Whether you’re looking to embed coaching into your leadership style or preparing for a career transition, NC State’s Leadership Coaching for Organizational Performance (LCOP) program provides a structured, supportive path to develop the skills and mindset of an effective coach.

Designed for working professionals, this International Coaching Federation (ICF)-approved program equips participants with tools to bring out the best in others – whether that’s in the boardroom, a nonprofit, an educational setting or their own coaching business. Now enrolling for the fall cohort, LCOP offers participants a unique opportunity to earn an executive coaching certification in just four months through a combination of interactive virtual sessions, mentor coaching, peer practice and individual learning.

A Cohort Model That Builds Trust and Confidence

Rachel Lieblich, owner of Sage Heart Coaching, completed the program in 2024 and said what stood out most wasn’t just the content – it was the connection.

“It’s not a long program — you’re only together with your cohort for a few months,” she said. “However, in that short period of time, my cohort developed a deep trust and respect with each other. And to be in a supportive learning environment was really important to me, especially because learning to coach and being coached in front of your peers requires a lot of vulnerability.”

That safe, encouraging space helps participants move beyond theory into real-world practice. LCOP’s structure includes live coaching demonstrations, small-group coaching labs and mentor feedback, ensuring students not only understand coaching concepts but also grow through experiential learning.

Meeting Students Where They Are

One of the program’s strengths is its ability to serve professionals across a wide spectrum of industries and career stages. Participants include leaders, managers, educators, HR professionals and consultants, as well as those launching or growing their own coaching practices.

“There were a [wide variety of] backgrounds coming together in my cohort,” said Jenn McGinnis, principal leadership skills development program manager at Red Hat. “What I observed was there were people like me who have full-time jobs that they’re happy in and are looking for ways to embed coaching more into the day-to-day practice of that work, and then there are people who are in the midst of career pivots. Maybe they left a full-time job and their focus now is on building their own coaching practice, so there’s space for all of those people on the continuum of participating in this experience. And I think that’s part of what really enriches the experience.”

The fully online LCOP program is built to accommodate working professionals with busy schedules while still delivering high-impact training. The program culminates in 132 hours of ICF-accredited training, enabling participants to qualify for both Associate Certified Coach (ACC) and Professional Certified Coach (PCC) ICF certifications upon completion.

Real-World Impact from Day One

Many participants begin applying what they learn immediately in their current roles. LCOP emphasizes coaching as both a skill and a mindset – one that can deepen communication, build team trust and drive organizational performance.

Coaching has become a core leadership competency across industries, and the demand for qualified, credentialed coaches continues to grow. Whether participants are internal leaders seeking to build a coaching culture within their organization or entrepreneurs building a coaching practice, LCOP provides the practical foundation and confidence to take the next step.

Now Enrolling

• Connect with LCOP Program Advisor Betsy Arthur-Goodwin.
• Visit go.ncsu.edu/LCOP for more details and to apply.