Learning Science & Academic Coaching
Self-Guided | E-Learning
Learning Science and Academic Coaching equips middle school, high school, and college support professionals with cutting-edge, research-backed techniques to help students become self-directed, resilient learners. This comprehensive course bridges neuroscience, psychology, and practical coaching methods—giving you the tools to move beyond content tutoring and guide students in building transferable skills for learning how to learn. You’ll master how to develop executive function skills, build growth mindsets, combat burnout, support ADHD and first-generation students, and guide learners through test anxiety and perfectionism. Whether you’re conducting micro-coaching check-ins or intensive sessions, you’ll learn structured frameworks that create measurable improvements in academic performance, motivation, and student confidence.
Bulk Purchase Options
We’ve had the pleasure of training youth coaches for:





EXCELLENT Based on 63 reviews Posted on Sara Rossi Raccagni I decided to train with YCI because it was the only one with a solid scientific basis, which I believe is crucial from an ethical perspective. I completed both the Youth Resilience Coach and Youth Health Coach programs. It was the best investment I could have made: the instructors are highly trained and do know how to create the ideal environment for continuous growth.Posted on Fabio Friscia I highly recommend the services of YCI to anyone interested in improving their skills to coach young people. Between the material and the classes, their offer is absolutely stellar! I am giving just 5 stars because giving a hundred is not possible!Posted on Shahnaz Bonadurer I am very glad that I had the chance to take the Youth Well-being course at the Youth Coaching Institute. Being part of this community, meeting like-minded people, engaging in peer coaching experiences, and having access to many great resources, tools, videos, and meaningful conversations made a real difference in my coaching journey.Posted on Leslie C. Newbold Dr. Leah Mazzoula’s course at the Youth Coaching Institute is truly exceptional. It’s clear how much care and expertise went into creating a program that’s science-based, evidence-backed, and incredibly supportive. I highly recommend it to anyone working with teens, parents, or anyone looking to grow as a coach and human being.Posted on Heather Mooney Incredibly grateful that I was strongly recommended to attend this program by another YCI alum (the amazing Cyndy Etler "the teen life coach"). After completing my coaching certificate I *totally* get why Cyndy insisted I attend YCI when I shared the intentions of becoming a coach! It's been instrumentally helpful in a multitude of ways and much more of a mindset shift than anticipated. All of the instruction, coaching practice and mentoring has been integral to my success as a coach. Appreciate the ongoing positive regard, growth mindset, and perpetual support for our continued coaching development as we navigate the various pathways for our careers.Posted on Robert McClellan I entered this program hopeful, but unsure of what to expect. It exceeded my expectations in so many ways. The training was thorough, supportive, and engaging. I feel equipped and eager to continue this important work! Highly recommend.Posted on Claire Gatonby I work extensively with the youth and found the YCI Youth Coaching course very insightful and valuable. The combination of theory and practical with tips on how to use this in meaningful interactions was highly beneficial. I would recommend this course.Posted on Kody Hersh I appreciated YCI's model of independent self-study combined with live classes for coaching practice and discussion. The content of the self-study materials has been really helpful for me as a youth professional in refreshing my knowledge of adolescent development, and learning how to use that knowledge to provide effective support as a coach. Program leaders are gifted and knowledgeable, and admin staff provided prompt and skilled support.Posted on Huaru Kang Participating in the YCI courses and becoming a certified Youth Well-being Coach through the YCI training has been truly an inspiring and rewarding journey. The program has not only deepened my understanding of youth development through self-study courses but also equipped me with practical coaching skills through online live sessions. I particularly appreciate its research-based and evidence-driven approach, which makes the course content both convincing and impactful. This clearly reflects Dr. Leah’s hard work and dedication. I am also very grateful for the support of our online meeting facilitator, Bonnie. She is a wonderful person, very kind and supportive, and demonstrating outstanding professionalism in coaching.Posted on Heidi Huelster This incredible program is the real stuff that you need as a Youth Coach. Not only are the Coaches who are facilitating actually IN the world coaching and professional, but are beyond gifted. I am grateful for what I have gained as a Coach and beyond happy that I dove in for the whole experience. You won't regret doing the same.
The Core Benefits of the Learning Science & Academic Coaching Course
Enhance your current student support work
This course teaches practical academic coaching techniques that elevate the work you’re already doing with students, no new programs to implement, no additional time required. Student success professionals learn to integrate evidence-based learning strategies into existing coaching or advising sessions, tutoring appointments, and student check-ins, making their current responsibilities more effective and impactful while helping students develop skills that transfer across all their courses.
Move beyond content tutoring to process coaching
Academic coaches and support staff gain structured frameworks for guiding students through the metacognitive skills that fuel long-term success. Learn how to shift from simply explaining material to facilitating student discovery of their own learning patterns, building executive function, and developing self-regulation skills that persist beyond any single assignment or semester.
Grounded in neuroscience and learning science research
Understand the “why” behind student learning challenges through evidence-based insights into memory formation, neuroplasticity, motivation, and executive function. This scientific foundation helps you respond to struggling students with targeted, research-backed interventions rather than generic study tips, creating coaching conversations that address how students actually learn and process information.
Flexible, self-paced professional development
Designed for busy education professionals juggling multiple responsibilities, this fully online course allows you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. Complete modules during planning periods, between appointments, or after hours, earning a certificate of completion that demonstrates your commitment to evidence-based practice and student-centered professional growth.
Have Questions? Schedule a Q&A With Us.
Whether you have some coaching experience under your belt, want to better serve youth in your profession, or are exploring a profitable and fulfilling career choice, we’re here to guide you on the best path forward. Fill out our contact form or schedule a live 20-minute Q&A to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
This course is specifically designed for academic coaches or student support staff who want to upskill to deepen their impact with the students they serve. If adding learning science knowledge and specialized evidence-based academic coaching interventions to your toolbox sounds helpful, this course is for you.
Yes, it’s a self-guided, virtual course, allowing you to learn at your own pace and schedule, which is ideal for busy educators and student support staff.
The content could take between 4-8 hours to complete, depending on the learner.
Upon completion, trainees will receive a certificate of completion.
The course includes 8 continuing education hours.
Absolutely! Just choose the group option at checkout.
If you have groups larger than 25, reach out to discuss a site license to embed our program into your own internal learning management system. Email: leah@youthcoachinginstitute.com.
Great question!
If you’re an academic coach who wants to ensure you’re integrating science-backed strategies to enhance your impact, this may be taken as a standalone course.
Something to consider: Many academic coaches or student success coaches working within schools, colleges, or universities never received foundational coach training based on the professional coaching standards in the broader profession (e.g., International Coaching Federation, Center for Credentialing & Education, or National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching).
If that’s your situation, we highly recommend that you begin with our Foundational Youth Coaching Skills course to learn to remain within the coaching scope of practice. That is also a self-paced, e-learning course.
Course Development & AI Transparency
This course was developed by Leah B. Mazzola, PhD, PCC, NBC-HWC, BCC in collaboration with artificial intelligence technology.
Human Expertise & Content Authority
Dr. Mazzola conducted all literature reviews, synthesized current research, and developed the curriculum to ensure scientific accuracy and alignment with evidence-based coaching practices. All theoretical frameworks, coaching models, and professional guidance originate from Dr. Mazzola’s 14+ years of expertise.
AI-Assisted Instructional Design
Artificial intelligence enhanced the learning experience by:
- Applying learning science principles to optimize content delivery
- Managing cognitive load through strategic sequencing
- Creating visual aids and interactive elements
- Integrating storytelling and real-world applications
- Embedding formative assessments throughout
- Translating complex terminology into accessible language
Quality Assurance
Dr. Mazzola maintains full editorial control and final approval of all materials. This collaborative approach leverages AI to amplify pedagogical effectiveness while ensuring content remains grounded in rigorous research and professional standards. We are committed to using AI as a tool to enhance human expertise rather than replace it.
Reach Out to Us to Learn More
Have questions or want to speak with a member of our team? Schedule a meeting or reach out to us directly, and we’ll be happy to assist you on your coaching journey.
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Elevate Your Impact and Start Coaching Today
Make a positive and measurable impact with the Youth Coaching Institute. Develop your coaching skillset and begin the journey to becoming a certified youth life coach today.