50 Most Affordable Urban Schools for Sports Management

Sports Management Degree Guide - Most Affordable

By SMG Staff

In this article, we highlight the 50 most affordable urban schools for sport management.

Interested in earning an affordable bachelor’s degree in sport management and like the feel of a college or university in an urban or city setting? Universities in an urban setting often have access to professional or semi-professional sports teams, large recreation programs, and substantial fitness programs. Internship opportunities are plentiful and students can take advantage of professional development opportunities not readily available in a rural setting. These programs don’t have to break the bank either! There are many affordable options available.

Featured Schools

Methodology

For this ranking, we used the NCES College Navigator database to examine over 100 institutions in the U.S. offering four-year bachelor’s degrees in Sport and Fitness Administration/Management and located in an urban or city setting. From these, we selected the least expensive based on net price*.

Related Resource: What Does A Sports Nutritionist Do?

#50 – University of Minnesota – Twin Cities – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

Website

Net Price: $16,691

The University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota offers an affordable bachelor’s in sport management that keeps up with the constant growth and changes in the field. Students have the opportunity to job shadow and network with area professionals, study abroad, and be involved in research efforts at the university. Core courses cover areas like:

Sport and Recreation Law
Sport Marketing
Sport in a Diverse Society

Elective course offerings allow students to tailor the program to meet their professional goals. All students complete a practicum at the end of the program. Previous practicum sites and organizations have included the Minnesota Timberwolves, Saint Paul Saints, and the Minnesota Vikings.

For More Information: University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

#49 – Madonna University – Livonia, Michigan

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

Net Price: $16,415

If you want to turn your passion for sports into a successful career, the affordable bachelor’s in sport management from Madonna University is worth a look! Students are involved in hands-on learning from their first course, learning the inner workings of the industry. Faculty are experienced industry professionals, working with organizations like the NFL, NBA, and NHL. Courses cover areas like:

Media Relations in Sport
Facility Design and Event Management
Sport Marketing

Students have the opportunity to hear guest speakers, network with other professionals, and talk about industry trends. Graduates are prepared for success in roles such as athletic director, event manager, and recreation director.

For More Information: Madonna University

#48 – Coastal Carolina University – Conway, South Carolina

BS in Recreation and Sport Management

Net Price: $16,368

Coastal Carolina University features a low-cost bachelor’s in recreation and sport management (RSM) that prepares future leaders of recreation and sports organizations. Students complete 58 credit hours of major specific coursework and a 480 clock hour internship. Students can tailor the economical sports management degree program to meet their specific goals by choosing 15 hours of coursework related to a specific skill set. Major courses cover areas like:

sport marketing
sport leadership
facility management

Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on and field based projects around Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach was called “Sportstown USA” in South Carolina by Sports Illustrated magazine.

For More Information: Coastal Carolina University

#47 – University of Akron Main Campus – Akron, Ohio

B.S. Sport Studies

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Net Price: $16,269

The affordable bachelor’s in sport studies from The University of Akron prepares students to work in a variety of professional, collegiate, or high school sport administration fields. The inexpensive sport studies major is available in two areas of concentration – Sports Management and Athletic Coaching Education. Sports management concentration courses include:

Sport Facility Management
Financial Aspects of Sport
Sport Planning and Promotion

To gain real world experience, all students complete 150 clock hours of practical experience. Practicum experiences in the past have included working with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Akron Rubber Ducks, and the Cleveland Browns.

For More Information: University of Akron – Main Campus

#46 – Towson University – Towson, Maryland

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $16,148

Towson University is an urban university outside of downtown Baltimore. They offer an affordable bachelor’s in sport management that gives students a strong understanding of the business of sport and the sociocultural role of sport in today’s society. All students must complete a minor in business administration. Throughout the low-priced sports management program, students are encouraged to participate in the Sport Business Association and engage in volunteer activities. An internship requirement is a critical program component. the proximity to Baltimore, Washington DC< and Philadelphia give students a variety of internship sites to choose from.

For More Information: Towson University

#45 – Southern Illinois University – Carbondale, Illinois

Bachelor in Sport Administration

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Net Price: $16,105

The Department of Kinesiology at Southern Illinois University Carbondale offers an affordable sports administration bachelors degree program that keeps up with the fast-growing sports industry. Through hands-on research, interactive learning, and modern technology students learn what it takes to be successful in this cut throat industry. Courses include:

Psychological & Social Aspect of Sports
Sport Governance
Sport Venue and Event Management

An internship is required during the final program year and many students secure internship opportunities within the SIU athletic department. Graduates of this inexpensive sports management degree program are successful in a variety of roles in sport marketing, facility management, coaching, and athletic management.

For More Information: Southern Illinois University – Carbondale

#44 – University of Houston – Houston, Texas

Bachelor of Science Degree in Sport Administration

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Net Price: $16,002

University of Houston is an urban university offering an affordable bachelor’s in sport administration. Course offerings include:

Sports Communication
Economic/Financial Aspects of Sports
Legal & Ethical Aspects of Sports

A required internship and senior seminar provide students with practical and professional experience in various sport administration settings. Students are encouraged to get experience in the field before their internship and may be eligible for credit for these experiences. University of Houston students can participate in the Houston Institute of Sport Administration, a campus organization dedicated to career advancement in the field.

For More Information: University of Houston

#43 – Old Dominion University – Norfolk, Virginia

Sport Management Bachelor’s Program

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Net Price: $15,917
Old Dominion University features a top affordable bachelor’s in sport management through the Department of Human Movement Sciences. Core courses cover areas like:

Fiscal planning and management
Sports marketing and sponsorships
Ethical and social issues in sport

Students complete a 400 clock hour internship experience at the end of this economical degree program. Recent internship sites have included the National Collegiate Athletic Association, the University of Pennsylvania Athletic Program, and the Old Dominion University Athletic Department. Graduates are prepared to work with organizations including sport governing bodies, city sports commissions, and intercollegiate athletics.

#42 – Western Michigan University – Kalamazoo, Michigan

Sport Management Bachelor’s Program

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Net Price: $15,863
The urban affordable sport management program at Western Michigan University is a well-rounded program that prepares graduates for sports management roles at all different levels of sport. Elective course offerings allow students to tailor the program to their professional goals and interests. Courses include:

Sports Economics
Sports in American Culture
Sports Media

All students complete an internship, gaining valuable field experience.

#41 – Trinity Baptist College – Jacksonville, Florida

Bachelor’s in Business Administration – Sport Management

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Net Price: $15,854
Trinity Baptist College is an urban school offering a high-value sport management program that follows a “learn and serve” model. Through a blend of classroom and real-world education, students apply their knowledge and skills and are more marketable after graduation. The program includes coursework in:

Legal Issues & Risk Management in Sport
Administration of Physical Education and Athletics
Sport Marketing

Graduates of this cost-effective sports management degree program are prepared to work in youth sports, community recreation, college programs or even professional sports.

#40 – The University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa

B.S. in Sport and Recreation Management

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Net Price: $15,817
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at The University of Iowa features an affordable bachelor’s in sport and recreation management. The comprehensive curriculum is taught by award winning faculty. Courses cover areas like:

Liability in Sport and Recreation
Sport Business Practices
Sport and Recreation Promotion

All students complete nine semester hours of guided or independent sport and recreation field experience. Concentration areas are available in eight areas including Interscholastic Athletic/Activity Administration (AD), Event Management, Entrepreneurship, Business Studies, Coaching and Sport Instruction, Communications Public Relations/Journalism, Sport and Diversity, or a Self-Study Concentration.

#39 – University of Georgia – Athens, Georgia

Bachelor of Science Education in Sport Management

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Net Price: $15,539

The College of Education at the University of Georgia offers a top affordable sport management bachelor’s degree in an urban setting. The curriculum blends business practices with the latest demands of the industry. The curriculum allows for plenty of real-world experience and hands-on training. Courses cover areas like:

Sport Policy and Governance
Social Aspects of Sport
Managing the Legal Aspects of Sport

All students complete three practicum credit hours and may complete three more through elective course offerings. Previous students completed internships at some of the top sports organizations in the country including ESPN and Turner Sports.

For More Information: University of Georgia

#38 – Texas Tech University – Lubbock, Texas

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $15,531
The affordable bachelor’s in sport management from Texas Tech teaches students to apply business principles in a sport setting. Courses cover areas like:

Financial and Economic Aspects of Sport
Sales and Fundraising in Sport
Sport Facilities and Event Management

An internship is required although students can choose to complete a second internship depending on their professional goals. Graduates of this best-value sports management degree program are prepared to work in a variety of administrative roles in professional, community, or even international sport organizations.

#37 – North Dakota State University – Fargo, North Dakota

Bachelor in Sport Management

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Net Price: $15,472

The affordable sport management bachelor’s degree from North Dakota State University is a full-time program covering the best practices in the industry. Students can participate in the Sport Management Leadership Association, engaging with area professionals and industry experts. Courses cover areas like:

Contemporary Issues in Sport Management
Governance, Policy, Legal Liability and Ethics in Sport
Socio-Cultural Dimension in Sport

An internship is the capstone course in the sport management program. Students who participate in an internship fulfill the 516-hour on-the-job training experience. Previous internship placements have included the US Olympic Committee, Minnesota Vikings, and North Dakota State University.

For More Information: North Dakota State University

#36 – East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania – East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

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Net Price: $15,275

East Stroudsburg University features a top affordable bachelor’s in sport management granted candidacy status by COSMA. Required courses cover areas like:

Sport Facilities
Financing Sport Operations
Computer Applications in Sport Management

Minors are available in athletic coaching and sport and exercise psychology. Students planning to pursue a master’s can take advantage of an inexpensive, accelerated pathway program to either a master’s in sport management or a master’s in management and leadership in sport management. Courses are taught by expert faculty with experience in the classroom and in the industry. Professors frequently bring in guest presenters from around the world to give students a global perspective of the industry.

For More Information: East Stroudsburg University

#35 – Metropolitan State University of Denver – Denver, Colorado

B.A. in Sport Management

Net Price: $15,248
The Department of Human Performance and Sport at Metropolitan State University of Denver offers an affordable sport management bachelor’s degree program accredited by COSMA. Students have access to state of the art facilities and resources including the Pepsi Center, Coors Field, and Sport Authority Field at Mile High. Major courses include:

Technology and Social Media in Sport
Sport Governance and Policy
Sport Event Management

Field experience and internship placements help students transition from college to the workplace and help them develop into professionals. The well rounded, cheap sports management curriculum prepares students for success in the workforce or graduate school.

#34 – Holy Family University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Bachelor in Sport Marketing Management

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Net Price: $15,074

The School of Business Administration at Holy Family University offers an affordable sport marketing-management program that focuses on both marketing and management in sport. Specialized coursework includes:

Introduction to Sport Media Relations
Sport Facility and Event Management
Sport Media and Content Production

Students complete two semesters of internships, gaining valuable skills that help them stand out in the workforce. Internship sites have includes NFL Films, Philadelphia Daily News, and the Philadelphia Eagles. Students complete a professional resume, develop objectives they hope to learn while in their internship, and complete a mock interview as part of the internship process.
For More Information: Holy Family University

#33 – North Carolina State University – Raleigh, North Carolina

B.S. in Sport Management

Net Price: $14,771

North Carolina State University features a low-cost bachelor’s in sport management emphasizing hands-on training in the classroom. Students will create sponsorship proposals, develop risk management plans, and learn the business of sport. Students benefit from a network of over 50 sport organizations tied to NC State University, giving students a variety of internship opportunities across the country. Students take various courses in business and sports management, including:

Sport Finance
Sport Law
Sport Marketing

An on-campus geo-visualization lab gives students access to state-of-the-art technology that they can use for fan-base tracking, facility design, and health and fitness trending.

For More Information: North Carolina State University

#32 – Texas Southern University – Houston, Texas

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $14,741

The College of Education at Texas Southern University offers a variety of program tracks to follow while earning a top-value Bachelor of Science in Sport Management. The inexpensive sport management program includes five tracks:

Business
Health
Kinesiology
Journalism
Radio, Television, Film

This low-priced, NCATE accredited sports management degree program includes coursework in sports ethics, administration of athletics in organizations, and problems in urban recreation and sport. All students complete a sport management practicum in their final semester.

#31 – Minnesota State University – Mankato, Minnesota

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

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Net Price: $14,519

The top affordable sport management bachelor’s degree program at Minnesota State University is offered through the College of Allied Health and Nursing. Students are prepared for exciting careers in sport management or continued education in sport management. This 120 credit hour, economical bachelor’s degree program includes courses in:

Sports Administration
Event Management in Sport
Financial Aspects of Sport

Students interested in global sports management can take advantage of a 10 day course in International Sport Management that takes place in the Netherlands or study abroad opportunities around the world. All students can participate in the Sport Management Association which services to give students field experience and networking with area sport organizations.

For More Information: Minnesota State University – Mankato

#30 – Colorado Mesa University – Grand Junction, Colorado

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

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Net Price: $14,403

Colorado Mesa University is an urban university located in Grand Junction, Colorado. Colorado Mesa offers an affordable bachelor’s in sport management covering planning, organizing, and leading in sport. This high-value bachelor’s in sport management was created for students who want to combine business with sports management. Program specific courses include:

Survey of Economics and Finance in Sport
Governance and Communication in Sport
Sport Marketing

Graduates are successful working in sport facility management, public relations, and college or professional sports.

For More Information: Colorado Mesa University

#29 – Wayne State University – Detroit, Michigan

B.S. Sport Management

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Net Price: $14,366
Wayne State University features an innovative and low-cost bachelor’s in sport management and an online master’s in sports administration. Located in Metro Detroit, students have access to a variety of collaborative learning experiences and internship opportunities. Courses cover areas like:

Sport Finance
Sport Leadership
Sports Marketing

Graduates are successful in all areas of the sports industry including commercial, professional, and recreational.

For more information: Wayne State College

#28 – Cleveland State University – Cleveland, Ohio

B.S. in Health and Human Performance with Sport Management emphasis

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Net Price: $14,356

Cleveland State University’s College of Education and Human Services features a cheap bachelor’s level sport management program that provides students with a strong foundation in both business and sport. Students incorporate a variety of media, styles, and strategies to develop an ePortfolio to showcase their knowledge and skills attained throughout the program. The curriculum and lab experiences help students gain competency in the nine standard areas set by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education. All students complete an eight or 12 semester hour internship experience in the field. Graduates of this high-value sports management degree program are prepared to enter graduate school or join the workforce in both community and corporate fitness/sport organizations.

For More Information: Cleveland State University

#27 – Wichita State University – Wichita, Kansas

Bachelor of Arts in Sport Management

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Net Price: $14,256

Wichita State University offers an affordable bachelors degree in sport management accredited by COSMA. Full-time students can complete this economical degree program in four years including a semester long internship. Courses cover a variety of sport management areas including:

Sport Finance
Human Resource Management in Sport
Technology in Sport Management

An extensive internship provides students with real-life experience with regional, national, and international programs and organizations. Graduates are successful in sports settings of all levels.

For More Information: Wichita State University

#26 – The University of Texas at Austin – Austin, Texas

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $14,156
Sport is a big industry in Texas. The University of Texas at Austin features an affordable bachelor’s in sport management with unique industry connections that give students professional exposure to the field. Students can gain hands-on experience working with Longhorn Athletics, Austin FC, or other local sport organizations. Austin is home to the ACL Music Festival as well as the SXSW Music and Film Festival. Sport management courses include:

Race and Sport in African American Life
Strategic Management of Sport Organizations
Media & Public Relations in Sport

All students complete a semester long internship experience. Students with an interest in sport management on a global level can take advantage of study abroad opportunities that include a visit to the Olympic Committee Museum in Switzerland.

#25 – Alabama A & M University – Normal, Alabama

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $13,956
Alabama A&M University knows what it takes for students to be successful in the sport industry. They offer a top affordable bachelor’s in sport management that helps students reach their professional goals. Program tracks are available in either management or marketing. Students graduate from this low-cost sports management degree program with a strong understanding of the management and leadership concepts within the field and the moral and ethical guidelines to be successful.

#24 – University of Southern Mississippi – Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

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Net Price: $13,773

The University of Southern Mississippi is located in the urban area of Hattiesburg, Mississippi and offers an affordable bachelor’s in sport management. This AACSB accredited inexpensive sports management program is taught by expert faculty with professional connections throughout the world. Courses are available in:

Sport Economics
Security and Risk Management of Sport
Sport, Management and Leadership

Aside from required courses and electives, students must complete a 120 hour field experience.

For more information: University of Southern Mississippi

#23 – Bob Jones University – Greenville, South Carolina

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $13,664

If you are looking for an affordable sport management bachelor’s program taught from a biblical worldview, Bob Jones University is a great choice to consider. Their low-priced urban sports management program provides hands-on learning experiences, including internships with area businesses and colleges. A 240 clock hour internship experience during the final year is designed to supplement the material students cover in class. Students also gain the opportunity to become a Red Cross First Responder or earn an ASEP Coaching Principles Certificate.

For More Information: Bob Jones University

#22 – University of Charleston – Charleston, West Virginia

B.S. in Business Administration with a major in Sport Business

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Net Price: $13,643
The University of Charleston features a four year affordable bachelor’s degree in sport business. This inexpensive, COSMA accredited sport business program is designed for students to complete a second major or a minor in a different field, gaining career marketability. Students are engaged through practicum opportunities, service learning and internships to gain professional skills and training. Small class size allow students to get personalized attention from their instructors. Graduates are prepared for successful careers in sport management or graduate school.

#21 – Ball State University – Muncie, Indiana

Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration

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Net Price: $13,642

Ball State University is an inexpensive urban university offering a hands-on approach to sport management education. Students work closely with Ball State Athletics, gaining valuable hands-on experience. All students complete at least two outcomes based projects and organize fundraising efforts for local charitable organizations. Courses include:

Sport Law
Sport Marketing
Sport Finance

Minors are available in business, management, marketing, and professional selling. Graduates have the knowledge and skills needed for success as sport managers in areas like professional sports, event and facility management, and communications.

For More Information: Ball State University

#20 – Arkansas State University – Jonesboro, Arkansas

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $13,459

The College of Education and Behavioral Science at Arkansas State University features an affordable top bachelor’s in sport management that prepares future professionals for a variety of sport management careers. This COSMA accredited, low-cost sports management degree program includes unique coursework in:

Sports Promotion and Sales Management
Economic and Financial Management for Sport Organizations
Organization and Administration of Interscholastic Athletes

Arkansas State University is approximately eighty miles from Memphis, in the northeastern corner of Arkansas. The school’s urban setting and Division I sports affiliation attract students from all over the region.

For More Information: Arkansas State University

#19 – Florida State University – Tallahassee, Florida

Bachelor in Sport Management

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Net Price: $13,318
The FSU College of Education features a top affordable sport management bachelor’s degree focused on the applied aspect of the field. Students can tailor this high-value sports management degree program to meet their unique professional objectives through elective course offerings. Faculty work closely with students to secure graduate assistantships, internship opportunities, and class/conference speakers that reflect the current trends in the industry. Students who plan on earning a master’s in sport management can take advantage of the combined BS/MS pathway that allows them to take 12 graduate credit hours that count toward both degrees. Courses include:

Facility/Event Management
Sport in Society
Sport Governance

For more information: Florida State University

#18 – Saint Peter’s University – Jersey City, New Jersey

Bachelor in Sport Management

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Net Price: $13,246
Saint Peter’s University, the Jesuit University of New Jersey, features a top affordable bachelor’s in sport management and esports business. Their proximity to New York City gives students unique opportunities for internships at MetLife Stadium, the Prudential Center, and numerous athletic conferences. Students can choose from a focus in sports management or esports business. Sports management courses include:

Global Sports and Events Exploration
Legal and Ethical Issues in Sports
Esports Event Planning and Management

All students complete an internship experience in sports management, health and physical education or esports management.

#17 – Delaware State University – Dover, Delaware

Bachelor in Sport Management

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Net Price: $13,234

For students who want to stand out in the sport industry, Delaware State University offers an affordable bachelor’s in sport management that prepares them for success in this highly competitive field. Students can choose to minor in coaching management or recreation management. This inexpensive sports management degree program adheres to the of COSMA. Courses cover areas like:

Legal Issues in Sport and Recreation
Socio-Cultural Aspects of Sport
Leadership and Ethics in Sport

All students complete an internship in sport management during their final semester.

For More Information: Delaware State University

#16 – University of Memphis – Memphis, Tennessee

B.S. in Sport and Leisure Management

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Net Price: $13,174
The Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality and Resort Management at the University of Memphis is an affordable urban sports management program. Students will have the skills needed to pursue careers in marketing, management, or event and facility management. Economical sports management courses can be taken on-campus or online. Courses cover areas like:

Commercial Recreation and Tourism
Sport and Leisure as Popular Culture
Leisure and Recreation Program Development

Field experience opportunities are available throughout the Memphis area with teams, facilities, marketing agencies, and community rec organizations. An inexpensive, accelerated BS in Sport and Leisure Management and MS in Sport Commerce is available. This unique program allows students to apply up to nine credit hours of graduate coursework to both degree programs, saving time and money.

For more information: University of Memphis

#15 – Arizona State University – Phoenix, Arizona

Bachelor in Community Sports Management

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Net Price: $13,081
Arizona State University is an urban university offering an affordable bachelor’s in community sports management. This unique and low-priced sports management degree program focus prepares students to work with people of all ages and abilities in non-profit, municipal, and for-profit organizations. Students with a passion for event planning in the community sports sector can choose this area of concentration. Courses in community sports management include:

Assessment and Evaluation of Community Services
Sports Facility Operations and Management
Inclusive Community Development

All students complete an internship experience in their final term to prepare for success after graduation.

#14 – Southeast Missouri State University – Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

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Net Price: $12,468

Southeast Missouri State University is the first school in Missouri to offer a high-value bachelor’s in sport management with COSMA accreditation. Unique program attributes include a requirement that all students minor in business administration and that each course features a practical component. Students gain skills and hands-on experience in NCAA Division I athletics and a vibrant student recreation program. Faculty members mentor students and provide career guidance. Small class size allows student to benefit from individualized attention. Internship opportunities are available with organizations such as the NFL, Rawlings Sporting Goods, and Intercollegiate Athletics.

For More Information: Southeast Missouri State University

#13 – University of North Alabama – Florence, Alabama

B.S. in Sport and Recreation Management

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Net Price: $12,121
The Department of Kinesiology at the University of North Alabama features a top affordable bachelor’s in sport and recreation administration with a concentration in sport management. This top-value, four year sports management program includes courses in:

Facility/Event Management
Sport Governance
Sport Finance

The cheap sport management concentration area includes three areas of emphasis for students to choose from that include sport communications, sport management, and sport marketing. Students complete two internship experiences during their final semester. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of roles including athletic director and compliance officer.

#12 – Medaille College – Buffalo, New York

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $11,929

Medaille College is an urban university offering an affordable bachelor’s in sport management accredited by the IACBE. Class size is small to allow students to develop close relationships with faculty and peers. Students complete a minimum of two internships, allowing students to explore areas of interest before beginning their job search. Various areas of focus include:

sport marketing and promotion
personnel management
media and technology

Students benefit from personalized support and a vibrant campus located in the heart of Buffalo. There are more than two dozen clubs and activities for students to participate in!

For More Information: Medaille College

#11 – Lamar University – Beaumont, Texas

B.S. in Exercise Science and Fitness Management

Net Price: $11,510

Lamar University is an affordable urban university offering a bachelor’s in exercise science and fitness management. The program offers both personal fitness and professional tracks. Fitness tracks include:

Business
Community and Private Recreation
Nutrition
Sports Medicine

This low-cost degree program is also ideal for students planning to pursue areas of sport management or graduate studies in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or medicine. The curriculum has a broad scope, implementing blocks of physical activity courses, professional theory courses, and emphasis areas – such as management or private recreation.

For More Information: Lamar University

#10 – University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

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Net Price: $11,313

The College of Health and Human Performance at the University of Florida is an urban university offering a top bachelor’s degree in sport management. The affordable Sport Management program prepares students for diverse employment opportunities at the rec, college, amateur and professional level. The high-value curriculum includes courses in:

Ethical Issues in Sport
Sport Facility Design and Management
Sport and Society

Students are required to complete a full semester internship, providing them with valuable work experience before graduation. Optional practicum opportunities are available to students who want to work part-time in an area related to their particular area of specialization. Sport management students planning to earn their master’s in sport management can take advantage of the economical BS/MS combined degree program, allowing students to take 12 credit hours of graduate coursework that count toward both degrees.

For More Information: University of Florida

#9 – Monroe College – Bronx, New York

BBA in Sports Management

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Net Price: $11,261
Monroe College is an urban university offering a cheap bachelor’s in sport management that integrates classroom learning with real-world experience. This innovative and affordable BBA in sports management includes coursework in:

Financial Management for Sports Organizations
Legal Aspects of Sports
Business Ethics in Sports

Monroe offers both an Associate and Bachelor’s degree program in sports management. Graduates of this high-value bachelor’s degree program are qualified to pursue management level positions in the field.

#8 – Southeastern Louisiana University – Hammond, Louisiana

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $11,232

Southeastern Louisiana University is strategically located just 50 miles from New Orleans and 45 miles from Baton Rouge. This top urban sports management bachelor’s degree program prepares students to work in a variety of sport and recreation settings. The affordable degree program was recently awarded candidacy status for accreditation by the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation. Courses cover areas like:

Sport Administration
Sport Promo & Fundraising
Sport/Exercise Psychology

Students studying Sport Management gain access to a variety of sport and recreational businesses including the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Sport Foundation. Graduates are employed in a variety of sport settings including municipal recreation departments and foundations in addition to professional, collegiate, and Olympic sport organizations.

For More Information: Southeastern Louisiana University

#7 – Winston-Salem State University – Winston-Salem, North Carolina

B.S. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $11,142

Winston-Salem State University is the #1 ranked public HBCU in the U.S. according to Money Magazine. This top urban sport management program includes three areas of specialization including:

Sport Communications
Management and Administration
Marketing and Promotion

Students begin gaining hands-on experience in the field starting the semester they are accepted. This inexpensive bachelor’s in sport management program is a member of COSMA and is currently pursuing accreditation. All students are required to complete an internship in order to meet graduation requirements.

For More Information: Winston-Salem State University

#6 – East Tennessee State University – Johnson City, Tennessee

B.S. in Sport and Leisure Management with Sport Management Concentration

Net Price: $11,062

The Department of Sport, Exercise, Recreation and Kinesiology at East Tennessee State University features an affordable top sports management bachelors degree program. Students benefit from a strong academic foundation and real-world field experience. Typical course requirements include classes such as:

Fund-Raising in Sports
Organizational Behavior and Management
Sport in the Social Context

Graduates of this best-value sports management degree program are successful working in a variety of industry roles including private fitness facility manager, sales representative, and sports media producer.

For More Information: East Tennessee State University

#5 – University of North Florida – Jacksonville, Florida

Bachelor of Science Sport Management

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Net Price: $10,809

University of North Florida is a COSMA accredited institution offering an affordable bachelor’s in sport management. This affordable sport management bachelor’s program provides coursework and field experience designed to prepare students for work in the sports industry. Sports management coursework covers areas like:

Sport Marketing
Governance and NCAA Compliance
Diversity in Sport

Students complete a 12 credit hour sport management internship and a three credit hour sport management practicum as part of the program. Exciting internship and practicum partnerships are available with MLB, the Orlando Magic, the PGA Tour, and the ATP World Tour.

For More Information: University of North Florida

#4 – Midwestern State University – Wichita Falls, Texas

Bachelor of Arts or Sciences in Sports and Leisure Studies

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Net Price: $10,395

Midwestern State University is an urban university offering two affordable degree pathways to earn a bachelors in Sports and Leisure Studies. Courses cover areas like:

Management & Administration in Recreation & Leisure Services
Leadership in Recreation and Leisure Services
Organization & Administration of Worksite Wellness Programs

Students can also choose to take coursework related to officiating or physical education. A minor in sports and leisure studies is also available.

For More Information: Midwestern State University

#3 – Lewis-Clark State College – Lewiston, Idaho

Bachelor of Arts or Sciences in Sport Administration

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Net Price: $10,118

The top affordable sport administration bachelor’s degree program from Lewis-Clark State College is offered through partnership between the Business Division and Movement and Sport Sciences. Students have an advisor from each area. The inexpensive sports management degree program is one of the most flexible to make our list. Students can choose to complete the program on-campus or fully online. Sport administration courses include:

Sport Facilities and Event Management
Sport Marketing and Advertising
Community Relations in Sport

Students complete a six credit hour internship in kinesiology. During their senior year, students choose between a senior research project or a senior strategic seminar, depending on their professional goals.

For more information: Lewis-Clark State College

#2 – Coppin State University – Baltimore, Maryland

B.S. in Sport Management

Net Price: $9,689

The College of Business at Coppin State University is an urban school offering an affordable bachelor’s in sport management. Students will gain expertise in both organizational and managerial areas of sport management, preparing them for job and career opportunities on a global level. Core sports management courses cover areas like:

Media Relations in Sport
Sports, Ethics and The Law
Sport Governance & History

All students complete a practicum and internship experience, gaining valuable professional skills.

For More Information: Coppin State University

#1 – Marshall University – Huntington, West Virginia

B.A. in Sport Management

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Net Price: $8,850
Our most affordable urban school for a bachelor’s in sport management is Marshall University. Marshall’s cheap sport management program exposes student to current best practices in business communication, sport marketing, finance, legal issues, and event management. Students must choose an area of emphasis from the following options:

Sport Studies
Recreation and Physical Activities
Sport Information
Facilities and Operation Management
Sport Agency
Sport Marketing
General Management

Students can gain valuable work experience by completing an internship in a sport business setting. Faculty serve as mentors to their students, helping them network with alumni to develop industry connections.

Sources
• Commission on Sport Management Accreditation, COSMA
• Institute of Education Sciences, National Center for Education Statistics, College Navigator

* The National Center for Education Statistics, Institute of Education Sciences – College Navigator defines a city setting as a territory inside an urbanized area and inside a principal city with a population range from less than 100,000 to one of more than 250,000.

College Navigator Net Price: Average net price is generated by subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid from the total cost of attendance. Total cost of attendance is the sum of published tuition and required fees, books and supplies, and the weighted average for room and board and other expenses.

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