“Not only did I feel a certain way about coaching being effective, we now have really concrete evidence that shows that it really does improve the lives of our students.”
Eryn Elder, Assistant Director of Academic Coaching, University of Colorado Boulder
Certify Your Coach Career.
Transform not only your clients’ lives but also your career trajectory with best-in-class certification.
Certification establishes your authority. It creates trust and opens doors. It signals to potential clients that you have met professional standards and can confidently deliver value. Every session.
The Leadership Advantage:
Train & Get Certified with the OG.
The Academic Life Coach Training Program was the first program approved by the International Coach Federation (ICF) that specifically offered coach training to those wanting to work with high school and college students as a coach.
Learning from the first ICF-approved organization offers unmatched insight and understanding from the forefront of coaching evolution. ALC sets the gold standard in coaching excellence.
Transform Lives: Unlock Your Coach Powers.
Empower Students, Elevate Futures.
Elevate Your Credibility.
Your certification is more than a piece of paper. It’s proof of your expertise, commitment, and professionalism, greatly boosting your credibility in coaching.
Stand Out in the Coaching Market.













Best Life Coach Certification Options for your coach career.
ALC
Academic Life Coaching Certification is the gold standard in higher education, equipping educators with skills to foster student success.
CTEDU
Coach Training EDU is the parent organization of Academic Life Coaching. More than 5000 coaches have trained with CTEDU over the past 15 years.
ICF
The International Coach Federation is one of the oldest and most recognized accrediting coach organizations. ALC is Level 1 and 2 ICF approved.
NBHWC
Coaches credentialed with the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches have access to allow clients to charge health insurance for coaching sessions.
Take the Deep Dive into Life Coach Certification.
Academic Life Coach Application and Eligibility
Preparing for Your Academic Coach Training Journey
Application Process
- Initial Inquiry: The first step involves reaching out to Academic Life Coaching or visiting their website to express interest and gather information about the coaching program.
- Application Submission: Interested individuals must fill out and submit an application form.
- Interview: After reviewing applications, ALC may invite candidates for an interview.
- Enrollment: Once accepted, candidates will be required to enroll in the program.
- Training Program: The training program encompasses various modules covering coaching techniques and practical coaching sessions.
- Certification: Upon completing the training program, candidates must pass a certification exam or fulfill other assessment criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Background: Applicants should have a strong educational background, with at least a bachelor’s degree preferred.
- Experience: Prior experience in coaching or education is advantageous, but not always mandatory.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial.
- Interpersonal Skills: Candidates should possess strong interpersonal skills, including empathy and patience.
- Commitment: Candidates must be committed to completing the training program and adhering to the ethical standards.
- Technological Proficiency: Applicants should be comfortable using relevant technology.
Bringing Certification to Your Team
Explore the benefits and logistics of certifying your team.
What are the Benefits of Bringing Certification to Your College or University Team?
Bringing a coaching certification program to your university team can have profound benefits, enhancing both individual and collective performance. Here are some key advantages:- Professional Development: Certification offers team members the opportunity to enhance their professional skills, including leadership, communication, and mentoring abilities, which are invaluable in an academic environment.
- Improved Team Dynamics: Certified coaching skills can lead to improved communication and collaboration among team members, fostering a more cohesive and supportive work environment.
- Enhanced Student Support: With coaching certification, staff can better support students' academic and personal growth, contributing to improved student satisfaction and success rates.
- Increased Credibility: Certification from a recognized body like the ICF adds credibility to the team, enhancing the university’s reputation as an institution that invests in high-quality, professional development for its staff.
- Leadership and Management Skills: Coaching certification equips team members with essential leadership and management skills, enabling them to effectively guide and inspire both colleagues and students.
- Adaptability and Resilience: The skills gained through certification can help staff navigate change more effectively, making the university more adaptable and resilient in the face of challenges.
- Retention and Recruitment: Offering certification opportunities can aid in retaining valuable staff and attracting top talent, who are eager to work in an environment that supports professional growth.
- Cultural Shift Towards Continuous Learning: Introducing a coaching certification program can foster a culture of continuous learning and self-improvement, which is vital in keeping pace with educational innovations and challenges.
Best Practices for Bringing ALC to Your Team
Introducing Academic Life Coaching (ALC) to your team requires thoughtful preparation and strategic planning. Here are the best practices to ensure a successful implementation:-
- Explore the Site and Request a Syllabus Start by visiting the Academic Life Coaching website to understand the range of programs offered. Requesting a syllabus can provide detailed insights into the curriculum, helping you identify how the program aligns with your team’s development needs.
- Request Materials to Help Pitch the Program to Leadership To gain support from your university's leadership, request promotional materials from ALC that highlight the benefits and success stories of the program. These materials can be invaluable in presenting a compelling case for the program’s adoption.
- Assess Needs and Goals Evaluate your team's current skills, challenges, and objectives. Understanding these elements is crucial in selecting the most appropriate ALC program for your team. Engaging in a conversation with ALC representatives can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs and goals.
- Plan for Group Mentor Coaching Group mentor coaching is an integral part of the ALC certification process, meeting ICF standards. Planning involves scheduling these sessions to ensure they fit into your team's routine, facilitating maximum participation without disrupting existing commitments.
- Identify Individuals Whom You Want to Train Carefully select team members who will benefit most from ALC training, considering their roles, professional development aspirations, and potential to impact the student experience positively.
- Get Them the Info Ahead of Time Once you’ve selected the individuals for training, provide them with all the necessary information well in advance. This includes details about the program’s content, schedule, and any preparatory work required. Early access to information ensures participants are well-prepared and can manage their schedules accordingly.
- Best Practice
Implementing ALC within your team isn’t just about the initial training; it's about fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Encourage trained coaches to share their insights and experiences, apply coaching principles in their interactions with students and colleagues, and seek ongoing professional development opportunities. This approach ensures the long-term sustainability and impact of the coaching program on your university's educational environment.
- Have an In-House Application Process Establish a straightforward in-house application process for team members interested in undergoing ALC training. This could be as simple as a form that gauges their interest, commitment level, and how they envision applying the coaching skills. This process helps in making thoughtful selections and demonstrating the program's value and seriousness.
- Secure Funding and Purchase Orders Identify potential funding sources within your organization or through external grants and secure the necessary purchase orders for the program. This step is crucial in ensuring that financial logistics are sorted out well in advance, avoiding any delays in the program's implementation.
- Make Sure Address for Books is Accurate and Can Accept Medium Boxes Ensure the delivery address for ALC training materials, especially books, is accurate and capable of receiving medium-sized packages. This logistical detail is vital for ensuring that all participants have the required materials on time for their training sessions.
- Use ALC Materials to Help Orient Your Team Leverage the comprehensive materials provided by ALC to orient your team to the program's requirements and structure. These resources are designed to provide a clear understanding of the coaching process, making it easier for your team to grasp the concepts and apply them effectively.
- Plan for Group Mentor Coaching Group mentor coaching is a critical component of the ALC certification, aligning with ICF standards. Incorporate group mentor coaching sessions into your team’s training schedule, facilitating a shared learning experience that enriches the training process and ensures compliance with credentialing requirements.
- Get Excited Approach the ALC program with enthusiasm. Over the past decade, the program has been continually refined and improved based on feedback from thousands of coaches. This history of excellence and constant improvement means you're bringing a tried and tested coaching methodology to your team, promising significant developmental opportunities and positive outcomes.
ALC Certification Requirements
Understanding the Certification Process
CTEDU Certification and ICF Credentialing Overview
After completing your journey with our Academic Life Coaching or the Essential Life Coaching 1.0 Training Program, and engaging in optional self-directed study, you're poised to pursue CTEDU coach certification. Attaining certification through a renowned and accredited institution like CTEDU not only highlights your dedication and professionalism but also showcases your comprehensive skill set to future clients. Our training curriculums are meticulously designed to meet the International Coaching Federation (ICF) standards, supporting you in obtaining your ICF credential across various levels (ACC, PCC, MCC), each tailored to elevate your coaching career to new heights. Here’s how you can navigate the path to achieving CTEDU certification and embarking on your ICF credentialing journey.Steps to Achieving CTEDU Certification and ICF Credentials
CTEDU Associate Coach Certification (ACC):
- Complete the Academic Life Coaching or Essential Life Coaching 1.0 Training Program.
- Participate in three individual overview sessions.
- Engage in the Group Mentor Coaching course.
- Accumulate at least 10 hours of coaching experience.
- Apply for CTEDU certification through the Coach Portal.
CTEDU Professional Coach Certification (PCC):
- Successfully finish the Essential Life Coaching 1.0 Training Course.
- Complete three individual overview sessions.
- Participate in the Group Mentor Coaching course.
- Advance through the Essential Life Coaching 2.0 Training Course.
- Undertake three additional individual overview sessions (2.0 level).
- Log a minimum of 20 hours of coaching experience.
- Submit your application for CTEDU certification.
CTEDU Master Coach Certification (MCC):
- Begin with completing the Essential Life Coaching 1.0 Training Course.
- Engage in three individual overview sessions.
- Participate in the Group Mentor Coaching course.
- Progress through the Essential Life Coaching 2.0 Training Course.
- Complete three more individual overview sessions (2.0 level).
- Undertake two to three Advanced Training Courses, depending on the class hours, fulfilling at least 75 hours of advanced coaching training required for the MCC credential.
- Complete three individual overview sessions (3.0 level) and Master Mentor Coaching.
- Log at least 30 hours of coaching experience.
- Proceed to apply for CTEDU certification.
Applying to the ICF & NBHWC
Understanding the Certification Process
Steps to Apply to the ICF After Academic Life Coaching Certification
- Complete Your Training: Ensure you have completed all the required training hours from Academic Life Coaching, including any specific courses or modules necessary for ICF accreditation.
- Document Your Coaching Hours: Accumulate and document the required number of coaching experience hours. The ICF requires different amounts of hours depending on the level of certification you are applying for (ACC, PCC, or MCC).
- Mentor Coaching: Complete the required hours of mentor coaching with a qualified ICF mentor. This step is crucial for developing your coaching skills in alignment with ICF competencies.
- Compile Application Materials: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of training completion, documented coaching hours, mentor coaching certification, and any other relevant materials.
- Apply for the ICF Credential: Submit your application through the ICF website, including all your compiled materials and the application fee. Choose the credential level you are applying for based on your completed training and experience hours.
- Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA): Once your application is approved, you will need to pass the CKA test, which assesses your understanding of the ICF core competencies and ethical guidelines.
Steps to Apply to the NBHWC After Academic Life Coaching Certification
- Ensure Eligibility: Verify that your Academic Life Coaching program meets NBHWC’s specific educational and training requirements for health and wellness coaching.
- Complete Practicum Hours: Fulfill the NBHWC requirement for practical coaching hours, ensuring you have the necessary direct client coaching experience.
- Document Your Training and Experience: Keep detailed records of your training hours, practicum hours, and any additional educational materials relevant to health and wellness coaching.
- Apply for the NBHWC Exam: Once you meet all the prerequisites, submit your application for the NBHWC certification exam. This includes paying the application fee and submitting documentation of your coaching education and experience.
- Prepare for and Pass the Exam: Study for the NBHWC exam, which covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness coaching. Passing this exam is the final step to obtaining your NBHWC credential.
Professional Opportunities and Outcomes
Beyond Certification: What It Means for Your Career
For Individuals
Embark on a rewarding career path with our Life Coach Certification program, perfectly suited for those aspiring to establish their own coaching practice. This program empowers you with the skills and credentials needed to build a successful independent coaching business. Key opportunities include:- Entrepreneurial Freedom: Gain the autonomy to create your own business model, set your own hours, and choose your clients, tailoring your practice to your personal strengths and interests.
- Marketability: Enhance your marketability with a certification that adds credibility and attracts a diverse client base seeking expert guidance.
- Personal Fulfillment: Experience personal fulfillment by making a significant impact on individuals' lives, helping them achieve their goals and improve their well-being.
For Higher Education Professionals
Advance your career in higher education with our Life Coach Certification, designed for professionals dedicated to enhancing student success and personal development. This certification offers you the expertise to support students effectively, providing you with:- Skills Enhancement: Develop advanced coaching skills that complement your educational roles, enabling you to offer more targeted support and guidance to students.
- Career Advancement: Position yourself for promotional opportunities within educational institutions by acquiring a valuable certification that demonstrates your commitment to student well-being and success.
- Student Impact: Make a measurable difference in the lives of students by helping them navigate academic challenges and personal growth, leading to improved educational outcomes.
Coach Training Sessions
(Designed to be Sample Training Classes)
May 7th at 3 PM Pacific
Transformation & Coach Training Session
Coaching & Transformation-1 Hour Life Coach Training
Each session we look at a different tool from the Academic Life Coaching and Coach Training EDU training program and take a deep dive into its origin, theory, and application.
This is an interactive workshop designed to be experienced fresh biweekly. Open to prospective and current students as well as alumni. The workshops are live and fast paced. You’ll want a strong internet connection, a chance to review the 3-page PDF ahead of time, and a quiet place to experience the workshop. It’s the closest experience you’ll get to being in the real training.
60 Minutes. Live via Zoom. Optional 15 minute Q&A after.
May 16th at 3 PM Pacific
Transformation & Coach Training Session
Coaching & Transformation-1 Hour Life Coach Training
Each session we look at a different tool from the Academic Life Coaching and Coach Training EDU training program and take a deep dive into its origin, theory, and application.
This is an interactive workshop designed to be experienced fresh biweekly. Open to prospective and current students as well as alumni. The workshops are live and fast paced. You’ll want a strong internet connection, a chance to review the 3-page PDF ahead of time, and a quiet place to experience the workshop. It’s the closest experience you’ll get to being in the real training.
60 Minutes. Live via Zoom. Optional 15 minute Q&A after.
Business Mastermind Sessions
May 23rd at 9 AM Pacific
Business Mastermind
Business Mastermind--1 Hour Biweekly Workshop
ALC and CTEDU founder John Andrew Williams offers a biweekly Business Mastermind. Although these workshops are designed for current students and alumni, prospective students are welcome to register after speaking with an admissions advisor.
The workshops are fast paced, live on zoom. We usually take a dive into a specific websites, elevator pitches, sales calls, and whatever else coaches are facing as they establish their businesses.
60 Minutes. Live via Zoom.
May 16th at 3 PM Pacific
Business Mastermind
Business Mastermind--1 Hour Biweekly Workshop
ALC and CTEDU founder John Andrew Williams offers a biweekly Business Mastermind. Although these workshops are designed for current students and alumni, prospective students are welcome to register after speaking with an admissions advisor.
The workshops are fast paced, live on zoom. We usually take a dive into a specific websites, elevator pitches, sales calls, and whatever else coaches are facing as they establish their businesses.
60 Minutes. Live via Zoom.
Let's Get this Started.
You're invited to a FREE Sample Coach Training Session.
Because the best way to see if coach training is for you is to experience it.
We warmly invite you to explore the transformative potential of academic life coaching through our live, complimentary workshops.
Over the course of an hour, you’ll learn critical coaching techniques, meet ICF accredited coaches, and experience the benefits of being coached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Certification is not legally required for academic life coaches, but it is highly beneficial. It enhances credibility, ensures adherence to professional standards, and provides specialized training. By obtaining certification, academic life coaches can offer more effective support to students.
- Credibility with Educational Institutions: Certification demonstrates a coach's commitment and expertise, instilling confidence in students, parents, and educational authorities.
- Specialized Training: Certification programs typically include training in student-specific strategies, helping coaches effectively address academic, emotional, and motivational issues.
- Professional Standards and Ethics: Adhering to established ethical guidelines through certification protects both the coach and the client, ensuring professional conduct in all interactions.
- Networking Opportunities: Certified coaches gain access to professional networks that provide support, resources, and potential collaboration opportunities within the educational sector.
- Enhanced Marketability: Certification distinguishes coaches in a competitive field, making them more appealing to schools and parents looking for qualified professionals.
- Institutional Compliance: Many educational institutions require or prefer certified coaches to meet their internal standards, facilitating opportunities for coaches within these settings.
For those looking to quickly establish a foundation in life coaching, the cohort-based training program is an excellent option. This structured course spans six months and is designed to equip participants with the comprehensive skill set needed to build a successful life coaching practice.
- Cohort-Based Learning: Engaging with a cohort allows participants to learn collaboratively, sharing insights and experiences which enhances the learning process.
- Structured Timeline: The six-month duration ensures a balanced pace, allowing enough time to deeply understand coaching principles while maintaining momentum towards certification.
- Professional Readiness: By the end of the program, participants will have gained the practical skills and knowledge necessary to start their own coaching business or work within established organizations.
This training format is particularly suitable for individuals who prefer a more interactive and community-based approach to learning and are ready to commit to a full-time program to accelerate their career in life coaching.
Recent emphasis on mental health and an increased awareness of life coaching have spiked demand in the past three years.
- Emphasis on Mental Health: As mental health continues to be a key focus, individuals increasingly seek out life coaches to help manage stress, improve personal relationships, and achieve life goals.
- Academia and Organizational Use: Academia and organizations are hiring life coaches more than ever to improve employee performance, develop leadership skills, and enhance workplace morale, expanding the market for certified professionals.
- Personalized Support Trend: The shift towards personalized, one-on-one support for navigating life's challenges has increased the demand for certified life coaches, who are perceived as more credible and effective.
- Global Reach through Technology: Technological advancements enable life coaches to expand their reach globally, significantly increasing their potential client base and demand for their services.
- Professional Recognition and Trust: Certification enhances a coach's credibility and marketability, making them more attractive to clients seeking assured quality and ethical practices in coaching.
As the coaching industry continues to grow, the demand for certified professional life coaches likewise increases, highlighting the importance of certification in enhancing a coach's skills and market presence.
Life coaching offers a versatile range of career paths, each with unique opportunities and benefits. Here are some of the common directions life coaches might take:
- Independent Practice: Many life coaches establish their own coaching businesses, working with clients individually or in groups. They focus on specialties such as personal development, career guidance, or relationship coaching.
- In-house Coach: Life coaches may be hired as in-house coaches within organizations to support employee development, career progression, and personal efficacy, often aligning with human resources to enhance workplace dynamics and overall employee wellbeing.
- Educational Institutions: Specializing in academic coaching, these life coaches help students improve study habits, manage stress, and plan their educational and career futures.
- Health and Wellness Coaching: Focusing on fitness, nutrition, and stress management, these coaches often collaborate with healthcare providers to improve clients' overall health.
- Executive Coaching: This niche involves coaching executives and managers to develop leadership skills, manage professional stress, and balance personal responsibilities.
- Workshop and Seminar Leadership: Life coaches design and lead workshops and seminars, teaching groups about personal development, life skills, and motivation.
- Online Coaching and Content Creation: Utilizing digital platforms, coaches offer services online and create engaging content such as courses, webinars, blogs, and podcasts to reach a broader audience.
- Non-profit Organizations: Working with non-profits, coaches help community members with career development, personal growth, and overcoming personal challenges.
Each career path provides life coaches with the opportunity to leverage their skills and interests across various settings and specialties.
Academic life coaches specialize in helping students achieve academic success and navigate educational challenges, with their earnings generally ranging from $30,000 to $75,000 annually. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that influence their income:
- Location: Coaches in urban areas or those serving students in high-income regions may charge higher rates.
- Experience and Reputation: More experienced coaches or those with a strong reputation in academic success can command higher fees.
- Client Demographics: Working with college students or adult learners, especially through prestigious programs or institutions, can impact earning potential.
Academic life coaches often charge by the hour or offer package deals, with rates ranging from $50 to $200 per hour. Additionally, they may boost their income through:
- Workshops and Group Sessions: Offering workshops or group coaching sessions on skills like time management and study techniques.
- Online Coaching and Courses: Providing virtual coaching or online courses tailored to academic coaching to reach a broader audience.
Some academic life coaches may also work directly for educational institutions, offering a more stable income but potentially less flexibility than private practice.
Academic life coaching and therapy are distinct practices with different goals, methods, and areas of focus, although both aim to improve individual well-being. Here's a detailed comparison:
Academic Life Coaching
- Goal: Focuses on improving a student’s performance and overall academic experience. It aims to enhance skills such as time management, study habits, goal setting, and stress management related to educational success.
- Method: Action-oriented and forward-thinking. Coaches work with students to set specific, measurable goals, providing guidance and accountability as students make progress.
- Scope: Centered on educational and career success, addressing behaviors, attitudes, and skills that impact academic performance and personal development within an educational framework.
Therapy
- Goal: Aims to heal emotional, psychological, or behavioral problems. It often focuses on resolving past issues that affect an individual’s mental health.
- Method: Employs various techniques depending on the therapist’s approach but generally involves discussing past events and current issues to improve mental and emotional well-being.
- Scope: Broad, addressing mental health disorders, emotional distress, and interpersonal relationships. It involves a deep exploration of an individual’s mental and emotional state to foster healing and growth.
While academic life coaching focuses on educational achievement and practical skills, therapy addresses deeper psychological issues, focusing on healing and emotional well-being. Both can complement each other, providing robust support for individuals with academic and emotional challenges.
Becoming a life coach involves several key steps that can help you build a successful practice. Here’s how to get started:
Education and Training
- Formal Training: Enroll in the 1.0 Academic Life Coach Training program that teaches the fundamentals of coaching, including techniques and business building basics.
- Specialization: Consider adding a specialization such as career coaching, health and wellness, or relationship coaching to differentiate yourself and cater to specific client needs.
Gaining Experience
- Practice Coaching: Begin by offering free or discounted sessions to friends, family, or volunteers to build your skills and confidence.
- Feedback: Regularly seek feedback to improve your techniques and understand client needs better.
Building Your Business
- Develop a Business Plan: Outline your business structure, services, pricing, and marketing strategy.
- Professional Networking: Connect with other coaches and professionals in related fields to build referrals and gain insights.
- Online Presence: Establish a professional website and active social media profiles to reach potential clients and showcase your expertise.
By following these steps, you can establish a strong foundation for a rewarding career as a life coach. Continual learning and adaptation to client needs and industry trends will further enhance your success in this field.
Becoming a certified life coach offers numerous benefits that enhance both your personal and professional life. Here are some compelling reasons to pursue certification:
- Professional Credibility: Certification boosts your credibility, signaling to clients and employers that you meet established coaching standards.
- Skill Development: Certification programs teach essential coaching skills like active listening and goal-setting, valuable in all areas of life.
- Increased Confidence: Completing a rigorous certification program enhances your confidence in your coaching abilities.
- Higher Earning Potential: Certified life coaches can command higher fees, attracting more clients and justifying higher rates.
- Ethical Framework: Training includes ethical coaching practices, helping you navigate client relationships professionally.
- Networking Opportunities: Certification connects you with a community of peers, mentors, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Marketability: Certification differentiates you in a crowded field, enhancing your appeal to potential clients.
- Personal Fulfillment: Helping others achieve their goals provides deep personal satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.
Certification lays a strong foundation for a successful coaching career, offering practical benefits and contributing to personal growth and professional satisfaction.
Launching a successful academic life coaching practice with www.academiclifecoaching.com involves specific steps that leverage our specialized training programs and resources. Here's how to get started with our platform:
Program Enrollment and Specialization
- Core Certification Program: Begin with our Core Certification Program, which provides foundational skills in academic life coaching. This program is tailored to help you understand the unique needs of students and educational environments.
- Advanced Specializations: After completing the core program, consider our advanced specialization courses that focus on areas like college readiness, STEM coaching, or executive skills coaching to further enhance your expertise and service offerings.
Gaining Practical Experience
- Internship Opportunities: Take advantage of our internship programs within schools and educational centers to apply your skills in real-world settings and gain valuable hands-on experience.
- Peer Coaching: Engage in peer coaching sessions provided by our network, allowing you to practice your skills and receive constructive feedback from experienced academic life coaches.
Building Your Coaching Business
- Business Development Workshops: Participate in workshops specifically designed to teach you how to establish and grow your academic coaching business, covering topics such as marketing to educational clients, pricing strategies, and digital outreach.
- Educational Partnerships: Utilize our established partnerships with educational institutions to gain direct access to potential client bases, including schools, colleges, and educational nonprofits.
- Online Presence and Digital Tools: Leverage our proprietary digital tools and resources to build an effective online presence, manage your coaching practice, and offer remote coaching services to students from diverse locations.
By following these structured steps and utilizing the comprehensive support provided by www.academiclifecoaching.com, you can establish a successful academic life coaching practice that makes a significant impact on students' educational journeys.