - Psychology

Concentration: Sport Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Kentucky University's Sport Psychology Concentration within its Bachelor of Arts in Psychology offers an innovative pathway for students seeking to understand the psychological dynamics of athletic performance. The program distinguishes itself through interdisciplinary training that bridges psychological principles with sport-specific insights. Students explore motivation, human development, and advanced psychological techniques applicable in sports environments. With a minimum of 53 semester hours and no additional major requirement, the program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in sport psychology, performance coaching, and research. Admission requires an ACT score of 20 or a 2.5 GPA, ensuring a focused and academically rigorous learning experience for aspiring sport psychology professionals.

  • Sport Psychology Concentration (B.A.)
  • Minimum 53 semester hours
  • No additional major required
  • ACT 20 or 2.5 GPA admission
  • Core courses in psychology
  • Interdisciplinary coursework included
  • Career paths in sport psychology
  • Research and application focus
  • Comprehensive psychology training
*Information from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 dataset.

Sports Psychologist Licensure & Certification in Kentucky

To practice as a sports psychologist in Kentucky, professionals must fulfill specific licensure requirements set by the Kentucky Board of Examiners of Psychology. The licensure process involves several steps:

  • Educational Requirements: Aspiring sports psychologists in Kentucky typically need to obtain a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. in psychology or sports psychology from an accredited university. A doctoral degree provides a comprehensive foundation in psychological theories, research methodologies, and clinical practices.
  • Supervised Clinical Experience: Hands-on practice working under a licensed psychologist or sports psychologist is another requirement to ensure that students obtain real-world experience.
  • Licensing Examination: After fulfilling the required educational and clinical requirements, candidates must pass a licensing examination administered by the Kentucky Board of Examiners of Psychology. This examination assesses their knowledge of psychology principles, ethics, and the application of psychological techniques in sports settings.

In Kentucky, sports psychologists can pursue certifications to further enhance their expertise in the area. The two main 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky

Kentucky offers many career opportunities in sports psychology. Graduates can find employment in a variety of diverse settings, including professional sports organizations, college athletic departments, sports academies, rehabilitation centers, and private practice. Common employers in Kentucky include:

Sports psychologists in Kentucky have the chance to directly assist athletes by providing individual counseling, performance enhancement techniques, and mental health support. They can collaborate with coaches, trainers, and medical professionals to create comprehensive athlete support programs. With the growing recognition of the importance of mental health in sports, sports psychologists have many opportunities to make a difference in athletes’ lives and athletic organizations’ success.

List of Sports Psychology Programs Offered in Kentucky

Jump to City:

Bowling Green, KY

Western Kentucky University

  • Bachelor's - Psychology

    Concentration: Sport Psychology - Campus Based - Website

    • Sport Psychology Concentration (B.A.)
    • Minimum 53 semester hours
    • No additional major required
    • ACT 20 or 2.5 GPA admission
    • Core courses in psychology
    • Interdisciplinary coursework included
    • Career paths in sport psychology
    • Research and application focus
*Source documentation: IPEDS 2023 Technical Review Panel report, NCES.

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