Sports Psychology Programs in Oklahoma
As interest in the field of sports psychology continues to grow, Oklahoma offers a range of programs and opportunities for individuals aspiring to enter this dynamic and rewarding field. From undergraduate degrees to advanced graduate studies, Oklahoma provides a variety of options for students looking to pursue a career in sports psychology. With a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, these programs equip individuals with the skills and expertise needed to make a meaningful impact in the world of athletics. In this article, we'll explore the landscape of sports psychology programs in Oklahoma, highlighting the opportunities available for those passionate about the intersection of psychology and sports.
Sports Psychology Programs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers a variety of degree programs in sports psychology to cater to students at bachelor’s and master’s degree levels. These programs equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological factors that influence sports performance, injury recovery, and overall athlete well-being.
- Bachelor’s Degree: Oklahoma currently has a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program in Sports Psychology option offered at Oklahoma State University. These undergraduate programs lay the 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 especially for individuals who hold a master’s degree and, in some cases, a bachelor’s degree in a related field, Sports Psychology graduate certificate programs offer focused training in sports psychology. This is ideal for professionals who want to specialize in sports psychology without completing a lengthy full degree program.
- 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 for those who want the reach the most advanced roles in sports psych.
Oklahoma State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Applied Exercise Science for sports psychology students interested in enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program. For master’s degree students, check out East Central University’s Master’s Sport Psychology.
Do Online Sports Psychology Programs Exist in Oklahoma?
While 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 Oklahoma will need to explore online programs offered by renowned universities in other states as currently, none exist in Oklahoma.
2025 Best Sports Psychology Programs in Oklahoma
Finding the best sports psychology program in Oklahoma can shape your future in sports. At sportspsychology.org, we've ranked the top programs to help you choose. Our rankings focus on quality, faculty, and student success. Start your journey with a program that fits your goals. For more on how we rank, check our methodology.
Oklahoma Baptist University
Shawnee, OK - Private 4-year - okbu.edu
Bachelor's - Sport Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Oklahoma Baptist University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology, designed for students passionate about the intersection of psychology and athletics. This program stands out for its holistic approach to mental performance, integrating faith with science to enhance athlete well-being and performance. Students benefit from small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering all facets of sports psychology, supported by state-of-the-art exercise facilities. With a focus on career preparation, graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles in sports and mental health. Additionally, the program offers significant financial support, including a minimum $10,000 freshman scholarship, making it an accessible choice for aspiring professionals.
- Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology
- Holistic mental performance approach
- State-of-the-art exercise facilities
- Minimum $10,000 freshman scholarship
- Faith-integrated curriculum
- Small class sizes
- Career preparation emphasized
- Faculty mentorship focus
- Comprehensive sports psychology training
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Alva, OK - Public 4-Year - nwosu.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology
Concentration: Sports Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwestern Oklahoma State University provides a unique opportunity for students interested in the intersection of psychology and athletics through its Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Sports Psychology. This program is tailored for those aiming to delve into the psychological aspects of sports performance, offering a curriculum rich in research methods, psychological theories, and practical applications. With a focus on developing critical thinking and analytical skills, students are prepared for a variety of careers or further studies in sports psychology. The program boasts experienced faculty, engaging hands-on learning opportunities, and a pathway to diverse career options in the field. Requires ACT/SAT.
- Bachelor's in Psychology offered
- Minor in Sports Psychology available
- Expert faculty in specialized areas
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Multiple career pathway options
- Scholarship opportunities available
- February 15 scholarship application deadline
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Potential graduate school preparation
East Central University
Ada, OK - Public 4-Year - ecok.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Psychological Services
Concentration: Sport Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
East Central University offers a Master of Science in Psychological Services with a concentration in Sport Psychology, designed to enhance athlete performance and mental health. This program, located in the Lanoy Education Building, provides students with advanced training in psychological strategies for sports settings. It emphasizes a developmental approach to sports psychology, preparing graduates to support athletes, coaches, and families effectively. The curriculum combines research and practical applications, focusing on performance challenges and the psychological aspects of athletic participation. Requires GRE.
- Sport Psychology Concentration Available
- Focuses on Athlete Performance
- Advanced Psychological Skills Training
- Developmental Sports Psychology Approach
- Program Number: 0862
- Advisor: Dr. Beau Leaf
- Located in Lanoy Education Building
- Requires 5 credit hours/semester
Sports Psychologist Licensure & Certification in Oklahoma
To practice as a sports psychologist in Oklahoma, professionals must fulfill specific licensure requirements set by the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. The licensure process involves several steps:
- Educational Requirements: Sports psychologists in Oklahoma typically need to obtain a doctoral degree in psychology or a related field from an accredited institution. This degree provides a comprehensive foundation in psychological theories, research methodologies, and clinical practices.
- Supervised Clinical Experience: Alongside their doctoral program, sports psych students must gain supervised clinical experience working under the guidance of experienced licensed psychologists or sports psychologists.
- Licensing Examination: The last step is passing a licensing examination administered by the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. This test assesses the candidate’s knowledge of psychology principles, ethics, and the application of psychological techniques in sports settings.
Aspiring sports psychologists can pursue certifications to further enhance their credentials and demonstrate specialized expertise. Two 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.
Meeting licensure requirements and obtaining relevant certifications through organizations such as the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) are key elements for sports psychologists to establish themselves as qualified professionals.
Sports Psychology Career Opportunities in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, various career opportunities in sports psychology abound. Graduates can find employment in places such as collegiate athletic departments, sports academies, rehabilitation centers, sports medicine clinics, and private practice. Some common employers in the state include:
- University of Oklahoma Athletics
- Oklahoma State University Athletics
- University of Tulsa Athletics
- Oklahoma City Thunder (National Basketball Association)
- Oklahoma City Dodgers (Minor League Baseball)
- Oklahoma City Energy FC (United Soccer League)
List of Sports Psychology Programs Offered in Oklahoma
Ada, OK
East Central University
- Master's - Master of Science in Psychological Services
Concentration: Sport Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- Sport Psychology Concentration Available
- Focuses on Athlete Performance
- Advanced Psychological Skills Training
- Developmental Sports Psychology Approach
- Program Number: 0862
- Advisor: Dr. Beau Leaf
- Located in Lanoy Education Building
- Requires 5 credit hours/semester
Alva, OK
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Concentration: Sports Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor's in Psychology offered
- Minor in Sports Psychology available
- Expert faculty in specialized areas
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Multiple career pathway options
- Scholarship opportunities available
- February 15 scholarship application deadline
- Evidence-based curriculum
Shawnee, OK
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Concentration: Sports Psychology - Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor's in Psychology offered
- Minor in Sports Psychology available
- Expert faculty in specialized areas
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Multiple career pathway options
- Scholarship opportunities available
- February 15 scholarship application deadline
- Evidence-based curriculum
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