Some established coaches wonder what the career outlook with a Master’s in Coaching is. Hesitancy to jump into an advanced degree program is often due to concerns about the lack of a reward at the end of a long struggle.
What is a Master’s in Coaching Degree?
Some time ago legendary coaches in every sport came directly from the field of play into the coaching arena. Though this may still hold true in community pee wee leagues or community swimming troops, every interscholastic sports program from middle school on up demands some type of certification as well as a teaching degree. A master’s degree in coaching adds to the credentials of any teacher/coach in any sport.
The Master’s in Coaching program does not include the strategies of a sport, the knowledge of the field, or the competitive nature of the human endeavor. The candidate brings these things with them and then learns to understand the fundamental aspects of the science of competition through the master’s program. The curriculum for a Master’s in Coaching includes such essential fundamentals as sports psychology, leadership development techniques, strength development, physiology, and team organization. The Master’s in Coaching enhances the instincts and abilities that coaches already possess; the degree is a sharpening tool for the scalpel coaches employ when working with student-athletes.
How Does Having a Master’s Degree in Coaching Enhance Employment Potential?
There are still some coaches in the system that achieved fame through the introduction of new ideas and performance values in their respective sports. Those few are a rarity and deserve the recognition they receive. A comprehensive review of the job market by The College Board shows that job opportunities in high school through collegiate ranks are increasing and appear to continue this trend for the foreseeable future. Coaches that have demonstrated the innate ability to build a winning program and have shown commitment to the values of education will have an advantage above other coaches applying for the same position. Educators respect those who have obtained advanced degrees.
What Positions are Available for someone with a Master’s in Coaching Degree?
Nearly every position in coaching at the high school level is available for the graduate who has achieved an advanced degree in coaching. Assistant coaches and head coaches benefit in the job market from achieving these degrees. At the collegiate level, the employment possibilities range even further. Scouts, recruiters, defensive and offensive coordinators, as well as the head coach, get a leg up in the employment line by achieving a Master’s in Coaching.
Benefits
Attaining a Master’s in Coaching degree does more than just increase the knowledge base or offer a higher salary potential. Acquiring a Master’s in Coaching also demonstrates a commitment to a profession that benefits the student-athlete. Anyone considering improving their coaching career outlook should consider gaining a master’s degree in coaching as a definite advantage for everyone involved.
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