& Universities
What Are The Best Online Sports Management Degree Programs?
If you love sports and want to turn that passion into a career, then you should consider furthering your education with a master’s degree in sports management. Whether you are looking to work in college athletics, sports broadcasting, facilities management, or even for a nationally recognized sports organization, an advanced degree will take your career to the next level. Even if you already have a full-time job, you can still earn an online master’s degree in sports management.
Careers in sports management can be very lucrative, with salaries ranging from $50K to $100K and more. However, the competition for these positions can be fierce, so you need to be able to compete with a strong resume of experience and quality education. A master’s degree in sports management will help you stand out from the pack, but you want to make sure to choose an online school that is reputable and will prepare you for a career in sports.
All of the following online sports management master’s degree programs are accredited and provide a sports-focused curriculum in business and administration. Most are 100% online, some offer hybrid courses, and many require a sports-related internship of some kind. These Top Ten Online Master’s Degrees in Sport Management programs were chosen based on each school’s reputation, the scope of the curriculum, career assistance, and national rankings.
Methodology
To identify the best online Sports Management Master’s Degree programs, we conducted an extensive analysis of accredited programs from reputable universities offering remote education. Our ranking methodology includes the following key factors:
- Accreditation: All programs reviewed are regionally accredited, ensuring high academic standards and recognition within the field.
- Curriculum: We evaluated each program’s curriculum, focusing on comprehensive coursework, specialized concentrations, and practical experience components such as internships or hands-on projects.
- Faculty Expertise: We considered the qualifications and professional experience of faculty members, prioritizing those with direct experience in sports management or leadership roles in the sports industry.
- Reputation and Rankings: The reputation of each university, as measured by national and global rankings, was taken into account. Peer-reviewed evaluations and student feedback also contributed to this assessment.
- Cost: The cost of tuition and any additional fees were considered to provide a more holistic view of the value offered by each program. Discounts or financial aid opportunities were also noted.
- Flexibility: We looked at the level of flexibility offered by each program, particularly how adaptable they are for working professionals or those balancing personal commitments with their studies.
- Career Outcomes: Finally, we examined the job placement rate, alumni success stories, and partnerships with sports organizations to ensure graduates are equipped for long-term career success.
Ohio University
Ohio University offers a well-regarded Online Master’s Degree in Sports Management, designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the competitive world of sports administration. The program is fully online, making it accessible to working professionals and those located outside Ohio, providing the flexibility to study at their own pace while maintaining their career commitments.
The program emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects of sports management, focusing on key areas such as sport marketing, facility management, sports law, and financial management. Students benefit from a curriculum that blends classroom-based learning with real-world applications, helping them prepare for leadership roles in sports organizations, recreational facilities, athletic departments, and professional sports teams.
The faculty members bring a wealth of experience from the field of sports management, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education grounded in both academic rigor and industry relevance. Ohio University’s reputation in sports management education is strong, with the program gaining recognition for producing graduates who are well-prepared to lead and innovate within the sports industry.
Additionally, the program allows students to take advantage of Ohio University’s extensive network of alumni and industry connections, offering opportunities for internships, mentorships, and career advancement. With a blend of comprehensive coursework, hands-on experiences, and a supportive online learning environment, Ohio University’s Online Master’s in Sports Management equips students to thrive in diverse sports management roles across the globe.
University of Florida
The University of Florida offers a highly regarded Online Master’s in Sport Management, designed for individuals seeking to advance their careers in the sports industry. The program is part of the College of Health and Human Performance, offering a flexible and rigorous curriculum that can be completed entirely online, making it ideal for working professionals. With a focus on the business and management side of sports, the program equips students with the skills necessary to navigate the ever-evolving sports landscape.
Students will engage in courses covering topics such as sport marketing, management of sport organizations, legal and ethical issues in sport, and finance and economics within sports. The program blends theory with practical application, ensuring students are well-prepared for real-world challenges. Additionally, students have opportunities to network with industry leaders, gain exposure to professional organizations, and participate in internships that enhance their learning experience.
The faculty at the University of Florida consists of experts in sports management who bring both academic credentials and industry experience. The program’s online format allows students to balance their studies with their professional and personal lives, while the university’s reputation ensures that graduates are well-prepared to pursue leadership roles in sports management.
The University of Florida’s Online Sport Management Master’s degree program provides the ideal environment for those seeking a comprehensive education and the skills to thrive in sports management. It is a premier choice for aspiring professionals eager to make a mark in the dynamic and competitive sports industry.
University of Miami
The University of Miami offers a comprehensive Online Master’s Degree Program in Sports Management that prepares students for leadership roles in the dynamic sports industry. Designed to cater to working professionals, the program blends flexible online coursework with practical insights into sports management, business, and marketing. Students gain a strong foundation in managing athletic organizations, working with sports teams, and understanding the legal, financial, and operational challenges of the sports world.
The curriculum emphasizes strategic decision-making, organizational behavior, and the integration of technology in sports. Students engage in case studies, interactive discussions, and industry-relevant projects that enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In addition, the program offers a global perspective on the sports industry, covering both the domestic and international market.
A unique feature of the University of Miami’s program is its robust faculty, which includes experienced professionals and academics with deep expertise in sports management, business administration, and marketing. This ensures that students receive cutting-edge knowledge and real-world insights. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers as sports agents, marketing directors, operations managers, or executives at major sports organizations.
The Online Master’s in Sports Management at the University of Miami stands out for its reputation, strong industry connections, and flexible learning environment, making it an ideal choice for individuals passionate about advancing their careers in sports.
University of Massachusetts Amherst
The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a highly regarded Online Master’s in Sport Management designed for professionals seeking to enhance their careers in the sports industry. This flexible, 36-credit program is tailored to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of sport business, management, and leadership, blending academic theory with real-world applications.
The curriculum includes courses in areas such as sports marketing, financial management, law in sports, and organizational behavior, ensuring a well-rounded education. The program is delivered entirely online, allowing students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments. Students engage in practical assignments, case studies, and collaborative projects that reflect the challenges of the sport management field, preparing them for roles in both the business and administrative aspects of sports organizations.
UMass Amherst’s Sport Management program is led by expert faculty with extensive experience in the sports industry, offering insights into emerging trends and best practices. Students also benefit from the university’s strong alumni network, which provides valuable networking opportunities and potential career advancements.
This online program is ideal for those looking to pursue leadership positions in sports organizations, from collegiate athletics to professional leagues. The UMass Amherst Online Master’s in Sport Management is a top choice for individuals seeking to gain a competitive edge in the dynamic and growing field of sports management.
Drexel University
Drexel University offers a comprehensive Online Master’s in Sports Management, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for leadership roles in the sports industry. This program is highly regarded for its blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and flexibility, catering to working professionals seeking to advance their careers. The online format provides a convenient way for students to pursue their degree from anywhere, while still maintaining a strong connection to Drexel’s extensive resources and network.
The curriculum covers essential areas such as sports marketing, management, law, economics, and ethics, with a focus on both theoretical understanding and practical application. Courses are taught by experienced faculty members who bring real-world insights into the classroom, ensuring that students gain relevant knowledge to address the challenges faced by today’s sports organizations.
In addition to academic coursework, the program offers opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, case studies, and industry-specific projects, ensuring that students gain invaluable experience. Drexel’s location in Philadelphia, a major hub for sports and entertainment, further enhances students’ networking opportunities, giving them access to top industry professionals and organizations.
Overall, Drexel University’s Online Sports Management Master’s Degree provides a well-rounded education, empowering graduates to succeed in various roles within the dynamic and growing sports industry. Its blend of flexibility, academic excellence, and industry connections makes it an attractive option for aspiring sports management professionals.
Washington State University
Washington State University (WSU) offers a comprehensive Online Master’s Degree in Sports Management through its College of Education, providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic sports industry. This fully online program is designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers in sports management, with a flexible format that allows students to balance their academic pursuits with their personal and professional commitments.
The program offers a curriculum that blends practical sports industry experience with theoretical knowledge, covering topics such as sports marketing, event management, organizational leadership, and financial management in sports. WSU’s faculty consists of experienced professionals and scholars who bring real-world insights into the classroom, ensuring students receive an education that is both current and practical.
WSU is known for its commitment to student success, offering dedicated academic support and resources. Students also have opportunities to network with industry professionals through various internships, projects, and partnerships. The program emphasizes leadership, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making, equipping graduates with the tools they need to lead and innovate within the sports management field.
WSU’s Online Sports Management Master’s program prepares students for a wide range of careers, including roles in sports organizations, media outlets, athletic departments, and event management companies. By choosing WSU, students gain access to a respected university with a strong track record of producing successful graduates who make an impact in the global sports industry.
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University offers a robust Online Sports Management Master’s Degree Program designed for individuals passionate about advancing their careers in sports, recreation, and entertainment management. This program provides a comprehensive education combining business acumen, leadership strategies, and industry-specific knowledge tailored to the dynamic sports field. Students engage in a curriculum that covers essential topics such as sports marketing, management, ethics, law, and finance, ensuring they are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in a variety of sports organizations.
The program is fully online, offering flexibility for working professionals to complete coursework at their own pace while balancing their personal and professional commitments. With a strong focus on practical experience, students also have opportunities for internships and networking with industry professionals, making it easier to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
Saint Leo University’s commitment to ethical leadership and community engagement is integrated into the curriculum, encouraging students to become leaders who make positive impacts in the sports industry. Additionally, the faculty consists of experienced professionals and experts who bring their knowledge from the field to enhance learning experiences.
Saint Leo’s Online Sports Management Master’s Program is perfect for those aiming to pursue careers as sports directors, managers, event coordinators, or even sports agents. The program equips graduates with the skills necessary to succeed in the competitive world of sports management, whether working with professional teams, collegiate sports programs, or recreational organizations.
Liberty University
Liberty University offers an exceptional Online Master’s in Sports Management that is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the fast-paced and dynamic world of sports. The program is flexible and fully online, allowing students to balance their studies with their personal and professional commitments. With a strong emphasis on leadership, ethics, and management, Liberty’s Sports Management program is structured to prepare graduates for roles in athletic administration, sports marketing, event coordination, and facility management.
The program is led by experienced faculty members who bring real-world expertise and insight into the classroom, combining practical knowledge with theoretical foundations. Students will engage in comprehensive coursework that covers topics such as sports law, financial management, sports marketing, and risk management. The curriculum is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the business side of sports while emphasizing integrity and Christian values in all aspects of the profession.
Additionally, Liberty University’s Online Sports Management Master’s Degree offers opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, giving students the chance to apply their learning in real-world settings. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to pursue careers in various areas of the sports industry, ranging from professional sports teams to nonprofit organizations. Liberty University’s strong reputation, online accessibility, and focus on ethical leadership make its Online Sports Management Master’s Degree an excellent choice for those looking to advance their careers in sports.
California University of Pennsylvani
California University of Pennsylvania (Cal U) offers a comprehensive Online Sports Management Master’s Degree Program designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers in the sports industry. This program provides students with an in-depth understanding of the business, management, and marketing aspects of sports organizations at both the professional and amateur levels.
The online curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, covering essential topics such as sports law, event management, sports economics, and marketing strategies. Students also gain expertise in financial management, leadership, and ethical decision-making, which are crucial for navigating the evolving sports landscape.
With a flexible online format, the program caters to working professionals by offering asynchronous classes that allow students to complete coursework at their own pace. The degree can typically be completed in 18 to 24 months, depending on the student’s schedule and course load.
California University of Pennsylvania is known for its distinguished faculty, many of whom have real-world experience in the sports industry. Additionally, the program’s emphasis on practical experience, including opportunities for internships, ensures that students can apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for leadership positions in sports organizations, including roles in professional sports teams, collegiate athletics, sports marketing firms, and event management companies.
The Online Sports Management Master’s Degree from Cal U provides the tools necessary for students to excel in the fast-paced and competitive sports industry.
Texas A&M University
The Online Master’s Degree in Sports Management from Texas A&M University provides a comprehensive and flexible pathway for students to pursue a career in the ever-evolving sports industry. Delivered through the Department of Health and Kinesiology, the program emphasizes a global understanding of sports business, management strategies, and leadership. Designed for professionals, the program allows students to gain expertise in key areas such as event planning, sports marketing, facility management, and athlete development, with the option to specialize in areas like sport finance and law.
Texas A&M’s reputation as a top-tier research institution ensures students have access to cutting-edge resources, expert faculty, and a network of alumni who have excelled in sports management careers. The program offers a flexible format with asynchronous online courses, allowing students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments. The curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, equipping graduates with the skills needed to lead organizations, manage teams, and influence the future of sports.
With a focus on both leadership and innovation, the Texas A&M Online Master’s in Sports Management empowers students to develop a diverse skill set while benefiting from the university’s strong ties to the sports industry. Graduates emerge ready to take on managerial roles across various sectors, including professional sports teams, athletic departments, sports agencies, and nonprofit organizations, paving the way for a successful career in sports management.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Online Sports Management Master’s Degree program depends on individual goals, such as desired specialization, cost considerations, and career objectives. The programs listed above represent the best options in terms of academic quality, flexibility, and outcomes for students interested in pursuing a career in sports management.
By pursuing one of these top-ranked programs, you’ll gain the knowledge, practical experience, and networking opportunities necessary to thrive in the competitive and ever-evolving sports industry. Whether you’re looking to climb the ranks within a sports organization, manage a professional team, or take on a leadership role in sports marketing, these programs provide the tools and support needed to succeed.
