Why Study Athletic Coaching?
The Athletic Coaching minor at Presbyterian College prepares students to become impactful leaders in youth, high school, and collegiate sports. Grounded in science, psychology, and pedagogy, this interdisciplinary program blends theory and practice to help you develop the skills, knowledge, and ethical framework essential for effective coaching.
Whether you’re pursuing a career in physical education, sport psychology, or athletic administration—or you’re simply passionate about sports—this minor adds value to any major and positions you to inspire excellence both on and off the field.
The Power of Your Degree
- Expand your perspective.
Examine the science behind physical performance and athletic development. - Broaden your knowledge.
Combine coaching with majors like psychology, biology, education, or business. - Solidify your skill set.
Learn to plan practices, motivate athletes, and create safe, inclusive team environments. - Become a critical thinker.
Study ethical decision-making, goal setting, and how to handle real-world challenges in sports.
18 Hours
Required for Athletic Coaching minor coursework
Hands-on Experience
Internships and practicum options through PC Athletics
12:1 Student-To-Faculty Ratio
In discussion-based classroom settings
What You’ll Study
The Athletic Coaching minor equips students with comprehensive knowledge in both the art and science of coaching across all competitive levels. Through carefully designed coursework, you’ll explore the foundations of coaching while delving into the psychology of sport and gaining an essential understanding of human anatomy and physiology. The program builds your expertise in sport and exercise nutrition alongside principles of strength and conditioning, while teaching critical skills in the care and prevention of athletic injuries. Throughout your studies, you’ll develop the ability to assess athlete needs, construct productive training environments, and nurture lifelong physical and emotional health among your players.
The curriculum places strong emphasis on character-building and leadership development, ensuring you maintain the highest professional standards as you prepare to inspire and guide athletes to reach their full potential.
Get Involved
At Presbyterian College, you can actively pursue your passion for Athletic Coaching through programs and opportunities that take accounting out of the classroom and into the real world—all while expanding your experience, perspective, and skillsets.
- Practicum and Internships:
Work directly with PC sports teams, local schools, or recreation programs.
- Student Life:
Help lead intramural sports or fitness initiatives that encourage student wellness.
Careers in Athletic Coaching
The Athletic Coaching minor opens doors to a variety of roles in athletics and health-related professions. Alumni have gone on to serve as successful coaches, fitness professionals, and educators in both public and private sectors. Whether you’re teaching at a local high school or training elite athletes, this minor equips you with the tools to lead with confidence.
Career Professions
Head or Assistant Coach
Athletic Director
Physical Education Teacher
Sport Performance Coach
Camp Director
Personal Trainer
Youth Program Coordinator
Athletic Trainer (with further certification)
Kinesiologist (with further study)
Sports Scout
Recreation Coordinator
Wellness Director
Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Sports Facility Manager
Community Recreation Director
College Recruiting Coordinator
Sports Information Director
Corporate Wellness Coordinator
Sport Psychology Consultant (with further study)
Team Operations Manager
Acquired Skills
Designing sport-specific training plans
Applying motivational and developmental theory
Understanding biomechanics and nutrition
Making ethical decisions in competitive settings
Supporting athletes’ physical and emotional well-being
Demonstrating leadership and team management
Analyzing performance and technique
Teaching proper movement patterns and skills
Preventing and managing athletic injuries
Developing tactical and strategic game plans
Communicating effectively with diverse populations
Organizing athletic events and tournaments
Managing time and resources efficiently
Building team culture and cohesion
Utilizing sport technology and analytics
Adapting training for different skill levels
Implementing effective feedback techniques
Understanding sport psychology principles
Creating safe training environments
Problem-solving under pressure
Quick Stats
$45,910
Average Median Salary
Athletic Coaches and Scouts earned a median annual wage of $45,910 in May 2023. Salaries can vary significantly based on factors such as the level of competition (e.g., high school vs. collegiate), geographic location, and the specific sport coached. Top earners, particularly in professional or high-profile collegiate programs, can earn substantially more.
9% Growth
Projected Employment Rate
Employment for coaches and scouts is projected to grow by 9 percent over the next decade, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increased participation in sports at the high school and collegiate levels, as well as a rising demand for sports recreation instruction. As a result, approximately 41,800 job openings are expected annually, primarily due to the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force.
High Versatility
Career Diversity Index
Athletic Coaching offers a high degree of career versatility, with opportunities spanning educational institutions, private sports clubs, professional teams, and recreational programs. Coaches may specialize in specific sports or work with various age groups and skill levels. The profession also allows for roles beyond coaching, such as scouting, athletic administration, and sports management.
Source(s): U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
