Top 30 Bachelor's Degree Programs in Sport Management for 2018

By SMDG Staff

Sport management is the business of sports. According to insights from Nielsen, the mindset of sports fans is changing. Sports fans want to see marketing campaigns that support diversity and partnerships that create social change. Sport management professionals have the knowledge and skills to meet these demands. Business savvy professionals with a passion for sport are needed to work in management and leadership roles. A sports management bachelor’s degree can give aspiring professionals the knowledge and skills needed to work in the sport industry as facility managers, sports marketing professionals, and business or event managers. Fortunately, there are many great schools that offer affordable and accredited sport management programs. These programs have the classroom content and hands-on experience needed to succeed in this fast-paced industry.
Methodology
We created this ranking of the top 30 best sports management bachelor’s degree programs to showcase some of the best programs out there. We wanted to get a good idea of the types of programs out there, so we consulted the National Center for Education Statistics and the North American Society for Sport Management, which keeps a list of universities offering sport management programs in the U.S. We decide to focus on schools accredited by COSMA, the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation which provides specialized accreditation to sport management programs. We compared student to faculty ratios, undergraduate net cost, graduation rates. Where there are ties, we favored the school with the lower net undergraduate tuition. From our list, we created a rating system as seen below to select our top 30 bachelor’s in sport management programs.

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= 3 Points
$20,000 to $25,000 per year= 2 Points
More than $25,000 per year= 1 Point

Overall Graduation Rate

Less than 50%= 1 Points
50% to 75%= 2 Point
Greater than 75%= 3 Point

Summary of the Top 10 Bachelor’s in Sports Management

Troy University
University of Louisville
Winthrop University
University of North Florida
Southeast Missouri State University
University of Southern Indiana
Arkansas State University
Central Michigan University
Davenport University
Shorter University

Below are 30 schools that offer the best sports management bachelor’s degree programs. Students learn the basic skills needed to enter the field in a management position.

Ranking the Top Bachelor’s in Sports Management 2021

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#30 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia

BS in Sport Management

For more information: Liberty University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $28,762/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 54%
Points: 4
The Sport, Event and Tourism Management Department at Liberty University offers a low-cost bachelor’s in sport management. Students can choose to minor in coaching or business. A variety of sport management cognate areas are available including:

Conference and Event Management
Sport Administration
Sport Communication and Public Relations
Sport Outreach
Sport Venue Management

Graduates are well prepared for career opportunities with national sport governing bodies, non-profits, and private enterprise.

#29 – Saint John Fisher College – Rochester, New York

Bachelor of Science, Sport Management

For more information: St. John Fisher College

Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Net Price: $29,722/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 72%
Points: 5
St. John Fisher College offers a best value sport management bachelor’s degree with a mix of theory and practical examples that help students easily transition from the classroom to the workplace. Experiential learning opportunities are offered through a practicum and internship. Courses cover sport management areas like:

Sport Marketing and Promotions
Software in Sport
Sport Law

Elective courses are offered in the areas of human relations and business. A 12-credit internship gives students an entire semester to spend working with an approved sport organization.

#28 – Lasell University – Newton, Massachusetts

Bachelor’s in Sport Management

For More Information: Lasell University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Net Price: $27,007/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 62%
Points: 5
The low-priced bachelor’s in sport management from Lasell University has a professional focus that prepares students for a variety of roles in the industry. Beginning with the first semester, students take courses that make them competitive in the job market. Students work closely with industry leaders while serving as interns with top organizations like the Boston Celtics and the New York Mets. Sport management courses include:

Sports Information and Communication
Sport Facility and Event Management
Sport and Society

Exciting opportunities like Sport Management Day give students an inside look at the field while professional organizations like the Sport Management Association promote professional development. Students can take advantage of the Fifth Year option which allows them to earn their master’s in sport management with just one additional year of study.

#27 – Kutztown University – Kutztown, Pennsylvania

BS in Sport Management

For More Information: Kutztown University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $21,673/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 52%
Points: 5
The low-cost bachelor’s in sport management from Kutztown University is a comprehensive program that includes minors in coaching and athletic administration or fitness industry. Students develop a strong understanding of the fundamentals needed for professional success while gaining problem solving and communication skills. Sport management courses include:

Sport Marketing and Sponsorship
Event and Facility Management
Sport Finance

Students complete an internship in sport management during their final semester in the program. Graduates are able to start successful careers in areas like sport management, sport product marketing, and sport tourism.

#26 – Louisiana State University – Baton Rouge, Louisiana

BS in Sport Administration

For more information: Louisiana State University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $20,352/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 70%
Points: 5
The School of Kinesiology at Louisiana State University offers a unique bachelor’s in sport administration that meets the needs of the complex sport industry. Students will learn best practices from industry experts who share their experiences in the classroom. Courses cover areas like:

managing sport facilities
legal and ethical issues in sport
organizing and administering sport events

Students can choose to complete a concentration in sport commerce or sport leadership. Practicum experiences and an internship give students valuable hands-on training. LSU strives to place students in practical sports settings that align with their professional goals.

#25 – Wichita State University – Wichita, Kansas

Bachelor of Arts, Sport Management

For More Information: Wichita State University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $14,357/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 48%
Points: 5
Wichita State University features a COSMA accredited bachelor’s in sport management that includes coursework and an extensive internship. This 120-credit hour program can be completed in four years by full-time students. Most classes have less than 30 students to allow students to engage with faculty and peers. Courses include:

Sport Public Relations
Revenue Management in Sport
Technology in Sport Management

Graduates are prepared to take on professional roles in a variety of sport settings including professional athletics, fitness, and recreation.

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

Bachelor of Arts in Sport Management

For More Information: Metropolitan State University of Denver

Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $13,563/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 32%
Points: 5
The cost-effective sport management bachelor’s degree from Metropolitan State University focuses on the operation and business of sport. MSU Denver offers the only COSMA accredited sport management program in the state. Faculty have professional connections in the industry which help them engage students and provide a relevant education. Course offerings include:

Leadership and Ethics in Sport
Sport Promotion
Sport Venue Management

MSU is in the heart of downtown Denver and students are within walking distance of Ball Arena, Coors Field, and Empower Field at Mile High Stadium. All students complete an internship in sport management, gaining valuable hands-on training.

#23 – SUNY College of Technology at Canton – Canton, New York

Sports Management, BBA

Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $13,431/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 41%
Points: 5
SUNY Canton features a top value sports management bachelor’s degree in a convenient online format. This COSMA accredited sport management program covers key topic areas like:

sports marketing
legal issues in sport
sports finance and economics

Faculty have over 40 years of experience in the industry and teach an exciting variety of sport management courses. Hands-on learning opportunities are available at numerous recreational sport venues and businesses. Flexible capstone opportunities include internships and/or applied senior level courses to prepare students for success in the field.

#22 – Southeastern Louisiana University – Hammond, Louisiana

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

Southeastern gets 'new look' with unveiling of new logos
For more information: Southeastern Louisiana University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $12,206/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 40%
Points: 5
The high-value Bachelor of Science in sport management at Southeastern Louisiana University prepares students for a variety of careers in sport marketing, management, and administration. Students will develop a strong foundation in business while gaining industry specific skills and knowledge. Southeastern’s close proximity to Baton Rouge and New Orleans gives students access to unique practical experiences and internships. An honors curriculum is available to eligible students.

#21 – Endicott College – Beverly, Massachusetts

BS in Sport Management

For More Information: Endicott College

Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Net Price: $37,665/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 79%
Points: 6
The School of Sport Science at Endicott College promises an academically rigorous experience with their affordable bachelor’s in sport management program. Course offerings include:

Sport Law
Sport Venue and Event Management
Sport Governance and Policy

Students participate in exciting internship opportunities with sports teams, sport marketing firms, and health and fitness clubs. Planning on pursuing a master’s degree? Recent grads are eligible to earn their master’s in sport leadership with just one additional year of study.

#20 – University of Mount Union – Alliance, Ohio

Bachelor of Arts, Sport Business

For More Information: University of Mount Union

Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Net Price: $24,166/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 66%
Points: 6
The high-value bachelor’s in sport business from the University of Mount Union is a COSMA accredited program exploring the interaction between business and the sport industry. The 128-credit hour curriculum includes coursework and a variety of experiential learning opportunities. Required courses cover areas like:

sport and event venue management
sport sales
finance and economics of sport and recreation

Students complete two practicums in sport business to gain field experience. Students attend the Sports Sales Workshop and Job Fair and industry conferences to network with a variety of different sport organizations.

#19 – Ohio University – Athens, Ohio

Bachelor of Sport Management

For More Information: Ohio University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $23,307/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 66%
Points: 6
The Ohio University College of Business features an inexpensive bachelor’s in sport management with the academic rigor and practical training needed for success in the field. Courses include:

Sport Ticket Sales and Systems
Sport Facility and Event Management
Marketing and Revenue Streams in Sports

This flexible program allows students to customize their specialization area by choosing to complete a certificate, a structured sport internship, a business minor, or additional courses in a specific business discipline. Unique on and off-campus professional development opportunities are available through the Darren Butler Sports Business Forum, San Diego Sports Consulting Project, and the Southern Ohio Copperheads Baseball Team.

#18 – York College of Pennsylvania – York, Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science, Sport Management

For more information: York College of Pennsylvania

Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $22,876/year
Overall Graduate Rate: 65%
Points: 6
The Graham School of Business at York College of Pennsylvania is a hands-on program that delivers the knowledge and development opportunities needed for success. Students will study all aspects of the sport management industry while taking a deeper dive into specific areas of interest through elective course offerings. Required courses include:

Financing Sport Operations
Concepts of Social Media Platforms
Ethics and Current Issues in Sport

York College of Pennsylvania emphasizes the importance of experiential learning. Students complete a four credit-hour practicum experience during their first two years and wrap up the program with a nine-credit capstone work experience.

#17 – Wilmington College – Wilmington, Ohio

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

For more information: Wilmington College

Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $22,817/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 52%
Points: 6
The low-priced bachelor’s in sport management at Wilmington College is a four-year program for students interested in wellness, sport, and sport-related enterprises. Students are engaged in classroom learning that includes courses in:

Moral and Ethical Reasoning in Sport
Legal Aspects and Governance of Sport
Business Communications

The Wilmington College S.P.O.R.T.S. Club allows students to network and work on their professional development. All students complete an internship that prepares them for success in the field. Graduates are prepared to work in wellness and other sports related fields or pursue advanced study in a master’s degree program.

#16 – Lancaster Bible College – Lancaster, Pennsylvania

BS in Sport Management and Biblical Studies

For more information: Lancaster Bible College

Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $20,736/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 73%
Points: 6
Lancaster Bible College features a high-quality Bachelor of Science in sport management and biblical studies. This high-value program provides students with hands-on practical knowledge and skills that allow students to build their resume before leaving the program. Students can choose to specialize in sports management, coaching, or sport ministry. Hands-on training begins in the first semester. Students help with athletic events on campus before moving to an apprenticeship in their sophomore year. During their junior and senior years, students’ complete internships and a practicum. Depending on course selection, students can earn nationally recognized certificates from the American Sport Education Program in Coaching and the American Sport Education Program in Sport First Aid.

#15 – North Greenville University – Tigerville, South Carolina

BS in Sport Management, Tracks in Business, Coaching and Sport Ministry

For more information: North Greenville University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $20,627/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 51%
Points: 6
North Greenville University is a private, liberal arts institution affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention. They offer a top affordable bachelor’s in sport management with three personalized tracks. Students can choose from concentrations in:

Business
Ministry
Coaching

The comprehensive curriculum includes a 600-clock hour internship with a sport organization. Additional hands-on training opportunities are offered through volunteer opportunities at NGU sporting events. Students can work with their advisors on personalized career prep to build a competitive resume.

#14 – University of Indianapolis – Indianapolis, Indiana

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

For more information: University of Indianapolis

Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Net Price: $20,441/year
Overall Graduate Rate: 61%
Points: 6
If you want to work behind the scenes in the business of sports, the sport management bachelor’s degree program at the University of Indianapolis can help you reach your goals. Students complete high quality internships and work on real world projects with nationally recognized sport organizations. Networking opportunities with sport business professionals allow students to develop meaningful connections. Resume building volunteer experiences are available during the Indy 500 and the NCAA Championships. Graduates have gone on to work in a variety of settings including intercollegiate athletics and professional sports.

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

BS in Sport Management

For more information: East Stroudsburg University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Net Price: $18,500/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 50%
Points: 6
The top Bachelor of Science in sport management at East Stroudsburg University is a COSMA accredited program with a cutting-edge curriculum that prepares students to work in the modern sport marketplace. The curriculum is comprehensive and includes hands-on activities and practical experiences. Required courses include:

Organization and Administration of Sport Operations
Comparative and International Issues in Sport and Physical Activity
Concepts of Sport Marketing

Students develop connections to the sport industry, engaging with guest speakers and alumni. Professional development opportunities are available through the Sport Management Club, a student organization that promotes the field through community service events, networking, and field trips.

#12 – Slippery Rock University – Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania

BS in Sport Management

For more information: Slippery Rock University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Net Price: $18,117/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 69%
Points: 6
Slippery Rock University has offered an outstanding sport management bachelor’s degree program since 1977. Their bachelor’s in sport management was the first program in the country to be accredited by COSMA. Each student completes a 480-credit hour internship. Internships are available at over 350 different sport organizations around the world. Practicum experiences also provide students with professional training. Each student completes four practicum experiences over the course of the program. Graduates are prepared for a variety of exciting careers including sport facility management, sport communication, and sales and promotions.

#11 – Bowling Green State University – Bowling Green, Ohio

Bachelor of Science in Education-Sport Management Program

For more information: Bowling Green State University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $17,580/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 62%
Points: 6
The School of Human Movement, Sport, and Leisure Studies at Bowling Green State University features one of the largest and most diversified sport management bachelor’s degree programs in the country. Students benefit from quality classroom experiences with courses in:

Sport and Event Promotion
Sport Psychology
Sport and Public Assembly Facilities

The comprehensive curriculum places emphasis on volunteerism, ethics, and intellectual inquiry. Students can choose a complimentary minor in areas like management, marketing, or communication. Professional development opportunities are available through the Sport Management Alliance student organization.

#10 – Shorter University – Rome, Georgia

Bachelor of Business Administration in Sport Management

For more information: Shorter University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average Net Price: $17,463/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 43%
Points: 6
Future sport management professionals can conquer the world of sports by earning an affordable bachelor’s in sport management from the Ledbetter College of Business at Shorter University. They offer both a traditional and online Bachelor of Business Administration in Sport Management. Traditional program students can accelerate their study and earn their BBA and MBA in just four years. Career development opportunities are available through a professional lecture series, job fair, and a career development panel.

#9 – Davenport University – Grand Rapids, Michigan

Sport Management, Bachelor of Business Administration

For more information: Davenport University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $17,169/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 49%
Points: 6
Davenport University offers a flexible sport management Bachelor of Business Administration degree program for students who want to turn their passion for sports into a successful business career. Unique course offerings include:

Sport Analytics
Sport Communication and Promotion
Athletic Leadership and Coaching

All students complete a sport management internship their sophomore and junior years. During the sport management capstone course, students develop a long range business plan for an organization to showcase their knowledge, skills and abilities.

#8 – Central Michigan University – Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Bachelor’s in Sport Management

For more information: Central Michigan University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $15,758/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 64%
Points: 6
The sport management major at Central Michigan University is a comprehensive bachelor’s degree program that prepares students for a career in sport management. Required courses include:

Sport Communication and Mass Media
Sport Management Governance and Organizational Theory
Sport Governance: Ethics, Morals, and Values

Courses are taught by experienced faculty who understand the business of sports. Students complete field study and an internship in sport management, gaining valuable professional skills.

#7 – Arkansas State University – Jonesboro, Arkansas

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

For More Information: Arkansas State University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Net Price: $14,275/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 53%
Points: 6
The low-cost bachelor’s in sport management at Arkansas State University is a rigorous program that gives students the foundation they need for success in the industry. Students take courses in areas like sports analytics and the business of esports. Minors are available in:

General Business
Marketing
Multimedia Journalism

The 120-credit hour program can be completed in four years. All students complete an internship in their specific area of interest. Graduates are successful working in careers like intercollegiate athletics, sport facility management, and sport marketing.

#6 – University of Southern Indiana – Evansville, Indiana

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

For More Information: University of Southern Indiana

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Net Price: $13,958/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 53%
Points: 6
The Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education at the University of Southern Indiana features both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in sport management. Concentrations are available in areas like:

Intercollegiate Athletics
Recreational Sports
Sport Communication
Sport and Business Studies

Students gain extensive sport management experience by working with USI’s Division II athletic teams, organizing events, and learning how to use social media for sport communications. Students begin sport management internships during their first year in the program and complete over 400 clock hours of experience by the end of the program.

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

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

For more information: Southeast Missouri State University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $13,815/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 51%
Points: 6
Southeast Missouri State University is the first university in Missouri to offer a COSMA accredited bachelor’s in sport management. Their innovative curriculum requires each course to have a practical component. Students develop a strong business foundation by completing a minor in business. Experiential learning opportunities are offered through class projects, practica, and internships. Class size is kept intentionally small to support engagement between students and faculty.

#4 – University of North Florida – Jacksonville, Florida

Bachelor of Science, Sport Management

For More Information: University of North Florida

Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Net Price: $9,789/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 66%
Points: 6
The cheap bachelor’s in sport management offered by the University of North Florida is a COSMA accredited program with plenty of experiential learning opportunities. UNF has proudly built relationships with a variety of reputable sport organizations to offer professional development opportunities to their students. Organizations like the Jacksonville Jaguars and ATP provide students with community-based learning and industry experience. Students have the unique opportunity to study in the Sport Data Analytics Lab, learning both performance and business analytics.

#3 – Winthrop University – Rock Hill, South Carolina

Bachelor of Science, Sport Management

For more information: Winthrop University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Net Price: $19,300/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 61%
Points: 7
The interdisciplinary sport management bachelor’s degree program at Winthrop University is one of just two sport management programs in South Carolina. Students will learn business principles in areas like accounting, management and marketing, while taking a deeper dive into areas like sports information and facility management. This COSMA accredited program has established partnerships with a variety of professional organizations to offer internships to their students. International partnerships give students the chance to study abroad and gain a global perspective of the industry. Recent graduates are working in areas like arena management and interscholastic athletic administration.

#2 – University of Louisville – Louisville, Kentucky

Bachelor’s in Sport Administration

For more information: University of Louisville

Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Net Price: $17,894/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 60%
Points: 7
The University of Louisville offers a high-quality bachelor’s in sport administration. This challenging program gives students the inside industry knowledge and hands-on training needed for success in the field. Students can customize their program through elective course offerings. Popular electives include:

Athletics in Higher Education
International Sport
Women and Sport

Most core classes and electives are offered online, making this a great choice for working professionals or those with busy schedules. Students can gain real industry experience through experiential learning opportunities with partners like the Kentucky Derby and the NCAA Final Four. Faculty have over 80 years of combined experience educating up and coming sport management professionals.

#1 – Troy University – Troy, Alabama

BS in Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management

For more information: Troy University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Net Price: $13,257/year
Overall Graduation Rate: 50%
Points: 7
The best university for sports management is Troy University. Troy offers an online and on-campus bachelor’s in sport management that prepares students for success. Students gain valuable skills in areas like leadership and interpersonal communication. Sport management courses include:

Sport Communications and Emerging Technology
Sports Marketing
Facility Management

Students complete a sport-centered internship to develop their professional skills and make industry connections. Instructors use case studies as a teaching tool so students understand critical concepts in the context of a future work environment. Troy is also surprisingly affordable! In addition to low tuition rates, Troy offers a variety of scholarships to help students keep their education affordable.

Is sports management a good degree?

Sport management is a great degree for students who want to turn their passion for sports into a profession. A bachelor’s in sport management is typically a four-year degree program that may be offered online or in a traditional campus-based format. Coursework typically covers areas like:

sport finance
sport marketing
sport law and ethics
sport facilities management

A sport management bachelor’s degree program provides students with a strong business foundation and specialized knowledge of the sport industry. Many schools recognize the importance of an advanced degree for students planning to pursue executive leadership roles. These schools may offer a 4+1 bachelors/masters in sports management which allows students to complete both degrees in just five years. Other schools offer an MBA program to sport management students who genuinely want to take their career to the next level.

Fortunately, there are many sport management degree programs that will not break the bank. The least expensive bachelor’s in sports management degree programs are those with affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

What kind of job can I get with a bachelor’s in sports management?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for sport occupations is excellent. Employment is expected to grow by 7% (faster than average) through 2029 in part because of the increasing popularity of sports. Graduates with a sports management degree, salary is largely determined by the specific area they decide to pursue and their level of experience. Since sport is a global industry, sport management professionals can use their skills almost anywhere in the world. Sport management graduates may work in roles like special event coordinator, athletic director, sales manager, and tournament director. They may organize a Little League tournament or manage elite Olympic athletes. The possibilities are endless!

Some sport management bachelor’s degree programs offer specializations. Popular areas of specialization include sports analytics, event management, and sport media and communications. Students interested in a career in a specialized area of sport management should make sure they have the coursework and training required for these roles.

What is the difference between a B.S. and a B.A. in Sports Management?

Traditionally, a BS degree requires more science and mathematics courses while BA requirements include more courses in the arts and humanities. Fortunately, sport management bachelor’s degrees are available in both degrees. To determine which program is the best fit, students should consider their long-term educational and professional goals. A Bachelor of Arts in sport management may allow students to take a greater variety of electives allowing students to explore complimentary interests. A Bachelor of Science typically is more restrictive with fewer elective options. Students can expect to take more science or math-based courses.
Other types of sport management bachelor’s degree programs include the BBA in sport management. The Bachelor of Business Administration is a degree focused on general business and management with additional courses in sport management. Students will benefit from a well-rounded business education in the context of sport management. Another similar degree is the Bachelor’s in Business in sport management. This degree can be either a BS or BA and the primary emphasis is on business with specialized coursework and training in sport management.

Will I need to complete an internship to get a bachelor’s degree in sports management?

Internship requirements vary by school. Most sport management programs will offer some type of internship or practicum experience since industry connections and experience are vital for student success. COSMA accredited programs require an internship experience in accordance with accreditation standards. Program that don’t require an internship should offer other opportunities for students to connect with the field. Guest speakers, active sport management student organizations, and partnerships with sport organizations can all help a student develop professional relationships.

Will I need any licenses or certificates to get a job in sports management?

There is not a recognized license or certificate needed to work in the sport industry. License and certification requirements are job specific and do not apply to the field in general. Specialized credentials or an advanced degree may be required for roles in areas like law, athletic training, or psychology.

Are there any professional organizations for people with a career in sports management?

There are several great professional organizations for sport management professionals.

College Sports Information Directors of America:

CoSIDA is a professional organization that supports communication professionals at all levels of collegiate athletics in the U.S. and Canada. They are an affiliated partner with the National Association of Collegiate Directors of America.

North American Society for Sport Management:

NASSM encourages professional development and research for professionals and students in the field of sport management. They publish the Journal of Sport Management.

National Association of Collegiate Directors of America:

NACDA is a professional organization for sports management professionals working as athletic directors, associate and assistant athletics directors, conference commissioners, and affiliated individuals.

Do I need an advanced degree to get a job in sports management?

An advanced degree is not required to score a great job in sports management. A bachelor’s degree in sports management gives students the knowledge and experience needed for most entry level sport management roles. A sports management master’s degree may be a great option for students seeking career advancement or a specialized role within the industry. Fortunately, there are many inexpensive online master’s in sport management available to students who are unable to take time away from work and family to complete their degree.

Popular Sports Management Programs:

California University of Pennsylvania – California, Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

Website
California University of Pennsylvania is one of the top colleges for sports management degrees. They offer a BS in sport management that incorporates theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Students are engaged in sport management related volunteer work beginning in their first semester. After completing required coursework, students move on to a 12-credit internship in the sport industry. Graduates have found employment in all areas of sport management including professional sports and non-profit organizations.

University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

Website
One of the best sports management programs in the country is offered by the University of Florida. They offer an on-campus and online BS in sport management that prepares students for management and leadership positions. Students complete a full semester internship experience during their final semester, boosting their resume. Planning to earn your master’s degree? UF offers one of the best sports management graduate programs with their BS/MS combined five-year degree.

Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska

Bachelor of Arts Sport Management Degree

Website
The affordable BA in sport management from Bellevue University is offered on-campus or online to meet the needs of a diverse population of students. A generous transfer credit policy and abundant financial aid opportunities make this one of the cheapest online bachelor’s in sports management degree programs in the country. Students can take one class at a time, focusing on specific areas, to complete their degree faster and save even more money.

Adelphi University – Garden City, New York

Bachelor of Science in Education-Sport Management Program

Website
Adelphi University offers a low-cost bachelor’s in sports management with exceptional hands-on learning opportunities. Students will explore the latest trends and technology while building a solid foundation in areas like sports marketing and business management. Specialized program tracks are available in marketing, communications, management, and psychology and human performance.

Belhaven University – Jackson, Mississippi

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

Website
Belhaven University offers one of the top sports management degree programs in the nation. Courses are taught from a biblical worldview, looking at sport management as a Christ-centered vocation. Students will study areas like sport marketing and facilities design and maintenance. Graduates are well prepared for roles as sports agents, operations director, and facility managers.

Grand Canyon University – Phoenix, Arizona

Bachelor of Sports Management Degree

Website
Grand Canyon University offers a best-value online bachelor’s in sports management that provides students with industry specific knowledge and generalized business skills. Course content is up to date and covers best practices and industry trends. Graduates are ready for exciting careers in sports merchandising, sports marketing, and event planning.

Lynn University – Boca Raton, Florida

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management

Website
Lynn University features a budget friendly bachelor’s in sports management rich with hands-on learning opportunities and real-world experiences. Students study areas like business analytics, human resource management and business strategy. One-of-a-kind events and meet and greets keep students engaged and active with the local sport industry.

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