Bachelor of Science in Athletic Coaching Education (ACE)

The Athletic Coaching Education (ACE) major prepares students interested in pursuing a variety of roles in the coaching profession. These roles include but are not limited to: An athletic coach at the youth or interscholastic level Coaching older master athletes Coaching individuals with disabilities Strength coaching Fitness coach The Bachelor's Degree consists of a sequenced curriculum that focuses on professional knowledge, sport-specific science, and pedagogical skills mixed with practicum experiences that provide students with several opportunities to learn and apply the principles and practices of coaching across a wide range of health, recreation, and performance-based professions, as well as to develop professional networking and social skills. The ACE curriculum follows the National Standards for Sport Coaches 2nd Edition published by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE). Major Learning Goals The goal of the program is for students to graduate with the essential skills and knowledge to work with athletes in a variety of contexts across their lifetime. Content Knowledge - Students will demonstrate technical and tactical knowledge and concepts related to the pedagogy of coaching a variety of sports. Reflection and Critical Thinking - Students will demonstrate reflection and critical thinking in order to refine professional practice. Programming and Assessment - Students will demonstrate evidence-based knowledge for designing, implementing and evaluating practice plans that address individual student's needs determined by various forms of assessment. Professionalism and Ethics - Students will demonstrate professional behaviors, including commitment to excellence, valuing diversity and collaboration, service to others, and techniques for lifelong learning. Technology - Students will be able to demonstrate the use of different forms of technology to assess skills and provide meaningful feedback. Career Profile This degree is for those who have a passion for sport, a desire to make a difference in the lives of athletes and the dedication to strive for personal excellence. Those who have an interest in coaching within the community, an interest in public or private school athletic programs, or an interest in coaching at higher education institutions, should study this discipline.