Master of Arts in Sport-Exercise Psychology
Course List
Curriculum Requirements
Students admitted into the MA in Sport-Exercise Psychology program are responsible for completing the program requirements that are in effect at the time of their admission. In addition to the credit hour requirements outlined below, students must also complete two semesters of Professionalization Group and the Sport Psychology Competency Evaluation. The MA in Sport-Exercise program requires the satisfactory completion of 48 semester credit hours, distributed as follows: basic interventions in counseling requirements, 6 credit hours; cognitive bases of behavior requirement, 3 credit hours; elective requirement, 3 credit hours; individual behavior requirement, 3 credit hours; motor bases of sport requirement, 3 credit hours; physiological bases of sport requirement, 3 credit hours; professional ethics and standards requirement, 3 credit hours; psychopathology requirement, 3 credit hours; research design and statistics requirement, 3 credit hours; social bases of behavior requirement, 3 credit hours; sport psychology course requirements, 9 credit hours; and supervised applied sport psychology practicum requirements, 6 credit hours.
All courses are 3 semester credits in length.
BASIC INTERVENTIONS IN COUNSELING (6 CREDITS)
SP6104 Counseling Skills I
A fundamental study of the helping relationship is provided. The course provides a broad understanding of the philosophic bases of helping processes: counseling theories and their application; basic advanced helping skills; consultation theories and their application; client and helper self-understanding and self-development; and facilitation of client change.
SP6510 Athletic Counseling
This course is designed to introduce students to the range of counseling-based interventions in applied sport psychology. A psychoeducational-developmental perspective is provided as a theoretical framework for the practice of sport psychology. The course focuses on the development of life skills and the implementation of educational programs to enhance development in athletes, especially youth though adulthood. Academic counseling, issues related to transitions, and cultural factors also are addressed.
Prerequisite: (PHX) SP6505
COGNITIVE BASES OF BEHAVIOR (3 CREDITS)
SP6015 Cognitive Behavioral Theory and Therapy
Major cognitive-behavioral therapies, as well as their theoretical foundations, are reviewed in this course. There is an emphasis on developing skills in cognitive behavioral analysis and treatment, with special attention to the treatment of selected disorders and personality styles
Prerequisite: (PHX) SP6005
ELECTIVES (3 CREDITS)
* Students may elect to complete three 1-credit hour seminars in Sport Psychology Consulting (SP7561, SP7562, and SP7563) over the course of the degree program to fulfill this requirement.
SP6494 Exercise and Health Psychology
This course focuses on the development of a theoretical understanding and basic skill proficiency in the principles and techniques of exercise and health psychology. Issues such as exercise participation and adherence, exercise and its relationship to mental health, wellness promotion and behavior change, psychological factors and reactions to overtraining, pain management, and stress management are explored. Techniques such as goal setting and imagery as they relate to exercise and health are also covered. Exercise used in a therapeutic environment, and how exercise can be incorporated into a psychological skills training program are discussed.
[or other course approved by campus dean or program chair]
SP7561 Seminar in Sport Psychology I*
This seminar is designed for students to gain experience in the professional activities of a sport psychology consultant. Students will have the opportunity to participate in individual and group projects related to the planning, development, marketing, and provision of sport psychology services to targeted populations. The focus of the seminar will be on developing the requisite skills to succeed as a sport psychology consultant in professional practice. The seminar meets weekly throughout the semester.
SP7562 Seminar in Sport Psychology II*
This course is a continuation of Seminar in Sport Psychology Consulting I (SP7561).
SP7563 Seminar in Sport Psychology III*
This course is a continuation of Seminar in Sport Psychology Consulting II (SP7562).
INDIVIDUAL BEHAVIOR (3 CREDITS)
SP6505 Lifespan Development
This course focuses on normal development related to cognitive abilities psychosocial development and biological status through the lifespan, while exploring the theoretical and empirical literature relating to emotional and social development. Gender, culture, and sexual orientation are used as important mediating variables throughout the course. The relationship between normal development and sport and exercise is highlighted.
MOTOR BASES OF SPORT (3 CREDITS)
SP6497 Motor Learning and Development
This course provides students an overview of theory, research, and practice in motor behavior learning and control. Students develop an understanding of cognitive, behavioral, neurophysiological, and biomechanical approaches to motor skill learning and development. Special attention is given to motor skill development at a variety of developmental levels, as well as the relationship between motor skill acquisition and practice schedules.
PHYSIOLOGICAL BASES OF SPORT (3 CREDITS)
SP6501 Exercise Physiology
This course provides students an overview of major body systems, acute and chronic responses to exercise, training and over-training, and environmental effects on those systems and responses. Various physiological approaches used to optimize sport and exercise performance are also addressed. Consideration is given to issues/ concerns of special populations involved in physical activity. The importance of physical activity in health and wellness is described.
PROFESSIONAL ETHICS AND STANDARDS (3 CREDITS)
SP6300 Professional and Ethical Issues
A careful review of issues exposes students to a broad understanding of professional roles and functions, professional goals and objectives, and professional organizations and associations. This course also examines ethical and legal standards, risk management, professional credentialing, and standards for professional counselors.
PSYCHOPATHOLOGY (3 CREDITS)
SP6005 Psychopathology
This course is an introduction to theoretical, clinical, and empirical knowledge of psychopathology and the classification of mental disorders. The course focus is on acquiring a conceptual foundation for understanding and classifying abnormal behavior. The rationale and procedure of the DSM-IV are addressed. A methodology for collecting, organizing, and understanding clinical data by way of careful interview is presented. There is a careful examination of both normal and abnormal behaviors/affective states that impact sport and human performance.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND STATISTICS (3 CREDITS)
SP6200 Statistics and Research Methods I
The first of a two-semester sequence in statistics and research methodology, this course includes an overview of various research methods, basic concepts in descriptive and inferential statistics, and experimental research methodologies. The course emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and the methodological tools necessary for functioning as a local clinical scientist in applied settings.
SOCIAL BASES OF BEHAVIOR (3 CREDITS)
SP6020 Team Dynamics and Group Behavior
This course provides students with an overview of the psychology of team sports and the role of group factors in individual and team performance. A theoretical understanding of various group processes in sport, such as team cohesion, group communication, and leadership, are reviewed. Team building and the development of group effectiveness also are highlighted. In addition, theoretical and practical issues involved when working with team sports are covered. Special attention is given to the impact of race and gender in sports.
SPORT PSYCHOLOGY (9 CREDITS)
SP6493 Psychological Aspects of Athletic Injury
This course provides students a comprehensive overview of the knowledge base for the psychological aspects of sport injury and rehabilitation, including pain management and assessment issues. Mechanisms of sport injuries and principles and issues involved in treating and rehabilitating injury are carefully addressed. Special attention is given to developing a psychological rehabilitation program, along with understanding how a sport medicine team works together to rehabilitate the “total” athlete. Issues such as return to play, adherence, and counseling injured/disabled athletes will be explored.
SP6499 Applied Sport Psychology I: Theory and Research
This course is designed to introduce students to theory, research, and practice of sport performance enhancement for both individuals and groups of performers by a variety of psychological interventions. Theoretical understanding in the use of mental skills training techniques such as goal-setting, imagery, self-talk, and arousal regulation is a prime focus. In addition, topics such as self-motivation, self-confidence, and concentration are addressed. Special attention is given to the thorough understanding of the psychological factors necessary for optimal sport performance to aid in appropriate intervention planning.
SP6500 Applied Sport Psychology II: Professional Practice
This course focuses on the development of an in-depth understanding of the professional practices of sport performance enhancement by the utilization of psychological interventions in both individual and group (team) settings. Students develop proficiency in the selection, development, and implementation of psychological interventions based on current theory and research. A variety of cognitive, affective, and behavioral mental skills training techniques are studied in-depth, with an emphasis on understanding the relationship between performance enhancement skill level and psychological factors. Ethical issues in the practice of applied sport psychology, as well as gender issues, considerations in working with diverse groups, and special needs of challenged populations are also addressed.
Prerequisite: (PHX) SP6499
SUPERVISED APPLIED SPORT PSYCHOLOGY PRACTICUM (6 CREDITS)
SP6535 Sport Psychology Master's Practicum and Seminar I
An experience in applied sport psychology with a client population under close supervision is provided. Special emphasis is placed on assessment, intervention planning, and program development. The goal of the seminar is to develop integrated skills in assessment and intervention. The focus is on the development of skills in interviewing, case formulation, and appropriate intervention planning. The seminar meets weekly throughout the academic year.
Prerequisite: (PHX) SP6001, SP6005, SP6104, SP6499, SP8010
SP6536 Sport Psychology Master's Practicum and Seminar II
This course is a continuation of Sport Psychology Masters Practicum and Seminar I (SP6535).
Prerequisite: (PHX) SP6535
PROFESSIONALIZATION GROUP REQUIREMENTS
During their first year, students participate in weekly Professionalization Groups that focus on topics related to the profession of sport-exercise psychology. Through readings and discussions led by faculty members, students begin to develop a professional identity and become familiar with current issues in sport-exercise psychology. The groups provide a comfortable environment in which students can freely exchange concerns, questions, and issues relevant to their studies and their future careers. The faculty member who leads the student's Professionalization Group also serves as his/her academic advisor.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for graduation, students will be responsible for completing the program requirements that are in effect at the time of admission. Argosy University retains the right to modify these requirements in accordance with the demands of the profession. To be eligible for graduation, students must meet the following requirements:
- Successful completion of all program requirements, including a total of 48 semester credit hours, which must be completed by the end of the fifth year of matriculation. The total credit hours must include:
- 39 credit hours of required coursework
- 3 credit hours of elective coursework
- 6 credit hours of practicum and practicum seminar
- Successful completion of the Sport Psychology Competency Evaluation
- GPA of at least 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0), and a grade of "B-" or better in all required courses
- Completion of all degree requirements within a maximum time frame of five years
- A completed Petition to Graduate submitted to campus administration
WRITING PROGRAM
Students are expected to demonstrate competence in professional writing using APA style. Student writing is assessed to evaluate clarity, organization, and style. Some students may be required to complete a writing course or tutorial during the program.
PRACTICUM AND PRACTICUM SEMINAR REQUIREMENTS
The practicum provides opportunities for students to gain applied sport-exercise psychology training and experience. The practicum allows students to work under supervision with an athletic and/or performance population. The goal of the practicum is to correlate the student's field experience with attained levels of academic experience. This training includes direct observation of athletes/performers, assessments of mental skills, and intervention planning and implementation with individuals and/or groups. Students are placed in a practicum and practicum seminar during their second year of study. Each practicum requires a minimum of 400 hours of applied sport-exercise psychology training over two semesters. The practicum carries 3 credit hours per semester, or 6 credit hours per academic year. At times, a practicum may require a student to provide services outside of the regular year (e.g., during the summer just prior to the start of the fall semester). In addition to being enrolled in practicum, students attend a practicum seminar led by a faculty member. A practicum may not be done in a student's place of employment, nor are practicum requirements waived. All students placed on practicum are covered by professional liability insurance, purchased through the school. This coverage is mandatory even if the student is otherwise insured. Payment for insurance coverage is made through the Student Services Department at the time of practicum registration.
PRACTICUM PREREQUISITES
All students who enter the practicum application process must be in good academic standing, have a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0), and have completed the academic planning which will allow for the following practicum prerequisite courses to be successfully completed prior to the beginning of the practicum:
SP6000 Professionalization Group I (0-1)
This course is in small-group format. These groups include a didactic as well as a discussion component. The course focuses on topics related to issues important to new sport-exercise psychology students, including the following: an orientation to the program and the field of sport psychology; an introduction to ethical and legal issues necessary for students to begin class and training experiences; issues and trends in the professional education of sport psychologists; and professional practice trends and issues in sport psychology. In addition, the faculty member leading the group helps students with academic and field training planning, general consultation on problems or difficulties in the program, and questions emerging during the students’ academic experience.
SP6001 Professionalization Group II (0-1)
This course is a continuation of Professionalization Group I (SP6000).
Prerequisite: (PHX) SP6000
SP6005 Psychopathology
This course is an introduction to theoretical, clinical, and empirical knowledge of psychopathology and the classification of mental disorders. The course focus is on acquiring a conceptual foundation for understanding and classifying abnormal behavior. The rationale and procedure of the DSM-IV are addressed. A methodology for collecting, organizing, and understanding clinical data by way of careful interview is presented. There is a careful examination of both normal and abnormal behaviors/affective states that impact sport and human performance.
SP6104 Counseling Skills I
A fundamental study of the helping relationship is provided. The course provides a broad understanding of the philosophic bases of helping processes: counseling theories and their application; basic advanced helping skills; consultation theories and their application; client and helper self-understanding and self-development; and facilitation of client change.
SP6499 Applied Sport Psychology I: Theory and Research
This course is designed to introduce students to theory, research, and practice of sport performance enhancement for both individuals and groups of performers by a variety of psychological interventions. Theoretical understanding in the use of mental skills training techniques such as goal-setting, imagery, self-talk, and arousal regulation is a prime focus. In addition, topics such as self-motivation, self-confidence, and concentration are addressed. Special attention is given to the thorough understanding of the psychological factors necessary for optimal sport performance to aid in appropriate intervention planning.
SP6500 Applied Sport Psychology II: Professional Practice
This course focuses on the development of an in-depth understanding of the professional practices of sport performance enhancement by the utilization of psychological interventions in both individual and group (team) settings. Students develop proficiency in the selection, development, and implementation of psychological interventions based on current theory and research. A variety of cognitive, affective, and behavioral mental skills training techniques are studied in-depth, with an emphasis on understanding the relationship between performance enhancement skill level and psychological factors. Ethical issues in the practice of applied sport psychology, as well as gender issues, considerations in working with diverse groups, and special needs of challenged populations are also addressed.
Prerequisite: (PHX) SP6000
SP6015 Cognitive Behavioral Theory and Therapy
Major cognitive-behavioral therapies, as well as their theoretical foundations, are reviewed in this course. There is an emphasis on developing skills in cognitive behavioral analysis and treatment, with special attention to the treatment of selected disorders and personality styles.
Prerequisite: (PHX) SP6005
Students must demonstrate the readiness to assume a professional role and interact appropriately with clients. Personal adjustment issues, interpersonal difficulties, poor communications skills, or other behavioral problems may reflect on a student’s ability to interact with clients in a competent and ethical manner. Students on probation are not eligible to make application to practicum or begin practicum. Students placed on probation during practicum must petition the program chair of the Sport-Exercise Psychology program regarding their eligibility to continue practicum.
PRACTICUM SEMINAR
All students enrolled in the practicum must also attend the practicum seminar. The practicum seminar allows the student to reflect on various practicum experiences and to acquire additional skills and attitudes in useful field training. The content reflects coursework and addresses issues that a student may encounter during the practicum experience.
PRACTICUM EXPERIENCES
The list of current and past practicum sites at Argosy University includes local area high school athletic departments, college athletic teams, sports medicine facilities, professional sports organizations, youth sport organizations, and private sport psychology consulting practices. Every attempt will be made to match students with practicum settings that are consistent with their professional goals. Practicum sites are subject to the approval of the program chair.
PRACTICUM EVALUATION
Evaluation of student progress in field training focuses on three areas: theoretical knowledge base, applied sport-exercise psychology skills, and professional attitudes. Student progress in practicum training is evaluated through the use of Site Supervisor Evaluation Forms which are completed by the primary supervisor and appropriate practicum site personnel (e.g., head coach) each semester. It is expected that the primary supervisors review these written Site Supervisor Evaluation Forms with the student and provide direct feedback regarding the student's strengths and weaknesses. Based upon the supervisor and site evaluations, a grade of "Credit" or "No Credit" for the practicum and the practicum seminar is assigned.
SPCE RREQUIREMENTS
The Sport-Exercise Psychology Competency Evaluation (SPCE) is an assessment of a student's proficiency in applied sport-exercise psychology. This evaluation takes place at or near the completion of their practicum experience. The purpose of the SPCE is to assess students' growth and development of consulting competency in applied sport-exercise psychology in accordance with the standards of Argosy University and to ensure student acquisition of appropriate skills for applied sport-exercise psychology practice. The SPCE assesses competencies in assessment, case formulation, and intervention planning and implementation. As a prerequisite for submitting the written report, the student must be in good academic standing and enrolled in or have completed the practicum seminars. Students are expected to demonstrate their conceptual abilities, theoretical knowledge, and applied sport-exercise psychology skills obtained through coursework and practicum experience. For further information regarding the requirements of the SPCE, students should refer to the SPCE Manual.
