The undergraduate degree in sport and exercise psychology prepares students with foundational knowledge in the scientific study and practical application of the human mind and behavior in sport and exercise contexts. It is the only major of its kind in the state of West Virginia and one of the few undergraduate programs in the nation that allows students to specialize in this knowledge area. Students explore the psychological and social factors influencing sport performance and a range of additional performance domains, including business, military, and performing arts. Students also explore the psychological and social factors influencing exercise and physical activity behavior toward health and wellness. In spanning sport, exercise, and other contexts, students are prepared with knowledge and skills applicable to a range of careers and graduate programs in and around the sport industry.
Graduates of this program have pursued careers and advanced degrees in sport and exercise psychology, counseling, physical therapy, occupational therapy, public health, public administration, exercise science, business, law, and many other disciplines. Students opting to pursue an accelerated pathway can pursue a bachelor's in sport and exercise psychology and online masters in sport management in less time. Students wishing to pursue a career directly in the sport and exercise psychology field (e.g., as a Certified Mental Performance Consultant or licensed sport psychologist) are prepared to pursue the graduate degree or degrees required for those paths. Through a capstone experience, all students in the major apply their knowledge and skills in an experiential learning setting (e.g., internship or graduate school preparatory course in research) to prepare them for a career of their choice.