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Do I need to work an Internship while earning my online Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management?

Generally, when searching for a job in the “real world,” the applicant with the most experience usually gets priority consideration.

Although earning your online Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management may be a requirement, your internship experience may be what gets you the attention you deserve. In fact, depending on your program, it may even be required.

Internships? Yes… Do it!

If you are wondering if it would be to your advantage to work an internship, the answer is “yes, most definitely.” Through an internship, you are expected to put the fundamental concepts of what you have learned to good use by actually applying them to the everyday responsibilities of running a sports-related business.

Such concepts may include:

  • business administration,
  • marketing,
  • finances,
  • law and ethics,
  • and observing management techniques within the field of sports.

Internship students have many opportunities to work in sports-oriented settings such as intercollegiate athletic departments, sporting goods stores, media companies focused on sports, sporting facilities and event planning, ticket operations, as well as marketing, fundraising, and sponsorship sales.

What kind of Internships are available?

Jobs may include filing in the office of a busy coach, janitorial duties in the team locker room, or selling team merchandise at the stadium. Even if your job is not too glamorous, do it with a smile on your face.  It will show employers that you are serious.

Advantageous to You & the Employer

While earning your online Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, working an internship is advantageous to both the student and the employer. This is your chance to make a good first impression and a good way to get your “foot in the door.” Always strive to be punctual and perform your job to the best of your ability to make the best impression you can.

Your employer will appreciate your help and, in turn, will issue complimentary reference letters and positive performance reviews that will help you in your future search for a full-time position. Although some internships provide a small salary, some do not; therefore, your experience is your compensation.

Obtaining an Internship

Perhaps you are wondering how easy it will be to get an internship. This weighs heavily on most students’ minds; however, there is no need to worry. Most colleges and universities, as well as online programs, have representatives who work closely with the schools and prospective employers to help provide opportunities for their students.

However, if you find an opportunity on your own, please consult with your school’s Counselor to get approval. You will want to make sure that you get the proper credit you need for your hard work!

While earning your online Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, perhaps you are not sure what career will best suit you. An internship gives you the opportunity to experience different aspects of the sports industry.

You may find that your focused area is not what you thought it would be, or you may discover another passion instead. Or, even better, it IS what you imagined and MORE. Good luck!


If you are interested in this field of study, check out our choices for the Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Sports Management degree programs.

Rowan Jones
Chief Editor