Degree Programme in Sports Coaching and Management

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Ready to level up your coaching career? Our program provides a comprehensive approach to sports coaching, management, and event planning. Learn with experienced professionals and develop your competencies to excel in the dynamic world of sports.

Our program is all about ice hockey coaching, giving you a rare chance to dive deep into Finland’s legendary ice hockey culture and top-quality coaching education. With a FULL ICCE endorsement, our Sports Coaching and Management program at Haaga-Helia is one of only a few institutions worldwide to achieve this recognition. Join us and become part of a program that truly sets the global standard in ice hockey coaching.

If your passion is for a sport other than ice hockey, our program offers extensive opportunities to expand your skills. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of working with coaches and athletes from a wide range of sports. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting out in coaching, we're here to provide both the resources and a supportive environment for your growth and development.

Collaboration with Leading National and International Sports Organizations

Throughout the program, students actively engage in their chosen sport on local, national, and international levels. For instance, students play a continuous role in global ice hockey development due to the program's close collaboration with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), the Ice Hockey Centre of Excellence (IIHCE), and the Finnish Ice Hockey Association (FIHA).

Expertise of the Faculty

The program is taught by highly qualified educators who possess substantial practical experience working with professional athletes and teams. With a student-teacher ratio of 1 to 5, we ensure a conducive environment for student-centered teaching methods.

State-of-the-Art Sport Campus

Our state-of-the-art Olympic training facilities have been upgraded to meet world-class standards, offering an excellent learning environment. Students can also freely utilize these facilities during their leisure time. On-campus student dormitories provide a convenient living option.

Modern Study Approach

Our innovative, modern learning environment is made possible through close partnerships with professionals and networks across the sports industry. These include clubs, companies, associations, and federations involved in coaching, marketing, development, event coordination, and more. Our studies blend evidence-based knowledge with hands-on practice to prepare you for real-world success.

Personalized Study Plans and Real-Life Projects

Students are expected to demonstrate high levels of life management skills, self-leadership, self-motivation, curiosity, and critical thinking. Collaborating with personal tutor teachers, students create customized study plans tailored to individual needs, enabling continuous self-reflection through a unique tutoring process throughout their studies. Real-life projects include opportunities to coach children and youth (U10-U16) in local clubs and assist campus coaches, some of whom work with Olympic athletes and teams.

Why choose Sports Coaching and management at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences?
  • Haaga-Helia is among the most renowned Universities of Applied Sciences in Finland.
  • Finland's largest sports education center, featuring a dynamic campus environment in Vierumäki.
  • Our safe learning environment encourages teamwork and fosters a unique atmosphere for personal growth.
  • Program that seamlessly integrate theory and practice in studies.
  • Study for two years on campus and then select your preferred organization or country for a work placement in the third year.
  • We boast an impressive employment rate of up to 98 %
  • Both teachers and alumni have achieved international success in ice hockey, participating in events such as the Olympics and world championships.
  • Our alumni excel in prestigious ice hockey leagues and various other sports organizations worldwide.
Graduates from this program can pursue careers in
  • Sports coaching (with an emphasis on athlete-centered coaching and ice hockey)
  • Coach developers
  • Instructing and coaching in sports associations, federations, clubs, and gyms
  • Managing and organizing sports events and activities
  • Administration and management of sports clubs, gyms, associations, and federations.
  • Sport entrepreneurs
Scholarship opportunity through Olympic Solidarity

The primary objective of the scholarship programme is to enhance the coaching skills and knowledge of eligible coaches. Selected students who are interested in benefiting from an Olympic Scholarship for Coaches should contact directly their respective National Olympic Committee.

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ICCE endorsed at FULL level

Sports Coaching and Management (bachelor of sports studies) has received FULL ICCE endorsement from the International Council of Coaching Excellence.

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Application

Full-time studies, August 2025 intake

Joint application to higher education spring 2025

Application period from 8 to 22 January 2025 at 15.00 (UTC/GMT +2).

More information about the entrance examination.

Study in the world's happiest country

Bachelor of Sports Studies

Scope of the degree: 210 credit points (ECTS)

Degree programme: Sports coaching and management

Campus: Vierumäki

Mode of Study: Full-time studies

Duration: 3,5 years

Tuition fee for non-EU/EEA citizens:
9 500 €

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