Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - PSYC 491 D100

Advanced Topics in Psychology (4)

Sports Psychology

Class Number: 3570

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    David Cox
    cox@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-6667
    Office: RCB 7320
    Office Hours: TBD (Tentatively Thursday 5:30pm - 6:30pm)

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 201, 210, 60 units, a CGPA of 3.0. Other prerequisites vary by topic offering.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Course can be repeated for credit. Students may not take this course for further credit if similar topics are covered. See Psychology department website for course description.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course examines theory and research in applied sport, exercise and performance psychology and will provide an introduction to the field. The emphasis is on integrating theory, research, and application in the study of human behavior in performance situations. The seminar format will allow for group discussion and interaction. Students will be expected to read assigned materials and contribute to these activities. Guest speakers will attend class when possible to provide the opportunity to further experience the field of applied sport psychology. Special topics will assigned throughout the semester.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

To examine theory and research in the field of applied sport psychology.

To apply these concepts and theories to better understand the field of applied sport psychogy and human performance in general.

To develop an appreciation for the application of principles applied in athletic performance performance to a "life skills approach".

Grading

  • Participation: 10%
  • Class presentation: 15%
  • Writing Assignments: 35%
  • Term Paper/Project: 40%

NOTES:

WAITLIST POLICY: This course uses standard departmental waitlist policies (see the Undergraduate FAQ).

PREREQUISITE WAIVERS: No prerequisite waivers are accepted for this course.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Williams, J.K. and Krane, V.K. (2026), Applied sport psychology: Personal growth to peak performance. McGraw Hill, New York, NY.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.