Sport and Exercise Psychology

The Bachelor of Kinesiology with a concentration in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of New Brunswick - Saint John is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in the dynamic field of sports, exercise, and health sciences. This program blends core principles of human movement, physical activity, and psychological theory to equip students with a holistic understanding of how psychological factors influence athletic performance, physical health, motivation, and overall well-being. Throughout the program, students will explore the biological, psychological, and social aspects of physical activity and sport, gaining practical skills essential for working with athletes, fitness clients, and populations with specific health needs. The curriculum covers fundamental areas such as biomechanics, physiology, and motor behavior, alongside specialized courses in sports psychology, mental skills training, behavioral change, and motivation techniques. Emphasis is placed on developing evidence-based practices and communication skills necessary for effective intervention, coaching, and health promotion. The program includes hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships, practicums, and research projects, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers as sport psychologists, fitness trainers, health educators, or for advanced studies in psychology, physiotherapy, or related fields. The program aims to foster critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and lifelong learning, ensuring students are equipped to support athletes, individuals, and communities in achieving optimal physical and mental health. Combining interdisciplinary coursework and practical experience, the Sport and Exercise Psychology concentration at UNB Saint John offers students a robust foundation to contribute meaningfully to the health and performance sectors within Canada and beyond.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of New Brunswick – Saint John offers students a comprehensive understanding of the psychological principles that influence athletic performance, physical activity, and overall well-being. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in coaching, athletic training, sport psychology consulting, fitness coaching, and other related fields, or to pursue advanced studies in psychology, sports sciences, or health sciences. Throughout the program, students explore key topics such as motivation, mental resilience, stress management, team dynamics, and the psychological effects of physical activity. They will learn about the physiological aspects of exercise as well as the mental skills necessary to optimize performance and promote lifelong engagement in physical activity. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, allowing students to develop essential skills through internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities. Courses cover areas such as human development, kinesiology, counseling techniques, and research methods, providing a well-rounded education. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical practices, and effective communication, preparing graduates to work effectively with diverse populations, including athletes, coaches, patients, and community members. Graduates are equipped to assess psychological needs, design intervention strategies, and promote mental health and motivation in sports and exercise settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty members, students gain hands-on experience contributing to team success or individual goals. The program also supports personal growth by fostering a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection and encouraging lifelong learning and physical activity habits. Whether seeking a career in sport psychology, health promotion, or research, students will find a strong foundation in evidence-based practices and a network of professional connections to support their future endeavors.

The Bachelor of Kinesiology with a specialization in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of New Brunswick Saint John typically requires students to complete a combination of core courses, specialization-specific courses, elective courses, and practical experiences. Students must first fulfill the general university admission requirements, which include a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specific prerequisites such as courses in sciences and mathematics. Once admitted, students are expected to complete a set of foundational courses in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and biomechanics to establish a broad understanding of human movement and health.

For the Sport and Exercise Psychology specialization, students usually take specialized courses covering areas such as the psychological aspects of sport performance, motivation, mental skills training, and the psychology of injury and rehabilitation. These courses are designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are applicable in various sports and health settings. Practical experience is a critical component, often facilitated through internships, cooperative education placements, or supervised fieldwork, allowing students to apply their learned skills in real-world environments.

Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in research projects or community engagement activities related to sport psychology, enhancing their understanding of current issues and practices. Many programs also include a capstone project or thesis that integrates their overall learning and prepares them for professional practice or further study. To graduate, students must meet the required credit hours, maintain specific academic standards, and complete all coursework successfully. Overall, the program aims to develop professionals who are skilled in applying psychological principles to enhance athletic performance, promote health and well-being, and contribute to the field of sport and exercise psychology.

The University of New Brunswick's Sport and Exercise Psychology program offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, with domestic students benefiting from lower rates compared to international students. For Canadian residents, tuition fees are approximately CAD 7,000 to CAD 10,000 per year, while international students may expect to pay between CAD 20,000 and CAD 25,000 annually. In addition to tuition, students should budget for ancillary costs such as textbooks, supplies, and living expenses, which can vary based on individual circumstances and lifestyle choices.

The university provides numerous financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, bursaries, and awards that recognize academic excellence and specific talents in sport, leadership, or community service. These financial supports are competitive and require students to complete applications by designated deadlines. Some scholarships are merit-based, rewarding high-achieving students, while others are need-based, aimed at assisting students with demonstrated financial hardship. The university also encourages students to seek external funding sources, such as government grants, private scholarships, and sponsorships, which can significantly offset the costs of study.

Student employment is another viable option; the university offers work-study programs, part-time jobs on campus, and internships related to sport and exercise psychology, providing students with valuable practical experience as well as financial benefits. Additionally, the university participates in loan programs administered by provincial and federal government agencies, which can provide low-interest loans to qualified students.

International students are advised to explore specific scholarship opportunities designed for international scholars, as well as consider the costs associated with visa requirements, health insurance, and travel. To facilitate financial planning, prospective students are encouraged to consult the university’s financial aid office early in their application process. Overall, the University of New Brunswick-Saint John aims to make higher education accessible through a comprehensive range of financing options, enabling students to focus on their academic and professional development in the field of sport and exercise psychology.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of New Brunswick - Saint John is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological aspects of sports and physical activity. The program emphasizes the development of knowledge and skills necessary to enhance athletic performance, promote mental health among athletes, and apply psychological principles to various physical activity settings. Students in this program explore topics such as motivation, stress management, team dynamics, mental skills training, and the psychological factors affecting performance and well-being. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in coaching, sports psychology consulting, athletic training, or pursuing graduate studies in related fields. The program also offers opportunities for research, internships, and collaboration with local sports organizations, providing real-world experience. Students are encouraged to develop strong communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills essential for working with athletes, coaches, and other stakeholders. The University of New Brunswick - Saint John supports this program through experienced faculty, modern facilities, and connections within the sports and health communities. Overall, the program aims to produce competent professionals who can contribute to the mental health and performance optimization of individuals involved in sports and exercise activities.