Please explore the links at the right and the information below for an in-depth view of our innovative program.
Deadlines for our applications are:
Early decision application: March 15th
Final decision application: June 15th
Health coaching Information session:
Thursday, May 2, 6pm - Mayo 1250
To see more videos of Dr. Karen Lawson on Health Coaching, visit the In the News section.
Since 2005, the Center for Spirituality & Healing has been offering a formal track in health coaching under our graduate-level, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Integrative Therapies and Healing Practices.
Health coaching is a new and evolving profession designed to meet the needs of people actively seeking to improve their well-being in the midst of complex and often confusing healthcare options. It is practiced from a holistic perspective that sees each person as intrinsically healthy, whole, wise, and the ultimate expert in his or her healing journey.
Those dealing with complex issues can benefit from a personalized plan of care that a Health Coach can provide. This personalized guidance can be offered in a variety of settings including hospitals, clinics, businesses and private practice.
To fully understand their clients' needs and health goals, Health Coaches need to be knowledgeable in the integrated use of complementary and conventional therapies. Often Health Coaches assist their clients by:
Recognizing & shifting behaviors and beliefs that block success or readiness to change
Facilitating communication between conventional & complementary providers & the client
Teaching about tools & practices for self-care, reflection, balance & growth
The admission requirements for the health coaching track have been updated to reflect the affinity for coaching possessed by bachelor’s degree holders whose formal education may not be in the previously required health- or wellness-related fields. As a result, The UMN Health Coaching Program is available to:
Healthcare professionals
Those currently enrolled in our certificate or other graduate healthcare programs
(NEW) Board-certified chaplains with at least three years in a health care setting
(NEW) Those with a non-health care bachelor’s degree but with life/work experience in health related areas
Professional disciplines appropriate for health coaching include, but are not limited to: nursing, social work, psychology, medicine, nutrition, pharmacy, chiropractic, naturopathy and acupuncture.
Upon completion of the program, students will receive a Certificate in Integrative Therapies & Healing Practices: Health Coaching from the University of Minnesota.
Students will be admitted for Fall each year. For Fall, the early decision application deadline is March 15 and the final decision application deadline is June 15. Core coaching content begins in September of each year. If you are interested in speaking with a program graduate, or need further information, please call 612-624-5166 or email cmantel@umn.edu.