Bachelor of Science - Sport Coaching and Athletics Leadership

The Sport Coaching and Athletics Leadership major prepares graduates for careers in professional, collegiate, and high school sports, university-based recreational sport leadership, community-based parks and recreation, and a wide range of opportunities within the sport and leisure industry, including public and private sport leagues. As part of professional preparation, majors sit for the NFHS Coach Level I National Credential and the Ohio Department of Education Pupil Activity Coaching Permit. The program provides opportunities to pursue diverse employment roles in the sport coaching and recreation industry and also prepares graduates for advanced study in sport management, sport behavior, sport science, and coaching. The faculty are innovative, interactive, and experienced in the fields of sport and recreation. They are actively involved in national organizations and local community agencies and encourage the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Faculty members bring experience from all levels of sport, including public, private, novice, amateur, and professional settings. Hands-on practice and application are emphasized through resources offered by the School of Exercise and Nutrition Science, located in InfoCision Stadium. The university’s location provides access to Division I athletics and multiple levels of sport organizations, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and equipment that enhance knowledge-based learning. Additional opportunities are available to assist faculty in a variety of practical applications and experiences. Real-world experience is integrated throughout the curriculum through required practicum experiences, service-learning components, collaboration with professionals in the sport and recreation industry, and embedded field experiences. Sport and recreation, recognized as one of the leading industries in the country, offers abundant career opportunities for qualified professionals. Graduates are employed in roles such as athletic directors at the high school or collegiate level, youth, high school, and college sport coaches, aquatics managers, recreation facility directors, event management directors, adventure recreation directors, parks and recreation administrators, facility operations managers, sport agents, recreation specialists, youth sport programmers, and sport equipment managers. A bachelor’s degree in this field provides a strong foundation for leadership, scouting, coaching, and programming careers within the sport and recreation industry, and graduates are eligible to sit for the Level I NFHS Coaching Credential.