Sports Psychology Programs in Kansas

Sports Psychology Programs in Kansas

You may find that options are limited when it comes to in-person sports psychology programs in Kansas. Currently only one exists in the state–the Master’s in Health Education & Psychology of Physical Activity offered by the University of Kansas. However, there are many options available online or in neighboring states. See the sections below for more information.

• Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) programs in Sports Psychology are undergraduate programs that lay a foundation in 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, designed to prepare students with more in-depth knowledge of the field.
• Graduate Certificate: Designed for individuals who hold 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 within sports psychology. These programs emphasize research, advanced coursework, and clinical practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles and academic positions in sports psychology.

Do Online Sports Psychology Programs Exist in Kansas?

Online sports psychology programs offer several advantages, including the ability to study at one’s own pace, access to resources and materials from anywhere, and the opportunity to connect with professionals and students from diverse backgrounds. Aspiring sports psychologists in Kansas can explore online programs offered by universities in neighboring states to expand their education, however, no Kansas universities currently offer this option.

Sports Psychologist Licensure & Certification in Kansas

To practice as a sports psychologist in Kansas, professionals must fulfill specific licensure requirements set by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. The licensure process involves several steps:

• Educational Requirements: Aspiring sports psychologists in Kansas typically need to obtain a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. in sports 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 involves working under the guidance of experienced sports psychologists to obtain a hands-on understanding of the practice.
• Licensing Examination: After fulfilling the required educational and clinical requirements, candidates must pass a licensing examination administered by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. This examination assesses their knowledge of psychology principles, ethics, and the application of psychological techniques in sports settings.

Sports psychologists can also pursue certifications to further enhance their credentials and demonstrate niche expertise. Two certifications in the field of sports psychology include 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.

Meeting licensure requirements and obtaining relevant certifications through organizations such as the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) can establish sports psychologists in Kansas as qualified professionals in the field.

Sports Psychology Career Opportunities in Kansas

Kansas offers various 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:

• University of Kansas Athletics Department
• Kansas State University Athletics
• Wichita Wind Surge (Minor League Baseball)
• Topeka Pilots (Junior Hockey League)

In Kansas, sports psychologists have the opportunity to work directly with athletes, offering individual counseling, performance enhancement techniques, and mental health support. They can also collaborate with coaches, trainers, and medical professionals to create comprehensive athlete support programs. With mental health awareness on the rise, athletes and teams are increasingly grateful for the impact that sports psychologists can make.

List of Sports Psychology Programs Offered in Kansas

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