Both the authorization and endorsement qualify you to be an assistant or head coach for any sport. Because an endorsement is added to a teaching license, the endorsement is designed for licensed teachers and must be taken for college credit. The content for the authorization and endorsement is similar, but additional coursework is assigned to those taking the endorsement to earn college credit. No college credit is required to earn a coaching authorization, and therefore Northwestern is able to offer it at a lower cost.

You can register by using the register button at the top of this page. You will need to pay for the course at the same time you register. The cost includes your textbook that will be mailed to the address you provide.

You will learn about anatomy and physiology as it relates to student-athletes, care and prevention of athletic injuries, and theories of coaching. Like traditional onsite classes, you’ll read, watch demonstrations (pre-recorded), interact in online class discussions, practice skills, and work on assignments to help you learn. Discussions take place in forums that operate like instant messenger or email. Hands-on practice takes place during the taping unit. 

The courses are 100% online. However, the athletic taping unit does require some out of class, hands-on experience. You will need to find a taping mentor in your area (another coach or an athletic trainer) to evaluate your taping in person. 

Books need to be purchased separately from the Northwestern online bookstore or another source. The textbook information will be available when you register for the course.

You will also need to purchase athletic tape for the taping unit, which can be found at your local drug store or supercenter for a minimum cost. 

NWC Online Bookstore

Yes, you may cancel your registration any time before the first day of the class. On the first day we finalize contracts for our faculty based on the number of students registered, so if you choose to cancel after the first day, no refund will be given.

Life happens. We understand that! You may certainly drop the program if you are unable to complete it. Because we hire faculty for this program based on the number of students registered, we cannot refund your registration if you decide to step out of the program.

No, you are not able to change from authorization to endorsement after the course begins. If you change your mind after you have started or finished the authorization and wish to take the courses for credit, you must re-enroll in a future term. 

Your state-issued coaching authorization is valid for five years. After that time has passed, you will need to complete one of the 5 Renewal Activities. 

Northwestern College provides the coursework required for the authorization. You will receive a certificate of completion and then you must apply for authorization with the Board of Educational Examiners. The application can be found at the Board of Educational Examiners website. 

You are responsible for submitting your application and completing the state’s additional requirements, including a background check and payment.