MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Newcastle University

Program Overview

The MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology at Newcastle University explores how psychological principles influence athletic performance, physical activity, and wellbeing. It is ideal for students aiming to work in sports psychology, performance coaching, or health and fitness professions.

Curriculum Structure:
Students begin with foundational modules such as Foundations of Sport and Exercise Psychology and Psychological Skills for Practitioners, gaining insight into motivation, confidence, and mental preparation in sport. The program then advances to applied modules like Performance Enhancement and Behaviour Change and Research Methods in Sport and Exercise Psychology, where students learn to evaluate interventions and conduct psychological assessments. In the final stage, students undertake a Research Dissertation on a chosen topic, integrating theory, research, and practical application in a sport or exercise context.

Focus areas: "Performance psychology, motivation, behaviour change, applied sport psychology"

Learning outcomes: "Students develop an understanding of psychological processes in sport and exercise, acquire skills in intervention design, and gain experience in research and performance enhancement techniques."

Professional alignment (accreditation): Aligned with the British Psychological Society’s Stage 1 training requirements in Sport and Exercise Psychology.

Reputation (employability rankings): Newcastle University maintains a strong reputation for psychology and sports science, consistently performing well in UK rankings (QS, Guardian).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on Newcastle University's MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology develop practical skills through research and clinical observation opportunities. They utilise specialist facilities including the on-campus Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust research units. This experiential learning is delivered through:

  • Research Project: A substantive empirical dissertation, often clinically-focused and supervised by an active clinical academic.

  • Clinical Observation: Potential for clinical observation and engagement with local NHS Trust partners.

  • Software: Training in SPSS for statistical analysis of clinical data.

  • Facilities: Access to specialist research units within the Institute of Neuroscience and Institute of Health & Society.

  • Seminars: Attendance at clinical research seminars and engagement with practicing clinical psychologists.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology at Newcastle University develop expert knowledge in psychological theory, research, and applied practices to enhance athletic performance and wellbeing. Typical roles include Sport and Exercise Psychologist (Stage 2 trainee), Academic Researcher, Performance Coach, and Health & Wellbeing Specialist.

  • The university’s Careers Service offers tailored CV workshops, interview coaching, and placement support within sports and health sectors.

  • Graduates benefit from a 94% employment rate and competitive salaries, progressing in academia, professional practice, and sports organisations.

  • Strong partnerships with local sports clubs, NHS trusts, and national sports bodies provide networking and applied research opportunities.

  • The program is British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited, a key step toward professional qualification.

  • Graduates secure roles in professional training, research, coaching, and wellbeing promotion.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates typically advance to Stage 2 BPS training, doctoral research, or apply for professional practitioner roles.​

Program Key Stats

£30,800 (Annual cost)
£
Sept Intake : 31st Jul


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

3 or 4 Years

N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
7.0
100
2:1
1220
29

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Sport and Exercise Psychologist (Stage 2 trainee)
  • Academic Researcher
  • Performance Coach
  • and Health & Wellbeing Specialist

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