
Sport Psychology
Faculty of Education and Health
Dive into the mind of an athlete as you prepare to be a professional leader in exercise and sport psychology.

Program Overview
This program is the only one of its kind in Canada and is designed to introduce students to the field of Applied Sport Psychology and foundations are provided in Psychology and Human Kinetics to foster a multi-disciplinary understanding of athletic and mental preparation
Study with internationally renowned sport and exercise psychology researchers and practitioners in the only program of its kind in Canada.
Discover how participation in sport and exercise affect people psychologically and physically. Gain experience and knowledge that can be applied to many professional workplace settings.
Work with athletes, coaches, and parents on a variety of topics including injury, rehabilitation, communication, team building, and career transitions.
Take advantage of small class sizes and study with internationally known sport and exercise psychology researchers.
Can be taken in conjunction with the Concurrent Bachelor of Education
Combine this program with the Education program to complete a 4-year BA, obtain your Bachelor of Education, or continue your studies at a graduate level in the masters program
Gain hands-on experience by completing internships in the community
Get practical experience working with coaches and teachers in the field, psychological assessment protocols, stress management techniques, conflict resolution, motivation and group dynamics, goal setting, and cultural studies
Career Outlook
Graduates can rest assured knowing there is a multitude of career options they can explore post-graduation. Some career options include, but are not limited to:
Mental performance consultant, consultation and public management, professional, coach, trainer, educator, or motivational coach. May also pursue Graduate studies and research.
Many of these careers can be found in the public and private sectors.
Taught by faculty who were world-leading experts in their field, the sport psychology undergraduate degree broadened my scientific knowledge about the psychological aspects of sport performance, mental health, and motivation to exercise, amongst other topics. There was also ample opportunity provided to: work with classmates to learn how to lead a group, present in front of small and large groups and work in a variety of professional settings. The development of a variety of skills led to a wide range of career opportunities, including international work as a teacher, mental performance consultant and current position as an assistant professor.
Thierry Middleton
Program Details
Program language:
English
Delivery method:
On Campus
Contact info
Dr. Robert Schinke(705) 675-1151 ext. 1045
B-235, B.F. Avery Physical Education Centre, Sudbury Campus
rschinke@laurentian.ca
Please contact the email above, and our recruitment team will get back to you!
More About The Program
The objectives of the Sport Psychology program reflect a number of different disciplines and give the student a well-rounded education that allows for opportunities of preparing professional leaders in physical activity and sport. The objectives include practical experiences working with coaches and teachers in the field, psychological assessment protocols, stress management techniques, conflict resolution, motivation and group dynamics, goal setting, and cultural studies all in a multi-disciplinary approach. Internationally renowned sport and exercise psychology researchers and/or practitioners, small class sizes, and internship opportunities are all highlights of this program.
Students acquire a solid foundation by taking courses in the School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences and the Department of Psychology. This program is also offered in French with a few courses excepted. All students in the program must complete one internship in the community and have the option of completing a second internship if they wish. Students also have the opportunity to complete an undergraduate thesis or to take additional courses in order to complete a Minor in an area of interest in the Humanities, Social Sciences or Sciences.
The Sport Psychology program lends itself to developing leaders of the future, particularly in the area of sport and exercise psychology which are foundations of our society. Our need for physical activity, stress management techniques and applied information on the physical, personal, interpersonal and social relationships and cultural are critical to our well-being.
Admission Requirements
Ontario High School Applicants
Program Prerequisites:
- 1 grade 12 English U/M course; 5 other grade 12 U/M courses
- A minimum overall average of 75% in the 6 best grade 12 U/M courses
Additional information for applicants who have completed Advanced Placement courses.
Additional information for applicants who have completed the International Baccalaureate.
Click here to view information regarding General Admission Requirements.
Applicants from outside an Ontario High School
Canadian High School Applicants from outside Ontario
How To Apply
Canadian Applicants
If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you must complete your application through the Ontario Universities Application Center (OUAC).
For detailed instructions on the application process, see the How to Apply: Canadian Undergraduate Applicants page.
Apply Now as a Domestic Applicant
International Applicants
If you’re an international applicant, you must fill out the International Application Form.
For detailed instructions on the application process, see the How to Apply: International Students page.
Degree Options
Sport Psychology (B.A.) (120 credits)
This program focuses on the ways in which mental training impacts performance by examining motivation, psychometrics, anatomy, ethics in sports, biomechanics, mental training strategies, stress management, etc.
This program is not intended as a terminal degree as further study may be required to pursue different career options.
All students entering a BA program as of September 2017 are required to take 6 credits each of linguistic awareness, scientific literacy and indigenous content as per the regulations.
Although the requirements have been slotted in first year in the description below, students may fulfill them at any time during their studies.
Eligible courses are available at the 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 levels and students should take them at the appropriate time in their studies.
Courses fulfilling these requirements may be taken as electives or as part of a minor, concentration, major or specialization.
Program of Study
First Year:
PHED 0199E Outdoor School I
PHED 1006E Exercise Science, Wellness and Health
PHED 1206E Perspectives of Physical Education and Sport
BIOL 2105E Human Anatomy and Physiology + lab
PSYC 1105E Introduction to Psychology *Minimum grade of C (60%) required
12 elective credits
Note: In order to advance to the second year of the program, students must provide a photocopy of a current Certificate in CPR (level C) and First Aid before February 28.
Second Year:
PHED 0299E Outdoor School II
PHED 2206E Motor Learning + lab
PHED 4216E Sports Psychology
STAT 2126E Introduction to Statistics *Minimum grade of C (60%) required
PSYC 2005E Developmental Psychology
PSYC 2127E Scientific Method and Analysis II
PSYC 2707E Motivation
PSYC 3806E Social Psychology I
6 elective credits
Third Year:
PHED 0399E Outdoor School III
PHED 3061E Exercise Psychology
PHED 3136E Research and Professional Ethics in Kinesiology
PHED 3406E Mental Training in Sport Psychology
PHED 4516E Stress Management
PSYC 3206E Fundamentals of Psychometrics
PSYC 3256E Design and Analysis I
PSYC 3306E Learning
PSYC 3807E Social Psychology II
(OR) PSYC 2706E Emotion
(OR) PSYC 2656E Physiological Psychology
6 elective credits
Fourth Year:
PHED 4107E Human Development and Physical Activity
PHED 4217E Sports in Society
PHED 4996E Sport Psychology Internship
PHED 4546E Mental Health and Wellness
One of the following combinations:
A. PSYC 4206E Adolescent and Adult Clinical Psychology
(AND) PSYC 4207E Clinical Child Psychology
B. PSYC 4206E Adolescent and Adult Clinical Psychology
(AND) 3cr upper-year PSYC elective
C. PSYC 4207E Clinical Child Psychology
(AND) 3cr upper-year PSYC elective
PSYC 4105E Honours Thesis
(OR) PHED 4805E Thesis in Kinesiology
(OR) 6 upper-year elective credits
6 elective credits
Academic Regulations
To be in good academic standing in the School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, the student must:
1) satisfy all conditions of admission;
2) not fail more than 3 credits in an academic year or in the previous 30 credits;
3) maintain a cumulative overall average of at least 4.0 on all courses taken.
A student who fails to attain good academic standing may be allowed to continue on probation for no more than one year (or 30 credits). If after one probationary period, the student does attain good academic standing, he or she may proceed in program. However, if after the probationary period, the student fails to attain good academic standing, he or she must withdraw from the School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, but may apply to transfer to another program at the university.
A student who fails over 6 credits in the 1st-year of program may not proceed to upper year PHED courses.
After one calendar year, a student who has been asked to withdraw from the program may petition the Senate Committee on Academic Regulations and Awards for readmission, but such measures should have the recommendation of the academic unit before being considered by the Senate Committee.
Sample Courses
This course is an introduction of basic concepts of fitness assessment, training methods and testing procedures. A combination of theory and practical experiences in effects of lifestyle on fitness, weight-training principles and methods, sport preparation, flexibility, circuit training, post-cardiac program, fads, etc. (lec 3, lab 1.5) cr 3.
This course is conducted prior to the start of classes. It provides an introduction to a selection of outdoor group and individual activities including: cooperative games, orienteering, recreational games and basic outdoor skills. Students will be required to pass a Basic Aquatics Skill Test. cr 1.5.
This course is an introduction to important anatomical, biomechanical, perceptuomotor, physiological, and psychosocial factors that determine the way humans move. Concurrently, the student is introduced to various scientific approaches used to study human movement behaviour. It includes lecture, observation and laboratory experiences. (lec 3) cr 3.
This course examines the nature and scope of physical education as a profession including a descriptive analysis of current sport and physical education structures, practices and issues. (lec 3) cr 3.
This course examines the structure of human cells, tissues, digestive, endocrine, urinary, reproductive, circulatory, respiratory and nervous systems, with reference to human movement. (lec 3, lab 3) cr 3. Students who are required to take PHED 1506 may not retain credit for BIOL 2105, BIOL 1700 or BIOL 2701.
This course is a study of the structure of the human musculoskeletal system with emphasis on the kinesiologic aspects. (lec 3, lab 3) cr 3. Students who are required to take PHED 1507 may not retain credit for BIOL 2105, BIOL 1700 or BIOL 2701.
This course is a survey of contemporary psychology with reference to its historical development and emphasis on its present status and scientific methodology. It examines the biosocial bases of behaviour, development and personality, motivation, emotion, perception and learning. It involves scaling of behavioural variables, some descriptive statistics, and some elementary experiments and other practical work. (lec 2, lab/tut 1) cr 6. Prerequisite to all other PSYC courses. Students must achieve a minimum 60% grade to continue in a Psychology program.
This course introduces critical ethical thinking in relation to current moral issues in sport such as violence, cheating, drug abuse, discrimination and commercialization. It assesses what ends in sport are intrinsic as opposed to extrinsic. Some attention is also given to the moral codes adopted by various sport professionals. (lec 3) cr 3.
Students are introduced to the program and policies in the School of Education, requirements, placements, mandatory and optional courses, and expected professional behaviour. 90 minutes workshop (0 credit)
Students are introduced to the Ontario College of Teachers, its mandate, and role in supporting teachers in Ontario. Presented by a representative of the OCT. 90 minute workshop (0 credit)
This 36-hour course addresses issues relating to teaching and learning in the Ontario context. It focuses on teaching pedagogies and learning theories and prepares student teachers for their first practicum experience. Topics include standards of practice and professionalism, safe school, undergraduate programs and their relationship to the B.Ed., as well as professional learning programs. (Lec, Tut) cr. 3 Students can not retain credit for both EDUC 1016 EL and INTE 1016 EL. (Lec, Tut) cr. 3).
This 18-hour course focuses on the social, organizational and legal aspects of teaching in the Ontario and Canadian contexts. Emphasis is placed on the professional, ethical, and legal responsibilities of teachers (e.g. Education Act, Safe Schools, Ontario College of Teachers Act). (Lec/Sem) cr. 1.5
This 36-hour course models best practices in First Nation, Metis and Inuit education with focus on worldview, resources, presence, and pedagogy as a part of the school curriculum. The knowledge, values, and tools acquired in this course are necessary for equity based teaching success in Ontario elementary and secondary schools. (Lec., Exp.) cr. 3 Students can not retain credit for both EDUC 1046 EL and INTE 1046 EL
In the first Pre-Practicum Placement, teacher candidates are introduced to schools and other educational organizations that support student learning, and gain practical experience via 40-hour placement working with students (exp. Lec) 40 hours, 0.4 credits
Conducted during the fall, this required course includes an introduction to a selection of activities that may include the following: canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, white water activities and basic survival skills. PREREQ: PHED 1099 and Basic Aquatics Skill Test. cr 1.5.
This course is a study of human movement using the methods of mechanics. The mechanical properties of the human body segments are investigated and a variety of movements are analyzed in terms of temporal, positional, velocity, acceleration and force patterns. The understanding and the improvement of human movement are stressed. (lec 3, lab 2) cr 3.
This course is an introduction to concepts and models developed to explain perceptual-motor behaviour, motor skill learning and motor control. Cognitive, psychological and neuromotor factors responsible for the skilled execution of movement are covered. The utilization and application of this knowledge through discussion and laboratory experiences are stressed. PREREQ: PSYC 1105, PHED 1507 or BIOL 2105. (lec 3, lab 2) cr 3.
This course applies psychological theories and techniques to the domain of competitive sport. It attempts to determine and understand the psychological demands on athletes, coaches, spectators and parents. Topics include assessment of personality, aggression, motivation, attentional focus, activation, anxiety, attribution, group interactions, and leadership. Mental skills training for use in sport environments is introduced. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 3, lab 2) cr 3.
This course examines human development from conception onwards, with some reference to evolutional psychology. It involves the study of the norms and processes of physical, intellectual, emotional and social changes through the times of childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and senescence. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. Students can retain credit for ONLY ONE of PSYC 2005, NSCI 2005, or PSYC 2006/2007.
This course provides an introduction to basic statistical concepts and techniques that are common to all disciplines in the social sciences. The principal topics include: data collection and description, the characteristics and features of the normal probability distribution, the formulation and testing of hypotheses, linear correlation and regression analyses. (lec 3) cr 3. Students may not retain credit for both STAT 2126 and STAT 1056, or any other introductory statistics course.
This course examines research methods and design of experiments. Students study a variety of inferential statistical procedures. PREREQ: STAT 2126 or equivalent statistics course (minimum 60%). (lec 2, tut 1) cr 3.
A study of motivation in human beings and animals. Includes the many theories and experiments concerning behavioural, instinctual, physiological and cognitive aspects of motivation. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 2, lab 1) cr 3.
Students are introduced to various laws and regulations that support safe classrooms in the province of Ontario. Presented by representatives from the federations. 90 minute workshop (0 credit)
Students are introduced to the various teaching federations in the province (English Teachers Federation of Ontario, Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation, Ontario English Catholic Teachers Federation, and Association des enseignantes et des enseignants franco-ontariens) and the supports available to teachers. Presented by a representative from each of the 3 English-language teachers' federations. 90 minute workshop (0 credit)
This course is designed to present pre-service teachers with the opportunity to develop a strong foundation for professional teaching. Hence, students will be encouraged to discover through such measures as peer dialogue, active reading, group seminars and personal reflection, the multifaceted nature of the modern classroom. Pre-service teachers will begin the development of a personal educational philosophy that will continue to grow and evolve throughout their professional careers. cr 0
This introductory course is intended to assist prospective teachers to develop an understanding of the K-10 school mathematical content. Participants study content in number sense, measurement and geometry, patterning and algebra, and probability and data management, which are the main mathematical strands comprising the Ontario Mathematics Content Standards. (lec 3) cr 3. Restricted to students enrolled in the Concurrent Education program.
This course is a one-week introduction to canoe camping. PREREQ: PHED 2099. cr 1.5.
This course will introduce a variety of mental training techniques and interventions. The instructor will discuss both the theory and the practical applications of each technique. Students will learn to identify when specific techniques should be prescribed and will practice program design and implementation. Evaluation techniques will be reviewed. PREREQ: PHED 4216 (minimum 60%). (lec 3) cr 3. Open only to Sports Psychology majors or with instructor's permission.
This course is designed to cover any topic in sport psychology that is particularly relevant in any given year, or to provide the opportunity to make use of external academics who may be available to provide an intensive course on a specific topic area of relevance and interest to those in the program. The course is intended to cover areas not normally covered by other course offerings in the program. PREREQ: permission of the school. (lec 3) cr 3.
This course presents the basic concepts of stress and provides information on the causes and effects of this pervasive phenomenon. Both assessment techniques and coping skills are introduced. The purpose of the course is to provide the student with the knowledge and skill to deal with stress effectively. (lec 3, lab 1) cr 3.
This course examines the theoretical background of tests; the nature of psychological measurement; consistency and validity. Topics include interpretation of test scores; measurement of achievement, specific abilities, personality and interest; using psychological tests in education, industry, and clinic; description of some of the widely used psychological tests; and ethical issues in psychological assessment. PREREQ: PSYC 1105, STAT 2126 or equivalent statistics course (min. grade of C) (lec 3) 3 cr.
Topics include: univariate analysis of variance including factorial designs; multiple regression; the design of complex psychological experiments; the gathering, scrutiny, and transformation of psychological data; performance and interpretation of advanced computer analyses. PREREQ: PSYC 2127 (min 60%). (lec 3, tut 1) cr 3.
Topics include: types and mechanisms of learning, the variables and conditions which contribute to learning processes; a review of experimental findings and theoretical issues related to learning. PREREQ: PSYC 1105 plus 6 PSYC credits. (lec 3) cr 3.
This course examines theoretical topics in social psychology including social cognition, attitude formation and change, social justice, conflict and conflict resolution, conformity, obedience, and liking and loving. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 3) cr 3. Students may not retain credit for both PSYC 3806 and PSYC 3805.
The goal of this course is to examine how biological factors shape the behaviour of organisms. Students will be given an overview of how evolutionary forces have shaped our development and will also be introduced to how principles of biology can be used to the study of mental processes and behaviour. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 3) cr 3.
A study of emotion in human beings and animals. Includes the many theories and experiments concerning behavioural, instinctual, physiological and cognitive aspects of emotion and the study of emotional conflicts and defense mechanisms. PREREQ: PSYC 1105. (lec 2, lab 1) cr 3.
In the second Pre-Practicum Placement, teacher candidates are introduced to special education concepts and principles, specifically learning disabilities and then work one-on-one or in a classroom setting for 60 hours to support students identified with a learning disability (exp. Lec) 50 hours, 0.5 credits
Students are introduced to the various teaching federations in the province (English Teachers Federation of Ontario, Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation, Ontario English Catholic Teachers Federation, and Association des enseignantes et des enseignants franco-ontariens) and the supports available to teachers. Presented by a representative from each of the 3 English-language teachers' federations. 90 minute workshop (0 credit)
B.Ed. students will study the impact of significant psychological theories on teaching and learning in the classroom. They will investigate topics such as human development, cognition, learning theory, motivation and psychological and educational assessment. The special education component will enable teacher candidates to develop competence and confidence in dealing with pupils in the regular classroom who have special needs. To this end, they will examine special education services in Ontario, types of exceptionalities, the process used for identifying and placing students with exceptionalities in programs (IPRC) and the preparation of individual education plans (IEPs). They will become aware of the Ontario Ministry of Education policy requiring boards of education to set up Special Education Advisory Committees and to file board plans annually delineating the special education program and special education services available to its exceptional pupils. They will consider ways of providing an inclusive classroom environment and investigate classroom management strategies that have proven helpful with special needs students. They will examine Ontario College of Teachers' documents on Standards of Practice for the Teaching Profession and Ethical Standards for the Teaching Profession to ascertain professional expectations for the equitable and respectful treatment of all students. cr 3
This course is an examination of the history of Roman Catholic Education in Canada and the philosophy upon which Catholic Education has grown. A brief background of the Biblical foundations of Christianity, its expansion leading to Western European influence through to its present status in our secular society will be examined. The course will provide students with opportunities to examine their own Educational Philosophies and the people, events and institutions that have contributed to their attitudes towards Catholic Education. Along with this, past and current issues will be studied, including the impact of Catholic Education on First Nations' Peoples.
This course is a study of human biological growth and maturation in the context of physical activity and performance. Age and sex-related variations in development and physical performance are examined along with certain regulatory mechanisms of growth and maturation. PREREQ: PHED 1506/7 or BIOL 2105. (lec 3) cr 3.
This course is the study of sports as a social phenomenon and the presentation of some of the basic elements involved in the interaction of mobile human being. Topics include sport and culture, sport in education, social stratification, race, group dynamics, and social psychology of the athlete and coach. (lec 3) cr 3.
This course involves practical experience with an outside agency, institution or organization involved with competitive sport. The student works under the direction of a faculty advisor and under the immediate supervision of an experienced coach or program director to provide mental training to selected athletes. The course requires a minimum of 40 hours of consulting contact in addition to the preparation, evaluation, and feedback required in such practical work. Bimonthly meetings with the faculty advisor are required. At the end of the internship the student must submit a report outlining the work done, analyzing the experience, and making recommendations for future training. This report must be submitted both to the faculty advisor and the external supervisor. PREREQ: PHED 4216 (minimum 60%) and PHED 3406. Student must have current certificates in CPR and First Aid and a recent Police Check (exp 3) cr 3. Restricted to Sport Psychology students.
This course addresses theoretical and applied models of adolescent and adult clinical psychology. Psychometric and counselling skills used by clinicians are introduced. PREREQ: PSYC 3605. (lec 3) cr 3. Students may not retain credit for both PSYC 4206 and PSYC 4205.
Students are introduced to the process of collective bargaining from the perspective of the federations, and learn about their rights and privileges once they become a teacher. Presented by representatives from the federations. 90 minute workshop PREREQ: EDUC 0010; 0110; 0210; 0310; 0320; 0330 (1 cr.)
In the third Pre-Practicum Placement, teacher candidates choose the division and subject areas (if applicable) and gain practical experience working with students to support their learning. Teacher candidates complete 80 hours assisting teacher with duties performed in the course of a typical day at school. (exp. Lec) 60 hours, cr. 0.6
This course prepares students for the Initial Practicum by covering the essentials of professionalism, assessment/evaluation, classroom management, curriculum, and lesson-planning. It is a pre-requisite for participation in EDUC 3114 EL Initial Practicum. (Lec.) 2 cr. (24 hours)
Over the course of this long-term placement, IP teacher candidates should engage in both observation and whole class instruction (within the appropriate divisions) and demonstrate a beginning capacity for classroom management as well as lesson planning and implementation. PRREQ: EDUC 0190, EDUC 0290, EDUC 0390, and EDUC 3014. cr 2.
Faculty Members
Sessional Members:
- Randy Battochio
- Jean Benoît
- Lise Brown
- Michelle Brunette
- Carlo Castrechino
- Randy Cavallin
- James Coffey
- Coulombe Jasmine
- Carla Cox
- Tony Cox
- Caroline Dignard
- Nicole Dubuc-Charbonneau
- Gino Ferri
- Charles Fink
- Sarah Forbes
- Sheila Gagnon
- Robert Jack
- Thomas Lee Kingston
- Michelle Laurence
- Jeffrey McGarry
- Karen Rebeiro Grouhl
- Raymond Savignac
- Olivier Serress
- Natalie Tissot Van Patot
- Andelka Tuttle
- Diana Urajnik
- Melissa Wiman
Adjunct Professors:
- Ben Hejer, Ph. D.
- Hakim Hariti, Ph. D.
- Pascal Lefebvre, Ph. D.
- Nicole Dubuc-Charbonneau, Ph. D.
- Ann Pegoraro, Ph. D.
- to be completed
Faculty Members:
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