Be a better coach: Join Ohio University’s soccer coaching education masters program

For those who love the "beautiful game," coaching soccer is more than just a job—it's a lifestyle. And at Ohio University, coaching students are poised to make it to the top of their game.

“The relationships that our students build [in this program] are invaluable,” says Dr. Ashley Allanson, a former professional soccer player and associate professor of instruction at the Patton College of Education. “It’s a chance for coaches to meet peers who may become lifelong colleagues or mentors.”

Ohio University's online Master of Soccer Coaching Education program delivers on both passion and expertise in developing effective soccer coaches. The program combines advanced coaching strategies, a global perspective, and hands-on experiences, including an exclusive international residency, to help coaches at all levels enhance their skills and make a lasting impact in the world of soccer.

OHIO’s master of coaching education program

OHIO’s program was created to address the growing need for highly qualified coaches in the United States, and to provide a pathway for coaches who want to refine their craft and become leaders in the soccer community.

The program has continued to evolve and expand, adapting to changes in the sport and in coaching practices. One of its most notable advancements came in 2008 when the program transitioned to an online format, making it accessible to coaches across the U.S. and internationally. This flexibility allows busy coaches to balance their careers and academic pursuits while still receiving the in-depth coaching education they need. 

“The shift to an online format allowed us to reach coaches from all over the world. It opened up so many opportunities for coaches who are balancing their coaching careers with family and other commitments,” says Allanson, who played for Hull City AFC and Scunthrop United FC in England. “The flexibility allows them to engage with the material in a way that fits into their lives.”

The international soccer residency

One of the most unique aspects of Ohio University’s Master of Coaching Education program is its international in-person residency, which takes place each year at the United Soccer Coaches Convention. This immersive, five-day residency is held in various cities around the U.S. and brings together students in the degree program for hands-on workshops, presentations from renowned experts, and networking opportunities that can have a lasting impact on a coach’s career.

“The residency is an incredible part of the program. It brings together coaches from diverse backgrounds to learn from each other, share experiences, and build professional relationship,” says Allanson. “It’s an opportunity to see the latest trends in coaching, attend workshops led by industry leaders, and really immerse yourself in the broader world of soccer coaching.”

Held in cities such as Chicago, Kansas City, and Philadelphia, the residency also includes access to the United Soccer Coaches Convention, which annually draws over 6,000 coaches, players, and soccer professionals from around the globe. This event is a hub for the latest developments in coaching techniques, soccer culture, and the use of technology in training. By attending the convention, Ohio University’s students gain insight into the latest research, methods, and practices that are shaping the future of coaching.

All this adds up to make the residency more than just an educational opportunity—it’s a vital networking experience.

“Many of our students have found job opportunities through the connections they’ve made during the residency,” says Allanson.

In addition to professional networking, the residency also provides students with the chance to observe live demonstrations and attend presentations by some of the most respected figures in the coaching world. These sessions cover a range of topics, from team management to player development, mental coaching strategies, and emerging trends in soccer technology.

Perhaps most importantly, the residency offers a global perspective. Coaches have the chance to learn from instructors and peers from across the world, which helps broaden their understanding of the game and how soccer is taught in different countries. Whether a coach is interested in working internationally or in leading teams with diverse backgrounds, this residency offers a unique and enriching experience.

A curriculum built for the modern coach

The online Master’s in Soccer Coaching Education degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the needs of today’s soccer coach, emphasizing leadership, communication, and ethics. It recognizes that successful coaches are not only experts in the game but also strong leaders who can effectively communicate with players, parents, and staff. These leadership skills are crucial for coaches aiming to make a lasting impact both on the field and within their communities.

The courses are designed to provide coaches with a deep understanding of both the technical and psychological aspects of coaching. For example, courses like “Analysis of Sport Performance for Coaches” focus on how to use technology and data to analyze player behavior, track performance, and identify areas for improvement. By using tools like Hudl for video analysis, students learn to break down training sessions and matches, enabling them to make data-driven decisions.

“With the evolution of technology, coaches are now able to analyze every aspect of a game,” says Allanson. “Using tools like Hudl, coaches can review footage and performance data to provide specific feedback to their players. This kind of analysis is becoming more integral to coaching, and we make sure our students are equipped to use it effectively.”

The program also delves into the psychological aspects of coaching, with courses that help coaches understand how to foster a positive team culture and engage players on a deeper emotional level. 

“Effective coaching goes beyond just giving tactical instructions. Gone are the days of yelling and screaming. It’s about creating an environment where players feel supported, motivated, and challenged,” says Allanson. “Our curriculum is designed to help coaches become more than just strategists—they’re leaders who understand the human element of coaching.”

Networking and mentorship

In addition to the residency, Ohio University’s Master of Coaching Education program offers students access to a network of professionals and mentors who are already established in the world of soccer coaching. This network plays a key role in helping students grow their careers, as they can connect with coaches from all levels of the game—from youth soccer to the professional ranks.

“The program’s network is one of the most powerful tools available to our students,” says Allanson. “Not only are they learning from world-class faculty, but they’re also connecting with peers who share their passion for coaching. These connections open doors and help our students advance in their careers.”

Many students find that the relationships they form within the program continue to benefit them long after graduation. Alumni often return to the program to share their experiences, offer advice, and help current students navigate their career paths.

Preparing coaches for leadership roles

OHIO’s Master of Coaching Education program is designed to prepare coaches for leadership positions at every level of the sport. Graduates of the program leave with a holistic understanding of coaching, not just from a tactical standpoint but also from a leadership and player-development perspective.  “Our goal is to prepare coaches who are ready to lead, not just manage,” says Allanson. “We give our students the tools they need to be effective leaders who can inspire and guide their players. Whether a coach is working with youth teams, collegiate programs, or professional athletes, our program gives them the foundational skills they need to succeed.”  The program’s blend of online coursework and the in-person residency, combined with its focus on the overall development of the coach, ensures that graduates are not only capable but also forward-thinking in their approach. They are equipped to handle the evolving challenges in soccer and are prepared for leadership roles at any level.

Flexible, asynchronous learning for working coaches

Ohio University’s Master of Coaching Education program offers a flexible, asynchronous learning format that makes it possible for coaches to advance their education on their own schedule. The program is designed for busy professionals, allowing them to balance coursework with coaching responsibilities, teaching, or other commitments.

Courses are 7 weeks and are organized into small, bitesize modules that are easy to manage. Each module includes video lectures, readings, and real-world examples to help students connect theory with practice.

“We use professional coaching videos to link the course material with real-life examples, helping students see how the concepts apply to their own coaching,” says Allanson.

Assignments are tailored to the individual coach’s environment. Whether they work with college-level athletes or youth teams, students are encouraged to apply the lessons to their specific coaching situations. The program also includes a variety of assignment types, from coaching session plans and video recordings to essays and group podcasts. The podcasts provide an opportunity for students to collaborate and discuss course material, even when they are not physically together.

The program’s asynchronous structure allows students to work at their own pace, making it convenient for coaches with different schedules. By using the Canvas learning management system, students can access course materials whenever it fits into their day, ensuring they meet deadlines without disrupting their professional lives. Whether it’s early morning or late at night, students have the flexibility to complete coursework when it works best for them.

“We’ve designed this program to be accessible for professionals with different schedules, allowing them to further their education without upending their careers,” says Allanson.  

Take the next step in your coaching career

The response from students who graduate from the program is proof that it is transformative.

“The feedback we get is that it is life-changing,” says Allanson. “People come into this degree, especially experienced coaches who know a lot about coaching, realize this degree gives them a totally different lens to look at through coaching and it gives them more thought-provoking processes that they could implement into their coaching practice to make their players improve.”

As the program continues to grow, it remains rooted in its original mission: to equip coaches with both the tactical knowledge and the leadership skills necessary to thrive at all levels of the game. And that’s where Ohio University’s program truly excels: its focus on the coach as a well-rounded professional, not just someone with a deep understanding of soccer strategies

Learn more about Ohio University’s Masters in Soccer Coaching Education program and take your coaching skills to the next level.