What Is Coaching Education?
Coaching education is the foundation of your coaching career. But it’s not just about gaining knowledge — it's about unlocking your potential to transform lives. With the right training, you'll develop the skills, confidence, and credibility to elevate your coaching practice and stand out in the industry. An investment in your education is an investment in yourself and your future clients.
Why Attend an Accredited Program?
You can trust in an ICF-accredited program. Organizations that are accredited by ICF have completed a rigorous evaluation process to ensure their curriculum and policies meet the highest standards of the coaching profession. These programs are designed to prepare you for real-world coaching scenarios and set you on the path to a successful career.
Quality Assurance
Curricula for ICF-accredited programs are vetted, ensuring your education is based on today’s leading practices, so you are equipped to help clients with the demands of modern life.
Path to Advancement
Why complicate the process? ICF-accredited education sets you up for success on your journey to be a more effective coach including in pursuing a credential.
Professional Credibility
Completing an accredited program enhances your credibility, giving you a competitive edge and reinforcing your commitment to excellence.
Ethical Standards
ICF accreditation safeguards your investment. These organizations are held to a rigorous code of conduct, guaranteeing fairness, integrity, and excellence for you and every student.
Comprehensive Support
Accredited programs provide robust resources grounded in ICF’s ethics and core competencies, ensuring that every building block aligns with the standards that support long-term success.
The Right Program for You Is Out There. We'll Help You Find It.
Choosing the right coaching education program can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you. Whether you're just starting your journey or are looking to advance your skills, you can find the perfect program using the Education Search Service (ESS), a free, searchable directory of coaching education programs accredited by ICF.
Before you start your ESS search, take a moment to consider your unique career goals, learning style, and the type of coaching you want to pursue.
Location & Delivery Method
Do you prefer to learn online, in person, or through a mix of both in a hybrid setting? What is best for your lifestyle and schedule?
Language Availability
Pick a program that’s taught in a language you’re comfortable with so you can get the most out of your learning experience.
Accreditation Program Type
Find the right fit for your journey by choosing a program level that matches where you are in your career and where you want to go. (See the next section for more info!)
Specialization
Look for a program that aligns with your coaching niche, whether it’s leadership, wellness, or something broader like generalist coaching.
Level 1 (ACC)
What It Is
Just starting your coaching journey? This entry-level coaching education focuses on the fundamentals of coaching and is a complete, all-in-one education path for those just getting started.
What You Get
At least 60 hours of training in core coaching skills plus 10 hours of mentor coaching and a final performance evaluation.
Why It Matters
Completing a Level 1 program meets the full criteria for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential, allowing you to apply via the Level 1 path.
Level 2 (PCC)
What It Is
This is a complete, all-in-one coaching education for those just getting started or those looking to build upon previous training.
What You Get
You'll receive at least 125 hours of training, mentoring, feedback on your coaching, and a final performance evaluation.
Why It Matters
Graduating from a Level 2 program makes it easier to apply for the ICF's Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential, which is highly respected in the coaching industry.
Level 3 (MCC)
What It Is
This is advanced coaching education focused on mastering coaching at the highest level. Note that to enroll, you must currently hold a PCC credential.
What You Get
A minimum of 75 hours of advanced coach-specific training.
Why It Matters
Graduates can apply for the ICF Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential via the Level 3 path.
Continuing Coach Education (CCE)
What It Is
Courses and programs designed for ongoing professional development and credential renewal.
What You Get
CCE credits are awarded in two categories: ICF Core Competencies and Resource Development.
Why It Matters
CCE credits help you stay current in your skills and can be used to renew your ICF credential.
Advanced Accreditation in Team Coaching
What It Is
Programs with this type of accreditation will equip you with skills and knowledge to facilitate effective team performance and development in today’s complex workplaces and organizations.
What You Get
A minimum of 60 hours of advanced training in team dynamics and team coaching methodologies.
Why It Matters
Many organizations are looking for coaches who can work with teams to improve performance, collaboration, and outcomes. This education opens up more opportunities in corporate, nonprofit, and other settings.
Are You a Coach Educator?
Imagine elevating your credibility, expanding your market reach, and gaining global recognition. With ICF accreditation, your coaching education program can stand out, attract more students, and deliver better outcomes. Join a global network known for excellence, and empower your graduates to change the world through coaching.