Athletic Coaching

New in Fall 2026

The athletic coaching degree is the first of its kind in Maine and one of only a handful in the United States.

The sports industry continues to grow rapidly, creating new opportunities for knowledgeable and skilled coaching professionals. The Bachelor of Science in Athletic Coaching prepares students to become effective leaders who can help athletes and teams reach their highest potential.

Coaching is about far more than winning games. Great coaches inspire confidence, develop character, and guide individuals toward personal and athletic growth. Our Coaching program prepares students to do exactly that by combining sport science, psychology, leadership, and performance training.

Students develop a strong foundation in psychology, human motivation, anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, and athlete development. Coursework in strength and conditioning, speed and agility training, and performance analytics helps students understand how to improve athletic performance safely and effectively.

The program also emphasizes the leadership and organizational skills required in today’s sport environment. Through courses in coaching management, leadership and ethics, sport economics and law, and fundraising, students learn how to lead teams, manage programs, and navigate the complex world of modern athletics.

In addition, students study behavior change, personality, and child development, helping them understand how athletes think, learn, and grow at different stages of life. These insights allow future coaches to motivate individuals, build strong team cultures, and support long-term athlete development.

Hands-on experience is a key part of the program. Students gain practical coaching knowledge through applied coursework and a professional internship, preparing them to work in a wide range of athletic and coaching environments.

In an era where technology and automation are reshaping many careers, coaching remains a deeply human profession built on leadership, mentorship, communication, and the ability to inspire others to achieve their best.

“If you’re passionate about sports and helping others grow, coaching may be one of the most meaningful careers you can pursue. This program gives students the knowledge and leadership skills to turn that passion into impact. Many coaches learn how to coach only after they enter the profession. Our program flips that model by teaching the science, psychology, and leadership of coaching while students are still in college—so they graduate with the knowledge and confidence to lead athletes, develop teams, and apply proven coaching strategies from their very first day on the job.”

Dr. Greg King

Professor of Sport Management