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
Looking for the best sports psychology programs in California? sportspsychology.org has you covered. Our rankings highlight top schools where you can study how the mind affects athletic performance. These programs stand out for their quality, expert faculty, and success in the field. Whether you're aiming to work with athletes or research performance, California offers excellent options. Find out how we rank these programs by checking our ranking methodology.
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu
Bachelor's - Sport and Performance Psychology, BS
Online Learning - Visit Website
California Baptist University's online Bachelor of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology equips students with essential psychological skills to help individuals enhance human potential. This comprehensive program blends strategic thinking, communication techniques, and character development, preparing graduates to excel in mental health and performance optimization. Students gain a robust foundation in cognitive psychology, exercise physiology, and ethical practices, positioning them for impactful careers in athletic coaching, mental health, and performance consulting.
- 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 offers a comprehensive program designed to train mental performance consultants across diverse domains. Students gain advanced skills in psychological strategies to enhance performance in sports, exercise, surgical skills, performing arts, and combat contexts. The curriculum prepares professionals to apply evidence-based techniques for improving mental and physical performance, meeting certification requirements from the Association of Applied Sport Psychology. Graduates develop expertise in counseling, performance enhancement, and psychological interventions.
- 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 Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology provides a comprehensive introduction to the dynamic field of sports psychology. This innovative program prepares students to explore the psychological factors influencing athletic performance, motivation, and physical activity participation. Designed for aspiring coaches, performance analysts, and future graduate students, the curriculum delves into mental skills training, cultural influences, and performance enhancement techniques. Students gain practical insights into the intricate relationship between mental processes and athletic achievement, positioning themselves for diverse career opportunities 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
Elevate athletic performance with National University's cutting-edge Master of Science in Sport Psychology. This comprehensive 36-credit program equips professionals to enhance mental wellness and performance across diverse athletic environments. Designed for aspiring mental performance consultants, the curriculum meets certification standards and prepares students for roles in youth, collegiate, and professional sports. Completed in just 18-21 months, the fully online program offers flexible weekly start dates and provides advanced training in psychological principles, research methods, and performance enhancement techniques.
- 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
National University's Master of Arts in Sport and Performance Psychology offers a cutting-edge program designed for professionals seeking to excel in mental performance consulting. Students can complete this rigorous online degree in as little as 14-22 months, gaining comprehensive skills in performance enhancement, counseling, and psychological assessment. The program is certified by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) and provides extensive practical training, including over 200 direct client contact hours. With no GRE requirement and flexible online coursework, students can develop advanced techniques for supporting athletes, performers, and teams across diverse settings.
- 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
Dive into the cutting-edge field of Sports Psychology with National University's dynamic Master's program. This comprehensive 14-22 month online degree equips professionals with advanced mental performance techniques across diverse settings. Designed for aspiring performance consultants, coaches, and mental health professionals, the program offers flexible learning, no GRE requirement, and practical training aligned with Association for Applied Sport Psychology certification standards. Students gain hands-on experience through mentored practicums, developing skills in performance enhancement, counseling, and multicultural approaches.
- 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
Dive into the dynamic world of Sport and Performance Psychology with National University's cutting-edge PhD program. Designed for aspiring professionals, this 100% online doctorate provides unparalleled flexibility and personalized mentorship. Students gain advanced skills in mental performance coaching, leadership strategies, and ethical practices. The comprehensive curriculum explores critical topics like sports injury rehabilitation, motivation techniques, and cultural diversity. With 60 credit hours and an estimated 48-month completion time, this program equips passionate individuals to excel in sports psychology research, coaching, and performance enhancement.
- 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
Northcentral University
San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Sport Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
National University's Master of Science in Sport Psychology is a comprehensive 36-credit online program designed for professionals seeking advanced training in mental performance consulting. In just 18-21 months, students gain expertise in performance enhancement techniques, psychological principles, and ethical practices across diverse athletic settings. The curriculum aligns with certification requirements and provides practical skills for working with athletes at youth, collegiate, and professional levels. Ideal for career-driven individuals, the program offers flexible weekly course starts and a potential pathway to doctoral studies.
- 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 - Visit Website
Embark on a transformative journey in Sport and Performance Psychology with National University's comprehensive PhD program. Designed for ambitious professionals, this 100% online doctoral degree equips you with advanced research skills, critical thinking abilities, and cutting-edge performance enhancement strategies. Dive deep into motivation, leadership, ethics, and psychological principles that drive athletic excellence. The flexible program allows you to balance personal and professional commitments while pursuing your academic goals, with weekly course starts and personalized mentoring from doctoral-level faculty.
- 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
- One-to-One Faculty Engagement
- Specialization in Sport Psychology
Hope International University
Fullerton, CA - Private 4-year - hiu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Dive into the fascinating world of Sport Psychology at Hope International University, where passion meets performance. This comprehensive Bachelor of Arts program equips students with deep insights into human behavior, mental skills, and athletic performance. Ideal for aspiring professionals seeking to understand the psychological dynamics of sports, the program provides a robust foundation for graduate studies and diverse career paths. Students learn cutting-edge mental techniques, explore performance optimization strategies, and develop critical research skills that can transform athletic experiences.
- 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
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 provides a comprehensive graduate-level experience blending research and applied training. Students gain flexibility to customize their studies across interdisciplinary domains, preparing for diverse career paths in coaching, doctoral studies, teaching, and private practice. The nationally recognized faculty offers robust mentorship, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a rich historical legacy in sport psychology dating back to the 1940s.
- 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
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 is key for students in California looking to start their careers in 2025. The table lists options for Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees, focusing on low-cost and cost-effective choices. It helps compare tuition ranges, making it easier to pick a program that fits your budget. Whether you're in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or elsewhere in CA, affordable education can open doors to opportunities in sports psychology without breaking the bank.
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
San Jose State University
- Master's - Sport Psychology
Campus Based - Website
- 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
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