Sports Coaching and Management

This program specializes in ice hockey coaching, offering a distinctive chance to immerse yourself in the renowned and highly esteemed Finnish ice hockey culture and coach education, recognized worldwide. The Sports Coaching and Management program has received FULL ICCE endorsement, attesting to its excellence. Haaga-Helia is the second institution globally to achieve this exceptional and high-quality recognition after undergoing a thorough evaluation process. 

If your interest lies in a sport other than ice hockey, our program provides ample opportunities to enhance your skill set. Over the years, we have had the privilege of working with numerous sport coaches and athletes from various disciplines within our program. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just embarking on your coaching journey, we are committed to offering you both the opportunity and an environment for your personal growth and development. 

Collaboration with Prominent National and International Governing Bodies 

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 and modern learning environment is possible through close partnerships with sport industry professionals and networks. These partners encompass clubs, companies, sport associations, and federations involved in various aspects of sport, including coaching, marketing, development, coordination, and events. Our studies are grounded in evidence and practice. 

Personalized Study Plans and Real-Life Projects 

Students are expected to demonstrate high levels of life management, 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 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