Earn Executive Coaching Credentials with Academic Recognition
The Center for Executive Coaching offers powerful, university-backed certification paths through partnership with top institutions. Whether you prefer an immersive, in-person cohort hosted by the University of Kansas or a fully online experience with a university-issued certificate, both programs combine real-world coaching tools with respected academic validation.
Explore a Variety of Pathways to ICF certification
Each of these CEC programs are ICF-accredited and include the high-quality support, tools, and guidance that our members praise us for.
Saint Joseph’s University & CEC Certification Partnership
- Fully online and flexible with weekly live sessions, peer community, and academic recognition.
- Earn a dual-branded CEC & SJU Executive Coaching Certification
- Complete all requirements for ICF certification
- Gain access to the CEC High Performance Coaching Academy toolkit (valued at $1500)
University of Kansas & CEC Certification Partnership
- Intensive, either virtual or in-person experience on the KU Edwards campus
- Earn a dual-branded CEC & SJU Executive Coaching Certification
- Interactive group format, coaching labs, and faculty instruction
Why Choose a University-Backed Certification Path
Whether you join our university-partnered online program, or a seminar program path, you’ll differentiate yourself through academic recognition combined with CEC’s real-world, results-driven coaching methodology.
Dual-Branded Executive Coach Certification
Earn your certification from a program known for its practical, results-driven approach to coaching, now combined with the added recognition of a university-backed credential.
Practical Coaching & Academic Rigor
Leverage our full Coaching Solutions Toolkit full of coaching resources and methodologies to help your clients navigate any leadership challenge - from communication to change management to increasing influence and more.
Comprehensive Curriculum & Ongoing Access
Access a full suite of coach education modules on coaching topics like how to structure a conversation, lead engagements, and guide executives through strategic planning and change. Access continues well after your program to support your coaching practice.
A Complete Executive Coaching Toolkit
Leverage our full Coaching Solutions Toolkit, including assessments, templates, strategy guides, and coaching methodologies to help your clients navigate leadership, communication, team dynamics, and performance challenges.
A Global Network of Support
Stay connected to peers and become part of an active community of professionals from around the world. Our Coach Connection portal and exclusive LinkedIn group connects you to like-minded peers to get advice, recommendations, and even referrals.
Build & Grow a Coaching Business
Our proprietary business development module covers branding, website best practices, and client acquisition strategies. Learn how to price, market, and position your services, define your niche, craft your message, and attract the right clients.
Bonus Certifications
In addition your Executive Coaching Certification, you’ll have the opportunity to earn two in-demand specialty certifications: Business Coach Certification and Career Coach Certification from the Center for Executive Coaching, both included with your enrollment at no extra cost.
“The ongoing live support was great. Loved that this was a joint certification between CEC and KU—it was a lot of goodness all around.”
|
Feature |
SJU & CEC Online Program |
KU & CEC In-Person Seminar |
|---|---|---|
|
Format |
100% Online |
In-Person at the University of Kansas |
|
Certifications Earned |
- Dual branded CEC & SJU Executive Coaching Certification |
- Dual branded CEC & KU Executive Coaching Certification |
|
Duration |
Complete in 5–6 months |
3-Day Immersive Experience + Follow-Up |
|
Academic Backing |
Joint-issued certificate from a university partner |
Joint-issued certificate from a university partner |
|
Ideal For |
Professionals seeking ICF certification, flexibility, and academic recognition |
Coaches who prefer high-touch, in-person learning |
|
Coaching Tools |
Ongoing access to CEC member site resources & live webinars |
Ongoing access to CEC member site resources & live webinars |
|
Includes Business Development Resources |
Yes |
Yes + in-depth discussions on business development topics led by KU faculty |
|
ICF Eligibility |
Includes all requirements to apply for ICF certification |
Starts your Path to ICF Certification with the option to add Mentor Coaching anytime |
|
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Explore CEC & SJU Programs |
Explore CEC & KU Programs |
Ready to Begin Your Academic Coaching Journey?
Explore our university-backed certification programs to learn more about how each one provides a unique certification experience.