By SMD Staff
If you have an interest in business and a passion for sports, earning an online sports management degree can help you reach your professional goals in the sports industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, entertainment and sports occupations are expected to grow by 22% through 2030. Sports management positions like business managers and sports agents earn a mean annual wage of $90,870 per year. Sports management can definitely be a lucrative career!
In addition to working as agents and managers, sports management professionals work in:
- facility management,
- sports marketing,
- sports law,
- athletic training.
The employment settings are almost endless. Sport management professionals work in all levels of sport from recreational to professional. Earning your sports management degree online can allow you the flexibility to complete coursework where and when it is most convenient.
Related Resource: Can I Earn a Specialized Sports Marketing Degree?
Summary Ranking of Top 10 Best Online Sports Management Programs
- Davenport University – Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Shorter University – Rome, Georgia
- Troy University – Troy, Alabama
- University of Memphis – Memphis, Tennessee
- University of Alaska Fairbanks – Fairbanks, Alaska
- Florida International University – Miami, Florida
- University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
- Monroe College – Bronx, New York
- University of Minnesota Crookston – Crookston, Minnesota
- Wilmington University – New Castle, Delaware
Methodology
To identify the top 25 best sports management online schools, we started with a search on College Navigator. We searched find schools offering sports management degrees online. We also consulted COSMA (Commission on Sport Management Accreditation), the official sport management accreditation organization, to see which programs hold specialized accreditation in sport management. We compared:
- student to faculty ratios,
- undergraduate net cost,
- graduation rates,
- 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 sports management programs online.
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 online sport management degree programs. Students learn the basic skills needed to enter the field in an entry-level management position. In addition, many programs also offer certain specializations that narrow your skills to a particular niche in your field.
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#25 – Southern New Hampshire University – Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Sports Management Degree Bachelor of Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Average Net Price: $39,743
Accreditation: ACBSP; New England Commission of Higher Education
Overall Graduate Rate: 44%
Points: 3
Southern New Hampshire University features a high-quality sports management online degree. Students can save money by transferring up to 90 credit hours of previously completed undergraduate coursework. There is no application fee/ Students do not need to submit SAT/ACT scores to be considered for acceptance. SNHU offers an accelerated bachelors to master’s pathway for students planning to continue to graduate study.
#24 – Missouri Baptist University – Saint Louis, Missouri
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $19,583
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 38%
Points: 3
The top-value, online B.S. in sports management from Missouri Baptist University gives students the skills and opportunities needed for success in the industry. Up to 96 existing credit hours can be applied to this degree program. Sports management classes online include:
- Communication in Sport
- Tournament and Event Management
- Sports Facility Management
All students complete a 200-clock hour sport management practicum to gain professional experience. Graduates are ready to succeed in careers like sports administration and sports broadcasting.
For more information: Missouri Baptist University
#23 – Toccoa Falls College – Toccoa Falls, Georgia
Online Bachelor’s in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $22,309
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 46%
Points: 4
Toccoa Falls College features an affordable, online bachelor of sports management taught from a biblical perspective. Students have the opportunity to intern with professional sports organizations, preparing them for success after graduation. A National Coaching Certificate is included upon graduating, adding value to the degree. Toccoa Falls College boasts a 100% graduation rate for sports management students. Graduates report working in the sports industry within just six months of earning their degree.
For more information: Toccoa Falls College
#22 – Post University – Waterbury, Connecticut
B.S. in Sport Management Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $15,030
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education; ACBSP
Overall Graduate Rate: 17%
Points: 4
Post University offers a cost-effective, online sports management degree to help students score a winning career in the field of sport management. Students can choose from concentrations in sport communication or sport psychology. All courses emphasize areas like:
- business ethics,
- communication,
- change management,
They give students a global perspective in sport management. Experienced faculty teach a career-focused curriculum offered through the School of Business. Graduates are prepared for exciting opportunities with organizations like the:
- YMCA,
- Boys and Girls Clubs of America,
- professional and collegiate sports teams.
#21 – Colorado Mesa University – Grand Junction, Colorado
B.S. in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $14,788
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 34%
Points: 4
The inexpensive, online sport management degree program offered by Colorado Mesa University prepares students for a variety of professional roles in sport. The robust curriculum is taught by highly trained professionals in both sport and business. Online degree courses include:
- Governance and Communication in Sport
- Sport in Society
- Leadership and Ethics in Sport
All students complete an internship to gain work experience during their senior year. Graduates are prepared for roles in:
- sports marketing,
- community recreation,
- sport facility management,
- public relations,
- college or professional sports organizations.
For more information: Colorado Mesa University
#20 – Mercy College – Dobbs Ferry, New York
B.S. in Business Administration: Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $15,283
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Overall Graduate Rate: 44%
Points: 4
The high-value bachelor of business in sports management from Mercy College provides students with real-world experience in an exciting industry. The low-cost degree program is offered entirely online with no on-campus residency requirements. Specialization courses include:
- Sport Faculty and Event Management
- Sport and Society
- Sport Finance and Administration
Full-time students can complete their degree in about four years. Faculty are available for academic advising to help students:
- select their courses,
- identify internship opportunities,
- discuss career options.
For more information: Mercy College
#19 – Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska
Online B.A. in Sports and Recreation Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Average Net Price: $13,261
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 24%
Points: 4
Bellevue University features an affordable, online bachelor of arts in sport management for students with a passion for the business side of sports. With flexible online course offerings, students can learn from just about anywhere in the world, on their own schedule. Major online class requirements include:
- Sport Ethics
- Sport Facility and Event Management
- Legal Aspects of Sport and Physical Activity
Students are encouraged to minor in business administration which compliments the sport management major. A 120 clock hour internship experience is included to provide students with valuable work experience in an area related to sport management.
#18 – American Public University – Charles Town, West Virginia
Online Bachelor of Science in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Net Price: $10,995
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 40%
Points: 4
The low-cost, online bachelor of sports management from American Public University provides students with a greater understanding of both sports administration and strategy. Online courses are offered in an eight-week format with monthly course starts. Courses cover areas like:
- Applied Concepts in Sports Finance
- Athletic Programs Administration
- Ticket Sales Management
Students complete a senior seminar in sports management that gives them real-life, hands-on tools for success in the field. Networking skills and job interview preparation are also components of this dynamic capstone course.
For more information: American Public University
#17 – Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale – Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Online Bachelor of Science degree in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $31,371
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 71%
Points: 5
Keiser University is one of the best schools for a sport management major, offering a high-value, online sport management program. Students complete four internships throughout the program, gaining real-world experience in a variety of sport management settings. Students learn to:
- design, implement, and manage sport events,
- manage market strategies,
- handle the day-to-day business aspects of a sport organization.
The 100% online curriculum allows students to complete their degree on their own schedule. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles with:
- professional sport teams,
- college athletic departments,
- recreational facilities.
#16 – Maryville University of Saint Louis – Saint Louis, Missouri
Online Rawlings Sport Business Management program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $29,357
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges; ACBSP
Overall Graduate Rate: 71%
Points: 5
Maryville University is home to the Rawlings Sport Business Management program with coursework built in partnership with Rawlings and Game Face. This high-quality, online bachelor of sports management includes concentrations in sport data analytics and results-centered sales. Students can gain professional experience through internships. There are no campus visits required and all courses can be completed online. Applicants pay no application fee and there are no SAT/ACT scores required.
Related Resource: What Are the Best Classes for Sports Management Majors?
#15 – McKendree University – Lebanon, Illinois
Online Sports Management Bachelor’s Degree Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $21,764
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 60%
Points: 5
One of the most affordable online sports management bachelor degree programs is offered by McKendree University. McKendree provides a flexible online course format through Brightspace, an innovative course management system. Online courses are offered over eight weeks and students take two courses during each session. Interesting online classes include:
- Sport Facilities & Event Management
- Legal Aspects of Sport Management
- Budget & Financing of Sport
Related Resource: Do I Need a Degree in Sports Journalism to Become a Sports Journalist?
#14 – Culver-Stockton College – Canton, Missouri
Online Sport Management Bachelor’s Degree Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $21,764
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 60%
Points: 5
The top-value, online bachelor of sports management degree program at Culver-Stockton College is designed for students who want to earn their degree while maintaining their career. Students can travel the country and the globe to explore behind the scenes what the industry has to offer. Core online degree courses include:
- Facilities and Event Management
- Ethics and Governance
- Legal Issues in Sport
Professional networking, job shadowing, and internships prepare students for success with real-world experiences. Graduates work in exciting roles with professional sports teams, health and fitness centers, and collegiate athletic departments.
For more information: Culver-Stockton College
#13 – Concordia University – Saint Paul, Minnesota
Online BA in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:18:1
Average Net Price: $18,757
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 51%
Points: 5
The affordable, online bachelor of arts in sport management from Concordia University emphasizes core concepts in sport theory, kinesiology, and business. Courses are offered in short, seven week, online sessions and there are no on-campus residency requirements. Worried about finding a job after graduation? 95% of grads have a job offer within a year of completing their degree and earn 44% more money than the national average. Graduates are successful in roles like athletic director, coach, sport information director, and sporting facility manager.
For more information: Concordia University – St. Paul
#12 – The University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa
Online B.S. degree in Sport and Recreation Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:16:1
Average Net Price: $17,008
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduate Rate: 72%
Points: 5
The University of Iowa offers a budget-friendly, online bachelor in sports management through their Department of Health and Human Physiology. Concentrations are available in a variety of areas including:
- Business Studies
- Coaching and Sport Instruction
- Entrepreneurship
- Interscholastic Athletic/Activities Administration
All students complete a sport management field experience in addition to concentration and foundation courses. There are no on-campus residency requirements and students can earn their management degree online from anywhere in the world.
#11 – Eastern Kentucky University – Richmond, Kentucky
Sport Management Bachelor’s Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $14,674
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 45%
Points: 5
The high-quality, online bachelor of sports management from Eastern Kentucky University is a flexible program for students with a love of business and sport. Students can transfer up to 90 hours of previously completed college credits, saving both time and money. A wide variety of minors are available that allow students to further tailor the online degree program to meet their needs or help them make use of prior credits. Online courses are offered in accelerated eight-week terms. New courses begin six times each year. There are no campus visits required and students can study their management degree anytime, from anywhere.
#10 – Wilmington University – New Castle, Delaware
Sports Management Bachelor of Science
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Net Price: $13,715
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; IACBE
Overall Graduate Rate: 21%
Points: 5
Wilmington University is one of the best schools for sports management, offering an inexpensive, online sport management bachelor of science degree. Students can complete a complimentary certificate in areas like:
- sport analytics,
- sport media,
- or nonprofit management.
A variety of internship and career advancement opportunities are available to students. Sport management core online courses include:
- Sports Marketing and Promotions
- Financing Sport Operations
- Sociology of Sport
For more information: Wilmington University
#9 – University of Minnesota Crookston – Crookston, Minnesota
Sport and Recreation Management Bachelor of Science (BS)
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $11,483
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; ACBSP
Overall Graduate Rate: 50%
Points: 5
The budget-friendly sport management online bachelor of science program at the University of Minnesota Crookston is an ACBSP accredited program taught in a flexible online format. The inexpensive degree program is a great choice for students with their AS or AAS degree, incoming freshman, or those already working in the field of business. Online courses include experiential learning projects and real-world case studies that help them navigate current trends and best practices in the industry. Class size is kept small and faculty share their academic and real-world knowledge with their students.
#8 – Monroe College – Bronx, New York
Online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)-Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $11,468
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Overall Graduate Rate: 60%
Points: 5
The low-cost online BBA in sports management from Monroe College gives students the foundational skills in management, accounting, marketing, and finance that are industry essentials. Students can take advantage of New York-based networking opportunities, internships, and other professional development experiences that help them prepare for career success. Courses include:
- Digital and Search Engine Marketing
- Financial Management for Sports Organizations
- Global Business
New students are admitted during the fall, winter and spring semesters.
#7 – University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management
Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $10,457
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 88%
Points: 5
The cheap, online bachelor of science degree in sports management from the University of Florida is offered through the College of Health and Human Performance. Courses are taught by the same elite faculty who teach the traditional on-campus program. All students complete a sport management full-time internship during their final semester. This 40-hour per week internship experience provides students with professional work experience to help them transition from the classroom to the field. Online courses include:
- Sport and Society Sport Facility Design and Management
- Business Finance
Graduates are prepared for positions like facility manager, sports event manager, and sports finance analyst.
For More Information: University of Florida
#6 – Florida International University – Miami, Florida
Online BS in Recreation and Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Average Net Price: $9,888
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 63%
Points: 5
Florida International University offers an inexpensive, online bachelor’s in recreation and sport management that can be completed on the student’s own schedule. Students can view lectures, get real-time feedback from their teachers, and collaborate with students from all over the country on their projects. All students have access to a personal success coach that can provide one-on-one guidance throughout the program. Online degree courses include:
- Human Resource Management in Sport Management
- Marketing Management
- Sociology of Sport
New students are admitted during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
#5 – University of Alaska Fairbanks – Fairbanks, Alaska
Bachelor of Business Administration Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Net Price: $9,643
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities; AACSB
Overall Graduate Rate: 35%
Points: 5
The eCampus at the University of Alaska Fairbanks offers an affordable, online BBA in sport and recreation business that combines business, leadership, and hands-on education. The sport management concentration area includes unique online coursework in:
- Sport Analytics
- Sport Psychology
- Social Media Marketing
Students can take elective course offerings to tailor the program to meet their professional goals. Career paths include working with college athletes, professional sport teams, and amateur and youth sport organizations.
#4 – University of Memphis – Memphis, Tennessee
Online B.S. degree in Sport and Leisure Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:15:1
Average Net Price: $13,481
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduate Rate: 53%
Points: 6
The inexpensive, online bachelor of science in sport and leisure management from the University of Memphis features a diverse curriculum. Students complete their courses online while taking advantage of hands-on opportunities within their local geographical area. There are no on-campus course requirements. Major online courses include:
- Promotions in Sport and Leisure
- Financial Management in Sport and Leisure
- Sport and Leisure Marketing
Students can complete the entire 120 credit hour program online or in combination with previously completed coursework at another accredited university.
For more information: University of Memphis
#3 – Troy University – Troy, Alabama
B.S., Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management; M.S., Sport and Fitness Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $12,951
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges; COSMA
Overall Graduate Rate: 47%
Points: 9
The COSMA accredited, affordable bachelor’s online in sport management from Troy University is taught by experienced faculty dedicated to student success inside and outside of the classroom. Sport management courses include:
- Event Management in Hospitality, Sport & Tourism Management
- Leisure in Society
- Analytics in Hospitality, Sport & Tourism Management
Teachers utilize case-studies to help students understand the role of best practices and trends in potential future work environment. An exciting hands-on internship opportunity can help you score a great job after you complete your management degree.
For More Information: Troy University
#2 – Shorter University – Rome, Georgia
Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $19,217
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges; COSMA
Overall Graduate Rate: 37%
Points: 10
Shorter University features a low-cost BBA in sports management offered through the Ledbetter College of Business. This COSMA accredited sport management program includes courses in:
- Event and Facility Management
- Legal Aspects of Sport
- Ethics in Sport
All students are required to take an 18 semester hour minor which adds value to their degree. Shorter offers a lecture series for juniors and seniors focused on career advice and interview/resume techniques. They also host a job fair that helps students make meaningful industry connections.
For more information: Shorter University
#1 – Davenport University – Grand Rapids, Michigan
Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $16,061
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; IACBE; COSMA
Overall Graduate Rate: 49%
Points:10
Our choice for the best online school for sport management is Davenport University. Davenport University offers a COSMA accredited BBA that covers critical business areas of sports. Online courses include:
- Sport Governance and Regulation
- Sport Analytics
- Athletic Leadership and Coaching
All students complete a 300 clock hour internship to gain sport management experience. Previous internship sites included working with the Detroit Lions, USA Football, and the Minnesota Vikings.
For More Information: Davenport University
Sports Management is a growing field and the career possibilities vary greatly depending on your expertise and goals. There’s almost always room for career advancement. Online sports degrees in sports management or sports administration can open the door to career opportunities that are:
- lucrative,
- exciting
- rewarding.
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