Master of Science in Sport + Human Performance

This foundational course is designed to help students understand the origins and functions of the related fields of sport and human performance. It will include a historical analysis of the creation of sport psychology, tracing its roots to exercise science and cognitive-behavioral theory. Professional organizations focused on both areas will be discussed (e.g., Association for Applied Sport Psychology [AASP], U. S. Olympic Committee Sport Psychology & Mental Training Registry, American Psychological Association Division 47-Sport, Exercise & Performance Psychology).

This course will provide a topical explanation and provide students the opportunity to apply principles of human movement behavior to acquisition and performance of skills, discussion of current research and methodology.

The course objectives are to make the student aware of pertinent gross and microscopic human neuroanatomy, to build a foundational understanding of neurophysiology and the biology of the nerve, and to become familiar with a variety of behavioral issues as they relate to neurophysiology. Areas of emphasis will include attention, memory, knowledge, language, reasoning, problem solving, the cognitive bases of affect and consciousness, human learning, and theories of motivation.

This course examines the historical, social, and cultural factors influencing sport and physical activity. Pertinent cultural issues, theories, and research applications will be considered in the scholarly pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the sociological influences on sport, exercise, and physical activity.

Advanced Techniques is a course designed to provide opportunities for students to develop psychological interventions for performance enhancement. Students will engage in the scientist-practitioner model and begin to acquire and implement psychological skills training for athletes and performing populations such as goal-setting, visualization, positive and productive self-talk, confidence, and arousal management for optimal human performance development.

This course teaches basic relationship and counseling skills using role-plays and other experiential activities. The course covers basic counseling skills (e.g., attending, active listening, building rapport), intake interviewing, and self-reflection/self-assessment procedures.

This course provides an overview of the major disorders in the current edition of the DSM. A range of mental disorders from adjustment disorders to serious psychopathologies will be discussed.

This course is designed to provide a basic foundation of knowledge, awareness, and skills needed for providing more effective counseling services in a multicultural society.

This course introduces students to theory and principles of group dynamics as well as developmental stages of groups. In addition, group members’ roles and behaviors and therapeutic factors of group work will be discussed.

This course is a master’s-level introduction to research methods and program evaluation as it pertains to the field of professional counseling. Major research designs including both quantitative and qualitative methods will be explored.

Externship field placement includes delivery of mental performance services under the mentorship of a mental performance consultant who is certified by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. The field experience is paired with a seminar during which students receive feedback from a CMPC and may also include a peer consultation model to develop skills related to mental skills training and their professional development as practitioners.

Externship field placement includes delivery of mental skills training services under the mentorship of a mental performance consultant who is certified by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. The field experience is paired with a seminar during which students receive feedback from the CMPC and may also include a peer consultation model to develop skills related to mental skills training and their professional development as practitioners.

Externship field placement includes delivery of mental skills training services under the mentorship of a mental performance consultant who is certified by the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. The field experience is paired with a seminar during which students receive feedback from the CMPC and may also include a peer consultation model to develop skills related to mental skills training and their professional development as practitioners.

Should students be able to acquire all 400 hours during their externship series, they need to register for MSHP 687: Continuation in Sport Externship in every and any semester for which they are still enrolled as a student at Adler University if they will continue working with athletes/coaches/performers as they are unable to apply for the CMPCO credential until their degree has been conferred.

Students may register for MSHP 689: Sport and Human Performance Externship and Seminar IV in every and any semester for which they are still enrolled as a student at Adler University. This course is for those students who have completed their externship series (MSHP 681, MSHP 683, and MSHP 685) and are still accumulating hours toward certification as a mental performance consultant.