Athletic Counseling
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Guide Athletes Toward Resilience.
The MEd/MS in Psychology: Athletic Counseling at Springfield College combines training in both applied and research areas of sport and performance-related counseling, as shown through our sample two-year plan of study. The program prepares students to understand the complex lives of athletes and performers which requires taking a holistic approach to service by supporting them in their interpersonal relationships, performance-related goals, and overall mental well-being.
Through applied fieldwork opportunities, you will prepare for professional work with athletes at various levels and for doctoral programs in clinical, counseling, or sport psychology. You'll also hone your skills through the athletic counseling Research Team, comprised of students, faculty, and other interested individuals, which discusses all aspects of the research process
The Athletic Counseling master's degree program will prepare students for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credential offered through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Students may need to complete coursework and supervised experiences post-graduation if CMPC requirements are not completed within their curriculum. The CMPC credential is not conferred by the program and is under the purview of AASP.
What job can I get with a degree in Athletic Counseling?
A Master's in Athletic Counseling from Springfield College isn't just a degree—it's your gateway to a dynamic career at the intersection of sports, mental health, and peak human performance.
Imagine being the professional who helps athletes overcome mental blocks, recover from career-threatening injuries, and unlock their true potential. At Springfield College, we turn that vision into reality.
Data is from the 2024 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
A Sport Psychology Consultant helps athletes enhance their performance and well-being by focusing on the mental aspects of sports. By using strategies such as visualization, goal setting, and relaxation techniques, they help athletes overcome mental barriers, cope with pressure, and achieve their full potential. These consultants often collaborate with coaches and other professionals to create comprehensive training programs that support both the physical and mental health of athletes.
Coaches teach amateur and professional athletes the fundamental skills of individual and team sports. They hold practice and training sessions to improve the athletes’ form, skills, and stamina. Along with refining athletes’ individual skills, coaches are responsible for instilling the importance of good sportsmanship, a competitive spirit, and teamwork.
Many coaches evaluate their opponents to determine strategies and to establish particular plays to practice. During competition, coaches call specific plays intended to defeat, surprise, or overpower the opponent, and they also may substitute players to get optimum team chemistry and success.
Training and development managers oversee training programs, staff, and budgets. They are responsible for creating or selecting course content and materials for training programs. Training also may be collaborative, with employees informally connecting with experts, mentors, and colleagues, often through social media or other online medium. Managers must ensure that training methods, content, software, systems, and equipment are appropriate.
How to Apply:
Admissions Requirements
- Complete the online application: Once your application form is processed you will receive an email with your application portal login credentials and instructions for submitting supplemental materials as listed below.
- Essay: In two to three double-spaced pages, please describe significant life experiences that have contributed to your interest in your field, your understanding of this field, your occupational objectives, and why you have chosen Springfield College.
- Resume: Please include any college activities, out-of-school leadership experiences, work history, and community involvement to support your interest in or qualifications for graduate study.
- Two letters of recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from a faculty member or direct supervisor: Recommenders will receive an email when you submit your application and will be able to upload your letter to your application.
- Interview: This program requires an interview
- Transcripts: An official transcript from each college/university you have attended is required. In order to be considered official, transcripts must be received directly from the original source, by email to graduate@springfield.edu or mailed to the college address:
Springfield College
Office of Graduate Admissions
263 Alden Street
Springfield, MA 01109
International Applicants
- $100 non-refundable International Application fee
In addition to the above admissions requirements, all international applicants from non-English-speaking countries are required to submit:
- Proof of English language proficiency by way of the TOEFL or IELTS: Other tests may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Please refer to our language requirements for more information on acceptable tests, minimum scores, exemptions, and conditional acceptance. If your undergraduate degree was earned in the United States and you successfully completed college-level English, we will consider English language proficiency met.
- Please note: Transcripts must be in English. If the transcript is not in English you will be required to submit a professional credential evaluation completed by any member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). For this we recommend SpanTran, with its customized portal for Springfield College applicants. World Education Services or Josef Silny & Associates, Inc. are also recommended for your credential evaluations.
The Office of International Admissions can assist you with questions you may have about enrolling at Springfield College as an international student by emailing intladmissions@springfieldcollege.edu.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students:
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis as space is available.
International Students:
- Application and Supporting Materials Deadline: January 26
