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Applied Sport Science in Coaching Graduate Certificate

College of Applied Human Sciences

A WVU soccer coach watches his team and records data on a tablet

The Applied Sport Science in Coaching Graduate Certificate from WVU's College of Applied Human Sciences equips coaches with a comprehensive toolkit for achieving excellence in their professional practice. This dynamic online program equips you to thrive in a sport industry increasingly driven by data, innovation, and emerging technology, so you’re ready to lead the future of sport.

Cost:

$744 / Cost per credit hour *

Courses and Credits:

4 Courses / 12 Credit Hours

Duration:

One year / 8-week and 16-week terms

Dates:

Next Start: January 12, 2026 Admission Term: Fall, Spring, Summer

Learning Format:

Online Asynchronous

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Program Overview

A Scientific Approach to Sports

This online graduate certificate program will prepare you to elevate your coaching through evidence-based practices and sport science. You'll learn to personalize training using data, support holistic athlete development, and lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving sports landscape. Designed for working professionals, the flexible format allows you to advance your career without putting it on hold.

  • Evidence-Informed Coaching: Apply sport science principles and training theories to enhance athlete development and performance.
  • Data-Driven Strategy: Use analytics to personalize coaching approaches and adapt to the dynamic sports landscape.
  • Leadership in Action: Tackle real-world challenges and emerge as a leader in modern coaching practices.
  • Expert Faculty: Taught by nationally and internationally recognized experts, the program blends cutting-edge research with real-world application to help you thrive in a competitive industry.
  • Flexible Program Structure: This online program's flexibility lets you get a quality education while balancing life, work, and family.

Curriculum

The curriculum covers coaching techniques, professional development, evidence-based training theories, motor behavior, movement analysis, strength and conditioning methods, and current issues in sport management. You will gain the essential skills needed to elevate your coaching practice and become an informed leader in your field. 

Learning Outcomes

  • Integrate sport science principles into coaching practices, utilizing evidence-based approaches to optimize athlete performance and foster holistic development. 
  • Engage in data-driven decision-making techniques, drawing from the understanding of training theories and sport science, to tailor coaching strategies that adapt to athletes' individual needs and the evolving demands of the sports landscape. 
  • Emerge as a leader in the application of sport science within coaching, capable of effectively addressing contemporary challenges, fostering athlete well-being, and contributing to the advancement of coaching practices in the sports industry. 

Course Requirements: Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 to graduate from the program. Each required class must be completed with a grade of a C- or better. Graduate students with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) below 2.75 will be placed on academic probation.

  • ACE 508: The Sport Coaching Profession, 3 credit hours
  • ACE 585: Applied Professional Development, 3 credit hours
  • Select two of the following: 
    • ACE 510: Training Theories for Coaches, 3 credit hours
    • ACE 522: Motor Behavior for Sport Coaches, 3 credit hours
    • ACE 568: Sport Movement Analysis, 3 credit hours
    • ACE 569: Strength and Conditioning Methods for Coaches, 3 credit hours
    • SM 545: Current Issues & Applications in Sport Management, 3 credit hours
Total: 12 credit hours

Admissions Requirements and Eligibility

  • To be eligible for admission into a graduate program at WVU an applicant must submit official, bachelor’s degree transcripts from a regionally accredited institution and hold a GPA of at least 2.75. 
  • WVU operates decentralized admissions. 
    • Decentralized admissions allows each graduate program to set its own application requirements in addition to the University requirements.

Admissions Process and How to Apply

  • One-two page statement of interest in the program
  • Official transcripts from all institutions attended (other than WVU)
  • Resume or CV
  • Two reference letters

Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid

Since certificates are considered non-degree-seeking programs, they don't qualify for financial aid. However, many certificate programs allow you to transition into a full degree, at which point financial aid can be applied.

Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies, and living expenses. Visit the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

Tuition per credit hour is listed on the page of your program of interest. Please note, tuition and fees are reviewed and subject to change at the start of each academic year.

Careers and Employment

With the new skills and perspective gained from this certificate program, you will be prepared for a role in a variety of related areas.

Career Paths

  • School Athletics Program
  • Community Athletics Programs
  • Coaches
  • Athletic Administrator
  • Performance/Development Consultant

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Get in Touch

The WVU Online team is here for you during your online learning journey. We can help you navigate the curriculum of your program of interest, understand the application process, and keep you posted on upcoming events and deadlines.

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