Online Master's in Kinesiology-Sport and Exercise Psychology

The Online Master’s in Kinesiology Sport and Exercise Psychology (SEP) Program at UNC Greensboro integrates theory, research, and practice. This program includes the study of cognitive, emotional, psychophysiological, and social factors that influence sport and exercise behaviors as well as the effects of physical activity on psychological factors. The program is for students who want to advanced knowledge in sport and exercise psychology in preparation for the next stages of their educational or professional career.

Graduate students in SEP typically come from Kinesiology or Psychology undergraduate programs and come to UNCG to learn how to enhance human development and functioning by acquiring cutting edge knowledge in the area of SEP.

Online MASTER’S IN KINESIOLOGY — SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY Program Distinctions

The Online Master’s in Kinesiology-Sport and Exercise Psychology Program is one of the few online-only SEP programs in the nation.

Additionally, it’s nationally recognized:

• The program was ranked #2 in the U.S. by SportsDegreesOnline.org for 2026-27 for best sports psychology master’s degrees.
• The program was ranked #1 in N.C. by SportsPsychology.org for 2026-27.
• UNCG ranked #3 in the U.S. for Sports Psychology and best value in the U.S. for 2026-27 by Pulse.

Online MASTER’S IN KINESIOLOGY — SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY Student Experience

The online master’s degree is only coursework and is 30 credit hours. It takes two years to complete, taking six credit hours per semester, including the summer session. Students in this program will:

• Get to know faculty members who are experts in their field and have a passion for mentoring.
• Apply psychological theories and skills in physical activity settings.
• Participate in flexible, asynchronous online courses that offer high-quality learning experiences.

The Difference between our Master’s in SPORT PSYCHOLOGY Programs

UNCG’s Department of Kinesiology offers three master’s programs dedicated to sport psychology.

• Three programs are available:
  • Applied Sport Psychology: 36 credit hours, coursework-only; prepares you to sit for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) exam offered by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). In this program, you’ll take AASP-required graduate-level courses and have the opportunity to obtain the hours of mentored experience required for the CMPC.  
  • Sport & Exercise Psychology, Coursework-Only: 30 credit hours, coursework-only, online; students in this program have the opportunity to take SEP courses and other electives suited to your particular career interests.
  • Sport & Exercise Psychology, Thesis: 36 credit hours, with thesis; prepares you for doctoral-level study at a research-focused university. In this program, you’ll take courses focused on SEP content, research methods and statistics, and other electives suited to your particular research interests. You’ll also typically work with an advisor with similar research interests. 

After Graduating with a MASTER’S IN KINESIOLOGY — SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY Degree

Graduates can integrate advanced knowledge and skills in sport and exercise psychology with professions like:

• Sport coaching
• Mental skills consulting
• Athletic training
• Personal training/strength and conditioning
• Health and fitness promotion

Apply to the Online MASTER’S IN KINESIOLOGY — SPORT AND EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY Program

Students interested in the Sport and Exercise Psychology Thesis Program should complete the UNCG Graduate School application. Applications received by Jan. 15 receive priority consideration. If capacity allows, applications submitted through July 1 will be considered. Read full application details here: Process and Requirements.