Sport Psychology

In OBU’s sport psychology program you will embark on a journey to understand the intricate relationship between the human mind and athletic performance. This fascinating field of study is designed to equip you with both psychological expertise and practical skills while offering you a unique blend of theory and practical experiences.

Chad Payn

Chair, Division of Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation

“I am thrilled about the launch of a sport psychology degree designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological aspects of athletic performance. This innovative program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, and will equip students with the skills to enhance athlete well-being and optimize mental performance on the field or court.”

Benefits of an OBU Sport Psychology Degree

Holistic Approach

We understand that peak athletic performance goes beyond physical prowess. Our sport psychology program delves into the psychological aspects of sports, ensuring that you grasp the importance of mental and physical performance alongside a holistic view of mental health.

Exceptional Lab and Facilities

OBU’s exercise science, sports and recreation program features state-of-the-art equipment including a BOD POD®, electrocardiogram machine, spirometer, and a ParvoMed metabolic cart with a clinical treadmill and cycle ergometer.

You will be taught to utilize functional movement screens, strength and conditioning equipment, and reaction training software to enhance performance with a variety of client types. As an upper division student, you will utilize an aging simulator to assist in exercise testing and prescription for older populations. Our hands-on approach to learning with industry-standard equipment will further enrich your experience.

Faculty Advising

As a student, you will develop meaningful relationships with faculty who will guide you as you build your skillset in the field of sport psychology. Your faculty advisor will carefully help you consider your options as you make decisions about your post-graduate career options. Our experienced team of professors are committed to nurturing your understanding in this dynamic field and helping you reach your fullest potential.

Incredible Education, Affordable Cost.

OBU provides a minimum $10,000 per year scholarship to every incoming first-time freshman and $8,000 to every incoming transfer student. And you could qualify for even more financial aid! Many of our students also receive money through federal Pell grants and OBU Bison Grants.

To get an estimate of what your cost to attend OBU might be, please check out our Net Price Calculator. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how affordable an OBU education really is. Especially considering the incredible academic quality, personal mentor relationships with faculty and staff, and strong Christian commitment you will experience at OBU. You won’t find an experience like this anywhere else!

Program Information

Comprehensive Curriculum

Our curriculum blends rigorous coursework in exercise science and psychology to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles underlying athletic performance and mental health. From courses in sport psychology and counseling to exercise physiology and biomechanics, you will gain a well-rounded education tailored to meet the demands of today's sports industry. In addition to this training, OBU’s core liberal arts education provides a wide expanse of learning which further enhances your ability to reason, think critically and experience the world in a deeper way.

Faculty Mentors

Our dedicated faculty members are not just educators; they're mentors who are deeply invested in your success. With their guidance, you'll have the opportunity to explore diverse areas within sport psychology and develop expertise in your areas of interest. In addition to your academic and career success, our smaller class sizes allow our professors to know you on a personal level and serve as role models in regard to your education, faith and professional growth.

Graduate and Career Choices

As a graduate of our sport psychology program, you'll be equipped to pursue graduate training which will lead to a wide variety of rewarding career paths. Whether you choose to work as a sport psychologist, mental health therapist, coach, athletic director, or consultant, your expertise in understanding the psychological aspects of sports will be highly valued in diverse settings.

Faith Integration

At OBU, we believe in integrating faith into every aspect of learning, including the study of sport psychology. Our program encourages you to explore the intersections of Christian faith, sports, and psychology, fostering a holistic approach the mental and spiritual well-being of athletics.

Program Options

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

World-Class Faculty

OBU faculty are experts in their fields and will be with you every step of the way.

Dr. Chad Payn

Dr. Chad Payn

Chair, Division of Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation
Associate Professor of Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation
Faculty Athletics Representative

Dr. Bret Roark

Dr. Bret Roark

Chair, Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Ralph and Marie Barby Professor of Psychology
Professor of Psychology

Dr. Meredith Bailey

Dr. Meredith Bailey

Assistant Professor of Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation

Dr. Canaan Crane

Dr. Canaan Crane

Professor of Psychology
Director, MFT Program

Dr. Jeffrey Hogan

Dr. Jeffrey Hogan

Assistant Professor of Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation

Dr. Karen Longest

Dr. Karen Longest

Associate Dean for Faculty Development,
Professor of Psychology, and
Director for the Center of Teaching Excellence

Division of Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation

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