Sport and exercise psychology is a professional discipline dedicated to the study of psychological factors that influence the participation and performance of individuals in sport and exercise settings. The major content areas include the study of such topics as personality, motivation, anxiety, attention, leadership and self-presentation. The theoretical study of these factors is complemented by the investigation and application of techniques to improve performance in sport and exercise settings including goal setting, imagery/visualization, attention control, distraction control, and relaxation and energizing strategies.

This interest in performance enhancement is combined with an interest in developmental or life span matters such as the exercise and sport experiences of youth and elderly, participants’ reactions to injury, pain, deselection and retirement, exercise adherence, exercise addiction, eating disorders and disordered eating, and body image.

The purpose of this minor is to expose students to this steadily expanding field and provide those interested with the necessary background to pursue graduate studies in the area. The minor will also augment the education of majors from physical education, sport administration, athletic training, coaching, psychology, recreation management, as well as elementary and secondary education that have an interest in scholastic coaching.

Minor Requirements

Form to Declare a Minor