Sport and Exercise Psychology MSc

• bachelor’s degree in sport science or psychology or with a sport science or psychology specialisation totalling at least 60 credit points (CP)
• proficiency in English at the C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
• letter of motivation
• proof of scientific research experience (if applicable)
• proof of practical experience in the field of sport and/or (sport) psychology (if applicable)
• proof of periods abroad (if applicable)

For native English speakers, proof of a completed bachelor’s taught in English is sufficient.

The faculty will check whether the above requirements have been met and then issue an official notification. This serves as proof that the candidate meets the relevant admission requirements.

The master’s degree programme Sport and Exercise Psychology examines basic research in the various fields (for example, motivation, volition, emotion, cognition) to further develop sport and exercise psychological theories and methods. Students also critically reflect on existing knowledge in the discipline. On the other hand, the programme aims to develop research-based recommendations for action for the stakeholders (e.g., clients, patients, athletes and trainers).

Among other aspects, sport psychology focuses on

• improving and optimising performance in competitive sport as well as school sport and areas related to health and psychology
• trainings methods for setting goals, motivating, regulating emotions and activation, mental training and sport-psychological counselling

Exercise psychology deals in particular with

• health promotion and preventing illness and injury for all age groups
• promoting physical activity to improve mental and physical well-being
• promoting motivation of participants, strategies for behavioural changes, but also stress management and relapse prevention

The degree programme aims to qualify you for national and international research-based work in the area of sport and exercise psychology.

You will acquire extensive expertise in sport and exercise psychology, enabling you to

• plan, apply for, conduct, evaluate and interpret theory-based studies.
• Accordingly, you will be able to formulate practical recommendations for action and communicate these to the respective target groups.
• You will acquire comprehensive methodological, social and interpersonal skills for leading sport psychology consulting and team management processes in international, individual and group settings.
• In addition, you will be able to communicate with stakeholders in English, in both spoken and written settings, in a manner appropriate to your field of work, to cope with intercultural communication barriers, to recognise potential conflicts, and to solve these constructively with the help of suitable communication strategies.
• You will also acquire personal and social skills to develop a sport and exercise psychology-related self-concept, subject-specific professionalism, and competence in self-management.

The master’s programme Sport and Exercise Psychology entails a student workload of 120 ECTS credits, of which 25 credits are for the master’s thesis and 95 credits are for the modules that are to be completed.

In the first semester, general foundations of the topics dealt with in sport and exercise psychology are reviewed and supplemented by current research trends and methods. In addition, foundations of research methodology and intercultural communication are laid and students’ knowledge of specialist terminology in sport and exercise psychology expanded.

In the second semester, more in-depth study follows, after which the practical relevance of applied fields of sport and exercise psychology are dealt with, building on fundamental elements.

In the third semester of the master’s programme, students have the opportunity to choose between a research-oriented internship or a stay abroad worth 30 credits. Students seeking a double degree are required to stay abroad at the University of Thessaly (additional application needed).

In the fourth semester, students write their master’s thesis.

• English-language master’s degree programme
• Double degree programme possible with the University of Thessaly (limited number of spots)
• Options: Students choose between a period abroad or an internship in the third semester

You become qualified for national and international, research-based work in the field of sport and exercise psychology in:

• Educational institutions (e.g. schools, academies, universities)
• Clubs and associations (e.g. competitive, recreational, healthcare and rehabilitation sports)
• Social and commercial enterprises (e.g. human resources management, occupational health)
• Public service (e.g. community, city, government departments
• Health-related institutions (e.g. health insurance companies).

You can choose between a period abroad or an internship in the third semester.

• STUDY REGULATIONS (SO) AND EXAMINATION REGULATIONS (PO) (IN GERMAN)
• CURRICULA AND MODULE DESCRIPTIONS (IN GERMAN)

•    Taught in English
•    International degree programme
•    Double degree programme possible with the University of Thessaly (limited number of spots)
•    Option: period abroad or internship in the third semester

Course start: Winter semester
Admission restriction (NCU): yes
Application period: 2 May–31 May
Application portal: AlmaWeb

Please ensure that you read and take note of the further information provided on the pages “Online application” and “Applying for a master’s programme”.

International students can find information about application periods and how to apply on the page “International”.

Options in the winter semester: 3rd semester – without restrictions on admission
Options in the summer semester: 2nd semester and 4th semester – each without restrictions on admission
Application period: 2 May–15 September for the winter semester; 1 December–15 March for the summer semester
Application portal: AlmaWeb
Special enrolment requirements: Credits form (Anrechnungsbescheid)

You can find more information on our page for “Applying for higher semesters of study”.

International students can find information about application periods and how to apply on the page “International”.