Health and PE: Athletic Coaching Education (B.A.)
Turn your passion for sports into a profession. West Liberty University’s Athletic Coaching Education program prepares future coaches with the leadership skills and hands-on experience to guide athletes, manage programs, and promote lifelong wellness.
Prepare to lead and mentor.
Inspire through sport.
The Athletic Coaching Education program combines coaching theory, exercise science, health education, and sport management to prepare students for leadership roles in athletic settings. Through classroom learning and practical experience, students develop the skills needed to support athlete development, program success, and positive team cultures.
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Total Credits: Approximately 120 credits
Outcome: Preparation for coaching, athletic leadership, and sport-related careers
Format: On-campus with experiential learning opportunities
Program
Overview
Athletic coaches play a critical role in developing athletes, building character, and creating successful programs. West Liberty University’s Athletic Coaching Education program provides a comprehensive foundation in coaching principles, exercise physiology, sport administration, leadership, and athlete development. Students graduate prepared to serve athletes and communities through ethical, effective coaching practices and sport leadership.
Who This
Program Is For
Aspiring Coaches
Students who want to coach youth, middle school, high school, collegiate, or community sports and develop expertise in athlete development and team leadership.
Former Student-Athletes
Individuals looking to translate their athletic experiences into coaching, mentoring, and leadership opportunities within sports organizations.
Sport Leadership Professionals
Students interested in athletic administration, sport operations, compliance, and program management within educational or recreational settings.
Health and Fitness Advocates
Individuals passionate about physical activity, wellness, strength and conditioning, and helping others achieve performance and health goals.
Community Recreation Leaders
Students who want to develop sport and recreation programs that positively impact communities and encourage lifelong participation in physical activity.
What
You’ll Learn
Students gain a broad understanding of coaching methodologies, sport science, leadership, and athletic program management while developing practical skills through applied learning experiences and internships.
Coaching Leadership & Athlete Development
- Develop effective coaching philosophies and leadership strategies
- Create positive team cultures and athlete-centered environments
- Apply age-appropriate coaching and instructional techniques
Sport Science & Performance
- Understand exercise physiology, biomechanics, and motor development
- Apply strength and conditioning principles safely and effectively
- Support athlete performance through nutrition and wellness practices
Athletic Program Management
- Navigate compliance, legal, and ethical issues in sports
- Manage athletic programs, facilities, and organizational operations
- Utilize assessment and performance evaluation tools to support athletic success
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum balances foundational coursework in health and physical education with specialized coaching education, sport science, leadership, and management courses. Students also gain valuable experiential learning through coaching internships and applied professional experiences.
Program Structure
General Education Requirements
- University core curriculum
- Communication, quantitative reasoning, and liberal arts foundations
Professional Coursework
- Principles of Coaching
- Assessment in Health Education, Physical Education, and Coaching
- Organization & Administration of Physical Education, Athletics & Recreation
- Compliance
- Sport Venue Management
- Legal Aspects of Sport Industry
Exercise Science & Health Foundations
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
- Nutrition & Physical Fitness
- Motor Development
- Strength & Conditioning Principles
Experiential Learning
- Coaching Internship
- Applied coaching and leadership experiences
- Sport-specific coaching electives
Required Prerequisites Include:
Program requirements are completed as part of the degree pathway. Foundational coursework may include:
- Introduction to Health & Physical Education
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Motor Development
- Basic Strength & Conditioning Principles
Admission Requirements
Students must meet West Liberty University admission requirements and maintain satisfactory academic progress within the major. Program advisors help students select courses and experiential opportunities aligned with their career goals.
Career &
Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for careers across athletic coaching, sport administration, recreation, strength and conditioning, and community sport organizations. The program develops leadership, communication, and performance-focused skills valued throughout the sport industry.
Examples of career opportunities include:
- Head or assistant coach
- Athletic department administrator
- Strength and conditioning professional
- Recreation and community sports coordinator
- Athletic operations or compliance specialist
- Youth sport program director
Through a combination of sport science, coaching theory, and practical experience, graduates enter the profession prepared to lead athletes and athletic programs with confidence, professionalism, and integrity.
Admission
Requirements
The Athletic Coaching Education program is designed for students committed to developing professional coaching and leadership competencies. The admissions process helps ensure students are prepared to succeed academically and professionally.
Requirements:
- Admission to West Liberty University
- Declaration of Athletic Coaching Education major
- Completion of required coursework outlined in the curriculum
- Compliance with university academic standards
Application Deadline:
Follow West Liberty University’s published undergraduate admissions deadlines.
Students are evaluated according to university admission standards and academic progress requirements.
Advisors are available to help students plan coursework, explore career pathways, and prepare for successful program completion.
Cost, Aid
& Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Steps to
Enrollment
- Apply to West Liberty University
- Declare your Athletic Coaching Education (B.A.) major
- Meet with an academic advisor and review your degree pathway
Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.