Tracking the Training and Careers of Graduates of Advanced Degree Programs in Sport Psychology, 1994 to 1999

Abstract

Responses from 87 graduate programs identified 814 graduates (master's degree, n = 618; doctoral degree, n =196) who received degrees from 1994 to 1999 with some type of emphasis in sport psychology (SP). Doctoral (n = 107) and master's (n = 147) graduates completed a survey that identified their demographics, educational background, current positions, incomes, career goals, and SP consulting aspirations and work. Most of the doctoral graduates (73%) found positions in academia/research. Almost half the master's graduates had SP-related jobs and most of the rest had jobs related to the discipline that housed their degree. Compared to 1989 to 1994 graduates (Andersen, Williams, Aldridge, &Taylor, 1997), the present graduates perceived more fulfillment of initial career goals, greater satisfaction with SP work, less frustration over SP career progress, greater ease in finding paid SP consulting work, and more confidence in fulfilling future career goals. Doctoral graduates with athlete consulting career goals had less training than the Andersen et al. graduates. The findings provide some guidance for current and prospective students regarding graduate training and career opportunities.