By SMDG Staff
When making a decision to pursue bachelor’s degree program in sport management, there’s more to consider than just the sticker price. Earning a college degree in sports management is a significant investment of both time and money and you want to be sure you are getting the best monetary return for that investment. The college return on investment (ROI) figure provided by Payscale.com is a good indicator of how well the school is doing setting up their alumni for success in the job market. A higher ROI is an indicator of a better earning potential, low cost of attendance, or a combination of both. To help you in your search for the best colleges offering a sport management bachelor’s degree with a high ROI, we created this ranking of the top 25 schools by ROI. Considering the ROI in your college search can help you avoid unnecessary student loan debt and years of financial struggle.
#25 – Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Bachelor’s in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $228,000 in-state and $180,000 out-of-state
The cheap sport management bachelor’s degree program at Central Michigan University is a comprehensive program teaching students the ins and outs of sport management. Students will learn a variety of business skills from ticket sales to sport event coordination. Students can tailor their experience by including an interdepartmental minor in areas like merchandising, journalism, or broadcasting. This COSMA accredited program features sport management courses in sport management theory and practice, economics and finance in sport, and sport management governance and organizational theory. All students complete a field study and internship in sport management, which likely contributes to the high ROI by preparing graduates to be successful in the field.
#24 – Troy University – Troy, Alabama
Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $233,000 in-state and $206,000 out-of-state
Troy University offers an innovative best value bachelor’s in hospitality management with a focus on hospitality, sport, and tourism management that provides its graduates with an outstanding ROI. The inexpensive sport management program is taught by faculty and staff who are dedicated to student success. Professors work closely with their students and make themselves available to help with everything from subject matter advice to career development opportunities. Students can expect to learn about marketing, event management, leadership, and revenue generation. All students complete an internship focused on their area of concentration.
#23 – University of Memphis – Memphis, Tennessee
Bachelor’s in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $237,000 in-state and $187,000 out-of-state
The University of Memphis offers a high ROI for their sport management graduates by offering a diverse curriculum in their affordable bachelor’s of sport management program. Students will become knowledgeable and well informed members of the sport management community and have an awareness for the role of diversity in both sport and leisure. Students become ethical sport management leaders through coursework in sport and leisure governance, legal aspects of sport and leisure management, and financial management in sport and leisure. The rich experiential learning opportunities make the University of Memphis stand out from the pack. All students complete a 12 credit capstone experience gaining valuable hands on experience and training that undoubtedly contribute to the high ROI.
#22 – Alabama A & M University – Normal, Alabama
BS in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $242,000 in-state and $213,000 out of state
Alabama A&M University knows what it takes to be successful in the competitive sport management industry, and they are committed to their students’ success. Students can choose a track in marketing or management to tailor this high value sports management degree program to meet their professional needs. Students leave the program with knowledge of leadership and management concepts and an understanding of how to apply moral and ethical theories to sport. Both in-state and out-of-state sport management students can anticipate a high ROI.
#21 – Texas A & M University-Commerce – Commerce, Texas
BS in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $249,000 in-state and $208,000 out-of-state
The best value bachelor’s in sport management offered through the Department of Health and Kinesiology at Texas A&M University is designed for students who want to work as managers or administrators of sport organizations while graduating with a degree with high earning potential. Students can choose from an applied option and complete an internship or field experience or an interdisciplinary option and take additional coursework related to the sport industry. By completing an internship, students gain valuable hands-on training which can help them secure well paid positions in sport marketing and promotions, facility management, or events management which provide a positive ROI.
#20 – Brigham Young University-Hawaii – Laie, Hawaii
Bachelor’s in Exercise and Sport Science-Sports and Wellness Management Minor
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20 Year Net ROI: $263,000
The Department of Health and Kinesiology at Brigham Young University in Hawaii features a high ROI and offers a cheap bachelor’s in sport management. Students prepare for a variety of professional roles in sport including sport marketing, facility management and planning, and events management. Both an internship and interdisciplinary option are available for students to choose from depending on their professional goals. Unique electives are available in areas like risk management, Olympic studies, international sport business, and special events. This top value sports management degree program can lead to a great paying career.
#19 – Cleveland State University – Cleveland, Ohio
Sport Management Bachelor’s Program
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20 Year Net ROI: $260,000 instate and $246,000 out-of-state
Cleveland State University features a top value health and human performance program with a sport management focus. Students benefit from exposure to sport, recreation, and leisure activities that can be used in a variety of sport management areas including adventure planning and sport tourism. The inexpensive curriculum follows the standards set by the NASPE, so students can be certain their education meets industry needs. The high ROI is due in part to the success graduates have finding employment, holding positions with professional sport organizations, coaching, corporate health and fitness, and community health organizations.
#18 – Northern Kentucky University – Highland Heights, Kentucky
BSBA in Sports Business and Event Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $275,000 in-state and $241,000 out-of-state
The Haile/U.S. Bank College of Business at Northern Kentucky University features a high value BSBA in Sport Business and Event Management that prepares students for the fast paced world of sport management. Students complete a business core that focuses on the business aspects of sport. Hands-on learning through courses in economics of sports and events, event planning and management, and sports marketing and events research. Past students secured internships with the Reds, Bengals, and Flying Pig Marathon. Graduates of this inexpensive sports management degree program have the potential to create a huge return on investment in their future employment.
#17 – University of North Florida – Jacksonville, Florida
Bachelor’s in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $286,000 in-state and $228,000 out-of-state
The COSMA accredited, best value sport management bachelor’s degree program at the University of North Florida offers not only a great ROI but provides students with valuable employment training through internships and practicum experiences. Affordable sports management courses cover areas like sport marketing, managerial leadership in sport, sport law, and sport finance. Students have secured internships with the NBA, PGA Tour, NASCAR, and the NBC Sports Network.
#16 – Wichita State University – Wichita, Kansas
Sport Management Undergraduate Program
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20 Year Net ROI: $288,000 in-state and $255,000 out-of-state
The top value BA in sport management program at Wichita State University is a COSMA accredited program offering extensive hands-on training. Cheap sports management courses cover areas like sport finance, psychology of sport and physical activity, selling in the sport industry, and sport facility management. All students benefit from a semester long internship experience. Graduates of this top sports management degree program are prepared for a variety of positions in intercollegiate athletics, fitness, recreation, and sport business. A strong alumni network keeps graduates up-to-date on cutting edge trends in the sport industry world, providing them with valuable opportunities that surely contribute to the high ROI.
#15 – William Paterson University of New Jersey – Wayne, New Jersey
BA in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $298,000 in-state and $267,000 out-of-state
The Department of Kinesiology at William Paterson University offers a cheap bachelor’s in sport management offering instruction in relevant theory and practice. Students gain business and administrative skills to be successful in sport management areas offering services, activities, and products. Required courses cover areas like sport technology, sport marketing, ethics and law, and risk management. The high ROI is likely due to the extensive internship experience students complete during their final semester. Internship settings include sport and leisure industry, professional sports teams, NAA offices, and national sports organizations.
#14 – Saint Peter’s University – Jersey City, New Jersey
Sports Management & Esports Business Bachelor’s Degree
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20 Year Net ROI: $303,000 in-state and $201,000 out-of-state
Saint Peter’s University, The Jesuit University of New Jersey, features an innovative and affordable sports management and e-sports business program. This best value sports management program emphasizes the business of sport as well as the legal and ethical issues affecting the industry. SPU’s close proximity to New York City provides students with unique internship opportunities at Madison Square Garden, Yankee Stadium, and the Prudential Center. Students have the opportunity to attend industry conferences and partner with organizations to gain valuable professional development.
#13 – Texas State University – San Marcos, Texas
Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science (B.E.S.S.) Major in Health and Fitness Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $308,000 in-state and $266,000 out-of-state
Texas State University features a top bachelor’s in exercise and sports science (BESS) with a major in health and fitness management. Affordable courses cover areas like Fitness Assessment and Programming for Healthy Populations and Measurement & Evaluation in Exercise and Sports Science. Students can choose to minor in coaching, exercise and sports science, public health, or recreation administration. All students complete an internship and practicum that lead to greater success in finding a job after graduation.
#12 – Minnesota State University – Mankato, Minnesota
Sport Management (BS)
Minnesota State University – Mankato
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20 Year Net ROI: $309,000 in-state and $278,000 out-of-state
Minnesota State University doesn’t only boast a high ROI, but they have one of the most comprehensive and affordable sport management programs in our ranking. Faculty are members of NASSM/NASPE and have designed the curriculum around NASSM/NASPE standards. Students have the opportunity to receive hands on professional preparation through internships and practicum experiences. Individuals with an interest in cross-cultural sport can take advantage of study abroad opportunities that complement this top sport management program. An active alumni association works closely with the sport management program to provide professional opportunities for students, adding value to the program.
#11– Florida State University – Tallahassee, Florida
Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $314,000 in-state and $253,000 out-of-state
The top bachelor’s in sport management from the College of Education at Florida State University provides students with an introductory understanding of the sport industry. Students planning to continue on to a master’s program can take advantage of the combined BS/MS pathway in sport management, allowing students to complete 12 graduate credits that count for both their master’s and bachelor’s degrees. Those with a passion for the global aspects of sports can participate in the Global Sport Management Program, a study abroad opportunity in the UK that teaches students about the unique international sport industry. The high ROI is due to experiential learning opportunities and affordable tuition rates. The College of Education offers more than $400,000 in scholarship and fellowship opportunities and FSU has one of the lowest tuition rates in the country.
#10 – Midwestern State University – Wichita Falls, Texas
Bachelor’s in Sport and Leisure Studies with a minor in Business Administration
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20 Year Net ROI: $316,000 in-state and $308,000 out-of-state
Midwestern State University has a high ROI and offers a cheap bachelor’s in sport and leisure studies with a minor in business administration. Students complete affordable sports management courses in areas like sport and exercise psychology, coaching theory and practice, and program planning in recreation and leisure services. By combining a business administration minor, students gain valuable skills in finance, economics, accounting, marketing, and organizational behavior. This well-rounded skill set prepares students for a variety of career options in the sport industry.
#9 – Wayne State University – Detroit, Michigan
BS Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $320,000 in-state and $267,000 out-of-state
Wayne State University features a top value bachelor’s of sport management for students dreaming of a career in the sports industry. Low cost sports management courses are taught by industry experts who foster a collaborative learning environment. Students complete an internship that aligns with the latest trends in the industry. The curriculum includes courses in sport finance, sport communication, sport leadership, and sport marketing. Students take an additional course in their area of focus, choosing from coaching, interscholastic athletic directing, collegiate athletic administration, professional sport administration, or youth sports and recreation.
#8 – North Carolina A & T State University – Greensboro, North Carolina
BS in Sport Science and Fitness Management (SSFM)
North Carolina A&T State University
20 Year Net ROI: $325,000 in-state and $310,000 out-of-state
The College of Health and Human Sciences at North Carolina A&T State University not only has a high ROI, but offers a variety of internship opportunities that prepare students for success after graduation. Cheap sports science courses cover areas like fitness leadership, nutrition for sport and fitness, and fitness facilities and management. All students complete an internship as their culminating experience to gain professional hands-on training in the field.
#7 – Bowie State University – Bowie, Maryland
Sport Management Bachelor’s Degree
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20 Year Net ROI: $339,000 in-state and $297,000 out-of-state
The affordable sport management degree at Bowie State University is a diverse program that prepares students for a variety of career options in sport management. Students in this top value sports management program can expect to learn about the business and financial aspects of the sport field as well as concepts in event and facilities management, community relations, and public safety. The Sport Management Club gives students the opportunity to network outside of the classroom and develop the professionalism needed for success in the field. Experiential learning opportunities and classroom instruction prepare students for exciting careers in areas like coaching, journalism, sport analytics, and facilities management.
#6 – Lamar University – Beaumont, Texas
BS in Exercise Science and Fitness Management
20 Year Net ROI: $400,000 in-state and $364,000 out-of-state
The low cost BS in exercise science and fitness management from Lamar University is offered through the Department of Health and Kinesiology. This best value degree program meets the needs of a variety of a students including those planning additional professional training in medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or even law. Students can choose from a clinical exercise track or personal fitness track. Required courses include hands-on training and experiential learning in both sport and exercise science. Lamar is committed to providing students with an affordable education, offering more than 2,000 scholarships that provide $10 million in financial assistance to their students which makes it one of our best programs for return on investment.
#5 – Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix – Phoenix, Arizona
Bachelor’s in Sport Business
20 Year Net ROI: $406,000
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication and the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University feature a top value sports business bachelor’s degree program teaching students about the sports and media industries. Unique affordable course offerings cover areas like strategic sports communication, sports revenue generation, esports, and digital sports strategy. Students can customize their experience through opportunities like the honors program, career coaching, and study abroad. An ASU sport management career can provide an excellent ROI by offering low tuition rates, financial aid awards, and extensive hands-on learning opportunities.
#4 – University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
BS in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $430,000 in-state and $340,000 out-of-state
One of the best and most affordable bachelor’s in sport management is offered by the College of Health and Human Performance at the University of Florida which prepares students for management and leadership positions in the sport industry. Low cost sports management courses are offered in areas like sport facility design and management, marketing, financial accounting, public speaking, and management. Students benefit from a hands-on curriculum that includes a field experience and internship. Networking and industry outreach opportunities are available to students through a weekly newsletter and the Career Resource Center. Additional professional development opportunities are available through HHP student organizations and study abroad programs.
#3 – Farmingdale State College – Farmingdale, New York
BS in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $457,000 in-state and $418,000 out-of-state
Farmingdale State College State University of New York is home to one of the best and cheapest sport management degrees that includes both fundamental and advanced level courses. Faculty are experts in the field and provide students with a rigorous academic experience that prepares them for success after college. Required courses cover areas like media and sport, sport law, strategic sport management, and current topics in sport. All students have the opportunity to complete an internship experience to gain valuable hands-on training. Graduates have found success working in areas like event management, sports marketing, collegiate sport management, and broadcasting.
Related Resource: Do I Need a Degree in Sports Journalism to Become a Sports Journalist?
#2 – North Carolina State University at Raleigh – Raleigh, North Carolina
Bachelor’s in Sport Management
North Carolina State University
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20 Year Net ROI: $465,000 in-state and $402,000 out-of-state
The College of Natural Resources at North Carolina State University offers a best value, hands-on sport management bachelor’s degree program. The unique community-based curriculum gives students a strong understanding of how sport can improve communities by addressing societal challenges like obesity. Affordable courses cover areas like sport law, sport marketing, sport finance and economics, and sport administration. All students complete a 400 clock hour internship during the summer between their junior and senior year. The high ROI is just one benefit of this top sports management program that also uses state-of-the-art technology in geo-visualization labs to train students in cutting edge areas like fan-base tracking, and health and fitness trending.
Related Resource: What Does A Sports Nutritionist Do?
#1 – The University of Texas at Austin – Austin, Texas
Bachelor’s in Sport Management
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20 Year Net ROI: $539,000 in-state and $440,000 out-of-state
With the highest ROI for a college offering a bachelor’s in sport management, The University of Texas at Austin is our top choice for students planning a career in management, marketing, or administration of sports programs. Admission is highly competitive and is limited to just 150 students. All students complete a semester long internship experience. Graduates of this inexpensive sport management degree program are prepared for graduate studies in areas like sport management, law, or business. Resources such as career services and the College of Education’s student organizations help students gain professional connections that help them find success in the field after graduation. The University of Texas is also committed to keeping college affordable. Last year, the College of Education awarded over $327,500 in scholarships.
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