Performance, Sport and Exercise Psychology concentration

Optimizing human performance through psychology and evidence-based practice.

In the Performance, Sport and Exercise Psychology concentration, you will explore the foundations of the field, key theories, and practical applications, including performance consulting and working with diverse populations. Our aim is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to make a meaningful, positive impact on individuals, teams, and communities.

Program Structure and Pathways

Most students in the Performance, Sport, and Exercise Psychology concentration complete the coursework-only option, preparing to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant® (CMPC) through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP).

Learn more about CMPC certification

If you’re interested in completing a project or thesis, connect with a faculty member who is willing to serve as your advisor. This option can still be completed in two years with careful planning.

Program goals and objectives of our program are available upon request.

CMPC Requirements

  • Minimum of 24 credits at the 400- or 500-level, taken in sequence.
  • 400 hours of mentored applied experience under an AASP-approved mentor.
  • Advisors help design a plan of study to ensure all requirements are met.

Explore the AASP standard application pathway

Career Preparation

Graduates are prepared to work across more than a dozen fields, applying the skills developed in our program.

Skill development

In addition to expected knowledge gains, the PSEP program aims to develop various skills to increase the employability of graduates. These skills include:

Relationship & Communication: Build effective one-on-one and group communication, adapt messages to audiences, and engage across cultures

Mindset: Cultivate adaptability, curiosity, and openness to learning

Technical: Apply assessment, program design, and evaluation tools in performance settings

Consulting: Engage clients, set goals, and facilitate growth and change

Business: Develop essential skills in administration, networking, and professional practice

Explore the each semester schedule — including courses, activities, and opportunities — by clicking through the tabs below.

Course # Course Title Credit Hours AASP Knowledge Domain
KN 531 Applied Sport Psychology 3 hours (core class) K2
KN 533 Consulting Theories & Skills 3 hours (core class) K5
KN 534 Professional Ethics in Performance, Sport, and Exercise Psychology 3 hours (core class) K1
Course # Course Title Credit Hours AASP Knowledge Domain
KN 447 Athlete Mental Health. 3 hours (core class) K4
KN 432 Positive Psychology 3 hours (core class) K7
KN 433 Sociological Perspectives in Performance, Sport &Exercise Psychology 3 hours (core class) K3

Explore the each semester schedule — including courses, activities, and opportunities — by clicking through the tabs below.

Course # Course Title Credit Hours AASP Knowledge Domain
KN 500 Evidence-Based Practice in Kinesiology and Nutrition 3 hours (core class) K6
KN 532 Cultural Humility in Performance, Sport & Exercise Psychology. 3 hours (recommended class) K8
KN 537 Psychology of Sport Injury 3 hours (core class) K2
Course # Course Title Credit Hours AASP Knowledge Domain
KN 536 Non-Sports Performance Psychology. 3 hours (recommended class) K2
KN 593 Internship in Kinesiology. 3 hours (core class) -
KN 434 Business Branding in Performance, Sport and Exercise Psychology 3 hours (recommended class) -

Access course descriptions here.

Students can register for courses beyond their requirements. If they do additional tuition costs and fees may be assessed. Check the Graduate College website for additional information. Graduates can take courses in motor control KN372 and exercise physiology KN352 to supplement CMPC knowledge domain requirements. In addition, students can study nutrition courses as well.

 

 

John Coumbe-Lilley Headshot

Questions?

Still wondering what a concentration in performance, sport and exercise psychology can do for you? We’re here to answer your questions.

You can contact John Coumbe-Lilley at:

Email jcoumb1@uic.edu
Phone 312-996-0152
Address 901 W. Roosevelt Rd.
334 PEB, MC 194
Chicago, IL 60608

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