The Sport and Exercise Psychology minor is designed to provide an overview of the principles, practices, and theories underlying the psychology and sociology of sport and related physical activity. Students are required to take five courses (15 credit hours). All courses must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
Required Courses (6 hours):
SEP 271 Sport in American Society (online)
This course provides a comprehensive analysis of common sport structures
with a close view of who participates and the consequences of participation.
A major emphasis is placed on the sociological phenomena that contribute
to sport in North America (i.e., youth, media, politics, violence, race,
gender, economy, history, etc.). In-depth discussion of the apparent positive
and negative consequences of the way sport is organized in society will occur.
This is a participation intensive course.
SEP 272 Psychological Perspectives in Sport (online)
Explores psychological theory related to sport and exercise behavior. The
goal of this course is to establish a solid foundation of knowledge regarding
psychological theories and research in sport and exercise settings. Readings,
lectures, and class exercises will increase student understanding of how
psychological factors impact involvement, enjoyment and performance in sport
and physical activity. The course will also help students acquire skills
and knowledge about sport and exercise psychology that can be applied as
a coach, teacher, observer, or participant.
Students must select three courses (9 credit hours) from the following:
COUN 303 Introduction to Helping Professions (online)
This course will assist in evaluating students potential for a career in
the helping professions. Exposure is provided to client populations served
by helping professionals, along with a selection of intervention strategies
used in those professions.
SEP 373 African Americans in Sport (on campus)
Sociocultural and historical overview of the contributions of African- Americans
in sport in America.
SEP 383 Exercise Psychology (online)
Explore factors that contribute to the relationship between psychosocial
factors and exercise (bi-directional). There is a focus on both theory (understanding
research) and application (practicing). As such, this course requires advanced
readings and requires students to learn new skills (interviewing, self-monitoring,
journaling, and attempting behavior change). The personal investment in this
course requires a higher level of motivation than most courses, but offers
more in return as well (personal insight and skill development).
SEP 385 Social Psychology of Sport (online)
A comprehensive analysis of the field of social psychology and the theories
that apply to the world of sport and physical activity. Sport is a highly
social environment that can have a wide and far-reaching influence upon those
who participate. This course will focus upon and provide an overview of the
major social factors and theories that affect those involved in sport. In-depth
discussion of the interactions between the athlete, team, coach and spectators
will occur. This is a participation intensive course.
SEP 425 Psychological Aspects of Sport Injury (online)
Theory and research related to the psychological aspects of injury and injury
rehabilitation. Topics of study include emotional responses to injury, counseling
issues in injured athletes, pain management, adherence and compliance to
rehabilitation, and psychosocial interventions. Case studies, research articles,
and presentations will be used to explore assessment and intervention approaches
relevant for sport medicine and sport psychology professionals. This is a
senior level undergraduate seminar course that includes non-textbook readings
that require students to analyze and summarize research.
All SEP courses except for SEP 373 will be offered online every summer term. SEP 373 will only be offered on-campus. COUN 303 will be offered online spring, summer and fall terms.
For additional information contact MediaCollegeOnline@mail.wvu.edu. To register for online courses, contact WVU Online at (800) 253-2762 or email WVUOnlineInquiry@mail.wvu.edu.