Online Sports Management Degrees
Ask a Question
Sports management degrees are designed to teach students the management and administrative strategies that are unique to the sports industry. Students take courses in sports finance, marketing, planning, and law, as well as overviews of the sports industry and general management techniques. Graduates are prepared for a number of careers, depending on their professional background and business experience; careers in athlete management, sports administration, or marketing and advertising are all a possibility.
The main responsibility of a sports manager is to lead the sports team that they are in charge of and make sure that each player and the team as a whole are getting as much exposure as possible. These individuals can work with individual players, professional sports teams, minor leagues sports teams, college athletic departments, sports communication, and parks and recreations services. There are many options for different careers within sports management that will complement each individual's strengths.
Because it is a highly competitive industry, it is important for individuals to build their resume as much as possible so that they stand out beyond other job candidates. The typical work environment for someone in the sports management industry varies between working inside an office and being present at a variety of sporting events.
Featured Accredited Schools Offering Online Sports Management Degrees
- All
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Certification
Tiffin University Online
Programs:- MBA - Sports Management
Learn more about Tiffin University Online
What are some of the specializations within this degree program?
Some specializations in the field of sports management include sales management, general manager, product manager, account manager, and strategic planning manager. All specializations work toward a common goal of promoting and supporting teams and individual players.
What degree levels are available?
- Associate Degree: 2 years to complete
- Bachelor's Degree: 4 years to complete
- Master's Degree: 2-3 years to complete
What are the educational and certification requirements?
It is important for individuals who wish to pursue a career in sports management to complete one of the degrees that are offered in this area due to the high level of competition in this field, but at this time, it is not required. It is suggested that students start with an associates degree in sports management or a related field such as business or management, which will take approximately two years to complete. Then, the student should move on to complete a bachelor's in sports management or a related field, which will take about four years to complete. There is also a Master of Business Administration or a related degree that would look great on a student's resume and help them achieve the best job possible. During their time in school, it is important for students to gain as much hands-on training as possible through an internship, externship, or work experience. It is also pertinent that students master classes in public relations, marketing, management, leadership, and sports terminology.
Once students have graduated from a sports management program with a school accredited degree, they will be able to apply for entry-level positions in the sports management industry. There is no need for students to meet additional certification requirements. (BLS)
What kinds of classes will I be expected to take?
The foundational class in the sports management series is about the sports industry in general. This overview class introduces students to the structure of the sports world, and how modern sports corporations and franchises operate. Along with this overview, students take a more focused class in sports law, which teaches about intellectual property issues, labor law, contract law, and other legal questions that can arise in sports administration.
Any good manager also has to be well versed in the financial situation surrounding their industry. Courses in sports economics and sports finance cover the impact of sports on the general economy and citizenry, as well as financial strategies like budgeting, investing, and raising capital, that individuals can utilize in a sports management career. Other required classes will vary by the certificate program; some common requirements are sports marketing, international sports, and sports planning and development. Some programs allow students to choose an elective course, while others follow a set curriculum.
If I pursue this program online, will I be required to complete any on-site training?
It depends on the certificate program you choose. Many programs can be completed entirely online, while others require students to complete a management internship in a sports organization in their community. These internships are not required to begin a sports management career, but they can be helpful in landing a job, particularly for individuals with little previous business experience.
What are some other degrees that are related to this program?
Many other degree programs also include coursework in business and sports. Individuals who would like a more in-depth graduate program could pursue a master's degree in business administration, which also teaches practical business skills. Those most interested in the public relations arm of sports franchises could check out the master's program in public relations or journalism. People interested in coaching sports at the high school level would likely need their teaching credential, which is earned through a master's in education program. Individuals more interested in the fitness side of sports could look into a master's program in exercise science or kinesiology, or a certificate in personal training.
