The issue of professional training in sports psychology presents numerous limitations for several reasons, the main one being the lack of internships within sports organizations.
Consequently, in my opinion, master’s programs in sports psychology that are purely theoretical and do not include internship opportunities cannot be considered true training courses for several reasons:
- Lack of Practical Experience – Sports psychology is an applied discipline that requires practical skills in interacting with athletes, teams, and real sports contexts. Without an internship, students have no opportunity to develop fundamental operational skills.
- No Access to the Job Market – A master’s program should provide not only knowledge but also concrete tools for professional integration. Without field experience, participants risk not acquiring the skills required by potential employers.
- Difficulty in Translating Theory into Practice – Studying psychological theories and models without the chance to apply them in real situations limits understanding and learning effectiveness. Direct interaction with athletes and technical staff is essential for internalizing intervention methodologies.
- Limited Professional Recognition – In other countries, many professional boards and associations require supervised practice hours to recognize competencies in sports psychology. A purely theoretical master’s program does not meet these requirements.
- Reduced Job Opportunities – Sports organizations, teams, and federations prefer to work with professionals who have already gained direct experience in the field. A degree without practical experience hardly provides a competitive advantage in the job market.
In conclusion, a master’s degree in sports psychology without an internship cannot be considered a true professional training path because it does not provide the necessary practical skills nor facilitates entry into the job market.