Performance Psychology for First Responders (PPFR)

Grounded in the theory and practice of sport and performance psychology, the Performance Psychology for First Responders (PPFR) certificate program equips first responders with the tools to enhance focus, resilience and decision-making in high-pressure first responder settings. The Performance Psychology for First Responders certificate helps students support both their own performance and the well-being of those they work with.

The PPFR certificate provides students with the main theoretical approaches, principles, and methods of sport and performance psychology, with a specialized focus on first responder populations. Students will learn how to translate evidence-informed mental skills training into real-world applications for professionals working in critical high pressure environments.

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PPFR Program Highlights

Tailored specifically to the needs of first responders and high-pressure professions.
Emphasis on real-world application of mental performance strategies.
Designed to fit the schedules of working professionals.

Who This Program Is For

This certificate is designed for individuals who want to deepen their expertise in mental skills training and performance psychology and are currently working in first responder settings, including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMT), paramedics and 911 dispatchers.

What You Will Learn

How to apply core sport and performance psychology theories to first responder professions.
Build and learn to teach mental skills and strategies such as focus, emotional regulation, and resilience.
Support performance and well-being in demanding, unpredictable environments.
Learn to integrate theory with evidence-informed techniques to enhance performance and personal growth.

Career Impact

The PPFR certificate elevates effectiveness in roles where mental performance is critical. Graduates will be better prepared to:

Maintain composure and clarity in high-stress environments.
Support team performance and communication.
Promote resilience and psychological readiness in demanding situations.

Admissions and Aid

A Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a regionally accredited institution is required to apply to our program. Other requirements include:

A Completed Application — Apply now!
Official Transcript(s)
Official transcript of coursework from each college or university attended (undergraduate and graduate). Find complete instructions on how to submit your transcripts to Dominican here.
GPA of 3.0
A GPA of 3.0 is required for the last 60 units of graded undergraduate or graduate coursework. Consideration will be given to applicants with a GPA below 3.0 upon the discretion of the Department Chair.
Statement of Purpose or Intent
A brief essay (minimum 500 words, 2 pages maximum) describing professional and/or personal goals for obtaining a certificate.
- Cover any relevant performance background you have had. Include your background as a first responder.
- Why do you wish to be considered as an applicant to the Performance Psychology for First Responders Program?
- Why do you wish to become a Dominican University of California student (if you’re already a DUC student then please state how the values of the university have influenced your choice to stay here)?
- If you had challenges in your undergraduate studies, please address those.
- What do you hope to do with this certificate?
Personal Interview
Interview with Program Chair or Assistant Director.
International Applicants
International candidates must meet additional admissions requirements.

If an application deadline falls on a weekend and/or holiday, applications will be accepted through the end of the next business day.

Fall Deadline	July 1
Spring Deadline	December 1

* Applications are reviewed and admission decisions are made on an ongoing basis until the class is filled.

Learn about tuition per unit, additional fees and total tuition.

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