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2025 Most Affordable Online Master's in Sports Psychology

Written by OnlineU Writers • Edited by Bailey Fletcher • Updated 5/27/2025

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  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
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2025 Most Affordable Online Degrees Badge

The most affordable online master’s in sports psychology programs offer a cost-effective path to advancing your expertise in athletic performance, motivation, and mental well-being. These degrees combine psychological theory with applied techniques to prepare graduates for roles in coaching, counseling, and sports leadership.

Key Takeaways:

  • Troy University ranks #1, with its sports psychology master’s for $7,125 per year.
  • Adams State University boasts a 100% graduate recommendation rate and ranks #2 for affordability.
  • National University delivers the highest graduate earnings at $62,907 for graduates of its MS in sports psychology.

We only include accredited institutions with fully online sport psychology master's programs, and we manually verify all tuition rates on our list. Visit our methodology to learn more.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

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Featured Popular UUÖ±²¥s

All tuition numbers were manually collected and verified
Rank School Location Annual Tuition
# 1 #1 Troy University Troy (AL) $7,125
# 2 #2 Adams State University Alamosa (CO) $7,992
# 3 #3 Pennsylvania Western University Clarion (PA) (and 2 others) $10,257
# 4 #4 Walsh University North Canton (OH) $11,175
# 5 #5 University of the Southwest Hobbs (NM) $11,682
# 6 #6 Capella University Minneapolis (MN) $14,790
# 7 #7 Lock Haven University Lock Haven (PA) $17,040
# 8 #8 United States Sports Academy Daphne (AL) $18,057
# 9 #9 National University La Jolla (CA) $21,984
# 10 #10 University of Western States Portland (OR) $22,716
#1
Troy (AL)

, /credit

Why we like them: TROY claims the #1 spot in affordability, with a tuition of $7,125, distinguishing it as one of the most budget-conscious choices available for your graduate studies in sports psychology. The Sports Psychology concentration uniquely bridges the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion with the Department of Psychology, underpinning interdisciplinary expertise.

Annual Tuition: $7,125

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $7,125
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Recommend Rate: 77%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
  • Undergraduate Online: 4,586 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 2,556 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 328 enrolled
#1
Troy (AL)
Annual Tuition: $7,125

, /credit

Why we like them: TROY claims the #1 spot in affordability, with a tuition of $7,125, distinguishing it as one of the most budget-conscious choices available for your graduate studies in sports psychology. The Sports Psychology concentration uniquely bridges the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion with the Department of Psychology, underpinning interdisciplinary expertise.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $7,125
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Recommend Rate: 77%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
  • Undergrad Online: 4,586 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 2,556 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 328 enrolled
#2

Adams State University Adams State University Adams State University

Alamosa (CO)

, /credit

Why we like them: ASU’s kinesiology master's program with an Applied Sport Psychology concentration includes practicum requirements that can be completed at locations convenient to you. An additional differentiator is ASU’s status as a Hispanic Serving Institution. Also, ASU has a 100% recommendation rate based on student surveys we collected.

Annual Tuition: $7,992

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $7,992
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 29%
  • Retention Rate: 57%
  • Recommend Rate: 100%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
  • Undergraduate Online: 266 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 647 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 72 enrolled
#2

Adams State University

Alamosa (CO)
Annual Tuition: $7,992

, /credit

Why we like them: ASU’s kinesiology master's program with an Applied Sport Psychology concentration includes practicum requirements that can be completed at locations convenient to you. An additional differentiator is ASU’s status as a Hispanic Serving Institution. Also, ASU has a 100% recommendation rate based on student surveys we collected.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $7,992
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 29%
  • Retention Rate: 57%
  • Recommend Rate: 100%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
  • Undergrad Online: 266 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 647 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 72 enrolled
#3
Clarion (PA) (and 2 others)

, /credit

Why we like them: PennWest’s master's program has 10 concentrations, including Sport Psychology, or more than 40 dual concentration pathways, making it highly adaptable to specialized interests. We are also impressed how PennWest incorporates one-of-a-kind partnerships with national organizations and the opportunity to pursue recognized credentials, such as the Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) from the National Academy of Sports Medicine.

Annual Tuition: $10,257

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $10,257
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 50%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Recommend Rate: 92%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
  • Undergraduate Online: 1,475 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 2,254 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 157 enrolled
#3
Clarion (PA) (and 2 others)
Annual Tuition: $10,257

, /credit

Why we like them: PennWest’s master's program has 10 concentrations, including Sport Psychology, or more than 40 dual concentration pathways, making it highly adaptable to specialized interests. We are also impressed how PennWest incorporates one-of-a-kind partnerships with national organizations and the opportunity to pursue recognized credentials, such as the Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) from the National Academy of Sports Medicine.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $10,257
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 50%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Recommend Rate: 92%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)
  • Undergrad Online: 1,475 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 2,254 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 157 enrolled
#4

Walsh University Walsh University Walsh University

North Canton (OH)

, /credit

Why we like them: Unlike many comparable programs, WU’s online Master of Science in Exercise Physiology uniquely integrates coursework in entrepreneurship and business management with scientific training. This interdisciplinary emphasis prepares you not only for traditional roles in exercise physiology but also for leadership, management, and entrepreneurial positions within the health, wellness, and sports industries.

Annual Tuition: $11,175

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $11,175
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Recommend Rate: 88%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergraduate Online: 78 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 451 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: N/A
#4

Walsh University

North Canton (OH)
Annual Tuition: $11,175

, /credit

Why we like them: Unlike many comparable programs, WU’s online Master of Science in Exercise Physiology uniquely integrates coursework in entrepreneurship and business management with scientific training. This interdisciplinary emphasis prepares you not only for traditional roles in exercise physiology but also for leadership, management, and entrepreneurial positions within the health, wellness, and sports industries.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $11,175
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 58%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Recommend Rate: 88%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergrad Online: 78 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 451 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: N/A
#5

University of the Southwest University of the Southwest University of the Southwest

Hobbs (NM)

, /credit

Why we like them: USW has the best retention rate on our list, with 83% staying on after their first year. USW's program emphasizes the psychological and physical effects of sports, including emotional recovery and injury-related setbacks. This mind-body integration is key for careers in coaching, rehabilitation, or team support roles.

Annual Tuition: $11,682

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $11,682
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 27%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Recommend Rate: 50%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergraduate Online: 47 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 697 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: N/A
#5

University of the Southwest

Hobbs (NM)
Annual Tuition: $11,682

, /credit

Why we like them: USW has the best retention rate on our list, with 83% staying on after their first year. USW's program emphasizes the psychological and physical effects of sports, including emotional recovery and injury-related setbacks. This mind-body integration is key for careers in coaching, rehabilitation, or team support roles.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $11,682
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 27%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Recommend Rate: 50%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergrad Online: 47 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 697 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: N/A
#6
Minneapolis (MN)

, /credit

Why we like them: Capella's program has competency-based online learning pathways (FlexPath and GuidedPath) giving you control over your pace and schedule. You pay a flat fee per 12-week session and can complete as many courses as you are able in that time, which can accelerate graduation and reduce overall costs. This is also the most popular online school on our list, with over 26,000 online graduate students.

Annual Tuition: $14,790

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $14,790
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 0%
  • Retention Rate: 36%
  • Recommend Rate: 63%
  • School Type: For Profit
  • Undergraduate Online: 16,177 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 27,738 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 4 enrolled
#6
Minneapolis (MN)
Annual Tuition: $14,790

, /credit

Why we like them: Capella's program has competency-based online learning pathways (FlexPath and GuidedPath) giving you control over your pace and schedule. You pay a flat fee per 12-week session and can complete as many courses as you are able in that time, which can accelerate graduation and reduce overall costs. This is also the most popular online school on our list, with over 26,000 online graduate students.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $14,790
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 0%
  • Retention Rate: 36%
  • Recommend Rate: 63%
  • School Type: For Profit
  • Undergrad Online: 16,177 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 27,738 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 4 enrolled
#7

Lock Haven University Lock Haven University Lock Haven University

Lock Haven (PA)

, /credit

Why we like them: All coursework in this program at Lock Haven is aligned to prepare you for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) certification, directly supporting industry-recognized credentials in sport psychology. We also like that this program includes mentored applied experience, multicultural consulting skills, and a strong research/practice foundation.

Annual Tuition: $17,040

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $17,040
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
  • Retention Rate: N/A
  • Recommend Rate: 100%
  • School Type: N/A
  • Undergraduate Online: N/A
  • Graduate Online: N/A
  • Certificate Online: N/A
#7

Lock Haven University

Lock Haven (PA)
Annual Tuition: $17,040

, /credit

Why we like them: All coursework in this program at Lock Haven is aligned to prepare you for the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) certification, directly supporting industry-recognized credentials in sport psychology. We also like that this program includes mentored applied experience, multicultural consulting skills, and a strong research/practice foundation.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $17,040
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
  • Retention Rate: N/A
  • Recommend Rate: 100%
  • School Type: N/A
  • Undergrad Online: N/A
  • Graduate Online: N/A
  • Certificate Online: N/A
#8

United States Sports Academy United States Sports Academy United States Sports Academy

Daphne (AL)

, /credit

Why we like them: USSA’s program has three customizable pathways — internship, thesis, or non-thesis — that allow you to tailor the experience to your personal career objectives. You also have the option to choose emphases in such diverse areas as Esports Management, Sports Psychology, Sports Management, or Sports Exercise Science. Plus, we like that there are zero out-of-state tuition fees.

Annual Tuition: $18,057

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $18,057
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
  • Retention Rate:
  • Recommend Rate: N/A
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergraduate Online: 138 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 128 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 8 enrolled
#8

United States Sports Academy

Daphne (AL)
Annual Tuition: $18,057

, /credit

Why we like them: USSA’s program has three customizable pathways — internship, thesis, or non-thesis — that allow you to tailor the experience to your personal career objectives. You also have the option to choose emphases in such diverse areas as Esports Management, Sports Psychology, Sports Management, or Sports Exercise Science. Plus, we like that there are zero out-of-state tuition fees.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $18,057
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
  • Retention Rate:
  • Recommend Rate: N/A
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergrad Online: 138 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 128 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 8 enrolled
#9
La Jolla (CA)

, /credit

Why we like them: NU's MS in Sport Psychology is designed explicitly to align with the eight knowledge areas required for the CMPC certification. You gain the option for applied, internship-based fieldwork experiences, hours that can count toward the mentored experience requirement for CMPC certification. These graduates earn a median of $62,907, the best salary results on our program list.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $21,984
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 29%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Recommend Rate: 47%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergraduate Online: 7,589 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 8,980 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 326 enrolled
#9
La Jolla (CA)

, /credit

Why we like them: NU's MS in Sport Psychology is designed explicitly to align with the eight knowledge areas required for the CMPC certification. You gain the option for applied, internship-based fieldwork experiences, hours that can count toward the mentored experience requirement for CMPC certification. These graduates earn a median of $62,907, the best salary results on our program list.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $21,984
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 29%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Recommend Rate: 47%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergrad Online: 7,589 enrolled
  • Graduate Online: 8,980 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: 326 enrolled
#10

University of Western States University of Western States University of Western States

Portland (OR)

, /credit

Why we like them: UWS has a unique curriculum integrating both sport psychology and counseling coursework, affording you broader career options and a direct path toward CMPC or LPC credentialing. Another aspect we highly value is UWS' outstanding student-faculty ratio of 7:1, the lowest ratio on our list, encouraging a personalized learning experience.

Annual Tuition: $22,716

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $22,716
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
  • Retention Rate: N/A
  • Recommend Rate: 75%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergraduate Online: N/A
  • Graduate Online: 567 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: N/A
#10

University of Western States

Portland (OR)
Annual Tuition: $22,716

, /credit

Why we like them: UWS has a unique curriculum integrating both sport psychology and counseling coursework, affording you broader career options and a direct path toward CMPC or LPC credentialing. Another aspect we highly value is UWS' outstanding student-faculty ratio of 7:1, the lowest ratio on our list, encouraging a personalized learning experience.

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $22,716
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
  • Retention Rate: N/A
  • Recommend Rate: 75%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)
  • Undergrad Online: N/A
  • Graduate Online: 567 enrolled
  • Certificate Online: N/A

Featured Popular UUÖ±²¥s

Online Sports Psychology Master's Degrees You May Be Interested In


Student Reviews of Online Sports Psychology Programs

April, Graduated 2020

Attended: Capella University

Mainly I write papers constantly. I think the school courses are great. The teachers are great. The complaint I do have about this school is that the financial aid department and business office employ workers who do not know what is going on half of the time. They do not explain things very well especially about financial aid. Communication is horrible. I owed $1600 on my account bc I switched majors even though financial aid was supposed to cover my fees. They for some reason said if I did not... Read More

Review Date: 1/28/2020

Attended: Capella University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: No

April, Graduated 2020

Christina Smoley, Graduated 2018

Attended: University of Western States

UWS has many degree options and the flexibility to take classes either online or on campus. I live across the country from UWS so being able to take online classes was perfect! When I started looking into sport psychology programs, UWSs program was the only one that stood out to me. The courses they offer are exactly what I was looking for. Other programs were mainly regular psychology classes with a concentration or minor in sport psychology. The program at UWS actually focuses on sport psychology... Read More

Review Date: 12/21/2017

Attended: University of Western States

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Christina Smoley, Graduated 2018

Dominique Dorsey, Graduated 2012

Attended: Argosy University Online

Program was great just didn't have any job openings. I was told that I would need another degree and by that time I was ready to join the work force. I should have researched more and attempted a career I was familiar with instead of joining an emerging field.

Review Date: 3/19/2017

Attended: Argosy University Online

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Dominique Dorsey, Graduated 2012

Chynna-Monica Chung, Graduated 2018

Attended: Barry University

My program is helping prepare me to understand analyze psychological mechanisms and the concepts of human movement relating to sport, physical education and exercise. Once I complete this program I will be able to help this community by teaching, coaching, doing research or consulting to help improve their performance. I intend to work with elite athletes from all sports in the future.

Review Date: 3/16/2017

Attended: Barry University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Chynna-Monica Chung, Graduated 2018

Amelia, Graduated 2018

Attended: Miami University - Oxford

The field of sport psychology has grown tremendously in the last 10 years and the program at Miami University has risen to meet the new challenges and ideals. Each of the professors within the program genuinely cares about each of the students and their success. From providing applied and research resources to assisting with personal concerns. The courses I have taken have prepared me to work in the field as a Mental Training Consultant. There are ample opportunities to work with athletes at varying... Read More

Review Date: 3/7/2018

Attended: Miami University - Oxford

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Amelia, Graduated 2018

Taylor, Graduated 2015

Attended: Barry University

Barry University is an amazing community to be apart of. The school is very diverse and inviting to all kinds of people. The teacher-student ratio is small enough to actually get to know your teachers on a personal level. I was very happy with my degree program. There were only 6 people in my graduating class and three professors. I was able to get the help I needed with assignments and career goals during this time. I would recommend this program to anyone thinking of going into this profession.... Read More

Review Date: 8/29/2016

Attended: Barry University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Taylor, Graduated 2015

Jessica Wilcox, Graduated 1981

Attended: University of North Texas

North Texas University in Denton, TX, was a great school, even back in the early 80's, and over the last 30 years continues to provide quality education to students. The Masters program in Sport Psychology, provided some of the top researchers in the field, and teachers who spent quality time delivering clear and concise information in the SP field. One instructor especially left an impression on me was Robert Weinberg, he helped me through some hard times during my thesis work. I just recently found... Read More

Review Date: 3/10/2017

Attended: University of North Texas

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Jessica Wilcox, Graduated 1981

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