Become a Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach—Without Putting Your Life on Hold
As wellness continues to take center stage in healthcare, education, and the workplace, the demand for trained health and wellness coaches is rapidly growing. If you’re passionate about helping others live healthier, more balanced lives, this could be the career path you’ve been searching for.
Maybe you’re already the go-to person for advice on healthy habits. Maybe you’ve seen firsthand how powerful lifestyle change can be. You understand that true wellness isn’t just about diet and exercise—it’s about behavior change, mindset, and support.
Now, you’re wondering: Could I make this my career? Could I earn a wellness coach certification and start helping others professionally—without sacrificing my own flexibility or values?
You’re not alone. Many people are turning to wellness coaching programs to find meaningful, purpose-driven careers that align with their lifestyle. It’s a field grounded in compassion, evidence-based practice, and real transformation.
But passion isn’t enough. To stand out—and be recognized—you need the right health and wellness coach certification and training.
That’s where Rowan University comes in.
Rowan University’s online Wellness Coaching Certificate of Graduate Study (COGS) offers a flexible path to become a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NC-HWC)—without putting your life on hold.
This isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about making real change—in your career, in your community, and in yourself.
Who Should Enroll in a Wellness Coaching Certification Program?
If you’ve ever felt the pull to help others live healthier, more balanced lives—this wellness coaching program is for you. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a fitness expert, a teacher, or someone looking for a more fulfilling path, Rowan’s certificate program is built to meet you where you are.
This wellness coaching program is ideal for:
- Professionals in healthcare, education, counseling, or human services
- Personal trainers or fitness coaches expanding into wellness coaching
- Career changers ready to enter a meaningful, people-centered field
- Anyone driven by a desire to promote long-term health and wellness
This certificate prepares you to become a board certified health and wellness coach, ready to guide others toward lasting behavior change. It’s more than a credential—it’s a calling.
Graduates of the wellness coaching program will be prepared to sit for the National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) exam, giving you a nationally recognized credential and a clear path forward.
Why Choose to Get Your Health and Wellness Coach Certification Online?
Life is busy. You may be juggling a job, family, or other responsibilities. That’s why Rowan’s online health and wellness coach certification is designed to fit into your life—not the other way around.
- Online coursework, so you can study from anywhere
- Majority of coursework is delivered asynchronously, giving you the freedom to learn on your time
- Optional live sessions and office hours provide support when you need it
- Complete your certification in as little as 12 months
You don’t need to hit pause on your career to grow it. This wellness coaching program lets you move forward with purpose, no matter where you are in your journey.
What You’ll Learn in the Wellness Coach Certification Program
The wellness coaching program consists of 12 graduate credits, designed to equip you with both theoretical knowledge and practical coaching skills. You’ll take four foundational courses:
- Wellness Coaching and Behavior Change
- Promoting Human Wellness Across the Lifespan
- Obesity and Diabetes Prevention and Management
- Practicum in Wellness Coaching
In the practicum course, you’ll get hands-on experience—building your confidence and readiness to work with clients in real-world settings.
For a complete list of courses and official program requirements for our Wellness Coach Certificate of Graduate Study, please visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
What Can You Do with a Health and Wellness Coach Certification?
This wellness coach certification opens doors—whether you’re launching a new career or leveling up in your current role. Graduates are equipped to:
- Sit for the National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) exam
- Guide individuals and groups toward healthier lifestyles
- Lead wellness initiatives in workplaces, schools, hospitals, and communities
- Start a private coaching practice or add coaching to an existing wellness service
- Work in roles such as:
- Certified health and wellness coach
- Corporate wellness coordinator
- Fitness or lifestyle coach
- Health education specialist
- Wellness consultant
Wellness coaching is a growing, in-demand field. With this certification, you can be part of that growth—creating positive change while building a career with real impact.
Why Get Your Wellness Coach Certification from Rowan University?
There are many online wellness certificate programs—but Rowan offers something more: a deeply supportive, student-centered experience backed by a nationally respected institution.
Here’s what sets Rowan’s program apart:
- Approved by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC)
- Offered by a Top 100 public research university
- Primarily online format designed for adult learners
- Ability to apply credits from the certificate toward the Master of Arts in Wellness and Lifestyle Management
- Access to virtual academic workshops and personalized support
- Part of a university community committed to access, affordability, and academic excellence
Rowan University is the third fastest-growing public research university in the nation and a recognized leader in higher education. When you earn a credential from Rowan, it’s more than just a certificate—it’s a career-building step that carries weight.
For the most up-to-date tuition and cost per credit, please visit the program page.
Inside Rowan’s Online Wellness Coaching Certificate Program
Online doesn’t mean alone—especially at Rowan. Our wellness coaching certificate program is designed with your success in mind, offering a supportive, flexible, and personalized learning experience from day one.
You’ll benefit from:
- Asynchronous coursework that fits your schedule and learning style
- Peer-to-peer academic support and virtual workshops on motivation, time management, and study strategies
- A student-first environment that nurtures growth, well-being, and community—wherever you’re learning from
Rowan’s online learning experience is built on four pillars: flexibility, affordability, career advancement, and academic quality—all backed by a dedicated team that’s here to support your journey from enrollment to certification.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wellness Coaching Programs
How can I become a certified health coach?
To become a certified health coach, you’ll need to complete an approved training program and pass a national certification exam such as the NBC-HWC. Rowan’s certificate is NBHWC-approved and prepares you with the academic foundation and practical experience needed to meet certification requirements.
Is Rowan’s wellness coaching program fully online?
Most courses in Rowan’s wellness coaching program are asynchronous, giving you the flexibility to study on your own schedule. Some courses may include some synchronous components.
Can the courses I take in this wellness coaching program count toward a master’s degree?
Yes. All credits earned in this wellness coaching program can be applied to Rowan’s Master of Arts (M.A.) in Wellness and Lifestyle Management. The certificate may be earned on its own, or used as a stepping stone toward a full graduate degree if you choose to continue your education later.
You don’t need to have it all figured out to start. This certificate can be your first step—a low-risk, high-impact way to explore a career you care about. And if you’re already in the field, it’s a powerful credential to expand your impact and deepen your skills.
Ready to Take the First Step in Becoming a Certified Health Coach?
You don’t have to wait for the “perfect moment” to invest in yourself. Whether you’re searching for more meaning, more flexibility, or a new way to make an impact, Rowan’s wellness coach certification online is a smart, supported next step.
With a flexible format, real-world curriculum, and a nationally recognized university behind you, you’ll have everything you need to move forward with confidence.
Apply now or request more information to start your journey to becoming a board certified health and wellness coach.
Elevate Your Career with a Health and Wellness Program
If you’re considering further education in wellness, check out Is an Online Master’s in Health and Wellness Right for You? to explore how a master’s degree can deepen your expertise and open new career opportunities in this growing field.
Looking to broaden your leadership skills within healthcare or wellness settings? Why You Should Get an Organizational Leadership Certificate Online offers targeted training designed to enhance your ability to lead teams and initiatives focused on health and wellness.
For those interested in related healthcare careers, How to Become a Successful Health and Wellness Coach Online dives deeper into practical coaching skills and career pathways, complementing your certificate training.