Online Coaching Degrees

Competitive individuals often find coaching to be a satisfying career. While earning a coaching degree online, students explore topics including exercise physiology, sports nutrition, teaching methods, and psychology. Coursework also covers injury prevention, and degree-seekers may gain hands-on experience in recreational, high school, or college athletic programs.

Coaches and scouts earn a median salary of $45,910 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS projects employment for these professionals to increase 9% from 2023-2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Graduates can also become postsecondary recreation and fitness studies teachers, who earn a median salary of $75,770 per year, according to BLS data.

While earning a coaching degree online, students develop relevant skills and knowledge. Learners explore topics such as principles of sports coaching, sports policy, sports psychology, and anatomy and physiology.

Curricula for coaching degrees vary by school and can impact graduates’ career opportunities. Coaches and scouts earn a median salary over $45,000 per year, according to the BLS, while postsecondary recreation and fitness studies teachers earn more than $75,000 per year.

Online students often save money on costs associated with transportation and housing. Additionally, many schools waive campus fees for distance learners.

When researching online programs, students should ensure each school holds accreditation and offers scheduling options that meet their needs. Most students earn their master’s in coaching in about two years. However, program requirements and the individual’s enrollment status can impact degree completion time.

The cost of a coaching degree online varies by school. Public schools typically offer the lowest tuition rates and provide discounts for in-state learners. Some institutions also offer lower tuition rates for online students.

Overall, students paid an average cost of $12,596 for graduate tuition and required fees for public institutions in 2021-2022. Private institutions cost $29,931 on average in 2021-2022.

In addition to tuition, students may need to budget for fees, books, and living expenses. Online school degrees will pay less in fees compared to students who choose to attend college in-person. However, students may have to pay other costs not required for in-person attendees, such as distance learning fees. These fees vary by institution. Learners should research each prospective school’s fees and financial aid options before they choose the right school for them.

Students can use the affordability calculator below to determine the out-of-pocket cost of earning a sports coaching degree. Users input their current income and cost of living into the calculator. They should also enter details about books and expenses, along with expected scholarships and financial aid.

According to the BLS, coaches and scouts earn a median salary of $45,910 per year. However, earning potential varies based on position and employer. For example, a head coach for an NFL team typically earns significantly more than a high school coach. Individuals can advance professionally by obtaining additional skills and credentials, such as a master’s-level coaching degree.

Careers in sports administration often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and can lead to increased earning potential. To improve their marketability, professionals can pursue certifications, such as the registered athletic administrator, certified athletic administrator, and certified master athletic administrator credentials.

Coaching courses help learners develop foundational skills, theoretical knowledge, and leadership abilities. Available courses vary by school, but the following list features classes common to many master’s in coaching degree programs.

Graduates of coaching degrees can pursue additional credentials to improve their career prospects. Available coaching certifications depend on the professional’s geographic location. Coaching degree-seekers should research certification requirements for professionals in their state.

Coaching degree-seekers can apply for a variety of scholarships to minimize out-of-pocket expenses. In addition to applying for private scholarships, learners can contact their institution’s financial aid office to learn about available scholarships, grants, and need-based aid.