Program Overview

Graduate Certificate in Coaching

The Graduate Certificate in Coaching is offered by the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation. The aim of this certificate is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to reflect and think critically about their coaching, challenging and questioning numerous taken-for-granted practices and assumptions within sport.

Program Description

The program promotes inclusion and diversity, particularly in relation to the positive and enriching opportunities that can come from an Indigenous perspective on sport and coaching. Content across the certificate is informed by a range of natural and social science perspectives, as well as the arts and humanities, and various quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

Entrance Requirements

• The Facultys minimum admission requirements are an undergraduate degree with an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution.
• The undergraduate degree can be in any discipline; however, a degree in a sport-related area is preferred.
• Some experience working in a coaching environment will be considered an asset.
• A minimum of 1 year of relevant work experience is also required (preferably in coaching).
• Where applicable, applicants must meet the minimum English Language Requirements.
• Applicants are also required to submit:
  • Current resume/curriculum vitae
  • One professional letter of reference
  • One letter of intent

Course Work

All students are required to complete the following:

• KSR 789 - Seminar
• Plus four of the following 3-unit courses:
  • KSR 722 - Coaching Athletes Experiencing Disability
  • KSR 741 - Sport and Physical Activity for Children and Youth
  • KSR 744 - Psychological Dimensions of Performance in Sport
  • KSR 775 - Social Dimensions of Performance in Sport
  • KSR 786 - Motor Learning and Performance in Sport
  • KSR 787 - Physiology and Performance in Sport
  • KSR 788 - Sport Biomechanics It is strongly recommended that students complete at least one course from the social sciences and at least one course from the natural sciences.

Length of Program

The maximum time to complete the Graduate Certificate is four years.

Laddering

Students who complete the certificate in good standing may be able to use the courses from the certificate to receive advanced standing in the course-based Master of Arts or course-based Master of Arts in Recreation and Leisure Studies in Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, or the Master of Coaching. Completion of the certificate does not guarantee admission to a masters degree program.

Tuition and Fees

A number of graduate assistantships and scholarships are available each year to graduate students. For general information, please refer to the Tuition and Fees page.

Scholarships and Financial Support

The Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies administers over $29 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for graduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are also available for specific faculties and programs.