University of Warwick

What you'll study

This MA combines advanced coaching theory with sustained practice, supervision and a taught research methods strand. Core topics typically include contemporary coaching models and theories, coaching across organisational contexts, ethical practice and professional standards, supervision of coaching practice, group and team coaching, and facilitation skills for leadership development.

Teaching is delivered through a mixture of interactive seminars, experiential practice sessions, peer coaching, case study workshops and one-to-one supervision. Students normally complete a substantial research project or practice-based dissertation that investigates an applied coaching question, evaluates an intervention, or develops a coaching programme for an organisational setting.

• Advanced coaching models and psychological foundations
• Ethics, standards and reflective practice
• Supervision and coach development
• Group and team coaching methods
• Coaching in organisational systems and change contexts
• Research methods for practice-based enquiry
• Major project or dissertation focused on applied coaching

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree (for example a UK second-class honours degree or an equivalent international qualification) in a relevant discipline, or to demonstrate equivalent professional experience. Many entrants bring prior coaching qualifications or significant experience in HR, learning and development, organisational development, counselling or allied helping professions.

Selection typically considers the applicant's coaching experience, professional references and a personal statement outlining learning needs and career goals. Where English is not the first language, applicants will need to meet the University's standard English language requirements for postgraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles as professional coaches working with individuals, teams and leaders across sectors, or into positions that formally combine coaching with HR, L&D and organisational consultancy. Typical job titles include executive coach, leadership coach, organisational development consultant, learning and development specialist, coaching supervisor and internal coaching manager.

The degree also provides a solid foundation for those who wish to pursue further research or doctoral study in coaching, coaching psychology or organisational behaviour, and supports practitioners who wish to seek professional accreditation with national and international coaching bodies.

Why study at University of Warwick

The programme draws on Warwick's interdisciplinary teaching and research strengths, offering a balance of academic rigour and practical application. Students benefit from experienced coaching faculty and supervisors, opportunities for peer learning and practice, and access to broader University resources including research centres and professional networks.

Warwick's emphasis on applied enquiry helps students translate theory into workplace impact, while supervised practice and a project/dissertation give scope to develop a distinct coaching specialism or evidence-based intervention suitable for accreditation or organisational adoption.