Lead and Inspire the Next Generation of Athletes

Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education (MSACE)

Prepare to coach at the youth, high school, collegiate, or professional level.

100% Online

Complete your degree online from anywhere.

1 Year

Earn your master’s degree in just one year.

Cohort Model

Enjoy collaborative learning as you progress with a close-knit group.

Master of Science in and Athletic Coaching Education (MSACE)

The MS in Athletic and Coaching Education at the University of Lynchburg is designed for aspiring and experienced coaches, educators, and sports professionals looking to advance their coaching expertise, leadership skills, and career opportunities. 

Whether you’re a seasoned coach aiming to refine your approach or an emerging leader in the sports world, you’ll find this program prepares you for coaching success with its comprehensive, research-based curriculum and real-world applications.

Lynchburg’s program goes beyond traditional coaching education by integrating sports science, leadership theory, and athlete development, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to enhance performance, build team culture, and navigate the evolving sports industry. 

By aligning with the National Standards for Sport Coaches, our coursework ensures graduates can become highly competent professionals prepared for youth, high school, collegiate, and professional coaching roles.

The fully online, flexible format allows you to balance your education with your coaching career, making it accessible to professionals at all levels. Through expert faculty mentorship and a 6-credit immersive coaching practicum (2 courses), you’ll gain strategic, analytical, and interpersonal skills essential for transformational leadership in athletics. 

This program is ideal for those looking to make a lasting impact on athletes, teams, and organizations while advancing their careers.

The Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education is pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Program Highlights

Why Choose the MS in Athletic and Coaching Education program at Lynchburg?

Choosing the right graduate program is crucial for career growth. The University of Lynchburg offers a top-tier online athletic coaching degree, providing you a balance of academic rigor and practical application to ensure that you’ll gain both knowledge and the hands-on experience you need for success.

12-Month, Fully Online Program
  • Designed with flexibility for working professionals, allowing you to earn your degree 100% online in one year without pausing your career.
Comprehensive and Innovative Curriculum

The athletic and coaching education program incorporates 30 credit hours of coursework aligned with the National Standards for Sport Coaches, ensuring you are well-equipped to lead. 

Core course areas include:

  • Coaching Foundations
  • Teaching and Communication in Sports
  • Sports Philosophy and Ethics
  • Coaching Psychology
  • Principles of Safety and Physical Conditioning
Hands-On Practicum Experience
  • Apply theoretical knowledge in real-world coaching settings through a 6-credit immersive practicum.
Industry-Recognized Accreditation
  • Aligned with the National Committee for Accreditation of Coaching Education (NCACE) standards for high-quality training.
Career-Driven Outcomes

Prepares graduates for leadership roles in coaching, athletic administration, strength and conditioning, and sports development.

The Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education is pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Curriculum and Resources

Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education

  • ACE 600 Coaching Practicum (3)
  • ACE 601 Coaching Foundations (3)
  • ACE 602 Evaluation in Sport (3)
  • ACE 603 Coaching Theories and Principles (3)
  • ACE 604 Conditioning and Safety Principles for Sport (3)
  • ACE 605 Teaching and Communication in Sport (3)
  • ACE 606 Advanced Coaching Practicum (3)
  • ACE 607 Coaching Psychology (3)
  • EDHD 602 Human Development (3)
  • MBA 602 Organizational Behavior and Management (3)
  • SPMG 650 Legal Issues in Sports (3)
  • SPMG 620 Sociocultural Element of Sport (3)

Total Credit Hours: 36

The Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education is pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Interested in applying?

Application Deadlines

  • Summer semester: May 1
  • Fall semester: July 31
  • Spring term: Nov. 30

Application Process

  • Complete the online application.
  • Submit an official transcript from the college or university where your bachelor’s degree was awarded.
  • Submit an essay on the following topic:
    • Why you want to pursue the Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education degree and/or how this degree will assist you in achieving your career goals.
  • Submit one letter of recommendation.

Admissions decisions will be released beginning June, 2025. 

Learn more about the application process if you are one of the following:

  • International student.
  • Student seeking a second master’s degree.
  • Non-degree graduate student.

The Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education is pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Admissions decisions will not be released until final approval has been granted. 

Admissions

Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education (MSACE) Faculty

Steve Smith

Stephen Smith ’97, ’99 MEd, EdD, CSCS, RSCC, USAW...

Associate Professor of Health Sciences & Human Performance Dean, School of Professional and Applied Science ...
Todd Olsen

Todd Olsen, PhD

Professor of Health Science and Human Performance Head Women's Soccer Coach ...

Stephen Smith ’97, ’99 MEd, EdD, CSCS, RSCC, USAW...

Associate Professor of Health Sciences & Human Performance Dean, School of Professional and Applied Science ...

Todd Olsen, PhD

Professor of Health Science and Human Performance Head Women's Soccer Coach ...
A woman sitting on the floor holding a board with writing on it, surrounded by athletes standing in a circle.

As a Lynchburg athletic coaching graduate student, you'll:

Graduate Tuition

Below is an overview of the cost of the program:

Master of Science in Athletic and Coaching Education (MSACE)

$ 500 Cost Per Credit Hour
  • Credit Hours: 30
  • Estimated Cost of Completion: $18,000

LET US KNOW YOU'RE INTERESTED.

WE'LL BE IN TOUCH!
Loading...