Coaching and Sport Education

Students complete 39 credit hours over five semesters (fall, spring, summer, fall, and spring), with 24 hours of core courses and 15 hours of electives in a specialized track based on career goals. The program allows students to pursue a sport performance non-thesis track or a science of coaching research track. Both options provide students with a strong foundation across the interpersonal, intrapersonal, and sport science knowledge areas key to athletic coaching success. Many students work 20 hours/week during the semester as a graduate assistant either teaching, coaching, providing a service or conducting research. In return for this service, graduate assistants receive a tuition waiver and stipend.

Program Application Requirements

Graduate Program Application Requirements

In addition to the WVU graduate admission criteria, the program specific materials and supplemental requirements are as follows:

1. Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 (4-point scale)

2. Sport resume including coaching background, sport participation, sport-related awards, and employment and/or experience (e.g., athletic administration, officiating, volunteering)

3. Professional goal statement: 1-2 written pages on professional goals and reasons for seeking admission

4. Two letters of recommendation that provide evidence of academic strengths and potential

5. No GRE scores required

During the admission process, preference is given to individuals with a kinesiology-related degree (e.g., physical education, exercise science, athletic coaching education, and sport and exercise psychology) and coaching experience.

Applicants who do not meet the 2.75 GPA requirement may be admitted as a provisional graduate student if their GPA is between 2.50 and 2.74. Once admitted provisionally, students are required to achieve a 3.0 GPA in their first 9-hours of advisor approved course work to be reclassified as regular status and remain in the program.

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. WVU accepts either the TOEFL or the IELTS for this purpose. Learn more about our English language proficiency requirements.

The previously listed materials are submitted online as part of the WVU Graduate Admission Application. Applicants must submit their official copies of transcripts and test scores directly to the WVU Office of Admissions, PO Box 6009, Morgantown, WV 26506.

All graduate students must achieve and maintain a 3.0 GPA or better (4-point scale) prior to graduation.

Application Deadlines

Fall Deadline

Spring Deadline

Summer Deadline

English Proficiency Requirements

All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. WVU accepts either the TOEFL or the IELTS for this purpose. Learn more about our English language proficiency requirements.

Accreditation Information

WVU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.