SP4062 - Foundations of Sport Psychology (2026/27)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2026/27 | ||||||||||||
| Module title | Foundations of Sport Psychology | ||||||||||||
| Module level | Certificate (04) | ||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||||||
| School | School of Human Sciences | ||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2026/27(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the key concepts and theories that underpin sport psychology. It will equip you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for understanding the psychological factors that influence performance in sports and physical activity. You will explore how psychological principles apply to both athletes and coaches, preparing you for a range of career pathways, including sport psychology consultancy, coaching, and performance enhancement.
Throughout this module, you will delve into fundamental psychological concepts such as motivation, confidence, self-efficacy, and goal setting. You will also examine how factors like arousal, stress, and anxiety impact performance. Key topics will include the development of mental skills, such as imagery, self-talk, and relaxation techniques, which are crucial for enhancing concentration and focus in high-pressure situations. Additionally, you will learn about psychological assessment tools and their application in a sports setting, as well as the ethical and professional standards as outlined by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
Prior learning requirements
No pre-requisites
Available for Study Abroad? No
Syllabus
This module introduces students to the foundational principles of sport psychology, beginning with an overview of the discipline and its relevance in enhancing athletic performance. Students will explore various career pathways within the field, gaining insight into the roles and responsibilities of sport psychologists. Core psychological concepts such as motivation, confidence, self-efficacy, and goal setting are examined to understand how they influence behaviour and performance in sport and physical activity (LO1).The module then delves into the psychological impact of arousal, stress, and anxiety on athletes, equipping students with strategies to manage these factors effectively (LO3).Students will also develop practical skills in mental skills training, including imagery, self-talk, and relaxation techniques, which are essential tools for performance enhancement. In addition, they will learn how to conduct psychological assessments to evaluate and support athletes’ mental readiness (LO2). Finally, the module addresses the ethical and professional standards expected of practitioners, guided by the British Psychological Society (BPS). This ensures students understand the importance of ethical conduct, confidentiality, and professional boundaries in applied sport psychology (LO4).
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
The Foundations of Sport Psychology module adopts a blended learning approach, combining scheduled teaching activities with independent study to provide a comprehensive learning experience. This balance is designed to ensure that you have ample opportunity to engage deeply with the material, while also benefiting from structured guidance and support.
Scheduled teaching activities will consist of interactive lectures, seminars, and workshops, designed to introduce and explore key concepts in sport psychology. During these sessions, you will participate in discussions, case studies, and group activities that facilitate a deeper understanding of the material. Seminars and workshops will emphasize practical application, allowing you to practice psychological techniques such as imagery and goal setting in a controlled environment.
Independent study forms a critical component of the module, encouraging you to take responsibility for your learning. This will include reading assigned texts, reviewing lecture materials, and completing assignments. You will also engage in self-directed research to deepen your understanding of specific topics and prepare for assessments.
The blended learning approach, integrates online resources and digital tools to enhance your learning experience. You will have access to a virtual learning environment where you can find lecture recordings, supplementary readings, and interactive activities. This platform will also facilitate online discussions and provide a space for collaborative projects.
Reflective learning is a key element of this module. You will be encouraged to reflect on your experiences and learning throughout the course, both individually and through structured activities such as reflective journals and peer feedback sessions. These opportunities will help you identify areas of strength and areas for further growth and align your learning with your career goals in sport psychology and coaching.
Learning outcomes
LO1. Develop a solid understanding of basic psychological principles and their application in sport and physical activity.
LO2. Gain practical skills in mental skills training and psychological assessment to enhance athletic performance.
LO3. Explore the impact of stress and anxiety on performance and learn strategies to manage these factors.
LO4. Understand the ethical and professional responsibilities of sport psychologists, guided by the British Psychological Society (BPS) standards.