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Sports Psychology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Terminal degree in the field of Performance Psychology, Sport Psychology or related Psychology field. * Extensive experience in higher education, plus a Master's degree in Performance Psychology ...

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in the field of Sports Psychology or Kinesiology with a specialized emphasis in sport and/or performance psychology. * Memberships within a ...

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Sports Psychology information

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$20.5K

$52.6K

$108.5K

How much do sports psychology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports psychology in the United States is $52,554.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,500.00 and $58,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sports psychology?

Sports psychology is a field that combines principles of psychology and sports science to help athletes improve their performance and well-being. It focuses on mental factors like motivation, confidence, focus, and how they influence participation and success in sports. Sports psychologists work with athletes, coaches, and teams to develop coping strategies, enhance concentration, manage anxiety, and recover from injuries. Their goal is to optimize both the mental and emotional aspects of athletic performance.

What are the qualifications to work in sports psychology?

The primary qualifications to work in sports psychology include at least a master's degree in human performance, kinesiology, or a related field, preferably with a specialization in sports psychology. Employers may prefer applicants with a doctorate or sufficient clinical experience. In most states, you also need a license to practice psychology. The requirements for licensing vary by state but typically include gaining clinical experience, passing a written exam, and occasionally passing an oral exam. To excel in sports psychology, you need strong interpersonal, communication, and critical thinking skills, as well as an understanding of sports science and the ability to perform the physical duties of the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Psychologist, you need a strong background in psychology, research methods, and counseling, typically supported by a master's or doctoral degree in sports psychology or a related field along with relevant licensure. Familiarity with assessment tools, biofeedback systems, and performance-tracking software is commonly required. Excellent communication, empathy, and motivational skills help build trust with athletes and teams. These skills and qualities are vital for effectively enhancing athletic performance, addressing mental health challenges, and fostering resilience in competitive environments.

How do sports psychologists typically collaborate with coaches and athletes to enhance team performance?

Sports psychologists work closely with both coaches and athletes to address mental barriers, improve communication, and foster a positive team culture. They often conduct workshops, observe practices, and provide one-on-one consultations to help athletes build mental resilience and manage stress. Collaboration may also involve developing customized mental training programs and advising coaches on strategies to motivate and support their athletes. This teamwork ensures that psychological insights are integrated into training and competition routines, ultimately enhancing overall team performance.

What is the difference between Sports Psychology vs Athletic Trainer?

AspectSports PsychologyAthletic Trainer
Required CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Psychology, certification (e.g., Certified Mental Performance Consultant)Bachelor's or Master's in Athletic Training, certification (e.g., ATC)
Work EnvironmentSports teams, clinics, private practice, academic settingsSports facilities, hospitals, schools, clinics
Employer & Industry UsageSports organizations, mental health clinics, universitiesSports teams, healthcare facilities, schools
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, credentials, and work scopeDifferences in training, responsibilities, and career paths

Sports Psychology focuses on mental skills, motivation, and performance enhancement for athletes, often requiring advanced psychology credentials. Athletic Trainers primarily provide injury prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation, with a focus on physical health. Both roles work closely with athletes but serve different needs within sports settings.

Is sports psychology in high demand?

Sports psychology is experiencing growing demand as athletes and teams seek mental performance coaching to improve focus, resilience, and motivation. Professionals in this field often work with sports organizations, requiring relevant certifications and strong interpersonal skills. The job outlook is positive, especially with increased awareness of mental health in sports environments.

What can I do with a sports psychology degree?

A sports psychology degree prepares individuals for careers as sports psychologists, working with athletes to improve mental performance, motivation, and focus. Graduates can also work in coaching, athletic training, or mental health roles within sports organizations, often requiring certification or licensure depending on the region. Skills in counseling, research, and understanding sports environments are essential for these roles.

Where do most sports psychologists work?

Most sports psychologists work in athletic organizations, sports teams, universities, or private practice settings. They often collaborate with athletes, coaches, and trainers to improve mental performance and address psychological challenges related to sports. Many also work in clinics or hospitals specializing in mental health and performance enhancement.

What cities are hiring for Sports Psychology jobs?

Cities with the most Sports Psychology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Psychology jobs?

The most popular types of Sports Psychology jobs are:

What states have the most Sports Psychology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sports Psychology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sports Psychology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,554 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Performance & Sport Psychology Faculty

AMDA

New York, NY โ€ข On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

AMDA College of the Performing Arts, with campuses in New York City and Hollywood, is one of the foremost post-secondary performing arts colleges in the country. AMDA offers various pathways for students to receive unparalleled performing arts education taught by world-class industry professionals, including Professional Conservatory Certificates as well as undergraduate and graduate degrees (Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Associate of Occupational Studies, Master of Fine Arts and Master of Arts).

AMDA is seeking passionate, student-centered, and highly qualified part-time adjunct instructors to teach undergraduate Performance Psychology courses. These courses are delivered on the NY campus using a combination of instructional technologies that include Blackboard Ultra. Teaching assignment(s) may include various courses within the field of Performance Psychology. Faculty members at AMDA are responsible for providing highly effective instruction through well-prepared classes, relevant assignments, fair and holistic assessment of learning, clear documentation of student progress, and support of academic success for all students. Courses will be delivered in person and typically meet two days per week for 2-hour sessions.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Providing instruction in accordance with established curricula, course outlines, and class schedules
  • Creating and maintaining an environment which emphasizes learning, encourages free discussion of ideas and critical thinking
  • Providing a learning vehicle for diversity and inclusion content
  • Evaluating progress of students concerning educational matters and assessing student work
  • Maintaining appropriate standards of professional conduct and ethics
  • Maintaining current knowledge in the subject matter areas
  • Fulfilling professional responsibilities of a part-time adjunct faculty member
  • Maintaining accurate academic records
  • Performing other related duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Required Educational Credentials:

  • Terminal degree in the field of Performance Psychology, Sport Psychology or related Psychology field.
  • Extensive experience in higher education, plus a Master's degree in Performance Psychology, Sport or Exercise Psychology.

Required Professional Expertise:

  • A minimum of three years of teaching in the related field of Performance Psychology and Sport Psychology in a post-secondary setting
  • Experience with innovative teaching methodologies that focus on creating an engaging, student-centered learning environment
  • Currency and depth of knowledge in the applicable field
  • Knowledge of and commitment to teaching strategies and practices that enhance student success at higher education institutions, including effective use of technology
  • Excellent oral/written communication skills and interpersonal skills
  • Commitment to academic excellence, exceptional service and providing a dynamic climate for life-long learning
  • Successful candidates will be able to apply their discipline expertise in a manner/context that is relevant to emerging performing artists, in an online environment
  • Active scholarship in related field

Position Information:

  • The pay range for this position is $45-$60, Auxiliary rate is $35

Diversity and Qualifications:

AMDA is fully committed to diversity, inclusivity, and equity throughout the teaching and learning process. We encourage applications from individuals who have extensive experience working with students from diverse backgrounds.
Successful candidates will have a sensitivity to, and understanding of, the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of our students, including disabilities that may affect students' development and learning styles.
Members of traditionally underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

AMDA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in which no person is subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, supervision, promotion, working conditions, termination, layoff, demotion, transfer, compensation, and training.

Employment Type: Part-Time