By SMD Staff
July 2018
A sports management bachelor’s degree online can help you get a job in facility management, sports marketing, sports law, or athletic training. Social people who have an interest in sports and fitness will find sports management a very rewarding career choice. Long hours and hard work can pay off with career advancement. Earning your online B.S. in sports management can allow you the flexibility to complete coursework when it is most convenient, often in the comfort of your own home.
Summary Ranking of Top 10 Online Sports Management Programs (Bachelors)
- Troy University – Troy, Alabama
- Davenport University – Grand Rapids, Michigan
- The University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa
- Florida International University – Miami, Florida
- University of Minnesota Crookston – Crookston, Minnesota
- Wilmington University – New Castle, Delaware
- University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
- Shorter University – Rome, Georgia
- Concordia University – Saint Paul, Minnesota
- Toccoa Falls College – Toccoa Falls, Georgia
Methodology
To identify the top 25 best online bachelor’s in sports management degree programs, we started with a search on College Navigator to find out which schools offered these programs in an online format. We also consulted NASSM, the North American Society for Sport Management, which keeps a list of universities offering an online BS in sport management in the U.S. We compared student to faculty ratios, undergraduate net cost, graduation rates, and accreditations. Where there are ties, we favored the school with the lower net undergraduate tuition. From our list, we created a rating system as seen below to select our top 25 online bachelor’s in sport management programs.
Student to Faculty Ratio
- 15:1 or less= 2 Points
- Greater than 15:1= 1 Point
Net Undergraduate Tuition Cost
- Less than $20,000 per year= 2 Points
- More than $20,000 per year= 1 Point
Accreditation through COSMA
- Schools with COSMA accreditation= 5 Points
Overall Graduation Rate
- Less than 50%= 1 Points
- Greater than 50%= 2 Point
Below are 25 schools that offer the best sports management online bachelor’s degree programs. Students learn the basic skills needed to enter the field in a management position. In addition, many programs also offer certain specializations that narrow your skills to a particular niche in your field.
Ranking the Top Online Bachelor’s in Sports Management 2018
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#25 – Southern New Hampshire University – Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 30:1
Average Net Price: $39,638
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education
Overall Graduate Rate: 49%
Points: 3
Southern New Hampshire University, a leader in providing quality online education programs, features an online B.S. in sport management with flexible online access. Students can earn their online sports management degree at their own pace, logging in 24/7, taking courses over six weight-week terms. Instructors share their professional real-world experiences in the virtual classroom, creating a vibrant learning environment. Students planning to pursue a master’s in sport management can take advantage of the accelerated BS-MS pathway, allowing students to take up to two graduate level courses at the undergraduate rate.
#24 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management Online
Student to Faculty Ratio:19:1
Average Net Price: $26,954
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 47%
Points: 3
The top online B.S. in sport management from Liberty University is a 120 credit hour program that can be completed in just three-and-a-half-years. The program is delivered through an innovative online learning platform and there are no on-campus requirements. Each course in just eight weeks long and are taught through a Christian worldview. Students can choose from five different specialized areas in sport management to focus their desired career path. Graduates have found success working in facility and event management, professional sports organizations, amateur athletic programs, and public recreation and park systems.
#23 – Columbia College – Columbia, Missouri
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration-Sports Management Major
Student to Faculty Ratio: 33:1
Average Net Price: $23,062
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; IACBE
Overall Graduate Rate: 26%
Points: 3
Sports enthusiasts with a passion for management, administration, recreation, or health and fitness should check out the top online bachelor’s in business administration with a major in sports management from Columbia College. Students can pursue either a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science in business administration, taking a core curriculum that aligns with the recommendations of the ACBSP. Students also complete a variety of sports management courses including sports finance, social media, and sports and event marketing. Internship experiences are available for students who need professional work experience.
#22 – Grand Canyon University – Phoenix, Arizona
Bachelor of Science in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $20,912
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 41%
Points: 3
The top online B.S. in sports management from Grand Canyon University is a 120 credit hour program featuring seven week courses. Housed in the Colangelo College of Business, the program offers a mix of online courses and real-world experiences covering areas like marketing, planning, public relations, and promotions. Students can transfer in up to 90 credits of coursework toward their online sports management degree, saving both time and money.
#21 – Mercy College – Dobbs Ferry, New York
B.S. in Business Administration: Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $16,246
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Overall Graduate Rate: 43%
Points: 3
The B.S. in business administration with an emphasis in sport management from Mercy College is offered entirely online with no on-campus residency requirements. Concentration courses cover sport marketing, sport law, finance and administration, sport and society, and sport facility and event management. Students who are not currently working full-time can gain valuable professional work experience by completing an internship experience. Faculty advisers assist students in course selection, career opportunities, and cooperative education.
#20 – Eastern Kentucky University – Richmond, Kentucky
Sport Management Bachelor’s Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $12,659
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 44%
Points: 3
The top online B.S. in sport management from Eastern Kentucky University is a 120 credit hour program with no on-campus residency requirements. Students can transfer up to 90 credits, saving both time and money. This balanced program teaches both business and sport management principles that are research based. Courses begin six times each year allowing students to start the program when it is most convenient.
#19 – Johnson & Wales University – Providence, Rhode Island
Bachelor of Science – Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $27,165
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education
Overall Graduate Rate: 63%
Points: 4
The College of Online Education at Johnson and Wales University features one of the best online bachelor’s in sports, entertainment and event management focusing on the principles in marketing, finance, and operations. Students can earn their degree in four years or less by completing eight week courses. Faculty are industry experts and deliver a career focused curriculum. Online sports management courses are available in athletic coaching and administration, sports and entertainment marketing, professional sports management, and international exhibitions and events. To be considered for this top online B.S. in sport management degree program, students should have at least two years of full-time work experience.
#18 – California Baptist University – Riverside, California
Online Bachelor of Arts in Sport, Recreation and Fitness Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:18:1
Average Net Price: $25,714
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 59%
Points: 4
California Baptist University features one of the best online B.S. in sport, recreation, and fitness management degree programs designed to prepare students for leadership positions in sports, recreation, fitness, community recreation, and tourism. The online B.S in sports management degree completion program requires 49 credit hours of coursework and can be completed in just 16 months. Coursework is offered in leadership, communication, ethics, facilities management, finance, and wellness. Courses are taught by expert faculty who share their passion for management in sport, recreation, and fitness.
#17 – Missouri Baptist University – Saint Louis, Missouri
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:19:1
Average Net Price: $19,583
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 38%
Points: 4
The top online B.S. in sport management from Missouri Baptist University is a 45 credit hour major which includes unique coursework such as tournament and event management, sociological aspects of sport, volunteer management, and communication in sport. Students complete an internship and practicum experience to gain valuable hands-on experience in the field. Graduates have found success working as sports agents, sports administrators, broadcasters, and sports information directors.
#16 – Post University – Waterbury, Connecticut
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $18,220
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education; ACBSP
Overall Graduate Rate: 25%
Points: 4
Offered both on-campus and online, the top online B.S. in sports management degree from Post University emphasizes business ethics, communication, change management, and a global perspective in sport management. Students complete both a capstone experience and an internship to gain valuable hands-on and work experience. Faculty are highly qualified and experienced in the field and deliver a career focused curriculum designed with student success in mind.
#15 – Colorado Mesa University – Grand Junction, Colorado
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:21:1
Average Net Price: $14,309
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 33%
Points: 4
Colorado Mesa University offers both a B.S. and M.S. in sport management that can be completed online. The top online B.S. in sport management degree program is designed for students planning to start a career in sport business or continue on to advanced academic study. Online sport management courses are available in areas like sport marketing, sport operations, sport in society, sport law, and survey of economics and finance in sport. Students complete an internship experience designed to provide students with hands-on work experience in the industry.
#14 – Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska
Online Bachelor of Arts in Sports and Recreation Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 31:1
Average Net Price: $11,359
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 17%
Points: 4
Bellevue University features an top online B.S. in sports management with a curriculum offering a solid foundation in finance, public relations, marketing, and sport law. Students are encouraged to pursue a minor in business administration to develop and strengthen business knowledge and skills. Online sport management degree coursework covers sport finance, sport facility and event management, sport ethics, and sport public relations. An internship experience is part of this online sports management degree, giving students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience.
#13 – American Public University – Charles Town, West Virginia
Online Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $10,658
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 41%
Points: 4
A member of the accredited American Public University System, American Public University features a top online B.S. in sport management that is a great choice for students seeking an accredited, online program at an affordable school. The program is ideal for students with a passion for coaching, administration, or sports management at any level. Coursework is designed to prepare students for a variety of roles in marketing, promotion, public relations, and finance. The online sport management degree is comprised of 36 credit hours of coursework including sport governance, sports communication, sports and recreation facility management, and sports law, risk, and regulation.
#12 – Midway University – Midway, Kentucky
Online Sport Management Bachelor’s Degree
Student to Faculty Ratio:14:1
Average Net Price: $24,895
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 52%
Points: 5
At Midway University, students can gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue an exciting career in athletics. The 100% online top B.S. in sport management from Midway University requires no on-campus residency. Faculty are industry experts with the connections students need to learn first hand about a career in sports management. All students complete an internship experience at a sport-related organization, strengthening their resume.
#11 – McKendree University – Lebanon, Illinois
Online Sport Management Bachelor’s Degree Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $20,890
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 51%
Points: 5
The top online B.S. in sport management degree program from McKendree University provides students with the training and skills they need to work in facility management, marketing, and sport management. Courses are delivered through an innovative online learning platform, with each course lasting eight weeks. Online sports management degree course offerings include sport marketing, sport and health psychology, legal aspects of sport management, and budget and financing of sport. One of the program highlights is the full semester internship experience in sport management, giving students valuable industry work experience.
#10 – Toccoa Falls College – Toccoa Falls, Georgia
Online Bachelor’s in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $20,396
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 55%
Points: 5
Toccoa Falls College features a unique online B.S. in sport management taught from a biblical perspective. Sports management degree coursework is offered in sport law and ethics, sport financial management, coaching techniques, and event and facility management. Students earn a national coaching certificate when they graduate, a valuable credential when seeking a new position in the field. Toccoa Falls sport management graduates are in demand with 100% of graduates working in the sport industry within six months of earning their degree.
#9 – Concordia University – Saint Paul, Minnesota
Online Bachelor of Arts in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:17:1
Average Net Price: $19,714
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 55%
Points: 5
Concordia University in Saint Paul features a 45 credit hour online B.S. degree in sport management with seven week courses. This hands on online sports management degree program provides students with the opportunity to apply theory to real-life situations throughout the program. Focused on core concepts in business, kinesiology, and sport theory, students graduate with skills and abilities required for success in coaching, sport marketing, public relations, and community relations. Students don’t have to worry about finding employment after graduation since 95% of CSP grads have a job offer within a year of earning their degree.
#8 – Shorter University – Rome, Georgia
Bachelor of Business Administration in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $18,557
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 40%
Points: 5
Shorter University, a Christ-centered university is considered one of the best online sports management degree programs in the nation according to both The Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report. Shorter features a top online B.S. in sport management that includes an optional internship opportunity for students who want additional hands-on work experience. Graduates are prepared for positions in business operations, venue management, account executive, sports marketing, and community relations.
#7 – University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $15,283
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 88%
Points: 5
The College of Health and Human Performance at the University of Florida features one of the best online B.S. in sport management for students who want to earn their degree from one of the top collegiate athletic programs in the nation. Ideal for working professionals and others who would be unable to attend a traditional on-campus program, the online top B.S. in sport management utilizes the same faculty and rigorous curriculum afforded to traditional students. A 12 credit hour internship experience is required after students complete their coursework, typically during the final program semester.
For More Information: University of Florida
#6 – Wilmington University – New Castle, Delaware
Sports Management Bachelor of Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Net Price: $14,955
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Overall Graduate Rate: 26%
Points: 5
Wilmington University’s top online B.S. of sport management degree program utilizes a broad-based approach to sport management education. Students benefit from a strong business component along with a core of online sport management courses in sport media relations, financing sport operations, sport marketing, and sport facilities management and planning. Electives are available in sport psychology, the science of coaching and current issues in sports management. Students can also choose to pursue a sports management bachelor’s degree online with a concentration in nonprofit management or, for students with an associates degree, the sports management completion program.
#5 – University of Minnesota Crookston – Crookston, Minnesota
Sport and Recreation Management Bachelor of Science (BS)
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $13,962
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 54%
Points: 5
The top B.S. in sports and recreation management from the University of Minnesota Crookston is an ideal program for transfer or brand new college students. Students gain valuable sports management related experience through real-world scenarios and case studies. UMC features one of the most hands-on online sports management degrees to make our list, giving students the opportunity for job shadowing, study abroad, and networking in addition to a required internship experience. Online sports management degree courses are offered in sport marketing, sport ethics, leadership, event planning, and sport law and governance.
#4 – Florida International University – Miami, Florida
Online BS in Recreation and Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Average Net Price: $12,219
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 57%
Points: 5
The College of Arts, Sciences, and Education at Florida International University features a top online B.S. in sport management degree program using a curriculum that blends theoretical learning with hands-on application. This fully online B.S. in sport management degree program has no on-campus residency requirements. Each online student is paired with a success coach to assist with course selection and career guidance. Students can begin the program during the fall, spring, or summer semester, when it is most convenient.
#3 – The University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa
Online B.S. degree in Sport and Recreation Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:15:1
Average Net Price: $14,845
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 74%
Points: 6
The University of Iowa’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences features an online B.S. in sport and recreation management with concentrations available in business studies, coaching and sport instruction, entrepreneurship, and interscholastic athletic/activities administration. There are no on-campus residency requirements. The curriculum includes 27 hours of foundational courses, a nine credit hour field experience, and 12 credits in the chosen concentration area. Online sport management courses are available in sport business practices, sport and recreation promotion, finance in sport and recreation, and liability in sport and recreation.
#2 – Davenport University – Grand Rapids, Michigan
Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Net Price: $16,788
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; COSMA
Overall Graduate Rate: 44%
Points:10
Davenport University offers one of the best online B.A. in Sport Management degree programs that includes two internship opportunities. This top online sports administration program features coursework in sport analytics, sport governance, athletic leadership and coaching, and professional selling. Students complete sports administration courses that tie together textbook learning with real world application. Graduates of the program have gone on to work for the Detroit Lions, Detroit Red Wings, USA Football, and the Minnesota Vikings.
For More Information: Davenport University
#1 – Troy University – Troy, Alabama
Bachelor of Science, Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management; Master of Science, Sport and Fitness Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $12,146
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges; COSMA
Overall Graduate Rate: 39%
Points: 10
Troy University offers the best online B.S. in Hospitality, Sport, and Tourism Management with a concentration in Sport Management. The COSMA accredited online sports management degree program teaches students strong communication skills, critical thinking skills, and leadership skills needed to succeed in a variety of sport, entertainment, or recreation settings. Students benefit from an internship opportunity to gain professional work experience and instruction from faculty with industry experience. Graduates of the Master of Science program have gone on to work as marketing directors, event managers, athletics director in the NBA, NFL, event management, and recreation departments.
For More Information: Troy University
Sports Management is a growing field and the career possibilities vary greatly depending on your expertise and goals. There’s almost always room to advance in the career of sports management. A top sports management or sports administration degree online can provide you with potentially lucrative, exciting and rewarding career opportunities.
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