Compare Training Schools
Compare what you’ll actually experience.
A certificate and a tuition figure tell only part of the story. Look closely at how you’ll learn, how often you’ll coach, who gives you feedback, and how you’ll prepare to use your skills.
Start with the program you’re most seriously considering. Use the questions below to compare it with CTA’s Certified Coach Program.
What CTA brings together.
A consistent cohort of 10–12 students, 22 weeks of live learning, 10 Coach-the-Coach sessions with instructor feedback, and practice-building guidance alongside your coaching skills. Consider the value of that combination as you compare your options.
Look beyond the program description.
On a smaller screen, scroll the table sideways to see all columns.
| Compare | CTA Certified Coach Program | Ask the other school |
|---|---|---|
| Class size | The same small cohort of 10–12 students throughout the program. | How many students attend each live class? Is that the full class size or a smaller breakout group? |
| Live interaction | Weekly live audio classes with discussion, questions, and coaching experiences. Materials and recordings support learning. | How much time is live and interactive? Will I speak with the instructor, or mainly watch presentations and use chat? |
| Coaching feedback | Ten Coach-the-Coach sessions provide opportunities to practice and receive direct instructor feedback. | How often will an instructor observe my coaching? What feedback will I receive, and in what setting? |
| Practical curriculum | A progressive curriculum with a clear coaching model, coaching dialogues, audio, exercises, and sample documents. | Can I preview the curriculum? How do lessons connect, and what tools will help me apply the learning? |
| Practice building | Niche, message, visibility, credibility, and client-attraction work are integrated into training. | Is business preparation included? What will I actually work on? Does it require an additional course? |
| Beginning client work | Students are encouraged to begin working with fee-based clients during training, with guidance on skills and outreach. | When can I begin working with clients? What preparation and support will I have at that point? |
| Time commitment | A 22-week structure with scheduled live classes, study, and practice between sessions. | How long is the complete program? What is the weekly workload? What happens if I miss a class? |
| Total investment | Review current CCP tuition, payment options, and included resources. Ask separately about any optional ICF credentialing costs. | Does the quoted price cover the complete pathway I want? Are mentor coaching, assessments, materials, and certification included or additional? |
You don’t have to decide about ICF credentialing now.
CTA does not assume that every student wants to pursue an International Coaching Federation (ICF) credential. You can complete your CTA certification and develop your coaching work while considering whether an additional credential supports your goals.
As you gain experience, you’ll have more information: the clients you serve, the opportunities you want to pursue, and whether those clients or organizations value or require an ICF credential.
Make that decision with experience from your own practice. If you choose to pursue ICF credentialing, you can explore its additional requirements and costs. It remains your choice, guided by your goals and the work you want to do.
Make sure you’re comparing equivalent programs
An introductory course, a school certification program, and a complete ICF credentialing education pathway may include different things. Compare the specific package you would purchase.
School certification, program accreditation,
and an individual ICF credential are distinct.
Ask what you will earn and what additional
requirements remain.
More hours, a shorter timeline, or a lower price
alone won’t tell you which program fits best.
Consider the learning experience and the support your will receive alongside the total investment.
Use this guide to understand what CTA offers and identify
the questions that matter most to your training decision.
Consider how the learning experience, support, and practical
preparation fit your goals.
Take a closer look at CTA.
Bring your questions to the free Becoming A Certified Coach workshop. See coaching demonstrated and learn more about the program before deciding.
Attend the Free Workshop →Have a question about what CTA includes? Email Lisa in Admissions