The 25 Best Master’s in Sports Management Degrees in 2023

Masters of Sports Management programs are plentiful in the United States, so it is important to understand what different schools have to offer! Sports Management is a competitive field that requires a lot of forthrightness and many different levels of business acumen. The major provides a huge number of learning routes and emphases, but that also depends on the school and curriculum that you choose.

A Master’s in Sports Management degree is an advanced degree program that provides students with expert knowledge and training in the business of sports. This type of degree program prepares students to become a part of the highly competitive and dynamic sports industry.

Through courses that cover topics such as sports law, marketing, finance, leadership, and communications, students gain the skills and knowledge to pursue a variety of rewarding careers in coaching, sports administration, public relations, business administration, marketing, finance, community engagement, sports facility design, facilities management, and many other related areas.

This degree often also opens the door to higher management roles, such as athletic director or head coach. Earning a Master’s in Sports Management degree allows you to take on important roles within the industry and create a lasting impact with your knowledge and skills.

There are also fantastic general concentrations available in a master’s of sports management, as well.

This list is designed to provide 25 of the very best on-campus masters in sports management programs in America. The Business-Management-Degree.net researchers and writers utilized only the most well-respected journalistic resources and academic databases and tools to create a comprehensive catalog of the best Sports Management graduate degrees. Find a perfect match right here!

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Best Master’s in Sports Management Degrees

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN – ANN ARBOR

Program Standouts:

University of Michigan master’s of sports management students explore a huge range of subjects such as finance, economics, diversity, urban planning, marketing, globalization, law, entrepreneurship, and so much more. It is a perfect fit for applicants of numerous educational and professional backgrounds, including marketing, health or social sciences, sports studies, business management, and economics. It expands upon previous knowledge while building a new foundation of understanding to approach a competitive field.

Students in this program are exposed to an incredibly diverse student body made-up of individuals from across the entire globe. They participate in invaluable real-world experiences and activities that equip then with the skills necessary to work as leaders in professional, collegiate, community, youth, and international sectors of the industry.

Campus Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Sampling of Coursework:

• Financial Management for the Sports Industry
• Organizational Behavior & Human Resources
• Strategic Management in Sport

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 23% Retention Rate: 97% Graduation Rate: 91%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN – ANN ARBOR’S MASTERS IN SPORTS MANAGEMENT DEGREE

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TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

There is a thesis and a non-thesis option and a fully on-campus degree program or an asynchronous distance curriculum provided within this outstanding masters degree in sports management. It has flexible enough options to design a personalized approach to the graduate major and provides a comprehensive education. Students can expand their knowledge further through various exciting internship settings, such as Professional and Minor-League Sports, College Athletics, and Sports Marketing. There is also an international learning opportunity in Munich!

The renowned Division of Sport Management at Texas A&M is the largest in the nation and is in the top five on innumerable rankings and catalogs. Students who are lucky enough to gain admission to TAMU learn from highly respected faculty members who hold terminal degrees in a huge number of relevant areas in sports, management, leadership, and business. It is an excellent choice for future coaches as there are an excellent number of in-depth courses for athletic leaders.

Campus Location: College Station, TX

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sport Media and Communications
• Psychology for Coaches
• Financial Management in Sport

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 58% Retention Rate: 93% Graduation Rate: 80%

LEARN MORE ABOUT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY’S MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SPORT MANAGEMENT

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UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA – TWIN CITIES

Program Standouts:

The University of Minnesota – Twin Cities provides graduate students with two exciting degrees in sports management. Students can apply to either a Master of Education or a Master of Arts, each of which leads students down significantly different academic and professional pathways. The Sport Management degrees at the University of Minnesota are developed and managed by the School of Kinesiology that supplies a wide range of sport-related resources.

The MEd program emphasizes a practice-based approach that prepares students for careers and advanced study in sport management, sports administration, and sport/fitness-related professions. The MA provides a more balanced approach between theory and practice and focuses on the management of sports teams and facilities, athletic events, and the sporting process.

Campus Location: Minneapolis, MN

Program Options:

• Master of Arts in Sport Management
• Master of Education in Sport Management

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 57% Retention Rate: 93% Graduation Rate: 78%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA – TWIN CITIES’ MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS IN SPORTS MANAGEMENT

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UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

Program Standouts:

The Masters in Sports Management program at the University of Florida supplies students with fabulous resources and direct access to some of the country’s most popular college athletic teams. This degree balances both theoretical and practical approaches to the industry and is designed by expert faculty members, all of whom hold terminal degrees in their fields of expertise and who bring lifetimes of information to the classroom.

There are two curricular pathways, including a Thesis and a Non-Thesis option. The latter requires the completion of a Graduate Final Exam. Despite a student’s approach, the master of sports management coursework emphasizes planning, leadership, organization, and evaluation of the organizational goals within a sports organization. Alumni have an exceedingly well-developed understanding of the interdisciplinary aspects of the industry.

Campus Location: Gainesville, FL

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sport Sociology
• Sport Finance
• Management and Leadership in Sport

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 37% Retention Rate: 97% Graduation Rate: 87%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA’S M.S. IN SPORTS MANAGEMENT

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LASELL UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

Lasell University is a unique option for graduate students because of the numerous concentration options within its well-respected masters in sports management program. At this excellent school, students choose between four vastly different areas of the profession that prepare them for management and leadership positions in Sport Leadership, Sport Tourism and Hospitality Management, Parks and Recreation, or Athletic Administration.

This graduate degree attracts students from across the world. It can be fully personalized to meet individual goals and learning requirements, and the curriculum is ideally suited to busy working professionals. It is also available 100% online. Learners gain invaluable knowledge and skills from highly quality faculty members who bring decades of sports management and business experience to the classroom.

Campus Location: Newton, MA

Concentration Options:

• Sport Leadership
• Sport Tourism and Hospitality Management
• Parks and Recreation
• Athletic Administration

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 84% Retention Rate: 81% Graduation Rate: 50%

LEARN MORE ABOUT LASELL UNIVERSITY’S MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN SPORT MANAGEMENT

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UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL

Program Standouts:

The Sport Administration graduate degree program from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an extraordinarily prestigious and well-respected master’s curriculum in its discipline. Students can earn a master’s degree in Sport Administration alone or in a dual pathway that includes a degree in Law. The College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Exercise and Sport Science is responsible for supporting all graduate students enrolled in either one of these programs and offers an enormous array of academic, financial, and career-based resources.

Students in this program learn how to be powerful leaders in intercollegiate athletics who work at all levels and departments. Those who choose to take on the challenging yet highly rewarding dual degree gain an unprecedented amount of knowledge through studies in both Sport Administration and an MNJD. These individuals go on to make a powerful impact in the sports industry.

Campus Location: Chapel Hill, NC

Program Options:

• Sport Administration
• Law and Sport Administration Dual Degree

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 23% Retention Rate: 97% Graduation Rate: 91%

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNC CHAPELL HILL’S GRADUATE DEGREE IN SPORT ADMINISTRATION

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UNIVERSITY of CENTRAL FLORIDA

Program Standouts:

Students searching for an excellent and affordable master’s in sports management program in the Southern United States should seek no further than the University of Central Florida’s Master of Science in Sports Business Management. This degree strongly emphasizes diversity, as well as social and ethical issues in sports. It has been glowingly recognized by the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and ESPN as one of the nation’s absolute best.

The UCF College of Business DeVos’ Sports Business Management Department is responsible for the success of students enrolled in this exemplary graduate program. Here, students gain unprecedented hands-on experience under the tutelage of some of the most brilliant minds in the professional and collegiate sports business. Graduates go on to lead fabulous careers as managers of entire athletic organizations at all levels.

Campus Location: Orlando, FL

Sampling of Coursework:

• Organizational Behavior and Development
• Moral and Ethical Issues in Sport
• Professional Selling in Sport

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 44% Retention Rate: 90% Graduation Rate: 75%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA’S MASTER’S IN SPORTS BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

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University of Massachusetts Amherst

Program Standouts:

The University of Massachusetts is an incredibly popular school system with exceedingly successful institutions, such as the Amherst campus, which provides two prestigious graduate opportunities in sports management. The programs are managed by the Mark H. McCormack Department of Sport Management in The Business School for Sport Business at UMass. It is one of the few sports departments in the country housed within a business school, meaning it provides unparalleled resources for its graduate students.

A Master of Science in Sport Management and an MBA/MS dual degree are available at this excellent graduate school. There are also bachelor’s and doctoral curricula for those interested in starting from the very beginning or earning a terminal degree – Umass has it all. These sport management programs represent some of the oldest in the entire world and support a vast network of extraordinary alumni, students, and faculty members.

Campus Location: Amherst, MA

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sport & The Law
• Sports Finance & Business
• Sport Organization Behavior & Development

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 64% Retention Rate: 91% Graduation Rate: 76%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS – AMHERST MS/MBA IN SPORT MANAGEMENT

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NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

Northeastern University operates campuses in Boston and Charlotte, both of which supply outstanding Master of Sports Leadership degrees. There is also an excellent option available online. It is a 12 to 18-month program that can be completed at full-time and part-time rates, and there are four unique concentration options. Students also choose from an array of exciting elective courses that further personalize the curriculum.

Innumerable academic and journalistic resources have recognized Northeastern University as one of the best schools in the country. Enrolled students at either campus complete the same high-quality curriculum taught by some of the industry’s finest who represent a broad range of relevant disciplines. Graduates are guaranteed to receive a deeply thorough education.

Campus Location: Boston, MA and Charlotte, NC

Concentration Options:

• Professional Sports Administration
• Collegiate Athletics Administration
• Analytics
• eSports

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• Commission on Sport Management Accreditation

Acceptance Rate: 18% Retention Rate: 97% Graduation Rate: 84%

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY’S SPORTS LEADERSHIP MASTER’S DEGREE

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ST. CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

The School of Health and Human Services Department of Kinesiology at St. Cloud State University offers this Master of Science in Sports Management degree, which combines critical aspects of business, physical education, and coaching principles. Students learn key strategies in marketing, finance, and program development that allow them to take on senior positions of management in the future. It is a full-time, internship-based degree that drastically enhances students’ knowledge, skill, and professional network.

St. Cloud State University is a highly dedicated academic institution. Throughout its programs is a ubiquitously strong emphasis on graduate internships and assistantships to support in-class learning. Students benefit from small classes, access to Division I athletics teams, and proximity to a sports metropolis in the Twin Cities.

Campus Location: St. Cloud, MN

Sampling of Coursework:

• Social and Cultural Issues in Sport and Physical Activity
• Finance and Marketing in Sports Management
• Advanced Theory of Competitive Athletics

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 90% Retention Rate: 72% Graduation Rate: 46%

LEARN MORE ABOUT ST. CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY’S SPORT MANAGEMENT M.S.

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UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

Program Standouts:

The University of Miami’s Sports Administration graduate degree is kept continuously up-to-date to reflect the constant changes in the sports industry. The curriculum is maintained by the school’s Sports Industry Program and offers full-time and part-time options that can be finished in 12 to 18 months. It is a competitive program sought after by many graduate students across the country and is widely recognized by professionals.

The University of Miami has an excellent array of financial, academic, and career-based resources that support masters of sports management students throughout their entire careers. This program is a Master of Education degree that prepares students to work at the collegiate level as instructors and coaches. The coursework is aligned explicitly toward a career in education.

Campus Location:

Sampling of Coursework:

• Practical Approach to Motivation and Ethical Decision Making
• Creative Approaches to Problem-Solving and Conflict Management
• Event Management

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 27% Retention Rate: 92% Graduation Rate: 81%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI’S SPORTS ADMINISTRATION M.S.Ed.

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TROY UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

Troy University is one of few schools on this ranking to offer a master’s in sports management recognized by the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation. This program trains students to create innovative strategies and solutions to current and ongoing sports industry issues. The coursework, therefore, emphasizes the analyses and resolutions of demanding challenges through the enhancement of critical and analytical thinking skills.

Troy graduates currently work in the most reputable and sought-after organizations in sports administration, such as the NFL, the NBA, and Division I athletics. Past and current learners report only the most fabulous experiences at this student-centered school. The program is available on-campus in Troy’s extraordinary facilities and fully online.

Campus Location: Troy, AL

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sport and the Law
• Risk Management in Sport
• Organizational Behavior and Leadership in Sport

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• Commission on Sport Management Accreditation

Acceptance Rate: 88% Retention Rate: 74% Graduation Rate: 25%

LEARN MORE ABOUT TROY UNIVERSITY’S MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SPORT MANAGEMENT DEGREE

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SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

At Southern Methodist University, students enrolled in the Master of Science in Sport Management degree complete a full-time program in one year. It is designed for current professionals with the passion and drive to achieve senior positions in management. Students learn from expert educators throughout the SMU Cox School of Business, all of whom have decades of executive and professional experience.

SMU focuses on problem-solving and creating positive outcomes. Students are trained to develop the ability to design their own research through the utilization of strategic and analytical thinking combined with highly effective communication tactics. Graduates go on to work in marketing and sponsorship, media and broadcasting, event and facility management, and much more.

Campus Location: Dallas, TX

Sampling of Coursework:

• Managerial Finance
• Research Design in Sport Management
• Leading Teams and Organizations

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 47% Retention Rate: 91% Graduation Rate: 79%

LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY’S MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN SPORT MANAGEMENT

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GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

This distinguished graduate program at Georgetown University offers both full-time and part-time pathways. On-campus classes meet in the historic downtown D.C. campus every week. By accepting enrollment at this peerless institution, students immediately gain access to the nation’s finest resources in business and sports. The Sports Industry Management curriculum itself provides three concentration options on top of incredibly sound foundational coursework.

One of the many distinctive attributes of the Georgetown University Master’s in Sports Industry Management is its incredibly broad partnership network. Through this impressive degree program at one of the world’s most highly respected academic institutions, students gain networking connections with the NFL Players Association, the Washington Nationals, Fox Sports, the Special Olympics, Comcast SportsNet, and yet even more!

Campus Location: Washington, D.C.

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sports Communications
• Sports Business & Sales
• College Sports Administration

Accreditation:

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  3624 Market Street, Suite 2 West
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  www.msche.org
• Commission on Sport Management Accreditation
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 14% Retention Rate: 96% Graduation Rate: 94%

LEARN MORE ABOUT GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY’S MASTER’S IN SPORTS INDUSTRY MANAGEMENT

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COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

Columbia University in the City of New York is widely known as one of the most outstandingly excellent institutions of higher education in the country. The Master of Science in Sports Management supplies a solid foundation in business and sports administration strategy, on top of which students focus their major in one of three areas of focus. It is a 16-month program that enhances skills in sports analytics, digital sports media, sports entrepreneurship, business intelligence, global sports management, and more.

CUNY maintains impressive academic partnerships with organizations and schools such as FC Bayern Munich, Luker on Trends, the Aspen Institute, and Real Madrid University, through which students can enhance their international business capability vastly. On campus, students participate in a collaborative learning environment in which they work alongside cohort members and faculty in real-world situations.

Campus Location: New York, NY

Concentration Options:

• Global Sports
• Sports Analytics
• Digital Sports Media and Marketing

Accreditation:

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education
  3624 Market Street, Suite 2 West
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
  www.msche.org
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 5% Retention Rate: 98% Graduation Rate: 95%

LEARN MORE ABOUT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY’S MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SPORTS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

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OHIO UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

This program from Ohio University is one of the very few that offers a Master of Business Administration/Master of Sports Administration dual degree. Students benefit from an incredibly thorough academic approach in business through the full MBA, as well as specialized knowledge in sports management through the MSA. It is consistently ranked one of the best in the entire world.

Over 85% of Ohio alumni occupy top positions in college athletics, public facilities, professional sports, motorsports, sports media, sports tours, and corporate sports organizations. Many also go into media. Ohio University supplies international business opportunities through internships, many of which culminate in employment opportunities.

Campus Location: Athens, OH

Sampling of Coursework:

• Leadership in Sports Administration
• Sport Governance and Policy Development
• Management of Public Assembly Facilities

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 82% Retention Rate: 81% Graduation Rate: 62%

LEARN MORE ABOUT OHIO UNIVERSITY’S PROFESSIONAL MASTER OF SPORTS ADMINISTRATION (PMSA)

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UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA

Program Standouts:

The opportunity available at the University of Georgia is distinctive because it is offered as a Master of Science in Kinesiology with a specialization in Sport Management and Policy, making it one of the most unique degree programs on this catalog. Students dive into the philosophical and sociological aspects of the sports industry and the application of governmental policies. They also apply theories and strategies gathered in the classroom to real-world sports management situations.

Georgia graduates now work in a variety of the most impressive athletic organizations in the country, such as the MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLS, and with teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Braves, and Dallas Cowboys. Others work at ESPN and the NCAA. The University of Georgia produces some of the most impressive sports professionals.

Campus Location: Athens, Ga

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sports Economics and Policy
• Sports Event Management and Facilities
• Social Aspects of Sport

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 45% Retention Rate: 96% Graduation Rate: 84%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA’S MS IN KINESIOLOGY – SPORT MANAGEMENT AND POLICY

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SHORTER UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

Shorter University offers another of the few schools on this list and in the country to offer a Master of Business Administration in Sport Management. The curriculum lays the groundwork for incredibly sharp skills in business, and the electives and specialization courses offer excellent training in sports business. Students also gain access to the Hawks Sports Society, which is a marvelous student-led organization.

This degree and the university itself are incredibly well-decorated in awards and recognition from a great many journalistic resources in academia. It is a COSMA-certified curriculum, and Shorter also offers a prominent bachelor’s degree in the same area.

Campus Location: Rome, GA

Sampling of Coursework:

• Business of Sport
• Marketing Management
• Leadership and Administration in Sport

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 60% Retention Rate: 55% Graduation Rate: 37%

LEARN MORE ABOUT SHORTER UNIVERSITY’S MBA IN SPORT MANAGEMENT

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MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

Michigan State University provides a Master of Science in Sports Coaching, Leadership, and Administration that includes two distinctive concentration options. It is an excellent choice for current and future coaches because of its outstanding Coaching concentration, and it is also perfectly suited to professionals seeking advancement in management through the specialization in Sports Administration. All students learn foundational principles in sport management and coaching.

This curriculum is designed to enhance the careers of highly committed teacher coaches, youth coaches, sports administrators, athletic directors, and coach developers. It is better to have prior education and experience in the sports industry before applying to this program because the coursework builds upon past knowledge. However, it is not required to have any past experience at all!

Campus Location: East Lansing, MI

Concentration Options:

• Coaching
• Sport Administration

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 71% Retention Rate: 92% Graduation Rate: 78%

LEARN MORE ABOUT MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY’S MS IN SPORTS COACHING, LEADERSHIP, AND ADMINISTRATION

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GONZAGA UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

The Master’s in Sport & Athletic Administration at Gonzaga University is a 10-course program that includes two exciting internships. The curriculum prepares students to work across the entire range of sports industry positions. Students gain an understanding of areas such as Marketing and Communications, Media Relations, Facilities Management, Leadership Development, Title IX Competency, Community Outreach, and Team Building.

Incredibly well-known for its fabulous intercollegiate athletic teams and its outstanding academic prowess, Gonzaga University is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a master’s in sports management. While it is a deeply loved institution with a retention rate of 94%, it is also much less competitive compared to many other schools at the same academic tier. Students and alumni alike leave only the most glowing comments on the program website.

Campus Location: Spokane, WA

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sports & Athletic Promotions
• Sports Media and Communication
• Ethical and Legal Aspects in Sport

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 62% Retention Rate: 94% Graduation Rate: 84%

LEARN MORE ABOUT GONZAGA UNIVERSITY’S MASTER’S IN SPORT & ATHLETIC ADMINISTRATION

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UNIVERSITY OF IOWA

Program Standouts:

As a Master of Arts in Sport and Recreation Management, this program provides more breadth of coursework than other degrees on this ranking. The curriculum provides excellent classes in sports business administration and coaching, as well as economics and recreation. Through practical experience and a personalized capstone, students can mold this master’s in sports management to meet their unique goals.

This program is designed for anyone, including students who do not have an undergraduate education in business, sports, or recreation. Learners can look forward to a diverse cohort with students of numerous backgrounds. There are several other graduate degrees in applicable areas available at UI.

Campus Location: Iowa City, IA

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sport and Recreation Field Experience
• The Economy Experience
• Risk Management

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 83% Retention Rate: 86% Graduation Rate: 72%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF IOWA’S MASTER OF ARTS IN SPORT AND RECREATION MANAGEMENT

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ENDICOTT COLLEGE

Program Standouts:

This excellent school offers an accelerated Master in Sport Leadership, as well as a bachelor’s degree in the same field. All of the coursework has a foundation in sports administration and management and analyzes current trends in the industry. Whether students are pursuing careers in schools and colleges, businesses, non-profits, fitness and sports facilities, or sports governing bodies, this degree has it all.

Endicott College is a beautiful hidden gem in the Eastern United States. Not only is it a fabulous campus to attend class, but it is also highly affordable compared to most master’s programs. Students learn from expert faculty members who have had lifetime careers in the MLB, NBA, NCAA, and NHL and who now work as passionate teachers and mentors.

Campus Location: Beverly, MA

Sampling of Coursework:

• Contemporary Issues in Sport
• Strategic Management and Leadership in Athletic Administration
• Comprehensive Seminar in Athletic Administration

Accreditation:

• New England Commission of Higher Education
  3 Burlington Woods Drive, Suite 100
  Burlington, Massachusetts 01803
  wwww.neche.org, (781) 425-7785
• Commission on Sport Management Accreditation

Acceptance Rate: 69% Retention Rate: 84% Graduation Rate: 80%

LEARN MORE ABOUT ENDICOTT COLLEGE’S SPORT LEADERSHIP MASTER’S PROGRAM

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SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

San Diego State University’s Sports MBA is an intensive, accelerated program that is completed in one year. Located in an incredibly “sports-rich landscape” in California, the campus provides an exceedingly high number of real-world resources. It is an internationally-focused degree that includes a business study abroad trip to the Dominican Republic.

SDSU Master of Business Administration in Sports alumni is tremendously successful. They enter the job market with well-sharpened business skills thanks to a business leadership-focused curriculum. Several sport business classes enhance a foundational MBA degree.

Campus Location: San Diego, CA

Sampling of Coursework:

• Organizational Behavior & Leadership
• Financial & Management Accounting
• Sports Economics

Accreditation:

• Western Association of Schools and Colleges
  533 Airport Boulevard, Suite 200
  Burlingame, California 94010
  www.acswasc.org, (650) 696-1069
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 34% Retention Rate: 89% Graduation Rate: 83%

LEARN MORE ABOUT SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY’S SPORTS MBA

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UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT

Program Standouts:

The University of Connecticut offers an impressive Master of Science in Sport Management that has a theoretical and research-based approach, as well as numerous classes in sports education. Students take six to nine credits in education and educational psychology, 15 credits in sports management, and six credits in electives, which allows students to personalize their approach.

Some examples of titles that UConn alumni now occupy include Account Executive, Assistant Professor, Chief of Staff, Department Chair in Sport Management, Director of Athletics Compliance, and Business Operations Manager. Some organizations that employ Connecticut graduates include the Boston Red Socks, Boston University, ESPN, the Orlando Magic, the NFL, and more!

Campus Location: Storrs, CT

Sampling of Coursework:

• Management of Sport Services
• Supervision of Educational Organizations
• Sport in Society

Accreditation:

• New England Commission of Higher Education
  3 Burlington Woods Drive, Suite 100
  Burlington, Massachusetts 01803
  wwww.neche.org, (781) 425-7785
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 49% Retention Rate: 93% Graduation Rate: 82%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT’S MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SPORT MANAGEMENT

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ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:

At Arkansas State University, Master of Sport Administration students engage in an accelerated program with seven-week courses. It allows beginners and professionals an avenue to drastically enhance their knowledge of the sports industry as a whole, and they are trained to occupy positions of leadership. There is a huge amount of real-world experience built into the program.

Students at Arkansas State have the chance to work and learn with teams, organizations, and facilities like the Memphis Grizzlies, Verizon Arena, St. Louis Cardinals, Southeastern Conference, and Departments of Parks and Recreation. Graduates have a well-balanced understanding of practice and theory that provides them easy access to high-level positions in the sports industry.

Campus Location: Jonesboro, AR

Sampling of Coursework:

• Sport in Society
• Sports Finance & Budgeting
• Sport Governance & Operations

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
• Commission on Sport Management Accreditation

Acceptance Rate: 80% Retention Rate: 76% Graduation Rate: 45%

LEARN MORE ABOUT ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY’S SPORTS ADMINISTRATION MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAM

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a graduate degree in Sports Management worth it?

If you have the determination to succeed in a highly competitive industry, then yes! A master’s in sports management is perfectly suited to those who have the drive to earn a career in business and a passion for sports. There are a huge number of opportunities in a wide array of areas in this type of program for professionals like coaches, business managers, event managers, marketing specialists, and more!

Will I be able to work in the NFL with a Master’s in Sports Management?

You will most definitely be better positioned to land a job in the NFL with a graduate degree in sports management. However, this industry is extremely competitive, and it might be more reasonable and realistic to set your sights slightly lower at the outset but always keep your eyes on the prize. Many graduates from these schools now work on college football teams and in the NFL, the NBA, the NHL, and MLB.

Does a career in Sports Management pay well?

The answer to this question depends entirely upon the direction and nature of your career. The average starting salary for individuals in sports management is between $35,000-$42,000 per year. However, those who hold senior positions of management at prominent schools and organizations earn upwards of $200,000 per year. Others who work at the top of the industry earn multiple millions.

Is there a demand for Management positions in the field of Sports?

Yes, there is a demand for management positions in the field of sports. Many sports teams, leagues, organizations, facilities, and events require management professionals to plan, organize, and direct operations. The most common types of management positions include general manager, director of operations, sports marketing manager, event coordinator, and facility manager.

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Summary

If you are just entering a career in sports management, be prepared for an incredibly competitive job market and an industry in which you will have to work very hard and be innovative to set yourself apart. However, attending one of these absolutely outstanding graduate schools for a master’s in sports management will give you the edge and skills you need. With the right attitude and determination, we at Business-Management-Degree.net have no doubt that you will succeed at one of these 25 fabulous schools.

This ranking provides the very best sports administration graduate degrees that America has to offer. Despite your financial or academic needs, there are options for everyone, and each is an excellent choice. The sports industry has a multitude of high-paying positions of employment that place you right alongside your favorite sports teams. Discover and achieve your passions today!