Studying sport and exercise psychology abroad
What is sport and exercise psychology?
Sport and exercise psychology is the study of how psychological factors affect physical performance, motivation, and overall well-being in sports and exercise settings. It examines how thoughts, emotions, and behaviours influence athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and teams. Topics can include motivation, performance anxiety, confidence, goal-setting, and mental recovery.
The subject draws on knowledge from psychology, physiology, kinesiology, and sociology. As a sport and exercise psychology student, you will investigate how mental processes affect movement, training, and performance. Your studies may take you from classrooms and laboratories to gyms, sports facilities, and outdoor training environments.
Why study sport and exercise psychology abroad?
Studying this subject in a different country allows you to observe sports and fitness cultures around the world. You could attend professional training sessions, work with elite athletes, or explore community sports programmes. These experiences offer practical insights that go beyond textbooks.
Studying abroad also exposes you to different research approaches and sports practices. You will develop cross-cultural communication skills and build an international network with coaches, psychologists, and sports organisations.
What you will study
Sport and exercise psychology degrees combine theoretical learning with practical application. Key areas of study may include:
- Performance Psychology – understanding mental preparation, focus, and resilience
- Motivation and Goal-Setting – exploring how athletes set and achieve performance targets
- Exercise and Well-being – studying the impact of physical activity on mental health
- Sport Sociology – analysing the social and cultural aspects of sport
- Research Methods and Data Analysis – collecting and interpreting psychological data
- Applied Practice – gaining experience through coaching, workshops, or internships
Many programs also include placements with sports teams, health clubs, or research projects in sport science labs.
Related subjects you might also like
- Kinesiology
- Physical Education
- Coaching Science
- Occupational Therapy
- Health Psychology
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Sport and Exercise Psychology or a related field such as Applied Psychology or Kinesiology. Some universities offer interdisciplinary programs combining psychology with sports science or health studies.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Research (MRes) in Sport and Exercise Psychology, Performance Psychology, or Health and Exercise Psychology. A PhD is usually required for advanced research or academic careers.
Professional accreditation may be available for sports psychologists through recognised international or national psychological associations.
Careers
A degree in sport and exercise psychology can lead to careers in sports performance, coaching, research, and health promotion. Graduates may work as performance consultants, exercise psychologists, or mental skills coaches.
Others take roles in rehabilitation, wellbeing programmes, or team management in professional and amateur sports. You could also work in research, public health, or education, designing interventions to improve physical activity and mental health.
Beyond these roles, graduates may become educators, fitness consultants, or sports programme coordinators. The skills you gain in psychology, analysis, and communication are highly valued worldwide, offering opportunities to make a meaningful impact on performance, health, and wellbeing.