Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Wellness
Integrative Health Coaching
The Integrative Health Coaching program is an approved Health and Wellness Coach Training & Education Program by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for the HWC Certifying Examination to become National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC).
Upon successful completion of the Integrative Health Coaching program (2 courses), documentation of completion of 50 coaching practice sessions (which are to be completed on your own, after completion of the program), and documentation of meeting NBHWC’s education or work experience requirements, students are eligible to sit for the national Health and Wellness Coaching certifying examination through NBHWC. The Integrative Health Coaching courses at UP are taught by National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coaches.
There are two ways to complete the Integrative Health Coaching program at UP:
- Complete the two Integrative Health Coaching Program courses as part of the four-year, full-time, in-person Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Wellness (BS-PHW) program. Please click here for information about the BS-PHW program
- Complete the two Integrative Health Coaching program courses entirely online – please see below for details. NOTE: Only individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree (any field) and are not simultaneously enrolled in any other courses at UP are eligible to enroll in this option.
The courses below must be completed in the order listed. Both courses are delivered entirely online.
We are exploring various delivery methods. Next cohort to begin 2027
PHW 707: Integrative Health Coaching I: Concepts of Individual Wellness
- Provides the theoretical foundation for working with individual clients/learners in coaching practice. Integrating change and wellness theories, students will explore coaching methods for supporting the individual. Students will gain a full understanding of the psychodynamics of the therapeutic relationship as they practice simulated coaching sessions.
- Next course offering: Fall 2026 (late August through mid-December)
- Course Fee: $2,495*
IHW 907: Integrative Health Coaching II: Supporting Individual Wellness
- Building upon PHW 707, students refine coaching skills through case study analysis and simulation role play. Students apply coaching skills to working with people with chronic illness. Students develop an individualized coaching plan that integrates lifestyle modifications and integrative health modalities to promote wellness and improve health outcomes. (Prerequisite: PHW 707)
- Next course offering: Spring 2027 (mid-January through early May)
- Course Fee: $2,495*
*Course fees are subject to change
NOTE: IHW 707 and IHW 907 do not meet continuing education requirements for individuals who are already certified as Health and Wellness Coaches through NBHWC.
- Confirm your eligibility. Only individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree (any field) and are not simultaneously enrolled in any other courses at UP are eligible to enroll in the Integrative Health Coaching program.
- Complete the Integrative Health Coaching Program for Post-Baccalaureate Students Pre-Registration Form. Upon submission of this form, a staff member in the School of Nursing & Health Innovations (SONHI) will contact you to finalize and assist with registration for the appropriate course.
- Pay the course fee. After you are registered for a course, a staff member in the SONHI will provide you with instructions on how to pay the course fee. Please see the Student Accounts webpage for payment due dates, payment options, course withdrawal deadlines, and more. Please direct questions about invoices and payment of course fees to the Office of Student Accounts at stu-acct@up.edu or 503.943.7347.
- NOTE: Non-degree seeking students are not eligible for federal financial aid. As such, students enrolled in the Integrative Health Coaching Program for Post Baccalaureate Students do not need to submit a FAFSA.
- Setup your UP network account. After you are registered for a course, a staff member in the SONHI will provide you with instructions on how to setup your UP network account. Your UP network account will give you access to your UP email account, PilotsUP (the secure campus intranet for students, faculty, and staff), Self-Serve (a secure hub for updating personal information, viewing and paying for course fees, etc.), Moodle (course webpages), and more.
More than a Degree
Discover how to take your bachelor’s degree in health and wellness further through enriching hands-on opportunities offered at UP.
Pre-Health Pathways
If you’re preparing for a career in medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, or other health professions, University of Portland’s pre-health resources ensure you will complete the required coursework and gain meaningful hands-on experience to build a competitive application for professional health programs.
Study Abroad
Expand your global perspective by studying health systems and wellness practices in diverse cultural contexts around the world. See firsthand how global communities approach public health challenges.
Holy Cross Tradition
Immerse yourself in the Holy Cross tradition, where service, compassion, and holistic care are integral to our values and your overall learning experience in the health and wellness degree program.
The UP Difference
At UP, you are our priority—see how.
:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
%
of Students Receive Financial Aid or Scholarships
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Student Clubs and Organizations
Public Health and Wellness Student Spotlight
"I wanted a program that incorporated Eastern and Western health care while also addressing the widespread health disparities that impact certain communities. I wanted access to research opportunities and hands-on fieldwork that would prepare me to go out and care for other humans in the world post graduation. UP’s program fit all of my criteria. There are so many different health care pathways. If someone’s not sure they want to jump into acute care nursing, PHW is a great place to start."
“A degree in Public Health and Wellness is truly like no other. Every single day, without fail, I walk away from my classes having learned something life changing. Never before have I learned such relevant information that I am constantly excited to share with those in my life and that inspires me to integrate my education into my personal life.”
Careers and Outcomes
With a bachelor’s degree in health and wellness, you’re ready to pursue a variety of career opportunities across population health, health promotion, and integrative medicine. Health and wellness professionals design and implement programs to improve community health, educate individuals on healthy lifestyles, and advocate for policies that positively influence wellness.
Jobs with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Wellness
Potential career paths are:
- Certified Health Coach
- Community Health Advocate
- Exercise Science Specialist
- Health Educator
- Health Policy Professional
- Nurse
- Nutritionist
- Sports Medicine Professional
Graduate Studies
Many health and wellness majors continue their education in fields like public health, nutrition, nursing, or integrative medicine, advancing their expertise and expanding their impact in health care leadership roles. Explore health-related graduate programs at UP.
Alumni Employers
Through innovative wellness programs and community partnerships, our public health and wellness majors advance health initiatives across industries. These include:
- IRG Physical Therapy
- Oregon School-Based Health Alliance
- US Army Medical Service Corps
Related Degrees
Create a Healthier World
Earn your bachelor of science in public health and wellness degree at University of Portland and transform lives through compassionate care and sustainable solutions. Here, you can turn your interest in health into an impactful career.