Master's in Kinesiology - Sport and Exercise Psychology

The Master’s in Kinesiology-Sport and Exercise Psychology Program at UNCG integrates theory, research, and practice. This program includes the study of cognitive, emotional, psychophysiological, and social factors that influence sport and exercise behaviors. Students will also learn the effects of physical activity on psychological factors. 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.

The master’s degree with a concentration in SEP is for individuals who wish to gain an advanced knowledge base in sport and exercise psychology.

master’s in kinesiology — sport and exercise psychology Program Distinctions

The Master’s in Kinesiology-Sport and Exercise Psychology (SEP) Program is focused on interdisciplinary education and hands-on clinical experience. This is combined with our diverse, dynamic programs to ensure students are well-prepared for post-graduate life. The program is nationally recognized:

• The program was ranked #2 by SportsDegreesOnline.org for 2026-27 for best sports psychology master’s degrees.

The Master’s sport and exercise psychology Student Experience

Students in the Master’s in SEP program will learn on campus and have access to unique research opportunities, including:

• Sport and Exercise Psychology labs. These labs have smaller spaces dedicated to faculty’s individual research. They complement the department’s larger lab spaces.
• Work with faculty who have ongoing collaborations with other Kinesiology sub-disciplines. This may include Exercise Physiology, Applied Research, or Neuromechanics. Faculty also work with Human Development and Family Studies and Psychology departments.
• Faculty and students collaborate with the UNCG Center for Athlete Well-being and the UNCG Center for Women’s Health and Wellness.

The Difference in our Master’s in sport psychology Programs

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

• Three program options 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

Our graduates typically pursue careers as:

• Teachers
• Researchers
• Coaches
• Exercise leaders
• Sport and exercise psychology consultants.

Apply to the Master’s in Kinesiology – sport and exercise psychology Program

Students interested in the Sport and Exercise Psychology 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.