Bachelor of Science in Psychology/Bachelor of Sport Coaching and Exercise Science - 156JA

Introduction

Sport and Exercise Psychology has proven to be a popular area of study in recent times with particular interest being centred on how psychology might enhance athlete performance at the elite level. Many nations now have sport psychologists as part of their sport medicine team at Olympic Games, recognising the importance of their skills in maximising individual performances at the highest possible level.This double degree provides training in both coaching science and psychology and is ideal preparation for a career in sport psychology where professionals require tertiary qualifications in sports science and psychology. The National body that accredits psychology training, the Australian Psychological Society (APS) has formed a College of Sport Psychologists (COSP) as one of its specialisations. This step in some way reflects the interest and standing sports and exercise now have in the profession of psychology. The COSP requires study in both sports science and psychology, with the double degree in Applied Psychology and Sport Coaching and Exercise Science representing an excellent start in the path towards qualification as a sport psychologist. However, it is important to note that students would still have to complete an additional year of study in psychology (at either Graduate Diploma or Honours) to become eligible for accreditation with the APS. The Sport Coaching and Exercise Science qualifications mean that graduates can also expect to find employment in coaching children and adults, developing coaching resources and facilities, and in sport development in Commonwealth and State Government Departments of sport and recreation.Students are able to graduate with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the end of three years.Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applies to this course.