La Sierra launches masters in sports and performance psychology

Created during the COVID-19 pandemic, the program was inspired by the widespread mental health crisis among athletes. School of Education Dean Chang-ho Ji and assistant professor Zixuan Zhao built upon their existing counseling program by adding a specialized sports psychology track.The core faculty teaching this program includes Ji, Zhao, Department of Education & Leadership Chair John Chen and Health and Exercise Science Chair Kimberly Feiler, alongside adjunct instructors with specialized expertise. The degree is designed not only for those interested in sports performance but also for individuals working with military personnel, corporate professionals, performers, and other individuals who want to achieve peak performance.

“It’s pretty rare that you can have two master's degrees in two years." -- School of Education Professor John Chen

Graduates of the program will be prepared for jobs such as sport consultant, life coach, or certified mental performance consultant (CMPC), with certification available through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). This certification opens career opportunities for graduates such as opening their own private practice, providing performance coaching for elite athletics or consulting for corporate businesses, noted Zhao. “This certificate carries a lot of weight; even groups like Cirque du Soleil use performance consultants,” she explained.

One unique element of the program is its dual-degree option, allowing students to earn both an M.A. in sports psychology and an M.A. in counseling within two years, requiring 76 units in total. This opportunity equips students to hold a wide range of clients, from individuals with mental health challenges to high-achieving professionals.

“It’s pretty rare that you can have two master's degrees in two years–– usually, it takes two years for one degree,” said Chen. “It’s a growing field, there are not many places in California that offer this program.”

In addition to academics, the program emphasizes community. Students progress through the curriculum as a cohort, sharing classes, research, and conference experiences. The program includes fieldwork practice through collaboration with La Sierra’s Athletics Department, and students benefit from 35% tuition coverage within this cohort program.