This certificate brings together coursework from the disciplines of exercise and wellness, nutrition, behavioral health and coaching psychology to give students a strong background, perspective and real-life experiences in applied coaching techniques and methods used to decrease and prevent chronic disease risks.

Students learn evidence-based behavior change methodologies and practice coaching communication skills and strategies to influence sustainable healthy lifestyles. They learn to guide groups and individuals through meaningful life changes by using concepts that emphasize evidence-based coaching and behavioral practices as well as motivational interviewing techniques. Students work with clients using learned health coaching techniques and they develop the knowledge and skills to work with people who require lifestyle management strategies to improve their well-being. Faculty consistently monitor and mentor coaching practices to provide evaluation and feedback on how students may improve their coaching skills, and a final practical skills evaluation is completed to assess a student’s coaching abilities. Coaching skills are addressed synchronously over telephone, in person, or via Skype or another video platform. Students who complete this certificate qualify for certification by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching.