Certificate in Sports Psychology
Hours: 14 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Sports Psychology at Fort Hays State University is an undergraduate-level credential that provides specialized knowledge in applying psychological principles to athletic and physical performance. It is designed for individuals pursuing careers in psychology, coaching, physical education, or related health and human performance fields.
This interdisciplinary certificate includes coursework from the Department of Psychology and Health and Human Performance. To earn the certificate, students complete four psychology courses, one elective, and two Health and Human Performance courses.
Why pursue a Certificate in Sports Psychology at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Sports Psychology is tailored for students from various academic backgrounds, including those majoring in Psychology or Health and Human Performance. It is offered online and on campus to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules.
Students complete a structured curriculum while also having the flexibility to choose a psychology elective course that aligns with their individual interests or professional goals. Faculty members developed this certificate based on their active field involvement and strong connections with relevant professional organizations.
Who is this program for?
The certificate is intended for students seeking to enhance their undergraduate degree with applied psychology skills related to performance, wellness, and motivation. It is well-suited for those planning to work directly with athletes, pursue roles in coaching, or continue into graduate study in mental health, education, or behavioral sciences.
- Psychology majors seeking applied skills
- Health and Human Performance majors
- Pre-physical therapy or pre-occupational therapy students
- Future coaches or athletic trainers
- Students interested in human motivation and wellness
- Students preparing for graduate studies in psychology
Real-World Applications
Students are equipped with practical tools applicable in sports, health, and educational settings. The certificate emphasizes understanding how psychological factors, such as stress, motivation, and focus, affect athletic performance.
A distinctive feature of the certificate is the opportunity to participate in an apprenticeship with FHSU Athletics. This allows students to engage directly with athletic professionals, observe coaching strategies, and see how mental skills training is applied in collegiate sports.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University actively engages with the latest advancements in performance psychology. Through presenting and attending national and international conferences, FHSU faculty incorporate current research, technologies, and interventions into their teaching.
Students benefit from exposure to contemporary psychological trends such as neurocognitive testing, biofeedback training, and behavioral interventions for athletes. Additionally, students may have opportunities to co-present research with faculty or participate in field observations.
Hands-on Activities
A key component of the Certificate in Sports Psychology is the apprenticeship with FHSU Athletics, where students observe and participate in applying mental performance techniques. Through this partnership, students gain insight into how sport psychologists and coaches utilize behavior analysis, motivation frameworks, and stress management strategies with athletes.
Students also complete assignments involving scenario-based learning, case studies, and the creation of client-focused strategies. Coursework frequently includes group projects, presentations, and simulations created to replicate real-world situations professionals encounter in sport settings.
What You’ll Learn:
- How mental skills affect sports performance
- Psychological theories in athletic training
- Stress and motivation in athletes
- Goal setting and behavior change techniques
- Physical activity and cognitive development
How You’ll Learn:
- Online and on-campus course flexibility
- Interdisciplinary training with HHP and Psychology
- Real-time feedback on coursework
- Faculty-guided research and observation
- Applied learning through athletic apprenticeship
The Certificate in Sports Psychology consists of six courses, four from the Department of Psychology and two from Health and Human Performance, including one elective to tailor studies to career goals. Core subjects explore motivation, stress, coping, and human behavior in physical performance. Combining academic rigor with practical application, the program emphasizes active learning, discussion, and hands-on assignments, providing a comprehensive introduction to sport and performance psychology and preparing students for careers in psychology, coaching, or health.
HHP 230: Principles of Nutrition
This course explores essential nutrients for health and bodily functions, addressing common food fads and fallacies with an emphasis on the scientific principles of nutrition.
HHP 430: Motor Learning
In this course, students study the factors that influence motor skill learning in humans, emphasizing the psychological, neurophysiological, and behavioral limitations that affect learning and performance in motor skill environments.
PSY 430: Sports Psychology
This course explores psychological principles of sport, exercise, and human performance. Students examine key theories, research, and practical applications to understand how psychology influences performance across various activities.
Discover the full Certificate in Sports Psychology course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
This advisory certificate is designed for students pursuing a B.A./B.S. in Psychology, B.S. in Health and Human Performance, or a related field. It enhances career opportunities in mental health and public health settings. However, it is not a standalone credential and does not qualify students for positions requiring a full undergraduate or graduate degree or professional licensure.
Students who complete this certificate gain specialized knowledge of how psychological factors influence athletic and personal performance. Many also choose to continue their education through graduate studies, further developing expertise in sports psychology, counseling, or education.
Performance Coach
Performance coaches apply psychological principles to enhance athletes’ focus, consistency, and mental preparation. They create mental training programs using goal setting, imagery, and concentration techniques, often working with high school, collegiate, or professional athletes to help manage pressure and optimize performance.
Health and Wellness Advisor
Health and wellness advisors support clients in fitness centers or corporate wellness programs by integrating physical and mental health. They educate on stress management, behavior change, and resilience to enhance well-being.
Coach or Athletic Trainer
Coaches or athletic trainers benefit from understanding the mental aspects of performance. Sports psychology training improves communication, strengthens relationships, and equips them to boost motivation and manage team dynamics for better athlete development.
Behavioral Health Support Specialist
Behavioral health support specialists assist in clinics or educational settings by promoting mental health and behavior change in active populations. They help clients overcome barriers, build coping strategies, and support licensed professionals in early intervention efforts.
Graduate Student in Counseling or Sport Psychology
Graduate counseling or sports psychology students often use the certificate to strengthen their applications. It demonstrates a focused interest in behavior and performance and provides a solid foundation for advanced mental health studies.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,852.22* (on-campus) or $3,710.70* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 14 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
The Certificate in Sport Psychology is closely connected to several other academic offerings at FHSU. These related options allow students to deepen their expertise or expand their studies across physical health, motivation, wellness, coaching, and behavior. Many students who pursue the certificate also explore complementary programs to enhance their academic and professional preparation.
- B.A./B.S. in Psychology
- B.S. in Health and Human Performance
- B.S. in Health and Human Performance (Exercise Science)
- M.S. in Psychology (Clinical)
- M.S. in Health and Human Performance (Exercise Science)
The certificate is designed to help students understand how psychological factors influence sport and physical performance through applied, interdisciplinary learning experiences.
Yes, all required courses for the certificate can be completed online or on campus, offering flexibility to meet students’ needs.
No. The certificate is open to all FHSU undergraduate students, including those majoring in health sciences, coaching, education, wellness, or related fields.
No. While the certificate provides a strong foundation in sport psychology, becoming a licensed sport psychologist requires a graduate degree and appropriate professional licensure.
If you are a current student at FHSU interested in earning this certificate, begin by reviewing the certificate requirements. Next, submit the Intent to Complete a Certificate form to add the certificate to your program of study officially.
Information about the Department of Psychology
The Department of Psychology at FHSU offers innovative, experiential learning opportunities that help students explore psychology theory and deepen their understanding of the human mind. Committed to excellence in both education and research, the department prepares students to become informed citizens and lifelong learners who contribute meaningfully to their local and global communities.
With the guidance of award-winning faculty, students receive a high-quality education that emphasizes strong student-faculty relationships and hands-on experience. Opportunities for internships through local partnerships, collaborative research projects, and participation in scholarly activities further enhance students' academic and professional development.
Students also gain practical experience in dedicated research labs and community-based settings. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared for a wide range of rewarding careers, equipped with strong professional skills and a deep understanding of psychological science. The department offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, available on-campus and online, ensuring flexible and comprehensive support for student success.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Psychology Club: Open to all students with an interest in psychology, the Psychology Club offers opportunities for volunteer work, community outreach, and participation in events such as Depression Awareness Week. The club is dedicated to promoting the study of psychology, enhancing educational experiences, and providing meaningful social services to both its members and the broader community.
- Psi Chi: Psi Chi, the National Honor Society in Psychology, recognizes academic excellence and offers students valuable opportunities to engage in research, network with professionals, and attend academic conferences. Membership benefits include international recognition, leadership development, and the chance to present research at both regional and national levels, supporting students’ academic and professional growth in the field of psychology.
- Graduate Association of Students of Psychology (GASP): GASP serves as a social and professional network for graduate students in psychology, offering opportunities for connection, relaxation, and friendship. The organization supports students in their transition from academic life to professional careers through informational meetings, faculty engagement, and peer interaction.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
