Executive & Professional Coaching

Accredited, Convenient, Flexible, and Exceptional

The Executive and Professional Coaching Certificate Program is dedicated to developing world-class coaches who are taught by the best to be the best. We attract students from around the globe that are looking for the optimal balance between academic rigor and practical experience. Since 2005, UTD has been the coaching program of choice for Fortune 500 companies and individuals seeking to distinguish themselves in the coaching marketplace.

Our program is designed for busy professionals who need on-the-move access to virtual classrooms and resources. We utilize state-of-the-art distance learning methodologies that support interactivity and collaboration, creating a powerful learning community. In the virtual university, students attend lectures, participate in experiential study groups, and create individual practice partnerships.

Our curriculum is built on evidence-based models and skill-based competencies proven to elicit change in the coaching context. Students are stretched and supported at each stage of their development. Graduates leave the program well-equipped to coach leaders and teams at every level.

ICF Level 2 Logo

As a value-added benefit, students enrolled in this program are invited to attend regularly scheduled Expert Forums in a variety of related subjects at no additional cost.

Listen to Teresa Pool, MCC, discuss the benefits and value of the program for your career:

PDF Video Transcript

Certificates FAQ

Steven Hughes is your direct contact for the Executive and Professional Coaching program. Hughes joined the UTD coaching program in 2014 as the Certificate and Master Program Manager. Rounding out the coaching team is Pam Aks, MCC, who serves as Coach Training Director.

What are the advantages of OBCC Programs?

We are a university-based program housed within the Naveen Jindal School of Management’s Executive Education department.

In place of GMAT or GRE scores, admission to OBCC programs is based on your professional experience and letters of recommendation.

Our directors work closely with you during your studies at UT Dallas, which gives you a more personalized, concierge-level experience.

What’s included in the Executive and Professional Coaching curriculum?

The curriculum includes evidence-based models that are foundational to coaching and reframes them for practical application in professional settings.

These Models include:

  • Solution-Focused Coaching
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Cognitive-Behavioral approach

The ICF Core Competencies and Ethics are introduced in the first semester and are developed more deeply in three more interactive modules in the second and third semesters, adding up to five total topics with instruction and practice labs.

Coaching models and methods are part of every semester and are designed to be applied as they are mastered, including the following topics:

  • Strategic Inquiry
  • Self-awareness
  • Neuroscience of Coaching
  • Appreciative inquiry
  • Techniques and Practices
  • Positive Psychology
  • Assessments
How does this program prepare graduates for ICF credential application?

The Level II – accredited program includes more than 150 hours of classroom training, mentor coaching and a certification exam at Level II :

Certification exams after the instructional and mentoring phase.

Meets training, mentoring and certification requirements for the Level II credential given by the International Coach Federation (ICF).

Students can apply for a Level II credential.

The UTD Coaching Program has been ICF-credentialed since 2005.

How are the 10 hours of mentoring required by the ICF delivered?

The Coaching Practicum focuses on mastering the art and science of the client conversation through mentoring.

In the second semester, students participate in group mentor coaching.

These coaching circles meet during the class schedule for four 90-minute sessions.

Students will coach and be coached with feedback from one of our highly qualified mentor coaches.

Feedback is given during the circle session and written feedback follows.

Students learn from all perspectives – coach, client, and observer.

In the third semester, students participate in Individual Mentor Coaching.

Students will fulfill a full coaching engagement cycle with a client of their choice, or one provided by the program.

Four client sessions are recorded and transcribed, then reviewed by the mentor coach.

Four feedback sessions are scheduled by the student and their mentor following each client session.

How does the certificate within the Organizational Behavior, Coaching, and Consulting program work?

The certificate consists of a 12-month program taught entirely online in three consecutive semesters.

Cohorts are matriculated in fall and spring each year – late August and mid-February.

Classes are delivered in an interactive, virtual classroom, three nights a week scheduled Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday evenings 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Technology allows global connection from mobile devices, tablets, and computers. A high-quality internet connection is required for a strong classroom experience.

Synchronous classes are taught by experienced instructors with active coaching practices.

Small group practice sessions held weekly with faculty oversight.

Classroom lectures recorded and available the next day.

Executive and Professional coaching materials and resources housed in eLearning, the university course management platform and are available 24/7 for two full years.

Exam, quiz, and assignment due dates are designed to include weekend time.

What are the benefits of a cohort?

The program is cohort-based to facilitate connection and enhanced learning opportunities.

Students in all three Coaching tracks learn and practice together with full access to the same resources.

Coaching partners are assigned at the beginning of the program.

Small group practice teams stay together for each semester.

Cohorts offer opportunities to build global connections with colleagues.

How do I pay for programs in Organizational Behavior, Coaching, and Consulting?

Tuition payment options include:

  • Employer Tuition Reimbursement
  • Veteran’s Benefits
  • Financial Aid (typically in the form of student loans)
  • Personal Funds

Contact your program director for more information.

How do I apply?

All applications require your resume, a one-page essay, and letters of recommendation. Academic tracks require an official transcript of your undergraduate degree. You can apply online through the Organizational Behavior, Coaching, and Consulting website.

Want more information?

Contact Us

Steven Hughes
Director – MS LOD (Coaching)
The University of Texas at Dallas
Naveen Jindal School of Management Executive Education
Organizational Behavior, Coaching and Consulting
972-883-5886
Stevend.Hughes@utdallas.edu