Top Coaches Train Here.
CoachRICE is a premier coach education and training program offered by the Doerr Institute—a university-wide leader development enterprise at Rice University.
This 80-hour, Level 1 accredited program with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) applies a variety of teaching and learning methodologies to give participants an immersive experience and practical coaching skill set integrated with the rigorous academic standards of Rice University.
CoachRICE: Level 1 participants deep dive into the eight Core Competencies and gold-standard Code of Ethics on a path to becoming an ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC). They graduate equipped with a strong foundation to develop individual leaders and team members within organizations across a variety of industries.
Request a CoachRICE Information Packet
Download our Information Packet with complete information on the CoachRICE program including full application and tuition details.
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Course Details
CoachRICE is an 80-hour premier Coach Education and Training program. The program is delivered through a combination of expert instruction, real-time discussions, observational triads, coaching demonstrations and practice, mentoring, and other interactive methods. Asynchronous learning includes outside reading, writing, reflection, journaling, experimentation, additional coaching practice hours, and independent studies.
Fall 2027 Hybrid Cohort > The application cycle for the Fall 2027 Hybrid Cohort at Rice University (Houston, TX) is open. The deadline to apply is May 28, 2027. This cohort begins in August 2027 and includes:
- Orientation (virtual)
- Four two-day Learning Modules (on campus, August 2027 to November 2027)
- Mentor Coaching and additional coaching experiences (virtual)
- Final Performance Evaluation and feedback
Benefits
CoachRICE offers numerous benefits for individuals looking to advance their careers, enhance their leadership abilities, and develop others through coaching. Here are the key benefits:
Internationally Recognized Credential
CoachRICE provides the education, training, and hours needed to pursue an International Coaching Federation (ICF) credential, a gold standard in the coaching profession.
Evidence-Based Curriculum
Learn coaching techniques grounded in research and proven methodologies, designed to empower clients and drive results.
Skill Development for Leadership and Coaching
Gain practical coaching tools to enhance your leadership, communication, and listening skills. Learn how to foster self-awareness, resilience, and goal-setting in others.
Hands-On Experience
Engage in observed coaching practice with real clients to build confidence and expertise. Receive constructive feedback from experienced, ICF-credentialed coaches.
Expanded Career Opportunities
Position yourself as a credentialed coach in a growing field with diverse opportunities. Bring coaching expertise to your current role, start your own coaching business, or enhance your career prospects in leadership development, HR, or consulting.
Professional Network
Join a community of like-minded professionals, including participants and facilitators, who are passionate about coaching and leadership. Build connections that can support your growth long after the program ends.
Hybrid Format
Designed for busy professionals, CoachRICE offers a schedule to better fit your work and personal commitments.
Enhance Your Credibility
Stand out as a leader or professional by earning a credential that signals excellence, expertise, and commitment to personal and professional growth.
Personalized Support
Benefit from a small cohort structure that ensures individualized attention and feedback from facilitators.
Key Takeaways
- Professional coaching skills you can apply immediately
- Tools and insights to build trust and strengthen your relationships
- A theoretical foundation for understanding coaching effectiveness
- A transformative cohort-based experience
- Meaningful networking for personal and professional growth
- Practical engagement with the eight ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics
- World-class Mentor Coaching to hone your coaching skills
- An ICF Level 1 Certificate of Completion toward an ACC Credential
- Ability to stand out in a crowded market and increase your earning potential
Is CoachRICE right for you?
CoachRICE is the ideal program for:
- Managers to senior leaders who wish to add coaching to their portfolio
- Practicing coaches (internal/external) seeking formal training toward an ICF credential
- Professionals looking to make a career change to professional coaching
- Professionals in allied fields who want to add coaching skills to their practice and resume
- Human resource and organizational development professionals who want to advance their career with this specialized skill set
- Minimum education prerequisite: Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Admissions Process
Applications for the Fall 2027 CoachRICE: Level 1 Cohort are now open!
To complete your application, you will need to submit a current resume or CV and respond to four short-answer questions, which can be viewed within the online application.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with admissions decisions released on scheduled dates throughout the application cycle. Each application is evaluated holistically, considering your unique experiences, perspectives, and aspirations. Our goal is to thoughtfully curate a diverse and dynamic cohort that fosters meaningful connections and an impactful learning experience for all participants.
Please contact us at coachrice@rice.edu for questions and application support.
Fall 2027 Application Dates and Deadlines
- Application Deadline | Friday, May 28, 2027
- Final Date for Admissions Decisions | Friday, June 11, 2027
$500 deposit due within one week of acceptance - First half of payment due | Thursday, June 24, 2027
- Balance payment due | Monday, July 12, 2027
Information Sessions
Interested in learning more? Register for our Information Session to learn more about the program structure, curriculum, and the benefits of earning an ICF coaching credential.
What You'll Learn:
- An overview of the CoachRICE Level 1 program
- Insights into the coaching methodologies and interactive learning experience
- Details on program requirements, mentor coaching, and credentialing pathways
- A chance to ask questions and hear from program leaders
- Whether you’re a leader looking to enhance your coaching skills or aspiring to become a certified coach, this session is your first step toward coaching with confidence.
Upcoming Information Session Dates:
Info Session 1 (virtual)
Tuesday, February 9, 2027
12:00 p.m. CST
Info Session 2 (virtual)
Wednesday, March 17, 2027
12:00 p.m. CST
Info Session 3 (virtual)
Friday, April 16, 2027
12:00 p.m. CST
Tuition
Complete tuition and fee information for CoachRICE: Level 1 is available in our Information Packet.
Scholarships and Discounts
Rice University Staff, Faculty and Alumni
Rice University staff, faculty, and alumni are eligible for a 10% tuition discount.
Eligible veterans and dependents may qualify for GI Bill® reimbursement for CoachRICE: Level 1! Approved by the Texas Veterans Commission as a preparatory course for the ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) certification exam, CoachRICE: Level 1 is eligible for reimbursement through VA education benefits under Chapters 33 and 35. Participants who complete the program on or after August 17, 2026, may request reimbursement directly from the VA after completing the course. Learn more about eligibility, reimbursement requirements, and how to use your VA education benefits here.
Program Schedule
Please note that all 2027 CoachRICE cohort dates are subject to change.
All Modules are delivered in Standard English (U.S.). All class times are listed in Central Time (CT). Participants must be able to fully commit to the program schedule to earn a CoachRICE Level 1 Certificate of Completion. If any portion of the program is missed, participants may receive a Certificate of Partial Completion to submit to ICF as part of their credentialing application.
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
|
Orientation (Virtual) |
August 11, 2027 |
5:30 - 7:30 p.m. |
|
Module 1 |
August 26, 2027 August 27, 2027 |
12:00 - 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. |
|
Module 2 |
September 23, 2027 September 24, 2027 |
12:00 - 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. |
|
Module 3 |
October 21, 2027 October 22, 2027 |
12:00 - 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. |
|
Module 4 |
November 18, 2027 November 19, 2027 |
12:00 - 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. |
|
Observation Triad 1 (Virtual) |
October 27, 2027 |
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. |
|
Observation Triad 2 (Virtual) |
December 1, 2027 |
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. |
|
Mentor Coaching Session 1 (Virtual) |
December 8, 2027 |
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. |
|
Mentor Coaching Session 2 (Virtual) |
January 5, 2028 |
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. |
|
Mentor Coaching Session 3 (Virtual) |
January 26, 2028 |
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. |
|
Mentor Coaching Session 4 (Virtual) |
February 17, 2028 |
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. |
|
Mentor Coaching Session 5 (Virtual) |
March 16, 2028 |
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. |
|
All Coursework Except Final Recordings Due |
March 31, 2028 |
|
|
Final Recording Submission Deadline |
April 30, 2028 |
|
Curriculum
All CoachRICE content is created by Doerr Institute professionals using an evidence-based approach grounded in learning science and supported with research-validated outcomes in alignment with the current ICF Core Competencies, ICF Code of Ethics, and R.I.C.E. values.
CoachRICE is more than a program—it’s a transformative experience that equips you to inspire others and achieve your goals.
Module One: Introduction to Leadership Coaching
Introduction to Coaching will provide an engaging overview of the practice and key theoretical foundations of professional coaching. Topics will include self-awareness and personal development as a coach, emotional intelligence for leaders, and core competencies such as coaching presence and establishing agreements.
Module Two: Essential Tools and Methodologies for Coaching
This Module focuses on the process of coaching and examines various models that support a coaching conversation. Participants will practice the foundational listening and communication skills necessary for cultivating trust and evoking awareness with a client.
Module Three: Facilitating Client Growth
This Module focuses on goal creation, accountability, and managing progress with a client. Participants will explore the common barriers, challenges, and mindsets encountered in leadership coaching.
Module Four: Intercultural and Ethical Practices in Coaching
This Module is designed to increase coaches’ intercultural competency and examine the importance and application of the ICF Code of Ethics. Participants will be evaluated on all ICF core competencies and provided with an overview of the ICF-credentialing process.
Each Module includes opportunities to practice, reflect, and receive feedback on your growth and development across all ICF Core Competencies and skills introduced in prior Modules.
All content is created by Doerr Institute professionals using evidence-based techniques and is supported with research-validated outcomes. This program is offered in English.
Applications Now Open for the Fall 2027 Cohort
Ready to take the next step in your coaching journey?
Applications for the Fall 2027 CoachRICE: Level 1 cohort are now open! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply early. Explore the program in our Information Packet and apply today!