Certificate in Coaching

Certificate

Hours: 15 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Coaching from Fort Hays State University equips educators and aspiring coaches with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in the coaching profession. This comprehensive certificate combines theoretical foundations with hands-on coursework, preparing individuals to coach effectively across a range of competitive levels.

Designed for those interested in coaching within public and private secondary schools or recreational programs, the certificate offers both the credentials and competencies necessary for professional advancement. Upon completion, students earn college credit that satisfies the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Rule 10 coaching requirements, further strengthening their qualifications.

The curriculum encompasses a wide range of coaching-related subjects, ensuring that educators are thoroughly prepared to meet the challenges and responsibilities of a dynamic and evolving field.

Why pursue a Certificate in Coaching at Fort Hays State University?

Choosing the Certificate in Coaching at FHSU reflects a commitment to a curriculum that emphasizes real-world application and hands-on experience. Our certificate stands out by integrating the latest advancements in coaching methodologies and techniques, ensuring that students remain at the forefront of the profession. Additionally, the diverse selection of courses allows participants to specialize in coaching specific sports, enabling them to tailor their education to align with their individual career goals.

Who is this program for?

The Certificate in Coaching is designed for individuals who are passionate about sports and motivated to lead, mentor, and inspire athletes. Whether the goal is to coach at the secondary school level, contribute to community recreation programs, or lead youth sports teams, this certificate provides the essential skills and foundational knowledge needed for success in the field.

Aspiring coaches seeking certification
Current teachers wanting to expand their credentials
Individuals passionate about youth sports
Recreation program leaders
Sports enthusiasts looking to transition into coaching

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Coaching is structured to provide students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the coaching profession. Through a comprehensive curriculum that includes topics such as emergency response, injury prevention, coaching philosophies, and sport-specific strategies, participants are well-prepared to meet the demands of diverse coaching roles. The certificate's learning outcomes ensure that students understand the theoretical aspects of coaching and gain practical experience to apply their knowledge effectively.

Develop Emergency Response Skills

Students will be proficient in emergency response, including CPR and AEDs, ensuring athlete safety during sporting events.

Master Injury Prevention and Care

Students will learn to prevent, recognize, and manage sports injuries, providing essential care to athletes and reducing downtime.

Understand Coaching Philosophy

The certificate will instill a solid understanding of various coaching philosophies and methods, preparing students to develop their coaching style.

Enhance Officiating Abilities

Participants will acquire the skills necessary to effectively officiate sports, understanding the rules, strategies, and techniques required for various sports.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Coaching at FHSU prepares students for the practical demands of the coaching profession through a combination of classroom instruction and field experiences. Courses such as Responding to Emergencies and Care and Prevention of Exercise and Sports Injuries equip future coaches with essential skills to ensure the safety and well-being of their athletes. The program emphasizes real-time application, allowing students to practice emergency response and injury prevention techniques in authentic sports settings.

In addition to coursework, students gain hands-on experience through service-learning projects, field trips, and internships. These experiential learning opportunities allow them to apply theoretical concepts in real-world environments, effectively preparing them for the dynamic and fast-paced world of sports coaching.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The curriculum integrates the latest research and emerging trends in sports science, psychology, and management to ensure a well-rounded coaching education. Courses such as Introduction to Coaching with ASEP Certification introduce students to current best practices and innovative coaching strategies, ensuring they remain proficient in modern techniques and technologies.

FHSU emphasizes continual learning and adaptability, equipping students with the skills needed to remain competitive and effective in the fast-changing field of sports coaching. This forward-thinking approach prepares graduates to anticipate industry developments and adjust their coaching methods to meet evolving demands.

Hands-on Activities

Fort Hays State University's Certificate in Coaching is built on a strong foundation of experiential learning. Students actively engage in practical activities such as officiating intramural sports, gaining firsthand experience in organizing and managing athletic events. Courses like Techniques of Officiating function as hands-on laboratories, allowing students to develop and refine their officiating skills in real-time settings.

In addition to officiating, students engage in various service-learning projects, field experiences, and internships. These experiential opportunities enable students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments, interact with professionals in the coaching field, and gain valuable insight into the daily responsibilities and challenges of a coach.

What You’ll Learn:

Emergency response and CPR
Injury prevention and management
Coaching philosophy and methods
Sports officiating techniques
Specific sport coaching strategies

How You’ll Learn:

Through lectures and demonstrations
Hands-on labs and field trips
Research projects and professional conferences
Internships with sports teams
Guest speakers and expert panels

Courses

The Certificate in Coaching requires completion of 15 credit hours, encompassing core subjects such as emergency response, injury prevention, coaching methodologies, and officiating. In addition, students must select two elective courses from a range of sport-specific coaching options, which may include basketball, football, track and field, wrestling, baseball, softball, or volleyball.

HHP 220: Responding to Emergencies

This course provides instruction and hands-on experience in standard first aid, adult, children, and infant CPR, and the use of AEDs.

HHP 290: Introduction to Coaching

This course introduces the philosophy and methods of coaching, covering topics such as sport science, sport psychology, and sport management. Completing the course may lead to certification by the American Coaching Effectiveness Program (ACEP).

HHP 380: Techniques of Officiating

This course familiarizes students with the qualifications, philosophies, principles, and techniques of sports officiating. The intramural program provides a practical laboratory experience for applying these concepts.

Discover the full Certificate in Coaching course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Participants of the Certificate in Coaching are well-prepared to pursue a variety of rewarding careers within the sports and fitness industry. The certificate provides access to diverse professional opportunities. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students gain both the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to succeed in these roles, making a meaningful impact on athletes and the wider community.

Secondary School Coach

Students can coach at public and private secondary schools, where they will develop training programs, manage teams, and lead student-athletes to success.

Recreation Program Coordinator

In this role, students will organize and oversee community center sports and recreation programs, designing activities promoting fitness and teamwork.

Athletic Director

This position involves managing sports programs at educational institutions, including budgeting, staffing, and compliance with athletic regulations.

Personal Trainer

With a strong foundation in injury prevention and sports performance, participants in the Certificate in Coaching can work as personal trainers, helping clients achieve their fitness goals safely.

Youth Sports Coach

Students can coach youth sports teams, focusing on skill development, sportsmanship, and fostering a love for the game in young athletes.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

FHSU offers a range of programs related to the Certificate in Coaching, giving students additional opportunities to broaden their expertise in health, fitness, and sports management. These related programs are designed to strengthen career prospects and deepen understanding of the industry, allowing students to build a well-rounded foundation for success in the field.

FAQ

What are the job prospects with a Certificate in Coaching?

Students can find coaching positions in secondary schools, community recreation programs, and private sports clubs.

Where are your students who completed the Certificate in Coaching working?

Our alumni are employed in various educational institutions, recreational facilities, and sports organizations nationwide.

What are the certificate's learning outcomes?

The Certificate in Coaching aims to develop emergency response skills, injury prevention techniques, coaching philosophies, officiating abilities, and sport-specific coaching strategies.

What hands-on activities are offered?

Students officiate intramural sports, internships, field trips, and service-learning projects, providing practical coaching experience.

Information about the Department of Health and Human Performance

The Department of Health and Human Performance provides specialized, in-demand degrees that combine innovative, hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art facilities. You will be supported by a dedicated faculty and staff who are committed to helping you address the needs of the community and make a meaningful impact beyond the campus.

We strive to prepare you for a fulfilling and rewarding career that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Our programs emphasize practical learning experiences, offer flexible academic options, and foster close-knit mentorship from our experienced faculty. With opportunities in diverse, high-growth fields such as professional sports, healthcare, and more, you will be equipped to pursue your career aspirations. Join our network of accomplished alumni and embark on a path that leads to both personal satisfaction and professional success.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Phi Epsilon Kappa - Delta Theta Chapter: The Delta Theta chapter of Phi Epsilon Kappa, a national honor society, recognizes FHSU students pursuing careers in physical education, health, recreation, dance, human performance, exercise science, sports medicine, and sports management. Through Phi Epsilon Kappa, you will gain leadership skills by engaging in campus, community, and professional activities. To get involved, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
HHP Majors Club: The HHP Majors Club is ideal for students wanting to stay involved with departmental activities, meet classmates, and participate in university events. This club fosters a sense of community within the department. For more information, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes: The Fellowship of Christian Athletes offers students the chance to combine their faith with their passion for athletics. This organization sponsors the national annual event, Fields of Faith, which allows FHSU students to worship and serve alongside the Hays community. All students interested in Christianity are welcome to join, regardless of their participation in FHSU athletics. To get involved, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.
Pre-Professional Healthcare Club: The FHSU Pre-Physical Therapy Club is dedicated to providing meaningful experiences for students preparing for physical therapy school. This club brings together students interested in professional development to strengthen their applications for physical therapy programs and beyond. Membership is available to any FHSU student interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy or related fields. For more information, contact hhpcontact@fhsu.edu.

Coaching

Certificate

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