Not in Los Angeles? Check out our lists of Sport Psychology Programs in Modesto, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, Norwalk, Oakland, Oceanside, Ontario, Orange, Oxnard, and across California.
Are you looking to excel in sports performance and psychology in Los Angeles?
This guide to Sport Psychology Programs in Los Angeles CA covers top universities and training centers, offering specialized programs tailored to boost your career in sports psychology, exercise psychology, and coaching.
Dive into practical courses, internships, and research opportunities at CSULB, USC, CBU, and more for a comprehensive educational experience.
California State University, Long Beach – Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology Master of Science
Explore the in-depth Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology Master of Science program at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). This 36-unit program prepares you for career success in sport psychology, exercise psychology, and coaching through three distinct options:
- Sport Psychology: Focuses on enhancing sports performance and prepares you for advanced studies in PsyD or PhD programs.
- Exercise Psychology: Targets public health or wellness initiatives.
- Coaching and Student-Athlete Development: Covers advanced conditioning, nutrition, and psychological aspects of sport injury and coaching.
Core Courses
The curriculum includes key courses such as:
- Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology
- Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
- Research Methods and Statistical Analysis
Research and Consulting
- Research Opportunities: Students often present at conferences, co-author publications, and receive grants.
- Consulting Hours: Gain practical experience through supervised consulting opportunities.
Faculty Expertise
Leverage the in-depth expertise of faculty members who specialize in areas like exercise psychology and mental toughness.
Professional Development
Engage in professional development through organizations such as the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.
Application Process
To apply, complete a Cal State Apply application and submit your transcripts. Additional steps may be required, so contact the program coordinator for specifics.
The MS SEPP at CSULB offers robust education and practical experiences, making it an excellent choice for careers in sport psychology, exercise psychology, or coaching.
USC – Sport Psychology Program
The USC Sport Psychology Program provides valuable support services designed to enhance student-athletes’ mental health and overall development. Led by Director Robin Scholefield, the program integrates mental health, educational, and consultation services within USC Athletics.
Comprehensive Services
USC delivers a wide range of services, including:
- Individual Assessments and Therapy: Personalized mental health evaluations and therapy sessions.
- Specialized Counseling: Drug and alcohol counseling, ADHD assessments, and various specialized therapy groups.
- Conjoint Sessions: Family and coach-student-athlete conjoint sessions.
- Presentations and Trainings: Topics like suicide prevention and substance use.
Tailored Consultations
Available consultations aim to improve team dynamics and sport culture, focusing on:
- Wellbeing and Stress Management
- Conflict Resolution
- Performance Skills
Inclusivity and Diversity
The program emphasizes inclusivity and diversity through specialized programming, ensuring an encompassing support system for all students.
Faculty Expertise
All clinicians are faculty members in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Keck School of Medicine, providing professional and experienced care.
Access to these services underscores USC’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for athletic and personal growth.
California State University, Dominguez Hills – Sport and Fitness Psychology Certificate Program
The Sport and Fitness Psychology Certificate Program at California State University, Dominguez Hills is perfect for sports and fitness professionals. This program consists of five online courses, each offering 3 university credits at the 400-level and potentially applicable for graduate-level credit upon approval.
Flexible Learning
You have the option to:
- Complete the Entire Certificate
- Take Individual Courses
Core Curriculum
The courses cover essential principles, research, and applications of sport psychology:
- Internship Course: Apply your skills locally through a practical internship component.
Ideal for Various Professionals
This certificate is ideal for:
- Coaches
- Athletes
- Trainers
- Health Professionals
The program enhances performance and teamwork through psychological techniques but does not include sport psychologist licensing.
Online Convenience
The online format provides flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace while advancing your knowledge and employability in the sports and fitness fields.
California Baptist University – MS in Sport and Performance Psychology
At California Baptist University (CBU), the MS in Sport and Performance Psychology focuses on the application of psychological strategies to enhance physical performance. On-site sport psychology consultants mentor you, providing practical experience through internships at the Center for Sport and Performance Psychology (CSPP).
Practical Experience
- Internship Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience through internships.
- Research Engagement: Participate in research via the SPEP Research Lab.
- Community Outreach: Engage in community outreach programs.
Key Courses
The curriculum features essential training in courses such as:
- Advanced Sport and Performance Psychology
- Psychology of Injury
Career Pathways
Graduates are well-prepared for various roles, including:
- Athletic Coach
- Director
- Drama Coach
- Independent Consultant
Faith-Based Integration
As a faith-based institution, CBU integrates ethical and research-based practices, appealing to students seeking this approach in their education.
CBU’s program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing you for a successful career in sport and performance psychology.
Los Angeles County Psychological Association (LACPA) – Sport and Performance Psychology SIG
The Sport and Performance Psychology Special Interest Group (SIG) under the Los Angeles County Psychological Association (LACPA) provides a collaborative platform for individuals passionate about sport psychology. Co-led by experienced professionals Sari Shepphird, Ph.D., and Jason von Stietz, Ph.D., the SIG aims to foster education and practice in the field of sport psychology.
Focused Discussions and Topics
The SIG conducts roundtable discussions on various relevant topics:
- Performance Anxiety: Techniques to manage and overcome anxiety.
- Goal Setting: Strategies for setting and achieving performance goals.
- Arousal Control: Methods to regulate and use arousal effectively.
- Imagery Interventions: Use of visualization to enhance performance.
- Youth Sports: Addressing unique challenges in youth sports environments.
Ongoing Support and Skill-Building
Members benefit from:
- Ethical Practice Education: Emphasis on ethical practices in sport psychology.
- Professional Networking: Networking opportunities to connect with peers and experts.
- Skill Enhancement: Continuous support for developing and refining sports psychology skills.
Although details about specific hours and pricing are not provided on the website, interested individuals can contact LACPA for further information.
Loyola Marymount University – PSYC 325 Applied Sport Psychology
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) offers PSYC 325 Applied Sport Psychology, a 3-semester hour course focused on the interplay between psychological factors and sports performance. This course is designed to prepare students for practical applications of sport psychology principles in real-world settings.
Key Learning Areas
The course covers a comprehensive range of topics, including:
- Performance Enhancement Strategies: Techniques to improve athletic performance.
- Injury Prevention and Recovery: Psychological aspects of dealing with sports injuries.
- Psychosocial Aspects: Exploration of social and psychological dynamics in individual and team sports.
Expert Faculty
Experienced faculty members guide students, providing a strong foundation in liberal arts education and practical sport psychology applications.
Course Format and Requirements
PSYC 325 is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in sport psychology. The course details on hours and pricing need to be obtained directly from LMU.
How to Choose the Best Sport Psychology Program
When selecting a sport psychology program, consider several important factors to ensure it meets your educational and professional needs.
Key Considerations
- Accreditation: Verify that the program is accredited, ensuring it meets educational standards.
- Faculty Expertise: Look for programs with experienced faculty who can provide valuable mentorship.
- Curriculum: Ensure the coursework covers essential areas and offers practical experience.
- Resources: Resources like counseling services, labs, and research opportunities can enhance your learning.
- Career Support: Programs with strong career support services, such as job placements and networking, facilitate career transitions.
- Flexibility: Consider program flexibility to balance studies with other commitments.
- Location: Proximity to local internship opportunities and networking events can be advantageous.
- Financial Aspects: Review tuition costs and available scholarships to manage expenses.
Steps to Make an Informed Decision
- Research Program Details: Visit program websites and contact admissions to gather specific information.
- Speak with Alumni: Discuss experiences with past students to gain insights.
- Visit Campuses: If possible, visit campuses to get a sense of the environment and facilities.
- Evaluate Career Outcomes: Investigate the career paths of program graduates.
Choosing the right sport psychology program involves thorough research and consideration of your career goals and personal circumstances.
Final Thoughts on Sport Psychology Programs
Los Angeles offers a wealth of sport psychology programs designed to enhance your knowledge and career in sports and performance psychology. Each program has its unique strengths, providing a range of opportunities for practical experience, research, and professional development.
By considering your career objectives and the specific offerings of each program, you can select the sport psychology program that aligns best with your aspirations. Start by exploring the detailed information provided and take the next step towards advancing your career in sports psychology.