Sport Psychology
What will I learn?
Sport Psychology Micro-credentials is a unique programme in Iceland that focuses on evidence-based sport psychology methods to help athletes maximise their performance and well-being in training and competition. It also covers how sport psychology methods can be applied in other areas where performance matters.
The programme consists of courses that address sport science and sport psychology. Topics include sport psychological assessment, intervention design, and the relationship between mental health and performance, among others.
The programme is at the master’s level and is the first of its kind in Iceland. It comprises three 10-credit courses in sport psychology. It is possible to have the courses credited toward a master’s degree in sport science with an emphasis on sport psychology.
The course is particularly suitable for:
- Psychologists with training who work with athletes at all levels, and parents of young athletes
- Psychologists who want to add expertise and connect clinical and performance psychology
- Nutritionists and physiotherapists who work extensively with athletes
- Coaches and sports scientists who want to add expertise in sport psychology to enhance their professional skills
- Those who want to use a flexible, modular study that can be taken alongside work
The courses that students take:
- Psychological Training - Fall
- Applied Sports Psychology for Different Groups - Spring
- Clinical Sports Psychology - Spring
Main information about the program
- When does it start? Students can start the programme in the autumn or spring
- How is it structured? Taught in modules: five weeks of classes plus one week for project work.
- Classes are usually held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 12:40 to 15:10.
- The first course starts at the beginning of the term and runs for 6 weeks, followed by a break.
- The spring term is structured the same way: the first course starts at the beginning of the term and runs for 6 weeks, followed by a 6-week break, then the third course begins and runs for 6 weeks.
- What is the course fee? 317,000 ISK.
How will I learn?
The courses are taught in six-week modules. Students have the opportunity to complete projects in each course that relate to their areas of interest.
Outstanding domestic and international scholars
- International experts in sport psychology share their knowledge and experience with students.
The programme comprises courses in sport science and sport psychology. Topics include sport psychological assessment, intervention design, and the relationship between mental health and performance, among others.
Do you have questions about the study?
After graduation
The program provides:
- Practical knowledge that is useful in working with athletes
- Knowledge of a holistic approach in a sports environment
- Insight into the relationship between mental health and performance
- Tools for intervention and psychological assessment in a sports environment
- Knowledge of how to use sports psychology in working with diverse groups, including police, artists, and firefighters
Structure
The program is a one-year, 30 ECTS program.
Teachers
Scientists and Experts
Sports science students benefit from the guidance of powerful scientists in the field and guest lecturers with expertise from the business world. Teachers at RU generally have extensive contact with students.
Facility
The training takes place online, in the RU campus building and at a fitness center. The Department of Sports Science also has impressive facilities for teaching and research. These include:
- Treadmills, rowing machines and Wingate bikes and Atom X Wattbikes to assess endurance
- Devices for measuring maximum oxygen uptake and lactic acid production
- Lifting racks, bars, weight plates, dumbbells, kettlebells, TRX bands, elastic bands and exercise balls
- Tanita measuring devices for measuring body composition, fat-free mass, fat mass percentage and basic energy needs
- Various measuring devices for use in the field, such as time gates, jumping mats, grip strength meters, and FMS motor skills tests
- Kinvent effort meters
Classrooms and reading rooms
The Reykjavík University building offers excellent facilities for teaching, reading and student collaboration. Classrooms are well-equipped, and students can use group study rooms. General facilities are open to students 24 hours a day. See more information about RU's facilities.
Good service
The university building has easy access to academic and career counselling, an international office, and technical support. The library has good and diverse work facilities. The library offers access to books and academic articles, and information specialists have open hours when students can stop by for advice and help with reference work.
Shops and cafes
RU has the University Store, which sells essentials, a cafe, the World Class exercise room, and the Málið restaurant.
Why sports science at RU?
- Strong vocational education
- Possible specialisation based on interest
- Excellent facilities
- Good access to teachers
- Cohesive group of students
- Good mix of practical and theoretical learning