Sport and Performance Psychology

Throughout the Sport and Performance Psychology course from The University of Edinburgh you will learn how to develop performers, individually and in groups, to ensure they reach their peak potential. Striking a balance between psychological theories and the skills needed to apply them, you will also leave with the knowledge and tools necessary to critically appraise and apply scientific literature and to plan, conduct and share your own research.

Our staff actively consult with high-level sports up to Olympic and World standards. Utilising these varied experiences, staff use applied psychological practice and research to enhance and enliven students’ education and learning in a variety of innovative ways. Staff hold academic and professional qualifications with recognised professional bodies for psychologists.

Career opportunities:

As public understanding of the role psychology plays in boosting sports performance increases, so does demand for those with the skills to apply that knowledge. This program paves the way for careers in a variety of fields, in sports and beyond.

Our graduates have gone on to jobs that include:

• private consultancy in sports, business, music/performing arts
• management and technical roles in sporting bodies
• sports psychology practice in the UK Sports Institute (publicly funded)
• lifestyle management in the UK Sports Institute
• military and training agencies (for example, primary medical care)
• research (PhD in sports and business/management fields)
• further professional training, such as for clinical or educational psychology
• initial jobs in business to develop into Human Resource roles
• teaching/lecturing (higher and tertiary education)
• outdoor and adventure training

Courses include:

• Understanding Research Concepts

• Stress: Coping and Control

• Professional Skills in Development Environments

• Planning & Instruction for Performance

• Dynamics of Performance Teams