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Step 1
Show an interest in sports, athletes, coaches and teams.
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Step 2
Research the different college programs that fit with sports psychology. Few colleges offer a sports psychology major. Sports psychologists may study psychology, sports science or kinesiology.
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Step 3
Look at the different facets of sports psychology. Perhaps you want to work in an academic setting studying how sports and psychology interact with each other. Or you might want to apply psychological principles as a consultant to an athletic team.
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Step 4
Understand that your career goals determine what education you should strive for. Sports psychologists at universities have Ph.D.s, whereas consultants working in the private sector may have a master's degree. Most sports psychologists have advanced degrees.
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Step 5
Join professional organizations to learn more about your field and to network with other sports psychologists. Two noted organizations are the Association for the Advancement of Applied Sport Psychology or the North American Society for the Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity. If you are already a member of the American Psychological Association, look into joining the sports psychology division, known as Division 47.
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Step 6
Realize that job competition for sports psychologists can be fierce and positions may only be part-time. Many sports psychologists must include other branches of psychology or sports medicine to be successful.
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Step 7
Continue your education by attending professional conferences or conventions. Contact a sports psychology organization for more information.
