Program Overview

Introduction to the Psychology of Coaching Program

The demand for quality, well-rounded coaches and strength coaches grows each year. Sport leaders need to understand how to motivate and lead athletes, teach technical, tactical, physical, and mental skills, and navigate complex environments with varying stakeholders. The pioneering 16-credit specialized graduate certificate in the psychology of coaching prepares students for these responsibilities.

Program Overview

The program specializes in the psychological and sociological aspects of sport and athletic performance, delivering novel practical tools and a unique experience to student-coaches. The specialized graduate certificate complements students who have a strong background in exercise science or kinesiology and extends the education of those looking to understand the relational and cultural aspects of people in sport.

Work with a Mental Skills Consultant

While enrolled in the Applied Sport Coaching I course, students have the option of working with a Mental Skills Consultant (MSC) or sport psychologist. The consultants are all graduates of the distinguished MA Sport and Performance Psychology program and have relevant coaching and athletic experience. Students meet virtually with their consultant for one hour per week throughout the course.

Curriculum

The Psychology of Coaching certificate requires a total of 16 credits.

• Required Coursework
  • Students complete a minimum of 10 credit hours from the following coursework:
    • CPSY 4720 Psychology of Athletic Performance (4)
    • CPSY 4705 Sociocultural Aspects of Sport Coaching (4)
    • CPSY 4725 Philosophy and Ethics of Sport Coaching (4)
    • CPSY 4710 Motor Learning and Sport Pedagogy (4)
    • CPSY 4722 Social Psychology of the Body, Health and Performance (2)
• Elective Coursework
  • Students choose from the following elective coursework to complete the remaining 6 credit hours to reach a total of 16 credit hours:
    • CPSY 4635 Athletic and Performance Nutrition (4)
    • CPSY 4610 Exercise Physiology (4)
    • CPSY 4620 Kinesiology (4)
    • CPSY 4712 Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coaching (4)
    • CPSY 4700 Organization and Administration of Sport (4)
    • CPSY 4991 Sport Psychology Independent Study (1-2)

Program Benefits

The program provides an extraordinary opportunity for additional growth, as students benefit from the knowledge and experience of Mental Skills Consultants in working with athletes and coaches of all backgrounds. The unique aspect of working with a Mental Skills Consultant during the Practicum course adds another layer that enhances the program as a whole, making it a highly recommended graduate program in coaching.