Best Online Master’s in Coaching
A master’s in coaching online expands professional opportunities in the private and public sectors.
The degree may focus on sports coaching, coaching education, and athletic administration or emphasize life skills, business leadership, and executive coaching. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, life coaches work as rehabilitation counselors, school and vocational counselors, and personal care and service workers, fields poised for 2%–8% growth by 2032. Athletic coaches will experience comparable growth in 2032, with a projected 9% rise.
In an online master’s in coaching program, students study theories and techniques of motivation, performance, and leadership while applying course content to experiential learning exercises and activities. Many programs include an internship, allowing learners to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting.
Courses in research, communication, management, and team dynamics provide students with information and resources applicable to working with individuals, groups, and organizations. Online coaching programs may prepare learners for professional licensure in coaching, strengthening employment and earning potential.
The Best Online Master’s in Coaching Programs
University of South Florida-Main Campus
Tampa, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of South Florida-Main Campus, located in Tampa, offers a flexible online master of arts in physical education. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree can also train graduates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum explores coaching research and methodologies. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in coaching or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
University of South Florida-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 48%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of arts in physical education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048
- In-State$4,559
- Out-of-state$15,473
- In-State$8,350
- Out-of-state$19,048
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled44,246
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
- Baton Rouge, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of science in kinesiology at Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, located in Baton Rouge, offers high academic quality. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new careers.
The curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends a background in coaching or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of science in kinesiology
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,132
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,132
- In-State$8,038
- Out-of-state$8,038
- In-State$9,132
- Out-of-state$9,132
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled31,756
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Emporia State University
- Emporia, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in Emporia, Kansas, Emporia State University hosts a top-ranked master of science in health, physical education and coaching. The program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in coaching. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a background in coaching may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Emporia State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master of science in health, physical education and coaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,394
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,888
- In-State$5,154
- Out-of-state$19,071
- In-State$6,394
- Out-of-state$19,888
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled5,877
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Jacksonville State University
- Jacksonville, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of science in sport management at Jacksonville State University, located in Florida, offers high academic quality. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in coaching. Learners focus the degree with electives or a concentration. The program builds on prior coaching experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees participate in internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Jacksonville State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 55%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master of science in sport management
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,600
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,200
- In-State$9,720
- Out-of-state$19,440
- In-State$9,600
- Out-of-state$19,200
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled9,021
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State University hosts a top-rated online master of arts in athletic coaching education. Students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Master's graduates can also explore opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in coaching. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in coaching before applying to the program.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Ball State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Program Name: Master of arts in athletic coaching education
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,850
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,954
- In-State$9,358
- Out-of-state$26,138
- In-State$8,850
- Out-of-state$21,954
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled22,443
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
- Portales, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master of science in physical education at Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus, located in Portales, prioritizes flexibility. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum explores coaching research and methodologies. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends a background in coaching before applying to the program.
Online enrollees participate in internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master of science in physical education
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,044
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,342
- In-State$3,996
- Out-of-state$5,994
- In-State$7,044
- Out-of-state$9,342
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled5,685
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment69%
- AccreditationYes
SUNY College at Brockport
- Brockport, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in physical education teacher education program at SUNY College at Brockport, located in Brockport, New York, offers a flexible online format. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for advanced roles in the field. Master's candidates can pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on physical education. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The admission requirements include a background in physical education or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
SUNY College at Brockport at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 55%
Total Online Master's Programs: 7
Program Name: Master's in physical education teacher education
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,310
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,100
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$16,980
- In-State$11,310
- Out-of-state$23,100
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled7,924
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment31%
- AccreditationYes
Valdosta State University
- Valdosta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Valdosta, Georgia, Valdosta State University hosts a top-rated online master's in physical education. The program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the coaching field and related industries. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum explores coaching research and methodologies. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants without a background in coaching may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
Valdosta State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 57%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master's in physical education
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,572
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,470
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,426
- In-State$4,572
- Out-of-state$16,470
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled11,270
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
West Virginia University
- Morgantown, WV
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Morgantown, West Virginia University offers an online master's in sport coaching. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing students for leadership positions. A master's degree also helps graduates pursue new career paths.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The admission requirements include a background in coaching or a related field.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
West Virginia University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 84%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master's in sport coaching
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,134
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $26,154
- In-State$8,976
- Out-of-state$25,320
- In-State$10,134
- Out-of-state$26,154
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate84%
- Students Enrolled26,839
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Pittsburg State University
- Pittsburg, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Pittsburg State University, located in Pittsburg, Kansas, offers a flexible online master's in sport and leisure service management. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing enrollees for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The admission requirements include a background in sports or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Pittsburg State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 96%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master's in sport and leisure service management
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,678
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,510
- In-State$5,694
- Out-of-state$17,038
- In-State$6,678
- Out-of-state$17,510
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate96%
- Students Enrolled6,645
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of science in kinesiology at University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a flexible online format. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training enrollees for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new careers.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on kinesiology. Learners can individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program builds on prior coaching experience during a bachelor's program.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local area to gain hands-on experience. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
University of Alabama at Birmingham at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Program Name: Master of science in kinesiology
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,100
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,188
- In-State$8,568
- Out-of-state$20,400
- In-State$8,100
- Out-of-state$19,188
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled22,080
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Fort Hays State University
- Hays, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Fort Hays State University, located in Hays, Kansas, enrolls students in its online master's in health and human performance program. Students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Master's graduates can pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in coaching.
Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. These and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 91%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master's in health and human performance
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,582
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,206
- In-State$3,990
- Out-of-state$14,070
- In-State$3,582
- Out-of-state$10,206
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled15,908
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Morehead State University
- Morehead, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Morehead State University, located in Morehead, Kentucky, enrolls students in its online master's in sport management program. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing learners for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Master's graduates can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on coaching. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in coaching before applying to the program.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Morehead State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master's in sport management
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,260
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,260
- In-State$8,970
- Out-of-state$13,556
- In-State$10,260
- Out-of-state$10,260
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled9,654
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Dakota
- Vermillion, SD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Vermillion, University of South Dakota hosts a top-rated online master's in kinesiology and sport management. The program draws on a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on coaching. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants without a degree in coaching or a related field may need to meet prerequisites.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of South Dakota at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 86%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master's in kinesiology and sport management
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,062
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,656
- In-State$7,697
- Out-of-state$11,172
- In-State$6,062
- Out-of-state$11,656
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled9,920
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Greenville University
- Greenville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in education with a coaching concentration at Greenville University, located in Greenville, Illinois, offers a flexible online format. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing enrollees for decision-making responsibilities. Master's degree-holders can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to coaching. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in coaching or a related field.
Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Greenville University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 56%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master's in education with a coaching concentration
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,082
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,082
- In-State$27,580
- Out-of-state$27,580
- In-State$8,082
- Out-of-state$8,082
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate56%
- Students Enrolled1,092
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Western Kentucky University
- Bowling Green, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of science in recreation and sports administration program at Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, offers a flexible online format. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in coaching or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Western Kentucky University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of science in recreation and sports administration
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,140
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,340
- In-State$10,802
- Out-of-state$26,496
- In-State$12,140
- Out-of-state$18,340
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled18,171
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Azusa Pacific University
- Azusa, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in physical education program, offered by Azusa Pacific University from its Azusa, California, campus, ranks as a top degree. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing learners for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree allows graduates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The curriculum explores physical education research and methodologies. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in coaching or a related field.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Azusa Pacific University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 67%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: Master's in physical education
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,592
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,592
- In-State$39,640
- Out-of-state$39,640
- In-State$17,592
- Out-of-state$17,592
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled9,297
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
University of Southern Mississippi
- Hattiesburg, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate students seeking an online degree can enroll in the master's in coaching and sport performance at University of Southern Mississippi, located in Hattiesburg. The rigorous curriculum prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities. A master's degree allows graduates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career.
The curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on coaching. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with prior experience in coaching or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
University of Southern Mississippi at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Master's in coaching and sport performance
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,786
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,786
- In-State$8,786
- Out-of-state$10,786
- In-State$8,786
- Out-of-state$10,786
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled14,133
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Terre Haute, Indiana State University enrolls students in its top-ranked online master of science in sport management. The program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum explores research and methodologies in sport management. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The program recommends a background in coaching before applying to the program.
Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internships at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Indiana State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 90%
Total Online Master's Programs: 18
Program Name: Master of science in sport management
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,542
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $14,814
- In-State$9,036
- Out-of-state$19,960
- In-State$7,542
- Out-of-state$14,814
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled12,144
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
University of Nebraska at Kearney
- Kearney, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The online master's in general kinesiology and sport sciences, offered by University of Nebraska at Kearney from its Kearney campus, ranks as a top program. Students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in coaching or a related field.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
University of Nebraska at Kearney at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 85%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program Name: Master's in general kinesiology and sport sciences
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,048
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,296
- In-State$6,090
- Out-of-state$13,290
- In-State$6,048
- Out-of-state$13,296
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled6,279
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Masters
Coaching
2023
Online Master’s in Coaching Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyFeatured Online Master’s in Coaching Programs
What is a Master’s in Coaching Degree?
Students in a master’s in coaching program take courses covering general topics, such as anatomy, sports medicine, psychology, and leadership. These courses prepare coaches to address the physical and mental needs of their athletes.
Many online master’s degree in coaching programs offer concentrations. Students who select a sports administration concentration learn how to manage and improve sports programs. A specialization in kinesiology teaches students how to promote physical strength and endurance.
Some programs require distance learners to complete a practicum wherein students coach at a local facility under a supervisor.
Online Master’s in Coaching Programs
Online master’s in coaching degrees allow learners to complete coursework on a flexible schedule. Students working full time can complete classes at a convenient pace while maintaining personal and professional responsibilities. Part-time and full-time students enjoy access to lectures, assignments, and assessments through an electronic platform.
Asynchronous programs provide classes in a flexible, non-sequential format, which is ideal for part-time learners. In synchronous programs, typically offered with a cohort model, students progress through coursework at the same pace as their peers. Both asynchronous and synchronous programs include 2–3 years of coursework. In accelerated degrees, learners may graduate in 12–18 months.
Coaching degrees often include practicum or internship requirements. Current coaching professionals can complete internships at their current place of work, applying degree knowledge to practical experiences. Learners new to the coaching field may work in sports settings, business organizations, or counseling settings. Programs with thesis options prepare students for graduate study. Students develop a research question, acquire and assess data, and report findings under the supervision of a faculty advisor.
The Advantages of a Master’s Degree in Coaching
A bachelor’s in coaching degree prepares students to work as athletic coaches in elementary, middle, and high schools. Master’s in coaching online programs develop managerial skills applicable to coaching careers and athletic administration professions. Students learn how to motivate and work with individuals, groups, and teams. Earning a master’s in coaching online also provides learners with opportunities to participate in practical learning experiences, applying theoretical and technical degree content to real-world experiences.
A master’s in coaching builds executive leadership and motivational skills for business professionals, education and vocational counselors, and caregivers. With a graduate degree in coaching, learners advance to administrative and leadership positions or work in an entrepreneurial role as a life coach. A master’s in coaching also gives learners the tools and capabilities to pursue doctoral study in organizational leadership, coaching education, sports management, and related disciplines.
Choosing an Online Coaching Graduate Degree Program
When choosing an online coaching graduate degree, students should consider factors such as cost, school size, program length, and degree requirements. Degree length varies by credits, internship requirements, and options for thesis or research projects.
In-state schools often offer more affordable options to students than out-of-state schools, although many colleges and universities provide flat-fee tuition for online learners regardless of residency. Students with previous coursework should explore prospective schools’ transfer policies.
Accreditation for Online Coaching Master’s Degrees
Colleges and universities maintain regional or national accreditation through a body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). As a government agency, the ED establishes educational policies for colleges and universities. An industry group, CHEA includes more than 3,000 member institutions. Both the ED and CHEA cooperate with accrediting bodies to ensure schools’ compliance with national educational standards. Accrediting bodies work with colleges and universities to maintain academic standards through voluntary oversight and accountability.
Regional accreditation indicates an institution offers a rigorous, research-based program, while nationally accredited schools provide vocational and technical programs. Nonprofit schools usually hold regional accreditation. Programs and departments within a school may hold programmatic accreditation through a professional or specialized agency. Online master’s in coaching programs may hold accreditation through bodies like the International Coaching Federation.
How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master in Coaching Degree Program?
Degrees in coaching include 30–36 credit hours of coursework. Students complete online master’s in coaching programs in 1–3 years depending on part- or full-time status. Accelerated degrees allow students to enroll in multiple classes at a time, while traditional programs may offer only one or two classes each term.
Additional factors that influence the length of a degree include whether or not the program provides synchronous or asynchronous coursework. Learners in a synchronous program who miss a class offered on a specific timetable may extend their degree until the course becomes available again. Internship and practical requirements also affect the length of a program.
Whether students complete a degree on a full-time or part-time schedule can influence tuition costs, with many schools offering lower tuition for students enrolled full time. Programs with per-credit tuition, however, cost the same for all learners.
Courses in an Online Master’s in Coaching Program
- Strategic Leadership: Strategic leadership coursework introduces students to theories and techniques of leadership while teaching learners how to analyze, assess, and apply principles of strategy to lead organizations and teams. Students study strategic initiatives, issues facing leadership development, and how to align resources with organizational and team goals.
- Ethical and Professional Principles of Coaching: Ethical and professional principles of coaching classes emphasize ethical guidelines for coaching individuals and groups. Learners explore record keeping, dual relationships, and dynamics of coaching. Coursework also focuses on preventing, managing, and addressing ethical dilemmas.
- Evaluation in Coaching: These classes provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to acquire data and improve athletic and programmatic performance. Learners explore evaluation techniques and tools used in coaching individuals and groups. Students use case studies to apply evaluation methods and practices.
- Sport Coaching Methodology: In this class, students study theories and practices of sport team development and individual athlete coaching. Students learn techniques for coaching in a sports context and how to develop success among athletes.
- Coaching with Technology: Coaching with technology introduces coaches to tools and trends in coaching, such as data collection technology and instructional online resources. Students learn how to incorporate diagnostic equipment, tablets, handheld devices, and other technological tools in coaching.
What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Coaching?
Coaches with experience and education enjoy diverse career options. The professions below represent common career paths for graduates.
With a bachelor’s degree, individuals can coach at elementary, middle, or high schools, while a master’s in coaching allows coaches to work in collegiate or organizational settings. An athletic coach provides instruction, guidance, and motivation to athletes on physical performance, strategy, and team cohesion. Athletic coaches work with parents, teachers, and other education professionals to strengthen student performance. Athletic coaches also attend workshops, oversee budgets, engage with local communities, and supervise assistants and team managers.
Athletic directors work at schools, colleges, and universities or within organizations to plan and oversee athletic events. Athletic directors work with coaches, parents, and administrators to schedule events, manage facilities and equipment, and coordinate budgets. Athletic directors also monitor compliance with school, state, and government regulations while upholding standards for academic performance, sportsmanship, and ethical behavior.
Vocational counselors assess an individual’s abilities and interests to determine personal and professional aptitudes. Vocational rehabilitation counselors may work in an educational setting, collaborating with teachers, administrators, and parents to help students thrive. They also work in community and social contexts to coordinate rehabilitative access and services. Vocational counselors advocate on behalf of patients and clients and provide motivational support.
Life coaches work with individuals and groups to address specific needs and goals. They interview and assess clients to determine how to achieve well-being through behavioral, therapeutic, and cognitive techniques. Through research on wellness, exercise, aging, and similar topics, life coaches offer assistance and services to clients. Life coaches may work within public agencies or professional organizations or function as entrepreneurs.
Source: PayScale
Coaching Professional Organizations
NCAA Coaching Associations
The NCAA provides a list of coaching associations for coaches at the collegiate level. Coaches from Division I and Division II classes can access links to their specific sport. The NCAA also provides a platform for Division III coaches. Each sport website includes membership information, professional development resources, and event information.International Coaching Federation
The ICF advances coaching by promoting high standards and ethical excellence in the field. Members gain access to business development, lifelong learning, and networking opportunities. Coaches participate in ICF’s conferences, development series, and convergence activities each year. ICF also offers credentials to coaches with requisite experience and training.International Association of Professional Life Coaches
IAPLC promotes, supports, and inspires life coaches through certifications, trainings, and career guidance. Members fall into 15 categories based on credentials and experience, creating networks of life coaches who enjoy the association’s publications, telesummits, and giveaways.Association of Corporate Executive Coaches
Designed to promote the field of corporate executive coaching, ACEC integrates organizational and transformative coaching competencies into educational and training programs. ACEC and the MEECO Leadership Institute examine tools, research, and techniques within corporate executive coaching through conferences and university partnerships. Members receive access to MEECO TV, webinars, research publications, and mentorship opportunities.Positive Coaching Alliance
PCA partners with 3,500 schools and youth sports groups to provide online and live workshops, courses, and publications. PCA also provides resources for leaders, coaches, parents, and athletes to build truthful, constructive, and supportive sporting environments.Header Image Credit: John Giustina | Getty Images
