I am thinking of starting a Ph.D in Psychology w/Specialization in Sport Psychology through a Distance Learning program. This particular program is recognized by the Consortium of Diversified Psychology Programs and meets requirements for the State of Minnesota Psychology board examination. The program is not an APA accredited program due to graduating classes of the program-New program. They offer clinical, school, counseling, Health, Organizational and Sport Psychology tracks. The School has accredidation with The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. What is the View of Distance Education in the Sport Psychology world? Thank you .

-- Austin A.Lane (AustinA@UTA.EDU), February 23, 1998

Answers

Though not a Sport Psychologist, I am looking for a program of study that is distance. I have noticed that Walden University in Bonita Spings, FL offers a distance Phd program in psychology with a specialization in Sport Psychology but have not gathered any additional information.

Please let me know what you intend to to.

-- Mark A. Parsons (parsonsm@worldnet.att.net), October 19, 1999.

I, too, am looking for a sports pyschology program through distance learning and would be very interested to see what you have found out or decided to do. I am concerned about the APA accredidation issue. I am looking at two schools right now: Capella University and San Diego University of Integrative Studies. Would like to hear your findings. Thanks.

-- Robert Dranoff (dranoffr@dowling.edu), December 16, 1999.

APA accreditation is only an issue if you want to practice as a clinical psychologist. Even then graduates of alternative and at-a-distance schools have been licensed in most states.

However, the practice of sport psychology per se is not regulated, thus, APA accreditation or licensure is not an issue at this time.

I am finishing up my doctorate ate Saybrook Graduate School and practice sport psychology with an M.A. internationally, where an M.A. is considered a professional degree.

I present at conferences, work with elite athletes, have written a book (in German)and have no problem with acceptance. I have also been invited on the basis of my Master's thesis to do a second PHD at a German University.

You will determine your success.....see www.Saybrook.com

-- Roland A. Carlstedt MA(Psy), ABD (Rcarlstedt@aol.com), February 22, 2000.