Athletic Coaching Certification
The requirements for athletic coaching certification vary by state and the specific type of certification (Pop Warner, high school, NCAA, volunteer). The certification process includes study in safety, sports equipment, athletic training and the rules of popular team sports. The general baseline requirement for coaching within a school system is a bachelor's degree. Many school districts also require their coaches to be a teacher at the team's affiliated school.
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Education
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Certain colleges, such as West Virginia University, offer a bachelor's and/or master's degree specifically in athletic coaching through the physical education program (see Resources below). However, most coaches at the high school level are also teachers at the school. Attaining a bachelor's degree in an education-related field is an excellent first step toward coaching at the high school level. College and professional coaching generally requires the pursuit of graduate-level education.
Recognition
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The "National Standards for Sports Coaches" is a book released by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE). The book is recognized by the American College of Sports Medicine, Center for Sports Parenting, United States Olympic Committee, Special Olympics of North America and National Federation of State High School Associations as well as many other universities and organizations. The book is available for purchase through the NASPE (see Resources); however, the standards and methods for training can also be researched by contacting a university that adheres to the program.
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Costs
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The typical costs associated with athletic coaching certification include college tuition, fees for coaching clinics and workshops and paying for professional fingerprinting. Some state and local governments also require payment for the issuance of a coaching license (see Resources).
Professional Sports Coaching
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Professional sports coaches are recruited by the scouts and management of a professional sports team. If your ultimate goal is to become a professional sports coach, then you should begin by coaching at the college level. Coaching for a college sports team is also a very time-consuming and generally low-paying job, especially while working your way up the ranks to the ultimate goal of head coach. Most college coaches begin their coaching career as a volunteer graduate assistant who exchanges services for reduced tuition.
Additional Requirements
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Virtually all athletic coaching degrees and certificates require candidates to be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Most sports teams, especially when working with children, require their coaches to be fingerprinted and have a clean background check.
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