The global sport market is worth somewhere between $480 and $620 billion and continues to grow. Professionals with the knowledge and experience to effectively manage sport organizations, facilities, teams, and even individuals are in-demand. Earning a master’s degree in sports management is a great way turn your passion for sports into a lucrative career! Sport managers have extensive training and experience in sport law, sport finance, marketing, business, finance, and even HR. Some sport management degree programs have additional certification options in coaching or administration to add value to their degree.
We created this list of the top 25 most affordable private large universities offering a master’s in sport management. Large private universities usually have a variety of networking opportunities, creative financial aid packages, and lower class size than their public counterparts. They can also be surprisingly affordable! Large private universities are typically smaller than large public universities. For the purpose of this list, large private universities are defined by those with an undergraduate enrollment of over 5,000 students. Below is our list of the 25 most affordable large private universities that offer a master’s in sport management.
Related Resource: Can I Earn a Specialized Sports Marketing Degree?
#25 – Northwestern University – Evanston, Illinois
Master’s in Sports Administration
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $56,067/year
Northwestern University is a top large private university and is amongst the most selective schools in the country. Northwestern offers a high-value master’s in sports administration that can be completed on-campus or online. All courses are taught by faculty with extensive professional experience in the field. Students can choose to complete an optional sports analytics specialization, available online online. Courses for the master’s in sports administration include:
- Sports Marketing
- Legal and Ethical Issues
- Sports Public Relations
Students have the option to choose either a thesis or a capstone course depending on their future educational and professional goals.
#24 – Georgetown University – Washington, DC
Master’s in Sports Industry Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $51,336/year
The School of Continuing Studies at Georgetown University features a high-quality master’s in sports industry management available online or on-campus. Students will engage with practitioners from top sport organizations while learning valuable skills in business, communication, and leadership. This top, 30 credit hour, master’s degree program can be completed in just one year or students may take as long as five years to complete their degree. Courses cover areas like:
- Social Responsibility and Diversity in Sports
- Applied Ethics in Sports
- Sports Business and Finance
Both full and part-time program options are available. New students are admitted during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
#23 – Columbia University in the City of New York – New York, New York
Master of Science in Sports Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $47,600/year
Columbia University in New York is a top-value, large, private university and is the fifth oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. The School of Professional Studies at Columbia offers the only master’s in sports management in the Ivy League. Students benefit from exciting networking, internships, and employment opportunities in the fast paced area of sports management. Internships and special projects are a key component of the program and include opportunities with the NFL, NBA, NHL, and ESPN. Both full and part-time program options are available for students with professional experience or interest in the sports industry. Both options are available on-campus and include either an internship or integrative project.
#22 – Adelphi University – Garden City, New York
MS in Sport Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $41,920/year
The College of Education and Health Sciences at Adelphi University offers a high-level master’s in sports management available online or on-campus. Students can also choose from three different specializations including sport-based youth development, sport marketing, and collegiate athletic administration. Master’s program courses include:
- Technology in Sport Management
- Sport Management Personnel and Program Evaluations
- Contemporary Issues in Sport Management
All students complete a capstone course that requires either an internship or an independent study. Graduates are prepared to work with sports teams, sport marketing agencies, and sport events and facilities.
#21 – Southern Methodist University – Dallas, Texas
M.S. In Sport Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $40,896/year
Southern Methodist University is a large private university located outside of Dallas, Texas. Through a partnership with the Cox School of Business and the Simmons School of Education and Human Development, SMU offers a high-value master’s in sport management. This 12 month, full-time program is taught by industry experts. Students are engaged in hands on projects with teams like the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Mavericks. Courses include:
- Sport Organizational Design
- Business Presentation Techniques
- Case Studies in Sports Sponsorship
Classes primarily meet on Monday through Thursday evenings although there are a couple Friday or Saturday morning classes. All students compete a four credit hour internship experience during the summer.
#20 – University of Miami – Coral Gables, Florida
Master of Education in Sport Administration
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $37,800/year
The high-quality master’s in sport management from the University of Miami is an exceptional online degree program that can be completed in 20 months. The top-value program was created for students with a passion for sports and want a successful career in the sport industry. Students complete 10 courses cover areas like:
- Essential Leadership Skills in Sport
- Ethical Decision Making in Sport
- Legal Aspects of Sports
Students complete one course at a time and take a new course every seven weeks. Scholarships are available and students may qualify for a GRE waiver.
#19 – Drexel University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Master’s in Sport Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $35,181/year
Drexel University is a large private research university offering a top-value master’s in sport management in a convenient online format. Students will learn from experts with professional ties to the sport industry. Courses are offered in short, 10-week quarters which allow students to take more courses over a shorter amount of time. Courses include:
- Sports Industry Management
- Marketing Strategy & Planning
- Sport Media & Public Relations
An optional summer residency provides students with the opportunity to engage in tours, hear guest speakers, and network with sport management professionals.
#18 – Baylor University – Waco, Texas
MSEd in Sport Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $32,130/year
Baylor University features an affordable, 36 credit hour master’s in sport management that is one of the first programs in the nation. This residential program can be completed in 22 to 24 months. The class size is intentionally kept small, with a typical class size ranging from eight to 16 students. Courses include:
- NCAA Policies and Procedures
- Financial Management in Sport
- Sport in Social Context
Courses are taught by world-class faculty with high levels of scholarly activity that includes publishing in peer reviewed journals and presenting at conferences. All students complete an internship, practicum, or thesis.
#17 – George Washington University – Washington, DC
Master of Science in Sport Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $31,770/year
George Washington University features a top master’s in sport management. GWU is a large private research university located in Washington, DC. Admission to this high-value master’s degree program is competitive and applicants should have earned a bachelor’s from an accredited college or university and have a demonstrated interest in the area of sport management. Sport management students have the opportunity to participate in exciting domestic and international opportunities including immersion programs at the Olympic Games and consulting in developing global destinations. Courses include:
- SportvLaw: Contracts and Negotiations
- Sport Media and Communications
- Sport Marketing
For More Information: George Washington University
#16 – Boston College – Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
Master of Science (M.S.) in Sports Administration
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $30,600/year
Boston College is a large private university affiliated with the Roman Catholic church. Boston College features a top-value master’s in sports administration through the Woods College of Advancing Studies. This 10 course program is offered to both full and part-time students. Courses include:
- Sports Law and Compliance
- Sports Marketing and Communication
- Coaching for Performance and Student Athlete Development
Students complete an internship during their final semester with their Boston College Athletics or a local professional sports organization that may include exciting opportunities with the NY Mets or Brooklyn Nets.
#15 – American University – Washington, DC
Online Master of Science in Sports Analytics and Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $30,351/year
American University in Washington, DC is a top private affordable university offering a master’s in sports analytics online. This unique master’s degree program gets students workforce ready through the Professional Studies Experience. The PSE is a four-phase curriculum model that includes professionally aligned coursework and relevant skills that are in demand by leading employers. This 20-month program includes courses in:
- Strategic Management of Sports Organizations
- Client Communications & Professional Consulting
- Sports Analytics & Social Engagement
This fully online program consists of 10 courses, each lasting eight weeks. Graduates are successful working with sports teams, governance agencies, and sports agencies and firms.
#14 – St. John’s University – Queens, New York
Sport Management, Masters of Professional Studies
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $28,569/year
St. John’s University is a large private Roman Catholic university with locations in New York, Italy, France, and Ireland. St. John’s offers an affordable master’s in sport management that can be completed in as few as 18 months. This high-value, 36 credit hour master’s degree program includes courses in:
- Strategic Sport Communication
- Strategic Sport Management
- Financial Perspectives in Sport
All students complete two capstone projects, one related to research and one with industry professionals. Both full and part-time program options are available. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for the program unless students want to be considered for an assistantship.
#13 – University of San Francisco – San Francisco, California
MA in Sport Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $25,740/year
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of San Francisco features a high-quality, affordable master’s in sports management taught by industry experienced faculty. Students can complete their economical master’s degree in sport management within 23 months by taking courses one evening a week. An extensive 1,000+ clock hour internship provides students with valuable hands-on industry training. The program follows a cohort model. Courses are offered at both the San Francisco and Orange County campuses. Graduates are part of a network of over 2,500 alumni, learning the way in the sport management industry.
#12 – Belmont University – Nashville, Tennessee
Master of Sport Administration
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $22,680/year
Belmont University is a large public university with over 8,400 students and 130 low-cost programs of study including a top affordable master’s in sport management. This highly hands-on program includes multiple internship experiences and hands-on training opportunities. Courses include:
- Organizational Behavior and Leadership in Sport
- Marketing and Public Relations in Sport
- Financial Aspects of Sport
Graduates have been successful working for a variety of professional organizations including the NBA, NHL, and MLB. Graduates can also be found working in intercollegiate and interscholastic athletics and non-profit sport organizations.
For More Information: Belmont University
#11 – Fairleigh Dickinson University – Teaneck, New Jersey
Master of Sports Administration
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $22,186/year
Fairleigh Dickinson University is the largest private university in the state of New Jersey, with over 11,500 students and more than 100 economical undergraduate and graduate degree programs. FDU features a top affordable master’s in sports administration focused on both practical and theoretical aspects of the industry. This high-value master’s degree program is available online or on-campus. On-campus courses are offered at the FDU Metropolitan Campus and the FDU Florham Campus. This 36 credit hour program includes courses in:
- Legal Issues in the Domestic and International Sports Industry
- Sports Administration Research and Policy Analysis
- Financial Administration in Sports
Students seeking a specialization have three options to choose from including:
- Sports Administration
- Coaching Theory and Strategies
- High School Athletic Director
To complete the specialization, students must complete all required coursework and an internship experience.
#10 – Southern New Hampshire University – Manchester, New Hampshire
Master’s Degree in Sports Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,810/year
Southern New Hampshire University is a large private university offering an affordable master’s in sports management in a flexible online format. Students have access to their classes 24/7 and can attend class when it is most convenient. Courses are offered in short, 10-week terms and students can complete their degree in as few as 15 months. Courses include:
- Internationalization of Sport Business
- Management of Sport Organizations
- Finance and Economics of Sport
Faculty provide students with expert level instruction and share their real-world experience. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for admission. All students have access to academic and career advisors dedicated to student success.
#9 – Lindenwood University – Saint Charles, Missouri
Sport Management (MA)
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,000/year
The affordable top sport management master’s program at Lindenwood University offers a unique blend of formal coursework and practical application. Students can begin their low-cost master’s degree at the start of any of the five terms Lindenwood offers. Courses typically meet one weekly during the evenings or Saturday mornings. Online courses follow an asynchronous format and students are expected to participate throughout the term. Courses include:
- Sport Marketing and Promotion
- Principles of Management in Sport Administration
- Sport Law
Students have the opportunity to complete a practicum in sport administration, providing them with additional professional experience in the field.
For More Information: Lindenwood University
#8 – University of the Incarnate Word – San Antonio, Texas
M.S. in Sport Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $17,280/year
The University of the Incarnate Word is a large, private university featuring an affordable master’s in sport management. This inexpensive, 36 credit hour master’s degree program includes courses in:
- Sport Management, Administration, and Finance
- Leadership and Organization in Sport Management
- Human Resources in Sport Management
All students complete an internship in sport management as part of the program. Graduates work in a variety of sports organizations including professional and amateur sports organizations and charitable institutions.
#7 – University of New Haven – West Haven, Connecticut
Sport Management Master of Science
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $16,920/year
The College of Business at the University of New Haven features a high-value master’s in sport management with two distinct concentration options. Students can choose to focus on either business analytics, collegiate athletic administration or complete a general sport management degree. This AACSB accredited master’s degree program includes courses in:
- Sport Industry Marketing, Promotion and Public Relations
- Managing Sport Finances
- Strategic Sport Management
All students complete an internship to gain valuable hands-on skill development.
Related Resource: What Are the Best Classes for Sports Management Majors?
#6 – Gonzaga University – Spokane, Washington
Master’s in Sport & Athletic Administration
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $16,672/year
The low-cost master’s in sport and athletic administration from Gonzaga University is available on-line or on-campus. This inexpensive, 31 credit hour master’s degree program can be completed in two years of study. Courses include:
- Sport & Athletic Promotions
- Sport Media and Communication
- Ethical and Legal Aspects in Sport
The online master’s program requires 10 courses and an internship and there are no on-campus visits required. The on-campus program is comprised of 10 courses and two internships. Both programs deliver the same high-quality experience that includes one-on-one attention from professors.
For More Information: Gonzaga University
#5 – Xavier University – Cincinnati, Ohio
Master of Education in Sport Administration
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,060/year
Xavier University is a top large public university offering a low-priced master’s in sport administration. Students are taught by professionals with experience in the industry. Courses include:
- Sport Administration: Marketing
- Sport Research and Statistics
- Sport Administration: Finance
Students have the unique opportunity to serve as interns, volunteers, and employees of the Flying Pig Marathon, with over 40,000 participants. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles across all level of sport including professional, collegiate, high school, and recreational.
For More Information: Xavier University
#4 – Wilmington University – New Castle, Delaware
M.S. in Management (MSM)-Sports Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,784/year
The College of Business at Wilmington University features an inexpensive master’s in management with a focus on sports management. Students will knowledge and experience in areas like governance and sports law. Courses include:
- Business Strategy in Sports Management
- Sports Economics and Finance
- Sports Service and Event Marketing
Courses are offered online or on-campus to accommodate working professionals. Students without professional work experience in sport management can complete an internship as one of their electives. Students planning to take the Certified Athletic Administrators exam can take courses to prepare for the exam.
For More Information: Wilmington University
#3 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia
Master’s in Sports Management – General
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,980/year
Liberty University features a best-value, COSMA accredited master’s in sports management that can be completed in about 18 months. This economical master’s degree program is comprised of 36 credit hours and courses are offered in a 100% online format. Each course is eight weeks long. Students at this top affordable private university for a master’s in sport management can save additional money by transferring in up to 50% of their required courses. Featured courses at Liberty include:
- Sport Marketing and Public Relations
- Economic and Financial Management of Sport
- Social Issues in Sport Management
Students can customize their degree with one of several specialization options including:
- Sports Administration
- Outdoor Adventure Sports
- Coaching and Athletic Administration
For More Information: Liberty University
#2 – American Public University – Charles Town, West Virginia
Master of Science in Sports Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,615/year
American Public University, a member of the accredited American Public University System, is a top-value, large private university offering a master’s in sports management. Students benefit from no application fees, no transfer credit evaluation, and no entrance exams (including the GRE!). This cheap, 30 credit hour master’s degree program is available online. Students can choose from three concentration areas including:
- Coaching Theory and Strategy
- Interscholastic Athletic Administration
- Sports Business Leadership
Students can choose to complete a practicum to gain additional hands-on experience. Graduates are prepared to work as sport managers with athletic programs, teams, or individual athletes.
For More Information: American Public University
#1 – Ashland University – Ashland, Ohio
Master’s in Sport Management
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,540/year
Our top choice for an affordable large private university offering a master’s in sport management is Ashland University. The College of Business and Economics at Ashland features a best-value sport management master’s with small class size, unique field opportunities, and dedicated faculty. Courses cover areas like:
- Sports Marketing
- Global Perspective in Sports
- Introduction to Sport, Recreation, and Leisure
This real-world focused master’s degree program emphasizes hands-on experience. A variety of internship opportunities are available with organizations like the Cleveland Browns and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Related Resources:
- 50 Best Bachelor’s in Sports Science Degree Programs (Campus)
- Top 6 Online PhD in Sport Management
- Best Bachelor’s in Sport Management Degree Programs
- Best Online Sports Management Programs (Bachelor’s)
- Best Affordable Online Master’s in Sports Management
- Best Master’s in Sports Management Programs
- Affordable Selective Colleges
- Affordable Urban Colleges
- Small Colleges (Bachelor’s)
- Affordable Small Colleges (South)
- Best Associates Degrees for Future Sports Management Professionals
- Best Bachelor’s Degrees for Future Sports Management Professionals
- Top 10 PhD Programs in Sport Management
- Top 20 Sport Law Programs
- 25 Best Online Master’s in Sports Management Degree Programs
- Colleges in Florida for Sports Management (Florida T-Z)
