Foundations of Health Coaching

Course Description

Theories, vocabulary, philosophies, tools, and core skills essential to becoming a certified health coach. Emphasis on supporting client's behavior change through a coaching spirit, change framework, and effective communication strategies. Prerequisite: Admission to the M.P.H. or Ph.D. program in Community Health Education or permission of the instructor.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Explain the role of health coaches in public health, health education, and clinical practice settings.

  • Describe the theoretical foundations, communication skills, tools, and ethical principles of health coaching.

  • Critique coaching sessions conducted by self and others focusing on fidelity to the coaching spirit and professional standards.

  • Demonstrate core coaching skills through coaching simulations and case studies.

  • Synthesize the evidence for best practices in health coaching.

  • Exhibit general knowledge of health promotion, disease prevention, and health topics that arise in coaching conversations.

  • Examine the relationships among public policy, personal health, and the delivery of health-related services.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure

Percentage/Points

Final Coaching Portfolio

45%

Class Engagement & Participation

25%

Assignments

20%

Discussion Boards

10%

Grading Scale:

Percentage

Letter Grade

93 – 100 %

A

90 – 92 %

A-

87 – 89 %

B+

83 - 86 %

B

80 – 82 %

B-

77 – 79 %

C+

73 - 76 %

C

70 – 72 %

C-

67 – 69 %

D+

63 - 66 %

D

60 – 62 %

D-

59 % and below

F

Attendance/Participation:

Online synchronous course. Attendance and active participation in live class sessions, coaching practice, discussions, and professionalism contribute to the Class Engagement & Participation grade (25%).

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

  • Moore, M., Tschannen-Moran, B., & Jackson, E. (2010). Coaching Psychology Manual

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.