Leipzig University is one of the few universities in Germany that offers a degree in sport (and exercise) psychology. Founded in 1409, it is one of the oldest universities in Germany and is internationally recognized in research and education. The Master of Science (MSc) in Sport and Exercise Psychology is housed within the Faculty of Sport Science, which enrolls approximately 1,200 students and employs around 120 staff members. The program is coordinated by the academic advisors, Prof. Dr. Anne-Marie Elbe, the Chair of Sport Psychology, and Dr. Nadja Walter, a long-standing faculty member.

A unique feature of this program is its double-degree program structure offered in partnership with the University of Thessaly in Trikala, Greece. Students have the opportunity to earn two degrees–one from Leipzig University and one from the University of Thessaly. The two-year (four-semester) program emphasizes applied and research-oriented training, equipping graduates with diverse career opportunities in the field of sport and exercise psychology, such as professional sports clubs, educational institutions, and public service. Courses are taught entirely in English, preparing students for international and multicultural work environments. The program also offers the flexibility of part-time study.

In the first and second semesters, students gain foundational knowledge in sport and exercise psychology and learn how to apply these in practice. Students can build their applied experience working in individual and group settings focused on performance enhancement, physical activity, and corporate health. The program further equips students with research experience, providing foundational knowledge and applied opportunities to advance their academic career in a research-focused direction. The third semester offers three pathways tailored to students’ interests: work experience as part of an internship in a research-focused or applied setting (locally or internationally), a self-organized semester abroad at an international university of the student’s choice, or a semester abroad at the University of Thessaly in Greece. In the final semester, students focus on completing a master’s thesis supervised by a faculty member. Ongoing research topics at the Institute of Sport Psychology include doping prevention, health promotion, the role of emotions in sport, and psychological aspects of esports, among others.