By SMD Staff
If you have an interest in business and a passion for sports, earning an online sports management degree is an excellent goal. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), entertainment and sports occupations will grow by 13 percent from 2021 to 2031. This is much faster than the average for most other occupations. Sports management roles like business managers and sports agents earn a mean annual wage of $116,410 per year. Sports management can definitely be a lucrative career!
Related Resource: Can I Earn a Specialized Sports Marketing Degree?
What is Sports Management?
The business of sports and recreation is known as sports management. And it encompasses the commercial aspects of sports and entertainment. Many people enjoy sports. Some enjoy taking risks and overcoming obstacles. People with these qualities can earn online sports degrees and have successful careers in the field.
The field is enormous. Sports managers work for professional clubs and organizations like the National Football League, the NBA, the MLB, and the NHL. They also work for recreational departments and sports marketing agencies. They can be event managers, facilities managers, and sports economists. Additionally, they may work in finance, promotion, or information professions, among other things.
Sports managers may oversee the front office or work behind the scenes. They can also serve as a liaison between players, coaches, and the media. All individuals in these management positions value the energy, enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and collaboration.
In addition to working as agents and managers, sports management professionals also work as:
- Athlete Development Specialists
- Contract Analysts
- Event Coordinators
- Athletic Coaches
- Sport Lawyers
- Sport Marketers
- Contract Administrators
- Director of Operations
- Public Relations Specialists
Online Degrees in Sports Management
Online education is more prevalent today than ever. Almost every college and university hosts online platforms. There are free classes, bootcamps, and certifications. And there are numerous online undergraduate and graduate degrees to pursue. Online degree programs are widely available for those who want to enter the field of sports management. Getting your degree online has several advantages:
- Online programs are adaptable, allowing you to pursue your objectives at your speed. And remote education enables you to access the course materials and study at your own pace.
- Online degrees are ideal for those who need to continue working while pursuing a degree.
- Earning your sports management degree online allows you the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world.
- Sports management online programs are generally less expensive. There are no housing or meal plan expenses. And because there is no commute, fuel and vehicle costs are substantially reduced.
Methodology for Online Sports Management Degrees
To identify the top 25 best sports degrees online, we started with a search on NCES College Navigator. We looked for colleges offering sports management degrees online. We also consulted the official sport management accreditation organization, COSMA. COSMA stands for the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation. We noted which schools hold accreditation by them. We also 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 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
Overall Graduation Rate
Less than 50%= 1 Points
Greater than 50%= 2 Point
Accreditation through COSMA
Schools with COSMA accreditation= 5 Points
Below are 25 schools that offer the best online sports management degree programs. These programs teach the basic skills needed to enter the field in an entry-level management position. Many sports degree online programs also provide specific specializations or concentrations. These can help you narrow your skills to a particular niche in your field.
Best Online Sports Management Bachelor Degrees
| School | Student:Faculty Ratio | Undergrad Net Price | Graduation Rate | Score |
| #25 Culver-Stockton College | 14:1 | $20,567 | 49% | 3 |
| #24 Keiser University – Ft Lauderdale | 16:1 | $31,984 | 67% | 4 |
| #23 McKendree University | 15:1 | $25,492 | 56% | 4 |
| #22 Maryville University of Saint Louis | 13:1 | $24,733 | 73% | 4 |
| #21 Missouri Baptist University | 20:1 | $23,356 | 41% | 4 |
| #20 Post University | 21:1 | $22,328 | 20% | 4 |
| #19 Southern New Hampshire University | 24:1 | $21,502 | 39% | 4 |
| #18 Toccoa Falls College | 15:1 | $20,969 | 53% | 4 |
| #17 Eastern Kentucky University | 15:1 | $14,271 | 48% | 4 |
| #16 Wilmington University | 12:1 | $13,780 | 23% | 4 |
| #15 University of Alaska Fairbanks | 12:1 | $9,379 | 38% | 4 |
| #14 University of Iowa | 15:1 | $17,599 | 74% | 5 |
| #13 Colorado Mesa University | 18:1 | $15,324 | 38% | 5 |
| #12 Bellevue University | 19:1 | $15,229 | 23% | 5 |
| #11 Mercy College | 15:1 | $15,027 | 71% | 5 |
| #10 American Public University | 22:1 | $11,916 | 49% | 5 |
| #9 Concordia University – Saint Paul | 18:1 | $15,944 | 53% | 6 |
| #8 University of Memphis | 16:1 | $14,251 | 54% | 6 |
| #7 Monroe College | 16:1 | $12,054 | 57% | 6 |
| #6 University of Minnesota – Crookston | 16:1 | $11,925 | 56% | 6 |
| #5 Florida International University | 24:1 | $9,398 | 67% | 6 |
| #4 University of Florida – Online | 49:1 | $9,024 | 72% | 6 |
| #3 Davenport University | 15:1 | $18,924 | 48% | 9 |
| #2 Shorter University | 15:1 | $16,438 | 37% | 9 |
| #1 Troy University | 16:1 | $12,486 | 52% | 11 |
Ranking the Best Sport Management Online Programs
Best Sports Management Programs:
#25 Culver-Stockton College
Canton, Missouri
Bachelor’s in Sports Management Degree Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $20,567
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 49%
Points: 3
This bachelor’s in sports management program gives students a range of skills in sports management. This degree is for students who want to work in sports-related fields besides teacher education. In addition, this degree will equip students for professions in media communication and administration.
The sports management online degree at CSC is designed for students who want to earn their degrees while maintaining their careers. 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 Management
- Ethics and Governance
- Legal Issues in Sport
- Professional networking
- Sport Ethics and Governance
- Psychological and Sociological Aspects of PE and Sport
Job shadowing and internships prepare students for success with real-world experiences. And many of the school’s graduates go on to work in exciting roles with professional sports teams. They also work in health and fitness centers and collegiate athletic departments. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#24 Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Bachelor’s in Sports Management Degree Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $31,984
Accreditation: SACS
Overall Graduation Rate: 67%
Points: 4
Keiser University has a regulation as one of the best schools for a sports management major. And it offers a high-value online sports management program with some unique features. Students complete four internships throughout the program, gaining real-world experience. Students learn to:
- Design, implement, and manage sports events.
- Manage market strategies.
- Handle the day-to-day business of sports organizations.
- Learn public relations skills relevant to the industry.
The 100% online curriculum allows students to complete their degrees on their schedule. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles with:
- Professional sport teams
- Sport communication firms
- Public relations firms
- College athletic departments
- Advertising and Sport Marketing Agencies
- Recreational facilities
Additionally, KU-FL offers an online Bachelor’s degree in Golf Management. They also offer a hybrid sports management master’s degree program. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#23 McKendree University
Lebanon, Illinois
Online Sports Management Bachelor’s Degree Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $25,492
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 56%
Points: 4
MU offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports Administration. It is designed to educate students in all aspects of sports management. These include the core economic and social environment of sports businesses and facility operations. It also teaches event marketing and management. In addition, the program offers an internship to apply sports management courses to solve management problems in sports.
MU provides a flexible online course format through the Brightspace platform. Brightspace is an innovative course management system. Courses run for eight weeks. And students take two courses during each session. Some of the interesting online classes include:
- Sports Facilities Management
- Legal Aspects of the Industry
- Sport & Health Psychology
- Budget & Financing of Sport
Best Sports Management Programs:
#22 Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, Missouri
Bachelor’s in Rawlings Sport Business Administration
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Net Price: $24,733
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges; ACBSP
Overall Graduation Rate: 73%
Points: 4
Maryville University is home to the Rawlings Sport Business Management program. The coursework was built in partnership with Rawlings and Game Face. This Bachelor of sports management includes two concentration choices. Choose from Sport Data Analytics or Results-Centered Sales. Students will gain professional experience through internships. Some of the required courses in the 128-hour curriculum include:
- Legal Aspects of Sport Business Management
- Sport Business Data Analytics Visualization and Effective Communication
- Selling in Sports – Customer Relationship Management
- Sport Finance
A bachelor’s degree in Rawlings sport business management can lead to a variety of careers, including:
- Sports marketing analyst
- Sports data analyst
- Account representative
- Fan development
- Engagement specialist
- Sports agent
The degree program is 100% online, with no campus visits required. Additionally, prospective students pay no application fee. And no SAT/ACT scores are required for this sport management education program. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#21 Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, Missouri
Bachelor’s in Sports Management Degree Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $23.356
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 41%
Points: 4
The Bachelor of Sports Management at MBU is an excellent program for sports business students. It equips graduates with the skills to organize, administer, and facilitate sport programs. And students gain the skills essential to succeeding in the sport management industry.
This affordable online program guides students on a path ensuring they keep pace with the expectations of the profession. And it is designed to provide students with the skills needed for success. Up to 96 existing credit hours can be applied toward this degree program. Some of the sports management classes online include:
- Communication in Sport
- Tournament Management
- Sporting Events Management
All students complete a 200-clock-hour sports management practicum. This allows them to gain professional experience. As a result, sports management degree holders are ready for careers in the sport and recreation business. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#20 Post University
Waterbury, Connecticut
Bachelor’s in Sports Management Degree Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Net Price: $22,328
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education; ACBSP
Overall Graduation Rate: 20%
Points: 4
Post University offers a cost-effective, online sports management degree. And it’s designed to help students score a winning career in the field of sports management. Students can choose from concentrations in sport communication or sports psychology. All courses emphasize areas like:
- Business ethics
- Communication
- Change management
PU gives students a global perspective on sports management. Experienced faculty teach a career-focused curriculum offered through the School of Business. Before graduation, students complete an internship. This experience provides them with practical hands-on experience to become sports management professionals.
Some of the school’s graduates have found work in organizations like:
- YMCA
- Boys and Girls Clubs of America
- Professional and collegiate sports teams
Best Sports Management Programs:
#19 Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Bachelor’s in Sports Management Degree
Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Average Net Price: $21,502
Accreditation: ACBSP; New England Commission of Higher Education
Overall Graduation Rate: 39%
Points: 4
Southern New Hampshire University features an excellent online sports management bachelor’s degree. This program is ideal for those who have already earned credits. That’s because the school allows students to transfer up to 90 credit hours of completed undergraduate coursework. Additionally, there is no application fee. And students do not need to submit SAT/ACT scores to be considered for acceptance.
The online degree program at Southern New Hampshire University provides complete freedom. With no class schedules, you can learn at your own pace and access online course materials anytime. In addition, you’ll have access to many virtual learning possibilities as an online sports management student. This includes an internship or experiential learning course as part of the curriculum.
Some of the featured core curriculum courses for this bachelor’s in sports management include:
- Sport, Society, and Ethics
- Internationalization of Sport Business
- Global Sport Business
- Research Methods in Sports Management
SNHU also offers an accelerated bachelor’s to master’s pathway. This program is excellent for students planning to continue graduate study. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#18 Toccoa Falls College
Toccoa Falls, Georgia
Bachelor’s in Sports Management Degree
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $20,969
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduation Rate: 53%
Points: 4
Toccoa Falls College features an affordable, remote bachelor of sport management program. It is taught from a biblical perspective. Students get the opportunity to intern with professional sports organizations. And this helps prepare them for success after graduation. A National Coaching Certificate is also included upon graduating, adding value to the degree.
The Sport Management major is a 127-hour curriculum. It comprises 69 hours of general education courses, 15 hours of open electives, and 43 hours of Sport Management-specific courses. Some classes include:
- Organization & Administration of Sport
- Events Management in Sports & Entertainment
- Sports Law & Ethics
- CPR, & Life Fitness
- First Aid
- Coaching Techniques.
Toccoa Falls College boasts a 100% graduation rate for sports management students. In addition, students report working in the sports industry within six months of graduation. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#17 Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Online BS in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $14,271
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Overall Graduation Rate: 48%
Points: 4
The online BS in sports management at EKU is a flexible program for students with a love of business and sports. Students can transfer up to 90 hours of completed college credits, saving both time and money. In addition, a wide variety of minors are available. And this allows students to tailor their degree programs to their professional goals. It also helps to make use of prior credits.
Online courses are offered in accelerated eight-week terms. New courses begin six times each year. No campus visits are required, and students can study for their management degree anytime, anywhere. A few of the required courses include:
- Policy and Governance in Sport
- Management of Sport Organizations
- Sport Communications
- Sports Writing & Reporting
- Intro to Recreation Therapy
- Sports and Recreation Management
To graduate, you must complete 120 credits, including 42 upper-division credits. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#16 Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
Online Degree in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Net Price: $13,780
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; IACBE
Overall Graduation Rate: 23%
Points: 4
Wilmington University is one of the best online schools we’ve found for sports management. And it offers an affordable, online sports degree. Students can complete a complimentary certificate in areas like:
- Sport analytics
- Sport media
- Nonprofit management
Additionally, a variety of internship and career advancement opportunities are available to students. Some of the sports management core courses include:
- Sports Marketing and Promotions
- Financing Sport Operations
- Sociology of Sport
Best Sports Management Programs:
#15 University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, Alaska
Bachelors in Business Administration with a Sports Management concentration
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Net Price: $9,379
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities; AACSB
Overall Graduation Rate: 38%
Points: 4
UAF offers an affordable, online BBA with a concentration in sports management. It combines business, leadership, and hands-on education. The sports management concentration area includes unique online coursework in:
- Sport Analytics
- The Legal Environment of Business
- Sport Psychology
- Social Media Marketing
- Sports Marketing
Students take elective courses to tailor the program to meet their professional goals. The sports management focus is available online through a combination of delivery options. Career paths include working with college athletes and professional sports teams as well as in the international business of sports. Graduates are also prepared to work in amateur and youth sports organizations.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#14 University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
Online Sport and Recreation Management, B.S.
Student to Faculty Ratio:15:1
Average Net Price: $17,599
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 74%
Points: 5
U Iowa has an online sport and recreation management bachelor’s degree. It is offered through the Department of Health and Human Physiology. This unique program provides a comprehensive curriculum. And there is a distinct focus on the business perspective of the field. The purpose is to prepare leaders to face global sporting issues. In addition, the award-winning faculty fosters a collaborative and caring learning environment.
Concentrations are available in a variety of areas, including:
- Business Studies
- Coaching and Sport Instruction
- Entrepreneurship
- Interscholastic Athletic/Activities Administration
In addition to concentration and foundation courses, students get sport managements field experience. There are no on-campus residency requirements. Students can earn their management degree online from anywhere in the world and learn to work with professional sports organizations. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#13 Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, Colorado
Bachelor’s in Sports Management Degree Program Online
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $15,324
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 38%
Points: 5
The remote Bachelor of Science in Sports Management offered by CMU prepares students for a variety of professional roles in sports. The program aims to give an in-depth understanding and working experience in event planning. It also provides the skills needed to work with organizations, leadership, and evaluation within sports or fitness groups. The robust curriculum is taught by trained professionals in both sports and business. Some of the courses in this online degree 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 of this online sport management degree are prepared for career paths like:
- Sports marketer
- Community recreation manager
- Sport facility managemer
- Public relations specialist
- College or professional sports director
- Athletic director
- Sports agent
A BS in Sport Management can lead to an MBA or sports management master’s degree CMU offers an MBA with a track in Sport Management through the Davis School of Business. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#12 Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Bachelor of Arts Sport Management Degree
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $15,229
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 23%
Points: 5
BU features a remote bachelor of arts in sports management. This degree is excellent for students with a passion for the business side of sports. The program lets students pursue their interests while preparing for a future in sports organizations. It also provides fundamental business management and leadership information. Students can also choose from many optional topics of study.
With flexible online courses, students can learn from anywhere in the world on their own schedule. Major online course requirements include:
- Sport Ethics
- Sport Facility Management
- Sport Public Relations and Communication
- Contemporary Issues in Sport
- Sport Marketing
- Legal Aspects of Sport and Physical Activity
Students can also minor in business administration to complement the sports management major. In addition, a 120-clock-hour internship gives students valuable work experience in sports management. And it prepares them for a wide range of sports management careers. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#11 Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Online B.S. in Business Administration: Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $15,027
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Overall Graduation Rate: 71%
Points: 5
The bachelor of business in sports management from MC gives students real-world experience. The program aims to encourage academic success and professional growth. It does this by teaching a broad overview of the business of sports.
Specialization courses include:
- Sports Faculty Management
- App Res Analysis Sports Mgt
- Sport and Society
- Sport Law
- Foundations Sports Management
- Sports Finance and Administration
The sports business degree program is offered entirely online with no on-campus residency requirements. Full-time students can complete the program in about four years. Graduates of Sports Management will be equipped to flourish in a range of fields. Some of these include:
- Sport facility management
- Sport events management
- High school and college athletics
- Professional and amateur sports leagues and organizations
- Sports agent
Best Sports Management Programs:
#10 American Public University
Charles Town, West Virginia
Online BS in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Average Net Price: $11,916
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 49%
Points: 5
This online bachelor’s in sports mngmt. from APU gives students a thorough understanding of sports administration. In addition, the program includes a chance to gain certification in ticket sales. This is a dynamic program that teaches both strategic and tactical thinking.
Online courses are offered in an eight-week format with monthly course starts. Courses in this sport management degree program cover:
- Applied Concepts in Sports Finance
- Athletic Programs Administration
- Ticket Sales Management
Students complete a senior seminar in sports management, giving them real-life, hands-on tools for success in the sports industry. Networking skills and job interview preparation are also components of the capstone course. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#9 Concordia University – Saint Paul
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Online BA in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:18:1
Average Net Price: $15,944
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 53%
Points: 6
The online bachelor of arts in sport management at CU emphasizes core concepts in sport theory and business. Students in this program learn how to plan, develop, and manage sports facilities. CU provides sports expertise, a customized internship, and assistance from alumni professionals.
Courses are offered in short, seven-week online sessions, and there are no on-campus residency requirements. Students can complete the 120-credit hour program in as little as two years. Featured core curriculum courses include:
- Sociology of Sports and Exercise
- Planning and Managing Sports Facilities
- Biomechanics
- Sport Business
95% of the program’s graduates have a job offer within a year of completing their degree. Graduates have been successful in roles like athletic director and coach. And many also work as sports information directors and sporting facility managers. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#8 University of Memphis
Memphis, Tennessee
Online B.S. degree in Sport and Leisure Management
Student to Faculty Ratio:16:1
Average Net Price: $14,251
Accreditation: SACS
Overall Graduation Rate: 57%
Points: 6
U of M’s online bachelor of science in sport and leisure management features a diverse curriculum. This program gives students the skills for careers in sports marketing and management. It also prepares them for roles in facility and event operations and other administrative positions in the sports sector.
Students in this sport management degree online complete their courses 100 percent remotely. They can also gain hands-on opportunities within their local geographical area. There are no campus visits required. Major courses include:
- Promotions in Sport and Leisure
- Financial Management in Sport and Leisure
- Sport and Leisure Marketing
Students can complete the 120-credit hour program from anywhere. Additionally, they may also get credit for previously completed coursework at another university.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#7 Monroe College
Bronx, New York
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $12,054
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Overall Graduation Rate: 57%
Points: 6
The online BBA in sports management from MC gives students management, marketing, and finance skills. These are industry essentials. The program also teaches students about the legal and ethical problems that come with sports. And it prepares them for the responsibilities of sport management professionals. Courses include:
- Digital and Search Engine Marketing
- Financial Management for Sports Organizations
- Global Business
- Sports Operations and Event Management
- Principles of Management
- Digital and Search Engine Marketing
Through MC, students get access to many networking and internship opportunities. These hands-on opportunities provide valuable experience in the field. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#6 University of Minnesota Crookston
Crookston, Minnesota
Online Sport and Recreation Management BS
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $11,935
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; ACBSP
Overall Graduation Rate: 56%
Points: 6
The sports management online BS program at UM-Crookston is an ACBSP-accredited program. It is an excellent choice for students with an AS or AAS degree. Additionally, the program welcomes incoming first-year students or those already working in the field. Class sizes are small, and faculty have outstanding academic and real-world knowledge.
The degree program is taught in a flexible online format. Courses include experiential learning projects and real-world case studies. This helps students learn to navigate current trends and best practices in the industry. This degree requires 120 credits to graduate. Some core curriculum courses include:
- Foundations of Sport and Recreation Management
- Sports Marketing and Communication
- Socio-Cultural Dimensions in Sport
- Event Planning and Management
- Psychology of Sport
UM-Crookstom also offers an online Sports & Recreation Management Certificate. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#5 Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Online BS Recreation and Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Average Net Price: $9,398
Accreditation: SACS
Overall Graduation Rate: 67%
Points: 6
FIU offers an inexpensive online bachelor’s degree in recreation and sports management. The program prepares students with the skills for the fast-paced recreation sports industry. The curriculum blends fundamentals with real-world applications. And it includes industry-specific courses in finance, law, and marketing. Courses in human resource management and the sociology of sport are also included. Core curriculum courses include:
- Leisure and Recreation in America
- Human Resource Management in Sports Management
- Marketing Management
- Sociology of Sport
- Liability and Law in Leisure, Recreation, and Sports
This degree program is entirely online and can be completed at your own pace. Students can view lectures and get real-time feedback from teachers. They can also collaborate with other students from all over the country on their projects. Access to a personal success coach for one-on-one guidance is also available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#4 University of Florida – Online
Gainesville, Florida
Online Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 49:1
Average Net Price: $9,024
Accreditation: SACS
Overall Graduation Rate: 72%
Points: 6
The online BS degree in sports management from UF is offered through the College of Health and Human Performance. The program gives students the knowledge and skills needed to apply core ideas of administration, marketing, finance, and legislation to sports organizations.
UF – Online is a fully online college platform. Courses are taught by the same elite faculty who teach the traditional on-campus program. Some of the courses include:
- Sport and Society
- Sports Facility Design and Management
- Business Finance
- Social Issues in Sport
- Sport Marketing
- The Legal Environment of Business and Entrepreneurship
All students complete a full-time sports management internship during their final semester. This 40-hour-per-week internship gives students professional work experience. And it will help them transition from the classroom to the field. As a result, graduates are prepared for positions like facility manager, sports event manager, and more.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#3 Davenport University
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Online BBA – Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $18,924
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; IACBE; COSMA
Overall Graduation Rate: 48%
Points: 9
DU offers a COSMA-accredited BBA that covers critical business areas of sports. This program gives students the skills to work in sport management. They can also apply their BBA in any field, sports-related or not. The fully online program requires 120 credits. Some of the courses include:
- Sport Governance and Regulation
- Analytics
- Athletic Leadership and Coaching
- Financial Analysis for Business Managers
- Sport Communication and Promotion
- Sport Governance and Regulation
All students complete a 300-clock-hour internship. This practical internship is designed to give participants hands-on experience. Previous internship sites included working with the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#2 Shorter University
Rome, Georgia
Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $16,438
Accreditation: SACS; COSMA
Overall Graduation Rate: 37%
Points: 9
SU features a BBA in sports management offered through the Ledbetter College of Business. In the words of SU: “The Department of Sport Management is built upon sound business principles and is committed to the relationship between sport and business. ” Shorter is a Christian University. So this program is designed to prepare Christian leaders in the diverse professional sports industry.
All students must take an 18-semester hour minor which adds value to their degree. The COSMA-accredited sport management program includes courses in:
- Event Management
- Legal Aspects of Sport
- Ethics in Sport
- Introduction to Sport Management
- Sport Governance
SU offers a lecture series focused on career advice and interview/resume techniques. They also host a job fair that helps students make meaningful industry connections.
SU also offers an Associate of Science in Sport Management. In addition, they offer a Master of Business Administration in Sport Management. Financial aid is available.
Best Sports Management Programs:
#1 Troy University
Troy, Alabama
B.S., Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management, Sport Management
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Net Price: $12,486
Accreditation: SACS; COSMA
Overall Graduation Rate: 52%
Points: 11
Our choice for the best bachelor’s in sports management is Troy University. This COSMA-accredited program is taught by an outstanding experienced faculty. And they are fully dedicated to student success inside and outside the classroom. Instructors use case studies to help students understand trends in future work environments.
The 120 credit hour curriculum courses include:
- Event Management in Hospitality, Sport & Tourism Management
- Leisure in Society
- Analytics in Hospitality, Sport & Tourism Management
- Research Methods in Hospitality, Sport & Tourism Management
- Revenue Generation in Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management
- Case Studies in Sports Management
TU also offers students hands-on internship opportunities. This helps graduates score a great job after they complete their management degree. Troy also offers an M.S. in Sport and Fitness Management so you can take your education and career even further. Financial aid is available.
Closing Thoughts
Sports Management is a growing field. The career possibilities vary greatly depending on your expertise and goals. In this exciting field, there are frequent opportunities for career advancement. We invite you to check out this list of the top online sports management programs. An online sports degree in sports management can open the door to lifelong career opportunities that are both lucrative and exciting.
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