The Top 15 Sports Management Master’s Degree Online Programs

Also see: 25 Best Affordable Online Master’s in Sports Management

“The economics of the game have never been better, [which] proves that investment in players, star players, is the way to go. The fact is if an owner wants to win there are premium players out there. And we know the revenues are there for them to pursue them.” ~Scott Boras, sports agent

Sport is undeniably big business. More and more professional sport authorities are seeking qualified professionals. They need trained individuals to run their organizations, finances, and brand. Earning a master’s in sports management allows those with a passion for sports to land a professional role in this exciting industry. There are a variety of career paths available to graduates of sports management programs, including:

Compliance
Facility/Operations Management
Ticket Office Management
Sales/Marketing
Public Relations
Business Office Management
Human Resource Management

Sports-Management-Degree-Guide-Top Programs

Choosing an Online Sports Management Graduate Program

Finding the right sports management degree online can feel overwhelming. There are over 200 schools offering a master’s degree in Sports Management or a related field. So how can you find a sports industry management program that’s a great fit? A few considerations include:

Internships/Networking: Completing an internship is ideal for graduate students in this field. Internships are the perfect way for students to gain practical experience in a real-world setting. Top sports industry management programs will offer these experiences to their students to prepare them for success in the field. Many employers hire first from those applicants who have served as interns in the field.

Cost: Earning a master’s degree is a significant financial commitment. Students should consider the entire cost of earning their degree. But remember to factor in financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Some employers offer tuition assistance as well. And many sports management programs offer military discounts. By looking in the right places, you can find significant savings. Speak with your prospective school’s financial aid office. They will be more than happy to help you find any discounts or opportunities available.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Class size is an important factor when it comes to the overall quality of your education. Students should feel valued and supported by their professors. At many schools, faculty serve as mentors to their students. They help students make professional connections, score internships, and develop their professional skills. You’re more likely to get individualized attention at colleges with lower student-to-faculty ratios.

Methodology for the Best Sports Management Masters Degree Programs

The Complete Guide to Careers in Sports Management (Mini course)

To determine our top 15 master’s in sports management, we needed to narrow down our choices from over 200 master’s programs in sports management. Like other programs, schools can also seek accreditation for their sports management programs. This is in addition to any regional or national accreditation a school may hold.

This specialized sports management accreditation is awarded through the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA). Schools with COSMA accreditation have completed a self-study that was reviewed by faculty and sports management professionals. They examine eight principles believed to be necessary for a quality sports management program. They include:

Outcomes Assessment
Strategic Planning
Curriculum
Faculty
Scholarly & Professional Activities
Resources
Internal & External Relationships
Educational Innovation

All schools selected for this ranking of the best sports management masters programs hold the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation. We then applied our ranking methodology to determine the top 15.

Student/Faculty Ratio:

15:1 or less- 3 points
16:1 to 19:1- 2 points
20:1 and above- 1 point

Average Graduate Tuition Rate:

Less than $13,000- 3 points
$13,000 to $20,000- 2 points
Greater than $20,000- 1 point

Concentration Areas:

1 point for each concentration area

This ranking of the best sports management programs can serve as an excellent starting point for anyone wishing to pursue a career in the exciting and lucrative sports industry.

Related Resource: Can I Earn a Specialized Sports Marketing Degree?

Best Sports Management Master’s Programs

Ranking the Top Sports Management Masters Degrees Online

#15 – University of Indianapolis – Indianapolis, Indiana

M.S. in Sports Management

For More Information: University of Indianapolis

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $39,224/year
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Points: 4
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Sports Management Degree Program at the University of Indianapolis:

The University of Indianapolis features a top master’s in sports management hybrid degree program. While most of the coursework can be completed online, students will need to meet in person several times per semester. This program prepares students for a variety of professional careers in sports administration. And UIndy’s unique geographic location positions students right in the middle of the action. Students will enjoy being close to the:

NCAA conference offices
Several professional sport organizations
Olympic governing bodies

Students can choose a standard or accelerated track to complete this 33-credit hour program. The standard track takes 21 months, and the accelerated can be completed in 12 months. Full-time students are part of a cohort. And part-time students will move in and out of the cohort while their program progresses. Some of the required courses include:

Foundations of Athletics Administration
Revenue Generation in Athletics
Human Resource Management
Event and Facility Management
Strategic Communication
Sport and Recreation Management

Each student works closely with a mentor in the sports industry who helps steer them in the right direction. Plus, research and real-world projects give sports management graduates the skills that prepare them for the workforce immediately. Finally, an impressive faculty-to-student ratio of 12:1 ensures candidates get all the personalized attention they need to succeed in this masters in sports management.

#14 – Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, Michigan

M.A. in Sport Administration

For More Information: Central Michigan University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $15,194/year
Student/Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 4
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Sports Management Degree Program at Central Michigan University:

Central Michigan University offers an affordable master’s in sport administration online. This COSMO-accredited sports management program can be completed in one to two years of study. Candidates have access to innovative instruction and top-notch athletic facilities. And this allows them to gain practical experience in areas like coaching and sports administration.

The program is practice-based. And students are involved with sports organization management throughout the program. They will also work with other students to apply what they have learned to sports management roles. The curriculum allows students to study sport administration from a variety of perspectives. Some of the courses in this 39-credit-hour program include:

Administration of Sport and Athletics
Philosophical & Ethical Issues in Athletics
Athletic Facility Design and Management
Sport Marketing
Sport and the Law
Financial Management of Sport
Human Resource Management in Sport Organizations

The Department of Physical Education and Sport offers many opportunities for graduate students. For example, there are graduate and research assistantships available. Some students work in Athletics, University Recreation, CMU events, and more. Students may also be offered teaching, research, and other sports management roles. All students complete an internship and an Integrated Capstone Project in Sports Management. Additionally, they are eligible to join the local chapter of the Sports Management Association. The group offers members professional development opportunities.

CMU also offers an Accelerated Master of Arts in Sport Administration. This program is for undergraduates currently enrolled at the college. These students have the opportunity to pursue the program during the final year of their bachelor’s degrees. Thus, they can complete both their bachelor’s and master’s in sports management in about five years.

#13 – Louisiana State University – Baton Rouge, Louisiana

MS in Sports Management

For more information: Louisiana State University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,132/year
Student/Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Points: 4
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Sports Management Degree Program at Louisiana State University:

Louisiana State University offers an online master’s in sports management. This is an excellent choice for professionals who want to make their mark in this competitive industry. Students in this sport management program will become innovative and thoughtful sports management leaders. And those living nearby get to work with NCAA-recognized teams on the LSU campus. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as one year!

The asynchronous format allows students to complete the coursework at their own pace. This way, you can work your sport management studies around your career and personal obligations. Some of the online courses include the following:

Organizational Behavior and Development in Sport
Financial Issues in Sport
Sport Law
Facilities Management
Governance and Policy Development in Sport
Special Topics in Kinesiology
Sport Psychology

LSU Online strives to provide a one-of-a-kind learning experience to its students. You’ll earn the same sport management degree as you would on campus. And you will interact with the same instructors who teach in person. Additionally, your sport management diploma will be identical.

The school offers concierge-style, personal support from the time of application to the time you graduate. For example, candidates have access to the following:

Enrollment Coach
Student Success Coach
Academic Support (including tutoring)
Career Coaching
Tech Support

Additionally, sports management graduates will be part of an alumni network of over 250,000 individuals. And there are 130 active chapters worldwide. As a result, LSU alumni have access to a wide range of benefits. And sport management graduates have full access to the school’s professional networking platform. The program is accredited by the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation.

Related: Top 20 Sport Law Programs

#12 – University of Louisville – Louisville, Kentucky

M.S. in Sport Administration

For more information: University of Louisville

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $13,524
Student/Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 5
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Sports Management Degree Program at the University of Louisville:

The University of Louisville features an affordable master’s in sport administration degree. The program includes an internship and plenty of elective coursework. It is offered through the College of Education and Human Development. Students in this sport management gain valuable professional skills and knowledge to help them succeed in the field. And they will also be engaged in service-learning projects with local agencies. Courses are offered online or in a traditional classroom format. Some of the master’s degree sports management courses may include:

Sport Analytics
Sport Marketing
Sport Policy
Management and Leadership
Sport Finance and Economics
Legal Aspects of Sport
Sport Media

The 45-credit hour sport management program can be completed in 1 1/2 to 2 years. Although the length depends on how many courses students choose to take per semester. You may transfer up to six credit hours with an advisor’s approval.

Admission to the sport management program is competitive, and only the top applicants are accepted. To be considered for unconditional acceptance, you must have a GPA of at least 3.0. However, the school will also consider your work experience, recommendations, and goals.

Students who live near the campus have plenty of internship and volunteer opportunities. Plus, the school has many sports industry partners. Some of these include:

SP+ GameDay Management & the Kentucky Derby
Louisville Bats Baseball Club
UofL Athletics
Adidas
NCAA Final Four
NFL
PGA Championships

Additionally, students may also join the SPAD Association. The Department also offers International Service-Learning and Study-Abroad opportunities.

#11 – University of Southern Indiana – Evansville, Indiana

M.S. in Sport Management

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,894
Student/Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Points: 5
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Sports Management Degree Program at the University of Southern Indiana:

The University of Southern Indiana features a fully online master’s in sport management program. At under $10,000 a year for in-state students, it’s one of the most affordable sports management programs on our list. It is offered through The Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. Students can complete the 33-credit hour sports management degree program in a traditional two-year format. Additionally, you can choose an accelerated program that allows you to complete the degree in just one year. Some of the sport management courses include:

Sport Budgets and Fiscal Practices
Sport Facility and Event Management
Sport Law
Sport Marketing
Dimensions of Diversity and Society in Sport Organizations
Strategic Sport Communication
Leadership Skills and Innovation

Students in this sport managementprogram learn valuable business and communication skills. And the knowledge they gain allows them to work with both individuals and teams in the sports field. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and six start dates are available throughout the year. Students can complete the sport management program entirely online with no campus visits required.

USI is a Quality Matters subscribing institution. This means that all online programs and components go through a strict peer review process each year. And a particular set of standards and best practices must be adhered to. This applies to the sports management programs as well.

The University of Southern Indiana also has excellent resources for online sport management students. Some of these include:

Exam Proctoring
Tutoring Services
Disability Resources
Research Assistance
Career Services and Internships

#10 – Troy University – Troy, Alabama

Master of Science in Sport and Fitness Management-Sport Management Concentration

For more information: Troy University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,550
Student/Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Points: 5
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Sports Management Degree Program at Troy University:

One of our top 10 sport management graduate programs is a low-cost master’s from Troy University. The college has a flexible program sport management offered online and on campus. The curriculum includes a variety of teaching mediums, including lectures, seminars, and experiences. A few of the elective sport management course offerings include:

Sport Psychology
Global Perspectives in Sport
NCAA Governance, Compliance, and Institutional Control
Sport and Recreation Management
Revenue Generation in Sport
Human Resource Management in Sport
Sport Facility and Event Management
Sport Marketing
Sport Communication

This COSMO-accredited program requires a minimum of 36 credit hours for completion. Students can choose a thesis or non-thesis option. The sport management program prepares graduates for sports management careers in the ever-evolving sports industry. However, it also serves as excellent preparation for Troy’s online Ph.D.Sport Management Program.

An optional practicum and internship are also available. This is ideal for students who would like professional experience before completing their sport management program. Troy’s sports administration master’s degree graduates have gained success working in the NBA, NFL, and Division 1 athletics departments.

#9 – Bowling Green State University – Bowling Green, Ohio

Master’s in Sport Administration

For More Information: Bowling Green State University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,017
Student/Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Points: 5
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Sports Management Degree Program at Bowling Green State University:

Bowling Green State University features one of the best sports management programs on our list. It’s a Master’s in Education with a Sports Administration Concentration. This COSMA-accredited sport management program takes two years to complete. Students work with their advisors to choose a series of courses that aligns with their goals and interests. And they graduate with the practical knowledge of what it takes to succeed in the competitive sports industry. The comprehensive sports administration curriculum offers courses like:

Administration of Intercollegiate Athletics
Athletic & Recreation Facility Planning & Management
Budgeting & Planning for Sport and Leisure Enterprise
Marketing Strategies in Sport & Leisure Services
Sport and Society
Social Psychology of Sport
Governance in Intercollegiate Athletics

Elective course offerings include an internship and directed research opportunities. All sport management students participate in a culminating experience. However, they can choose whether to complete a thesis, master’s project, or comprehensive exam.

To be considered, applicants need to have an overall GPA of 3.0. Applications are accepted year-round. Prospective candidates will need to submit the following:

Personal Statement
Resumé
Two letters of recommendation
Transcripts
GRE scores
Academic writing sample

#8 – Wichita State University – Wichita, Kansas

Master of Education in Sport Management

For More Information: Wichita State University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $5,544
Student/Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Points: 5
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Sports Management Degree Program at Wichita State University:

The next program from Wichita State University can turn your passion into a lucrative career. This affordable online master’s in sports management costs less than $6,000 per academic year. Students in this sport management program will make plenty of professional connections. And they will gain the practical skills needed to work in a variety of sports management roles. There are 30 credit hours of coursework required. Plus, students will complete a six-credit internship experience. Some of the excellent sport management courses include:

Analytics and Decision-Making In Sport
Management In Sport
Sport Marketing
Sports Leadership and Socialization
Communication in Sport
Selling in the Sport Industry
Sport Governance and Policy
Ethical and Legal Issues in Sport
Sports Tournament and Event Management
Sport Facility Management

Wichita State recognizes the importance of applied learning. And they have an innovative approach that helps graduates with all their employment-related needs. As such, they have a wide range of career tools to ensure your success. These include co-ops, internships, limitless applied learning, and more.

Additionally, the school partners with over 500 employers. And some sport management students have scored prestigious internships with the MLB and Disney Sports. However, you don’t need to come to Kansas to complete the program. Instead, you can gain your hands-on experience at the local level. All students must pass a comprehensive written exam to complete their sport management degree.

#7 – Endicott College – Beverly, Massachusetts

Sport Leadership Program (M.S.)

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,746/year
Student/Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 6
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Sports Management Degree Program at Endicott College:

Endicott College offers a 100 percent online M.S. in Sports Leadership program. This high-quality master’s in sport leadership is taught by all-star practitioners. Faculty and advisory are leaders from the MLB, NBA, NHL, NCAA, and even the Olympics. The program is offered in a flexible online format that fosters collaboration and professional development. Students can complete the sport management degree on their own schedule by taking four to six-week courses. Some of the options include:

Preparing for a Career in Sport
Strategic Management and Leadership in Athletic Administration
Sport Law and Risk Management
Sports Marketing and Media
The Impact of Technology in Sport
Event Planning and Programming
Facilities Planning in Sport
Financial Resources Management

All students take an internship class during their very first semester. It focuses on industry research, career preparation, and skill building. And students also have full access to the Endicott Internship & Career Center. This resource provides a wealth of opportunities for sport management students, including:

Individual Career Advising
Training Seminars
Alumni Mentor Program
Employer Events
Career Assessments
On-Campus Recruiting

There is no GRE required for admission to the program, and tuition is extremely affordable. Worried about finding a job after graduation? Endicott reports 95% of their sports management grads score a job in the sports industry!

#6 – Shorter University – Rome, Georgia

MBA in Sport Management

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,600/year
Student/Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 6
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Sports Management Degree Program at Shorter University:

Shorter University is a Christian college offering one of the best sports administration master’s degrees in the country. Shorter’s sport management MBA program is for up-and-coming professionals who want to conquer the world of sports. Students with a bachelor’s degree can complete this sports management MBA program in just one year. And those without their bachelor’s can complete both degrees in just four years, resulting in significant cost savings.

The program covers the typical MBA topics in communication, finance, and management. But it also adds sports management courses for students interested in the business side of sports. Some of these sports management courses include:

Contemporary Issues in Sport
Sport Psychology
Sport Coaching
Social Media in Sport
Sport Administration
Sport Governance
Business of Sport
Risk Management in Sport
Sports Marketing
Sports Operations & Event Management
Leadership & Administration in Sport

Students will have the opportunity to build a network of peers and alumni from backgrounds, regions, and professions. Additionally, all students complete a sports administration internship on-site in a field setting near them. Online sports management students can access the same services as on-campus students, including:

Technical Support
Counseling
Career Development
Disability Services
Academic Advising
Tutoring
Financial Aid

#5 – Ohio University – Athens, Ohio

Professional Master of Sports Administration
Dual MBA/Master’s in Sport Administration

For more information: Ohio University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,444
Student/Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 6
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Sports Management Degree Programs at Ohio University:

Students at Ohio University can pursue a hybrid Master of Sports Administration. This program has been ranked the #1 online postgraduate sports administration program in the world by SportBusiness Group. Students enroll in one class every seven weeks with a one-week break in between. Sports administration courses are delivered through Blackboard, the school’s online learning management platform. This format includes lectures, discussion boards, and live virtual classrooms. Some of the course offerings for the

Sports & Consumers
Athletic Fundraising
Intercollegiate Athletics Governance
Sponsorship in Sports
Facility Management
Revenue Generation in Sports

The program offers six residency opportunities on the Athens campus. Students are required to earn at least five residency credit hours to earn the sports administration degree. However, alternative arrangements can be made for those who cannot make it to campus.

In addition to the PMSA, Ohio University features an innovative dual MBA/MSA degree program. This is an academically rigorous curriculum rooted in business. And it has been expanded to include sport-specific industry knowledge. The program prepares students for leadership positions in the sports administration field. Candidates begin their studies in OU’s One-Year MBA program. The program features 36 credit hours covering marketing, finance, management, and other MBA topics. At the same time, students enter the 36-credit hour MS in Sports Management Program.

Some students also take graduate-level courses in other areas of interest to expand their skill sets. In this way, they can design their own concentration. For example, they can focus on event management, marketing, journalism, or some other aspect of the sports industry.

Graduate assistantships are available. These allow MSA students to gain practical industry-relevant experience. And financial aid is available to graduate students in the form of student loans. Additionally, there are several scholarships available for online and graduate program students.

In both of these sports administration programs, students benefit from hands-on training through unique experiences like:

Darren Butler Sports Forum
Ohio University’s annual symposium
Annual MSA capstone course in New York City

At under $10,000 per academic year, these unique graduate masters in sports management programs offer an excellent return on your investment.

#4 – Arkansas State University – Jonesboro, Arkansas

Master of Science in Sport Administration

For More Information: Arkansas State University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $4,986
Student/Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Points: 6
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Sports Management Degree Program at Arkansas State University:

Arkansas State University features a cost-effective, full-time masters in sports management. The program has been accredited through the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation. And it is ideal for students interested in sports administration opportunities in:

Professional Sports
Interscholastic and Intercollegiate Athletics Administration
Sports Facilities
Sports Media
Sports Marketing
Sports Management

A total of 36 credit hours are required, and it can be completed in as little as 12 months. It is offered through the College of Education and Behavioral Science. And it is designed to meet the needs of busy working professionals. This unique online program is delivered asynchronously, so you can access your coursework 24/7. This flexibility means you can schedule your studies around your current job and personal obligations.

Both theory and practical application are incorporated into the curriculum. Some of the sports management courses include:

Ethical Issues in Sport
Sport Law
Sport Marketing
Sport Finance & Budgeting
Sport Communications
Sport Leadership
Sport in Society

Students can choose to complete an internship or a thesis depending on their future professional goals. Candidates are also required to pass a comprehensive exam.

#3 – Northeastern University – Boston, Massachusetts

Master’s in Sports Leadership

For more information: Northeastern University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $25,801
Student/Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Concentration Areas: Professional Sports Administration; Collegiate Athletics Administration; Analytics; eSports
Points: 8
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Sports Management Degree Program at Northeastern University:

Northeastern University features a high-quality online master’s in sport leadership. The program is offered through the College of Professional Studies. And it prepares students for a variety of sports-related occupations. Both full and part-time students are accepted into the program, which can be completed in just 12-18 months. It was developed for both aspiring and seasoned professionals.

Students in this program will develop a strong business foundation. Plus, they will gain sports management-specific training. The courses vary depending on your concentration. However, some of the offerings for this masters in sports management include:

Sport in Society
Sports Media Relations
Fiscal Practices in Sports
Gender and Diversity in Sport
Ticket Sales and Strategies
Athletic Fund-Raising
Event Management
Sports Marketing and Promotions
Fiscal Practices in Sports
Corporate Sponsorships
The Business of eSports
NCAA Compliance

Students can complete their coursework 100 percent online. The only residency requirement is a one-week summer institute in Boston. However, students can also take part in integrated experiential learning opportunities. And there are hands-on experiences and internships available. Some graduates of the program have found roles with:

Boston Red Sox
New England Patriots
Boston Celtics
Boston Bruins
NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, MLLInternational Olympic Committees
Youth Sport Organizations
High School Athletics
Nonprofit Sport Organizations
International Olympic Committees
Colleges and Universities

#2 – Lasell University – Newton, Massachusetts

M.S. in Sports Management

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,268/year
Student/Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Concentration Areas: Sports Leadership; Sports Tourism and Hospitality Management; Parks and Recreation; Athletic Administration
Points: 10
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Sports Management Degree Program at Lasell University:

Lasell University offers an affordable online masters in sports management. This is a personalized program available entirely online or in a blended format. Students can choose from four specialized concentration areas. This way, they develop a skill set that meets their specific professional goals. Some of the course offerings include:

Financial Management in the Sport Industry
Managing Sport Facilities/Special Events
International Sports Management
Sport Sponsorship & Marketing
Leisure Studies Foundation
Principles of Athletic Administration
Writing & Reporting Research in Sport
Historical & Current Issues in Sports

Lasell believes in a student-first philosophy. This is evidenced by their small class size and personalized approach to instruction. Faculty are often working professionals themselves. And they help students connect with top internships and real-world work experiences. This allows them to set the stage for success in the sports industry. Students need to earn 36 credits, and they can complete the masters in sports management in just 12-24 months.

All students are assigned a dedicated advisor. Your advisor will help you with course planning and guide you through your academic journey. Lasalle offers other resources for online students as well. They include:

24/7 Technology help desk
Graduate Online Orientation
Enrollment Counseling
Academic Support
Library Services
Career Development
Mental Health Support

Assistantships are available for those who live in the area. Students can pursue their master’s while earning a stipend and gaining work experience. However, financial aid is also available to online students. And there are scholarship and grant opportunities as well.

#1 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia

Master’s in Sports Management

For more information: Liberty University

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,847/year
Student/Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Concentration Areas: Coaching and Athletic Administration; Outdoor Adventure Sport; Sports Administration; Tourism; General
Points: 10
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Sports Management Degree Program at Liberty University:

Liberty University offers our top choice for the best sports management master’s degree. Liberty features an online master’s in sports management that takes less than two years to complete. This COSMA-accredited program is designed for those who want to be in athletic leadership. And graduates will have an edge in the competitive, fast-growing sports industry.

Courses are offered in short, eight-week sessions with no set log-in times. This asynchronous format means you can go at your own pace. And it allows you to work your studies around your current professional and personal obligations. Students can customize their degrees by choosing from one of five concentration areas. Some of the masters in sports management course offerings include:

Economic and Financial Management of Sport
Sports Development and Sales
Foundations of Outdoor Adventure Sports
Sports Event and Facility Management
Advanced Coaching Theory
Outdoor Adventure Programming
Management and Leadership in Sport Organizations
Ethics in Sport
Strategic Sports Management
Sports Governance
Sport and Event Tourism Planning and Impacts

The entire program requires 36 credit hours to complete. However, students can transfer in up to 50 percent of the degree total. Thesis and non-thesis tracks are available. Students are not required to come to campus at any point. However, there are still plenty of networking opportunities. And the school’s online communities bring students and faculty together to build professional connections.

Liberty University has a substantial online division, and many resources are available to remote students. Some of these include:

Career Center
Writing Services and Online Writing Center
Liberty University Online Library
Tech Support
Supplemental Instruction
Student Financial Services
Online Foreign Language Center
Online Mentorship

Frequently Asked Questions About Sports Management Master’s Degrees

Is a Master’s in Sports Management a Good Degree To Pursue?

Sports and entertainment is a fast-growing sector. And some experts project that the global sports market will be worth over $700 billion in 2026. Employment in entertainment and sports occupations is expected to grow by 13 percent through 2031. This is much faster than the average for all occupations. And the increase will likely result in almost 100,000 new jobs over the next decade. Additionally, over 106,000 new openings in this field are expected each year as the industry grows and workers retire.

Master’s programs in sports management are perfect for aspiring leaders with a passion for the business side of sports. Sports are big business, and it takes a savvy business person to successfully manage and operate a sports team or facility. Specialized sports management programs allow students to develop a niche and become experts in their area of study. A masters in sports management can set you up for a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.

What Types of Jobs Can I Get With a Master’s in Sports Management?

The options for sports management professionals are endless. There are programs in sports management for almost every area of interest. For example, you suppose you are a student interested in a career in sports marketing or sports analytics. In that case, you would take specialized courses to prepare for a role in that area. The same goes for any other sports-related position you are interested in. Your best bet is to choose a program that offers classes that most closely align with your goals and interests. Other popular jobs for students with a masters in sports management include:

Facilities Manager
Sports Marketer
Athletic Director
Event Coordinator
Sports Agent
Ticket Manager
Social Networking Manager

You May Also Enjoy: The Complete Guide to Careers in Sports Management (Free Mini Course)

Will I Need To Complete an Internship To Earn a Master’s in Sports Management?

Internship requirements for graduate sports management programs vary. If you don’t have professional experience working in the field, an internship can be an excellent opportunity to develop your skills. Internships give students exposure to different aspects of the field. This can include management, operations, and much more. They are also great for meeting new people and can help students develop their professional network.

You may notice that some online programs have on-campus internship requirements. This means that even if you complete all your studies online, you may have to visit campus for a portion of your program. However, some programs offer alternative ways to fill the internship requirements. And many schools allow students to work with an advisor to design an internship at a site near their home. You’ll want to carefully review the internship guidelines for the school you are interested in. And if a program requires an on-campus component, be sure you can travel to meet the requirements.

Will I Need To Complete a Thesis in an Online Master’s Degree Program?

It depends on the college and the specific program you choose. For example, at some schools, all students are required to complete a thesis to finish their masters in sports management. However, many online programs offer both thesis and non-thesis options.

Popular On-Campus Sports Management Programs

We’ve reviewed the best online sports management graduate programs. However, dozens of colleges across the country offer on-campus master’s degrees in sports management. Here are just a few of them:

University of Massachusetts Amherst – Amherst, Massachusetts

Master of Science in Sports Management

The University of Massachusetts Amherst features an MS in Sports Management. This is a rigorous program that blends theory with practice. Students will gain real-world experience in areas like sport communications and sport analytics. The program offers a unique Professional Development Seminar experience as well. The college brings in industry experts who share a wealth of career advice. Most students can complete this sports management master degree in just one year.

Texas A&M University – College Station, Texas

Master of Science in Sports Management

The MS in Sports Management at Texas A&M University is a flexible sport management masters degree offered online and on campus. All students complete a graduate internship experience. And this allows them to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to the sports industry. Internship opportunities are available in a variety of areas, including sports media and community recreation. Both thesis and non-thesis program tracks are available.

University of Florida – Gainesville Florida

MS in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology

The University of Florida offers an MS in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology. Students are offered a thesis and non-thesis option, depending on their area of interest. For example, students pursuing the thesis option will choose Exercise Physiology or Biobehavioral Science. And those who prefer the non-thesis option will pursue a Human Performance program. All sport management master degree tracks require the completion of a research project.

Auburn University – Auburn, Alabama

Master’s in Exercise Science

Auburn University offers a 33-credit hour Master’s in Exercise Science. Students in this program will work with faculty at the School of Kinesiology Labs. And they will have the opportunity to work on some fascinating research projects. These include areas like the human-dog bond with sports and exercise, sports biomechanics, and neuromechanics. In addition, the school offers graduate fellowships, assistantships, and financial aid. These resources can help make the masters degree in sports management more affordable.

Northern Michigan University – Marquette, Michigan

MS in Exercise Science

Northern Michigan University offers an affordable on-campus master’s in exercise science degree. This program is designed for students from a variety of backgrounds. And it provides advanced training in the physiological aspects of human movement. Students will choose from specialized courses to help them meet their personal and professional goals. Thesis and non-thesis options are available for this masters in sports management program. Graduate assistant positions are also available for those who qualify.

This concludes our review of the best masters degree sport management programs online.

By SMD Staff 2023