University of Malta

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme introduces fundamental psychological theory and research methods alongside applied sport and exercise topics. Typical study areas include sport psychology, counselling and communication skills, motivation and goal-setting, stress and anxiety management, group dynamics and team cohesion, mental skills training, applied performance analysis, exercise and health psychology, and principles of coaching and leadership.

Students follow a mix of lectures, seminars, laboratory practicals and supervised applied placements. Research methods and statistics are emphasised to develop competency in designing, conducting and interpreting empirical studies. Applied modules give hands‑on experience in assessment and intervention techniques for enhancing concentration, confidence, resilience and recovery in athletes. Throughout the programme there is an emphasis on ethics, safeguarding and culturally sensitive practice.

The programme typically includes a final-year research project or practicum that allows students to investigate a topic in depth or undertake a supervised placement with a sports club, national sporting body or community exercise programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school leaving qualification with good passes. Relevant subjects such as psychology, biology, physical education or a closely related science are advantageous but not always mandatory. English language competence is required for instruction and assessment.

The University also considers mature applicants and international qualifications on their individual merits. Selection may take account of an applicant's academic record, personal statement and any relevant experience in sport, coaching or voluntary work. Applicants who progress to professional practice in sport psychology are encouraged to plan for further postgraduate training and supervised practice after graduation.

Career prospects

Graduates go into a range of roles in sport, health and wellbeing sectors. Common entry-level positions include support roles with sports clubs and federations, coaching support, community sport development, fitness and wellness services, rehabilitation support teams and roles in youth sport programmes. Many graduates also move into related fields such as human resources, education, or health promotion.

To practise as a chartered or accredited sport and exercise psychologist typically requires postgraduate qualifications and supervised professional experience; this degree provides the academic foundation for further training at master's and doctoral level as well as for professional accreditation routes. Graduates also pursue careers in research, performance analysis, mental skills coaching and consultancy for high-performance and grassroots settings.

Why study at University of Malta

The University of Malta is the national higher-education institution with multidisciplinary strengths in psychology, health sciences and sports studies. Students benefit from access to laboratory facilities, teaching staff active in research, and links with local sports organisations and public health services for applied placements.

Studying here offers opportunities to work with national and community sporting bodies, gain practical experience in Maltese sporting environments and develop a professional network within the islands. The programme’s balanced combination of theoretical, research and applied training is designed to equip graduates for both local and international progression in sport, exercise and performance psychology.