Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Psychology

What Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Psychology?

A bachelor’s degree in sports psychology is a traditional undergraduate program that typically requires around 120 credit hours. Various types of educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and online learning platforms offer these programs. The average length of a bachelor’s degree program in sports psychology is typically four years of full-time study.

Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in sports psychology may choose this path for several reasons. A bachelor’s degree provides a solid foundation in the field, offering a broad understanding of the psychological aspects that influence sports performance and athlete well-being. It can serve as a stepping stone for further education at the master’s in sports psychology or Ph.D. in sports psychology levels, leading to specialized career opportunities in sports psychology or related fields.

A bachelor’s in sports psychology is also ideal for students interested in coaching, athletic training, fitness instruction, kinesiology, or sports management. Graduates may also pursue roles in youth sports programs, wellness organizations, or school-based athletic counseling.

When comparing programs, prospective students often search for the best online bachelor’s in sports psychology programs that are accredited, flexible, and affordable.

2026 Best Sports Psychology Bachelor's Programs

Welcome to sportspsychology.org, where we rank the best sports psychology bachelor's programs to help you find the right fit for your education. Our team has carefully evaluated schools based on key factors like curriculum quality and student support, ensuring you get reliable information. In today's world, online programs are becoming more important, offering flexibility through distance learning or virtual options for those who need it. For a full breakdown of how we create these rankings, check out our methodology at https://www.sportspsychology.org/ranking-methodology/. Below, you'll find our top picks to guide your decision.

#1

California Baptist University

Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu

Bachelor's - Sport and Performance Psychology, BS

Online Learning - Visit Website

California Baptist University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology, designed to build skills in enhancing human potential through psychological principles. This 100% online program, accredited by WSCUC, requires no specific entrance exam like ACT or SAT, focusing instead on a faith-integrated curriculum that includes cognitive psychology, exercise physiology, and ethical practices. With classes starting every 8 weeks and a completion time of 16 months, it prepares graduates for careers in athletic coaching and mental health, emphasizing strategic thinking and character development. The cost is $520 per unit, and it is transfer-friendly with three semesters annually.

• 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

#2

Kent State University

Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu

Bachelor's - Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology

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Kent State University's online Bachelor of Science in Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology is a 120-credit program that can be completed in four years, focusing on psychological principles in athletic and performance contexts. It covers motivation, mental training, and performance enhancement, preparing graduates for careers in coaching and athlete support. The program is entirely online, offering flexibility, and requires ACT or SAT scores for admission, with tuition approximately $52,200 for Ohio residents. Emphasizes practical skills, ethical practices, and research training, making it ideal for those seeking accessible, comprehensive education in sports psychology.

• 100% online degree program
• 120 total credit hours
• Graduate in 4 years
• Focuses on performance psychology
• Tuition ~$52,200 for Ohio residents
• Multiple career pathway options
• Psychological performance focus
• Practical skills development
• Ethical practice principles
• Research and intervention training

#3

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Bachelor's - Counseling and Applied Psychological Science (Sport and Performance Counseling)

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Arizona State University's online Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science with a concentration in Sport and Performance Counseling is a 120-credit program designed to explore the psychological aspects of athletic performance. It prepares students for careers in sports, wellness, and organizational settings by teaching skills in motivation, stress management, and behavior analysis. The program includes a required internship for practical experience and does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, as it is an online degree. It offers 40 classes, each lasting 7.5 weeks, with the next start date in March 2025, and is military-friendly.

• Online Bachelor of Science program
• 120 total credit hours
• 40 total classes
• 7.5 weeks per class
• Next start date: 03/17/2025
• Concentration in Sport Performance
• Internship in sport/mental health
• No direct sport psychologist path
• Prepares for advanced studies
• Career paths in coaching, wellness

#4

National University

San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology

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National University's Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology is an online program that does not require the ACT or SAT for admission, offering a flexible four-week course format with year-round enrollment. The curriculum covers mental skills training, cultural influences, and performance enhancement, preparing students for careers in coaching, performance analysis, or graduate studies. With 180 quarter units and a focus on research design, this multidisciplinary program emphasizes practical insights into athletic motivation and achievement.

• 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

#5

Faulkner University

Montgomery, AL - Private 4-year - faulkner.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Sports Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Faulkner University's online Bachelor of Science in Sports Psychology prepares students for careers in athletic support, coaching, and fitness through a faith-based curriculum. With small class sizes of 15 students, this program emphasizes a Christian worldview and requires ACT or SAT scores for admission. Priced at $325 per semester hour, it offers flexible online learning, making it accessible and affordable for high school graduates and diverse learners, including international students.

• Online Bachelor of Science offered
• Tuition $325 per semester hour
• Small class sizes (15 students)
• Faith-based curriculum
• Flexible online format
• Career paths in athletic support
• High school graduate requirement
• ACT/SAT score requirements
• Multiple campus locations
• International student diversity

*Data accessed from: IPEDS 2024, National Center for Education Statistics.

Online Bachelor’s in Sports Psychology Curriculum & Tuition

The curriculum of a bachelor’s degree program in sports psychology covers various topics related to psychology and sports. While specific course offerings may vary between institutions, typical subjects covered in a bachelor’s in sports psychology program include:

• Introduction to Sports Psychology
• Sports Performance Enhancement
• Exercise and Health Psychology
• Psychological Aspects of Coaching
• Sport and Exercise Physiology
• Applied Sport Psychology
• Psychological Issues in Sport Injury and Rehabilitation
• Sport and Exercise Psychology Research Methods
• Psychopathology in Sports

Some programs also offer elective courses in areas such as diversity in sport, leadership in coaching, mental health in athletics, or the psychology of youth sport. Students may also complete capstone projects or internships to gain practical, hands-on experience in sports-related psychological services.

Tuition costs can vary significantly depending on the institution and whether the program is delivered online or on campus. On average, tuition for a bachelor’s degree in sports psychology can range from $20,000 to $40,000 per year at traditional universities. However, it’s important to note that tuition rates may fluctuate, and financial aid options, scholarships, and grants may be available to help offset the costs. Some online programs offer per-credit pricing and reduced tuition for in-state students or active-duty military. Look for cost-per-credit breakdowns when comparing schools.

Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Psychology Online?

Yes, there are online options available for individuals interested in pursuing a degree in sports psychology (including a bachelor’s degree). Online bachelor’s programs in sports psych offer the flexibility of studying from anywhere, at any time, making them an attractive choice for those with other commitments or limited access to campus-based programs. Here’s what to know about online sports psychology bachelor’s degree programs:

• Online bachelor’s in sports psychology programs mirror on-campus curriculum.
• Course materials, lectures, and assignments are accessed through a virtual platform.
• Online programs offer virtual discussions, interactive exercises, and collaboration opportunities.
• Accreditation is crucial for ensuring quality education and meeting industry standards – always choose a sports psychology degree program accredited and approved by organizations such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
• Researching institutions and programs is essential when considering an online program. Be sure yours is reputable and accepts students from your state.
• Check whether your online program offers academic advising, career counseling, or graduate school preparation services.
• Some schools offer fully asynchronous courses, while others may require live sessions or on-site intensives. This is an important consideration for students needing maximum flexibility.

Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Psychology Program Prerequisites

Admission requirements for bachelor’s degree programs in sports psychology can vary between institutions. However, common prerequisites include:

• High school diploma or equivalent, with official transcripts
• Completed application form and payment of any applicable fees
• Official transcripts from previous educational institutions
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement or essay
• SAT or ACT scores (in some cases)
• Some programs may allow transfer credits from associate degree programs in psychology, kinesiology, or health sciences

It’s important to review the specific requirements of the institutions you are interested in to ensure a complete and accurate application.

Overall, a bachelor’s degree in sports psychology provides a strong foundation in the field, combining psychological principles with sports-related applications. By understanding the curriculum, exploring online options, and meeting the typical prerequisites for admission, individuals can embark on a fulfilling educational journey in sports psychology.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Sports Psychology?

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in sports psychology may qualify for roles such as:

• Mental skills coach (under supervision)
• Athletic trainer (with additional certification)
• Health and wellness coordinator
• Sports program director
• Fitness or strength and conditioning coach
• Youth sports counselor
• Behavioral health assistant in sports-focused clinics

This degree also lays the groundwork for further graduate study, which is often required to become a licensed sports psychologist or mental performance consultant.

List of Sports Psychology Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Browse our state-by-state list of campus and online sports psychology bachelor’s degrees to find a program near you.

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