Rankings

15 Best Online Master’s in Coaching Grad Schools

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Updated: August 30, 2024, Reading time: 26 minutes

Online Master's in Coaching - featured image

One of the most dynamic and competitive fields is sports. Athletes are the public stars, but coaches are the strategic minds behind their success. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, coaches and scouts with bachelor’s degrees earn an average of $45,910 annually. 

Is it possible to earn more than $45K a year? Yes!

To land better coaching positions, you should consider earning a Master’s in Coaching. If you’re currently employed, you can pursue an online program. 

Those who want to enter the profession of sports coaching integrating the principles of Exercise Science may consider an online Master’s in Coaching. This degree helps boost credentials, knowledge, and expertise with the latest technologies and strategies and increases earning potential in the process.

Additional Information:

Overview

Designed for working professionals, an online Master’s in Coaching is an ideal choice for those who want to dabble in this exciting profession. They can pursue coaching careers in a variety of environments and levels, including coaching semi-pro athletes, teaching physical education, and more. If you are an extrovert with keen attention to detail and good public speaking skills, this master’s degree is right for you.

Methodology

Whether at the scholastic/collegiate or professional level, sport is by nature highly competitive, and a lot of success rides on coaches to direct and motivate athletes and bring out their highest performance levels. Such a crucial role means prospective students also have to choose wisely with regard to the best education they can get, which provides the best preparation.

We’ve got you covered! Check out our list of 15 graduate schools that offer the best online Master’s in Coaching programs, each of which was selected based on the following characteristics:

Visit our Methodology section for details.

Best Online Master’s in Coaching Programs

Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern University

Statesboro, Georgia

Master of Science in Kinesiology, concentration in Coaching Education

Georgia Southern University is a public research university with its main campus in the city of Statesboro and additional campuses in the cities of Savannah and Hinesville. It is currently composed of 8 colleges, with a population of almost 27,000 students. It is classified among “R2: Doctoral Universities – High Research Activity”.

Georgia Southern University offers an online Master of Science in Kinesiology with a Concentration in Coaching Education. The program provides students with relevant and immediately applicable knowledge that prepares them for success across any sport or setting.

Standout Features of Georgia Southern University’s Online MS in Kinesiology, Concentration in Coaching Education Program:

Georgia Southern University’s MS in Kinesiology program is long-lived and brings a lot of experience for students, having been first launched in 1998 and delivered online since 2007. This program is also one of only three that are National Committee for Accreditation of Coaching Education-accredited.

Did You Know?

Georgia Southern University also offers a 36-credit hour online Master’s in Sport Management Program and on-campus Master of Science in Sports Medicine and Athletic Training degree programs.


Florida State University

Florida State University

Tallahassee, Florida

Master of Science in Athletic Coaching

Florida State University (FSU) is a public research university in the city of Tallahassee, a member of the State University System of Florida. At present, FSU is composed of 16 colleges and schools and has a population of over 45,400 students. It is also classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity”.

Florida State University offers its 100% online Master of Science in Athletic Coaching. It is for current and future coaches, as well as sports professionals, and prepares them for success in the field.

Standout Features of Florida State University’s Online MS in Athletic Coaching Program:

Florida State University prides itself on its athletic coaching program that coaches design for coaches, so its content is not only comprehensive but also has a real-world basis. FSU’s Athletic Coaching program is also one of the consistently top-rated programs in the country.

Did You Know?

Aside from the master’s degree, FSU also offers Athletic Coaching as an online Graduate Certificate program. FSU holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).


Concordia University St. Paul

Concordia University St. Paul - Global

St. Paul, Minnesota

Master of Science in Coaching and Athletic Administration

Concordia University, St. Paul (CSP) is part of the larger Concordia University System, which is affiliated with the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. It was established in 1893 as Concordia High School, eventually becoming Concordia College in 1997 and gaining university status in the same year. CSP has a population of over 5,500 students.

Concordia University, St. Paul, offers an online Master of Science in Coaching and Athletic Administration. This program prepares students to earn valuable certification credentials, as well as learn valuable skills crucial in coaching, recruiting, and leading in particular sports.

Standout Features of Concordia University St. Paul’s MS in Coaching and Athletic Administration Program:

This program is designed to prepare students to become Tudor-certified college recruiting experts or to pursue certification credentials in particular sports. Concordia University St. Paul also has one of the lowest tuition rates in the country, which is paired with financial aid, scholarships, and other options.

Did You Know?

Concordia University Irvine, CSP’s sister campus, also offers an online Master of Science in Coaching & Exercise Sciences program. The program is also 36 credit hours long and lasts 15 months.


Columbia College

Columbia, South Carolina

Master’s in Athletic Coaching

Columbia College, SC, is one of the best schools for students seeking a tight-knit learning environment. As a private liberal arts college, Columbia College SC enrolls less than 2,000 students annually. 

The online Master’s in Athletic Coaching at Columbia College focuses on equipping students with advanced leadership and communication techniques to excel in coaching across various levels. The curriculum is designed to amp up one’s coaching effectiveness, leading to significant career advancements and impactful contributions to the sports industry.

Standout Features of Columbia College’s Master’s in Athletic Coaching:

Students learn from seasoned faculty with experience across collegiate levels (Division 1, 2, 3, NAIA) and high school sports. This broad perspective will help future coaches adapt strategies, improve recruitment and athlete development, and enhance overall coaching effectiveness, preparing you for a successful career and equipping you with the tools to excel in any athletic program.

Did You Know?

Columbia College boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship in a supportive academic environment.


University of Northern Colorado

University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, Colorado

Master of Science in Sport Coaching

Located between the Rocky Mountains and Colorado’s high plains, the University of Northern Colorado is home to approximately 9,000 students enrolled across more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can expect exceptional opportunities and personalized education through the expert faculty and hands-on learning tradition. 

The University of Northern Colorado offers one of the top online MS in Sport Coaching. It is designed in a way that helps students learn how to apply the latest best practice recommendations to their coaching. 

Standout Features of the University of Northern Colorado’s Online MS in Sport Coaching Program:

The sports coaching master’s degree program combines online coursework with practical, real-world applications. It features assignments designed to address coaching challenges and concludes with an action research project, where you test and evaluate a new coaching technique in your job.

Did You Know?

With its diverse and hard-working students, the University of Northern Colorado is proud to serve those who seek to expand their knowledge and further their education. In fact, more than one-third of the undergraduates at the university are first-generation.

This means they are among the first in their family to attend college. Many of the students are also eligible for federal need-based financial aid.


Ball State University

Ball State University

Muncie, Indiana

MA in Athletic Coaching Education

Established in 1918, Ball State University takes pride in providing students with a hands-on, immersive learning environment. It is firmly committed to offering high-quality college education since its founding, having served more than 200,000 alumni worldwide. It is Higher Learning Commission-accredited.

Ball State University offers the online Master of Arts – Athletic Coaching Education, an ideal choice for those who seek to earn a world-class master’s degree.

Students are expected to design and write a strength and conditioning program for a team sport as well as utilize a sports analysis software program to provide appropriate feedback.

Standout Features of Ball State University’s Online MA in Athletic Coaching Education Program:

This graduate program in athletic coaching education is taught by an expert faculty who have coached Olympians and NCAA champion athletes. Moreover, it was the first online athletic coaching education program in the United States.

Did You Know?

Ball State University was designated as a Doctoral University in 2022 by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. It has also made efforts to make higher education accessible to many students through its online programs and affordable tuition rates. Moreover, 4 out of 5 students qualify for financial aid.


West Virginia University

West Virginia University - Online

Morgantown, West Virginia

Master of Arts in Sport Coaching

Founded in 1867, West Virginia University is a public institution that currently houses more than 27,000 students across several campuses. In 2022-2023 alone, the university has disbursed a total of $157.8 million in scholarships.

The Master of Science in Sport Coaching degree program at West Virginia University helps prospective students take their coaching career to the next level with a reputable sports coaching education. As a national leader in the field, the sports coaching master’s degree integrates online coursework with real-world experience, action research, and professional coaching standards.

Standout Features of West Virginia University’s Online MA in Sport Coaching Program:

Students will cap the degree by completing an independent action research project of their own design. Apart from its nationally renowned faculty, this master’s degree made sure to incorporate the National Association of Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) professional standards.

Did You Know?

With a vision of creating a better future for West Virginia and beyond, West Virginia University emphasizes academic excellence. In fact, students from the university have received prestigious scholarships, including Rhodes scholars, Truman scholars, Goldwater scholars, and Fulbright scholars.


Michigan State University

Michigan State University

East Lansing, Michigan

Master of Science – Sport Coaching, Leadership, and Administration

Michigan State University (MSU) is a public, land-grant research university in the city of East Lansing, Michigan. It is currently composed of 17 colleges, which host a population of almost 50,000 students. An Association of American Universities (AAU) member, it is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity”.

Michigan Southern University offers an online MS in Kinesiology with a Concentration in Coaching Education. The program is ideal for teacher coaches, youth sports coaches, and high-performance coaches, as well as sports administrators, coach developers, and athletic directors.

Standout Features of Michigan State University’s MS in Sport Coaching, Leadership, and Administration Program:

When it comes to sports education, it is hard to beat one coming from a Big Ten University. The program covers both sports coaching and sports administration disciplines and emphasizes reflective practice and ethical decision-making. MSU is also steeped in experience when it comes to its online sports coaching & leadership programs, having offered these online since 2003.

Did You Know?

Aside from the Master’s Program, MSU also offers online Graduate Certificates in Sport Coaching (10 credit hours) and Sport Leadership & Administration (13 credit hours).


Southern Arkansas University

Southern Arkansas University

Magnolia, Arkansas

MS in Kinesiology – Coaching

Southern Arkansas University (SAU) is a public university in the city of Magnolia, Arkansas. SAU is currently composed of 4 academic colleges, which offer over 70 undergraduate degrees and around 19 graduate degree programs to a population of over 4,300 students.

SAU’s Master of Science in Kinesiology – Coaching is a non-licensure program aimed at professional coaches. It is designed to promote positive change in individual practice. Students will demonstrate mastery of the Seven Core Responsibilities outlined by the National Standards for Sport Coaches. 

Standout Features of Southern Arkansas University’s MS in Kinesiology – Coaching Program:

SAU consistently earns recognition for the value of its programs and regularly ranks in the top tier of many rankings. This program also aligns with the competencies outlined by the National Standards for Sports Coaches and is accredited by the NCACE.

Did You Know?

Southern Arkansas University has a unique athletic nickname: Muleriders (and Lady Muleriders for women’s teams). This comes from the legend that during the early 1900s, to go to out-of-town games, the football team had to ride mules from the college’s agricultural department to get to the nearest train station, which was 6 miles north of the college.


West Liberty University

West Liberty University

West Liberty, West Virginia

Master of Arts in Education, emphasis in Sports Leadership and Coaching

West Liberty University (WLU) is the oldest higher education institution in West Virginia—older than the state itself. It eventually became a Teachers’ College, later on becoming a State College, and a university in 2009. WLU is currently composed of 4 colleges and has almost 3,000 students.

West Liberty University offers an MA in Education with an emphasis on Sports Leadership and Coaching. This program is built on an Education core and expands students’ knowledge and skills base in local-level sports settings.

Standout Features of West Liberty University’s Master’s in Athletic Administration or Coaching Program:

Compared to other programs, this program emphasis is specifically designed for working in school, university, and community sports programs. This program also accommodates active professionals and those who are planning to enter the field.

Did You Know?

West Liberty University is known for placing particular importance on its athletics as an integral part of its overall educational mission. The university’s athletics teams are known as the Hilltoppers and currently participate in the NCAA Mountain East Conference for all 18 sports it participates in.


University of the Cumberlands

University-of-the-Cumberlands

Williamsburg, Kentucky

Master in Coaching & Fitness Leadership

Founded in 1888, the University of Cumberlands has been committed to preparing young adults for leadership positions with its comprehensive academic programs. To date, the university offers more than 40 major fields of study and a number of graduate and doctoral programs. Currently, it is serving more than 19,000 students.

Standout Features of the University of the Cumberlands’ Online Master in Coaching & Fitness Leadership Program:

The online Master in Coaching & Fitness Leadership program requires the completion of 30 credit hours. Some of the core courses in the program curriculum include Research Methods, Applied Nutrition, Exercise Physiology, Exercise Testing and Prescription, Administrative and Management Strategies, and Current Issues in Coaching and Fitness Leadership.

For concentration courses, students will need to complete the Coaching and Fitness Leadership and Advanced Coaching and Fitness Leadership courses.

Did You Know?

The University of Cumberlands is one of the largest and most affordable private universities in the state of Kentucky. Its commitment to providing higher education in an underserved area won the support of John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie. The university takes pride in producing two governors, five military generals, and other notable alumni.


Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, Michigan

Master of Arts in Sports Coaching

Western Michigan University (WMU) is a public research university that was originally dedicated to teacher training. At present, WMU is composed of 7 colleges, which host a population of over 16,600 students. It is also classified among “R2: Doctoral Universities – High Research Activity”.

Western Michigan University’s Master of Arts in Sports Coaching is a nationally recognized program. It is one of only a handful of programs accredited by the National Committee for Accreditation of Coaching Education (NCACE) and features a curriculum that follows the National Standards for Sport Coaches.

Standout Features of Western Michigan University’s MA in Sport Coaching Program:

WMU also features its one-of-a-kind co-curricular WMU Signature program, where students are encouraged to complete a culminating high-impact integrative project in a variety of pathways, including Leadership, Health & Wellbeing, Teaching & Students Success, and more.

Did You Know?

Western Michigan University offers other related master’s degree programs, including the Master of Science in Exercise Science and the Master of Arts in Sport Management.


Ohio University

Ohio University

Athens, Ohio

Masters of Coaching Education

Ohio University is a four-year public institution spread out across five regional campuses within the state. It is home to more than 28,000 students, many of whom are earning their degrees online. The university is among the biggest primary care physician providers. It is also considered a powerhouse when it comes to communications and new media, having produced a total of 55 Pulitzer Prizes among its alumni.

An online master’s in coaching education is offered at Ohio University. This program is nationally recognized as a leader in preparing coaches to excel across different levels of competition. The online degree’s curriculum emphasizes areas of coaching integral to athletic performance and builds around the national standards for sports coaches.

Standout Features of Ohio University’s Online Masters of Coaching Education Program:

Online students benefit from the expertise of full-time on-campus faculty who have extensive experience in international coaching and various sports levels, from community to professional. Online students can also receive financial assistance.

Did You Know?

Ohio University is home to Gladys W. and David H. Patton College of Education, with its long and rich history dating back to 1886. Today, the college is composed of four departments: Educational Studies, Recreation, Sport Pedagogy, and Consumer Sciences; Counseling and Higher Education; and Teacher Education.


Adams State University

Adams State University

Alamosa, Colorado

MS in Coaching

Since its establishment in 1921, Adams State University has featured a diverse student body in a close-knit community. It has been fully committed to serving and empowering Hispanic students as well as underrepresented minorities, low-income, and first-generation students. 

Adams State University offers one of the best online programs in sports coaching in the country, and it has a Master of Science in Coaching degree. This coaching program is designed to help aspiring coaches enhance their leadership skills and knowledge while also increasing their marketability in the world of sports. It features a range of courses and practical experiences to prepare students for becoming highly qualified coaches.

Standout Features of Adams State University’s Online MS in Coaching Program:

The Master of Science in Coaching program offers all courses online, allowing students to enjoy greater flexibility and optimum convenience. The classes offered are small, which means students will have personalized interactions with their professors. 

Did You Know?

Adams State University takes pride in a learning framework that incorporates an evidence-based, high-impact approach to teaching.

This means students’ learning experience often involves writing-intensive courses, conducting original research, collaborating on projects, and exploring interdisciplinary interests. They also have plenty of opportunities to gain valuable learning through internships and volunteer efforts. 


The University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

MS in Coaching & Sport Performance

The University of Southern Mississippi offers numerous undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including biology, art, economics, business, and education, among others. Many of its academic programs are also offered online, making it a friendly higher-learning institution for working professionals.

USM’s Master of Science in Coaching & Sport Performance is accredited by the National Committee for Accreditation of Coaching Education. It provides students with an advanced understanding of training and leadership techniques along with sports skills, human mental and physical development, and technological advancements in athletic evaluation.

Standout Features of the University of Southern Mississippi’s Online MS in Coaching and Sport Performance Program:

In this program, students are not required to submit GRE test scores. Online students can take advantage of many scholarship opportunities. For one, fully online students can get $500 towards their first semester through the Online Student Scholarships. Students must have a GPA of at least 2.5 to be eligible.

Unlike other public schools that charge out-of-state tuition, USM offers a flat-rate tuition for all. This means that non-residents pay the same amount of tuition and fees as residents.

Did You Know?

As a Carnegie R1 research institution, the University of Southern Mississippi is home to research experts in various fields, including ocean science and engineering, polymer science and engineering, and sports venue and safety and security.

To date, its students have collected a total of four Truman Scholarships and 37 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships.

What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Coaching Degree?

Graduates can pursue a variety of sports-related occupations with a master’s in coaching. You can find employment in a variety of places, such as leisure centers, professional associations, elementary and secondary schools, and colleges and universities. Here are some of the most popular career paths for master’s in coaching graduates: 

Training and Development Manager

Develops and oversees employee training programs within organizations.

Athletic Trainer

It focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating sports-related injuries.

Coach or Scout

Coaches guide athletes in improving their skills, while scouts evaluate athlete performance for recruitment and opponent preparation.

Source: The US Bureau of Labor Statistics 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there concentration options for online coaching programs?

Coaching has many aspects. Interested students who want to gain a specialization to give them an edge in the ever-competitive field may want to consider their options.

For programs that offer opportunities for further specialization, options often include sports administration, sports coaching leadership, athletic coaching education, and sports management.

There might also be options that involve soccer coaching education and teaching physical education. Other options could be pedagogy emphasis and special education emphasis. The possibilities are endless. Students only need to make sure to weigh their options and choose a concentration that will better align with their professional needs and goals.

How do I choose the best online Master’s in Coaching program?

When choosing a program or concentration, consider your career goals, desired specialization, and the program’s reputation. Look for options that align with your interests, such as sports management or coaching education. 

Additionally, evaluate faculty expertise, program flexibility, and available resources. Making an informed choice will help you gain the edge you need in the competitive field of coaching.

How long does it typically take to complete an online Master’s in Coaching program?

The duration of an online Master’s in Coaching program varies depending on the institution and whether you attend full-time or part-time. On average, most programs take 1.5 to 2 years. Part-time students may take up to 3 years to finish their degree. 

What are the common admission requirements to online graduate education programs in Coaching?  

Most graduate programs in Coaching require prospective students to hold a bachelor’s degree in coaching or a related field, often with a minimum overall GPA. However, many universities need them to submit an updated resume that demonstrates their experience.

Other requirements include official transcripts, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and an accomplished application form.

Do I have to be an actively practicing coach or working in the field to be admitted to a Master’s in Coaching program?

It depends. While many programs are designed for actively working coaches and would require proof of past and current work experience, other programs are designed to be more open, particularly to those who have no coaching experience but are planning to launch a career in the field.

Online Master's in Coaching - fact

Summary Points

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