Professional Coaching Program FAQs

  • What is coaching?
  • The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires a person to maximize their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership.  
  • When is the Coaching for Life and Work Certificate Program offered?
  • This online, five-month coaching program is offered twice per year, usually starting in late January and early August.
  • Is the Coaching for Life and Work Certificate Program offered in person or on online?
  • This program is fully online. Live courses are held through Zoom, and tuition covers a professional-level Zoom account for use during the program.
  • What happens if I miss a class? Can I watch a recording?
  • Because of the confidential nature of coaching, classes are not recorded and must be attended live. Students who miss more than two days of coursework will be unable to complete the program.
  • How long does it take to complete the Coaching Certificate Program?
  • The program takes five months to complete. Classes are held Fridays and Saturdays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., generally every other week (subject to holidays).
  • How will the Coaching for Life and Work Certificate Program help me become a certified coach?
  • This program is designed specifically to provide the education, mentoring and performance evaluations you’ll need to pursue certification through the International Coaching Federation (ICF). After completing this program, you will only need to provide proof of required practice hours to the ICF (100 hours to qualify for Associate Certified Coach (ACC); 500 hours to qualify for Professional Certified Coach (PCC)). You will then be eligible to sit for the ICF Exam (offered through the ICF). See the ICF website for more detailed information about certification process.
  • Will I receive mentor hours as part of the program?
  • Yes, this program includes all the mentor hours you’ll need to apply for certification with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). These hours are covered by your tuition, which can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in fees. 
  • Is this an accredited program?

  • Yes, our program is accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) as a Level 2 program. Unlike most education programs, we provide everything you need for an ICF PCC certification (except practice hours). This includes:

    *150 accredited education hours
    *All required mentor coaching hours
    *Performance evaluation

    Note: Our program is designed to provide all the education you’ll need to obtain certification at both ACC and PCC levels. You do not need additional training or mentor hours if you choose to first become certified at the ACC level (with 100 practice hours) and then re-certify at the PCC level once you reach 500 practice hours.

  • Do you offer career development resources for students of the Coaching for Life and Work Certificate Program?
  • Yes, CPE students have free access to a robust career resources platform that can help you:

    *Build a career plan and create your professional brand
    *Boost your communication and leadership skills
    *Practice and hone your interview skills using an interactive tool
    *Create or update your résumé using an interactive résumé builder
    *Explore career paths and view thousands of job openings
    *Develop or refine your professional goals
    *And much more!
  • How much does the program cost?
  • The program costs $9,500, which is fully inclusive.
  • What does my tuition cover?
  • Your $9,500 tuition covers tuition, volunteer clients, registration fees, online materials, mentor hours and a professional-level Zoom account for use during the program.
  • Is financial aid available for the Coaching for Life and Work Certificate Program?
  • Some financial aid is available, including VA benefits, WIOA funding and other sources. Learn more about financing your education or email our financial counselor, Suzette Odom.
  • As a student in the Coaching for Life and Work Certificate Program, am I eligible for an F-1 visa?
  • No, this program does not qualify for F-1 visa status.
  • How many academic credits will I earn in this program?
  • This program provides 15 quarter units of graduate-level academic credit.
  • Can I apply the academic credits I earn in this program to a degree program?
  • We have a partnership with University of the Pacific that allows students from CPE to apply units from the Coaching for Life and Work Certificate Program toward an M.A. in Leadership with a concentration in Organizational Innovation and Change.
  • I have other questions about the program. Where can I find the answers?
  • Contact an enrollment coach today. They will be happy to answer any specific questions you have about the program.