Sport and Performance Psychology
The MA degree in sport and performance psychology is intended for individuals in the sport, performing arts, health and fitness, or mental health fields who want to develop their ability to improve the performance of those with whom they work. Denver's passion for sports and thriving performing arts scene make it a perfect place to master the practice of sport and performance psychology. The two-year program is designed to provide training in the areas of: principles of performance, quality practice and learning, coaching/leadership, team development, and consulting in a variety of contexts.
Beyond the classroom, students apply their skills through the Center for Performance Excellence (CPEX), our nonprofit consulting organization that serves the Denver community. Sites include high school and collegiate athletic departments, performing arts schools and local health-related industries. In addition to integrating theory and technique, this applied training affords students the opportunity to network within the field. Students complete a capstone project consisting of reviewing video of consultation sessions, receiving supervision and reflective practice. Unique electives include Entrepreneurship in sport and performance psychology, psychophysiology and biofeedback, and psychology of high-risk occupations.
The master of arts in sport and performance psychology program is a pioneering academic offering, combining innovative training, applied research and practice. The program is designed to develop individuals in the sport, performing arts, health and fitness, and mental health fields who want to improve the performance and lives of the people with which they work. We focus on the psychological factors that influence human performance while practicing assessment and intervention strategies that enhance an individual’s performance and personal growth.
Program Highlights
Specialized Curriculum
Our curriculum is the most comprehensive sport and performance psychology curriculum available, specifically designed for sports psychology, as opposed to programs that add it on top of their generalized curriculum.
Practicum Opportunities
We offer numerous, diverse options for practicum, with established sites ranging from high school and collegiate athletic departments to local exercise and health-related businesses. We also allow our students to design their own practicum.
Exemplary Faculty
Our faculty members are recognized leaders in the field of applied sport and performance psychology, with experience practicing on a daily basis.
Center for Performance Excellence
Students have the opportunity to work in the Center for Performance Excellence (CPEX), which is a MASPP student-led, faculty-supervised consultation service.
Featured Courses
CPSY 4652
Theoretical Aspects of Sport and Performance Psychology
About this Course
This course is an in-depth exploration of selected aspects of the theories of sport psychology along with applications of these theories to other performance domains. An advanced understanding of the field of sport and performance psychology is pursued in relation to psychosocial aspects involved in both the preparation and performance processes among adults, youth, and children who represent all skill levels. The explored areas include: (a) motivation, confidence, and anxiety in sport and performance, (b) selected topics in social psychology and psychobiology, (c) psychological skills training, and (d) special topics (e.g., personality, flow, injuries, burnout).
CPSY 4671
Theories of Performance Excellence
About this Course
This course is designed to familiarize students with theories of performance excellence developed by leading practitioners. Each week, students are exposed to a different practitioner's approach, which often includes an opportunity to observe the practitioner's style through video. Emphasis is placed on the role of theory in practice, theory-based conceptualizations utilizing a case study format, and comparing and contrasting the different theories.
CPSY 4690
Sport and Performance Psychology Interventions
About this Course
This course is designed to familiarize students with the application of sport and performance psychology interventions. Students experience the building of a sport and performance psychology program. This program includes the cardinal skills of relaxation, concentration, imagery, self-talk, and mental routine; followed by broader topics such as goal setting, motivation, confidence, cohesion, engagement, and mastery. The instructor briefly reviews relevant theory and research followed by demonstrations of techniques and strategies, after which students learn by doing. Specific attention is given to blending the science of peak performance with the art of applying science.
