Why Choose the Sport and Performance Psychology Program?

Applied Focus

GSPP’s programs focus extensively on the practice of sport and performance psychology. More than learning the basic textbook principles that exist in most sport psychology programs, GSPP’s curriculum teaches the student to apply these principles.

Extensive and Thorough Curriculum

GSPP’s curriculum is designed solely for sport and performance psychology. These programs, unlike other programs who simply add sport and performance psychology to existing curriculums, have been built from the ground up specifically to teach students the theory and application of sport and performance psychology. Nationally and internationally, this is the most comprehensive sport and performance psychology curriculum available.

Diverse Practicum Opportunities

Beyond the classroom, this program requires students to apply their skills in the “real world” of sport and performance psychology. The practicum opportunities in Denver are numerous and diverse. In addition to established practicum sites, students are also encouraged to create their own practicum to meet their particular interests. Examples of practicum sites include, but are not limited to: private high school academies, collegiate athletic departments, the DU Lamont School of Music, and placements with local exercise and health related industries.

Experienced Sport and Performance Psychology Faculty

Program faculty have experience practicing sport and performance psychology on a daily basis. The blend of GSPP’s core and adjunct faculty give students a diverse perspective on the how’s, why’s, and where’s of sport and performance psychology practice. A key strength of the GSPP’s programs is attracting multiple faculty with applied experience – most programs only have one faculty member with practical experience. GSPP faculty members are recognized leaders in the field of applied sport and performance psychology. DU-GSPP in one of only a few programs where a faculty member, Dr. Steve Portenga, works directly for the University of Denver athletic department. As such, Dr. Portenga brings this unique experience directly to GSPP students.