25 Best Online Master's in Sports Management Degree Programs 2022

By: SMDG Staff

Sports and athletics are a multi-billion dollar industry. Athletes, teams, sporting facilities, clubs, and recreational organizations all require effective leadership and management to be successful. An online sport management masters degree can provide you with academic preparation leading to a successful career. You’ll have the skills and knowledge needed to navigate this fast-paced industry without sacrificing your professional and personal obligations.

The best online sport management masters programs feature graduate work for distance learners in areas like:

sport marketing
event management
project planning
economics
sports law

These skills, along with other factors, are necessary for success in the exciting field of sport management and sport administration.

We created a ranking of the top 25 online sport management graduate programs using information provided by the National Center for Education Statistics. To be considered for our ranking, schools need to be:

regionally accredited
offer a master’s degree in sports management or a closely related area such as sport administration.

We looked for sports management graduate programs online with a:

comprehensive curriculum
expert level faculty
flexible online courses

We then applied our ranking criteria to determine the top 25 online sports management graduate programs.

Ranking the Top Sports Management Masters Degree Online Programs 2021

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1 or less= 5 Points
13:1 to 17:1= 3 Points
Greater than 17:1= 1 Point

Average Graduate Student Tuition

Less than $10,000 per year= 5 Points
$10,000 to $15,000 per year= 3 Points
More than $15,000 per year= 1 Point

COSMA Accreditation

Yes= 3 Points

Below are the 25 schools that offer the top online masters in sports management programs in the United States.

——-

#25 – Temple University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Executive Master’s Degree in Sport Business

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $16,488/year in-state and $22,698/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 4
Temple University features an online executive master’s degree in sport business that prepares students to quickly adapt to real-world changes affecting the industry. Students will build powerful connections with industry experts around the country. The flexible online format allows sports management students to juggle coursework with other obligations. Online sports management degree courses cover::

sport media and communication
legal issues in sport and recreation
the sport workplace

Full-time students can complete their degree in just 13-15 months.

#24 – University of Massachusetts Amherst – Amherst, Massachusetts

Online MBA with a focus in Sport Management

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $13,606/year in-state and $28,669/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 4
The Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst features an inexpensive online MBA in sports management focused on career advancement. This high-energy online sports management program teaches cutting-edge industry trends and best practices. Students can take advantage of unique networking opportunities. Online sports management masters degree courses cover areas like

project management
data management for business leaders
applied sport market research
sport analytics

#23 – Virginia Commonwealth University – Richmond, Virginia

Master of Sport Leadership Online

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,217/year in-state and $25,032/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 4
The low-cost online master’s in sport leadership offered by Virginia Commonwealth University is a part-time program offered through the School of Business. Online sports leadership courses cover areas like the sociology of sport and marketing of sport. There is no thesis requirement. All students must pass a written comprehensive exam. Sport leadership students complete an externship in the sport field to gain valuable hands-on experience.

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

Online Sport Management Master’s Program

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,742/year in-state and $22,564/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 4
The College of Education at the University of Texas at Austin features a 100% online master’s in sport management. Students benefit from small class size and a strong alumni network. Classes are limited to just 25 students. Most students can complete their degree in just two years thanks to a flexible class schedule and six-week sessions. Online sports management program courses cover areas like:

leadership in sport organizations
legal issues in sport
sports marketing

There is no thesis required.

#21 – University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida

Online Master’s Degree in Sport Management

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,770/year in-state and $27,335/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 4
The top online masters sport management program from the University of Florida is the first program in the nation to become PAADS-certified. This rigorous master’s program provides students with field experience and personal attention that few other programs offer. Students can choose to specialize in areas like:

athlete development
high-performance coaching
sports law.

UF’s online sports management programs cover:

sport ethics
sport finance
training high-performance athletes
performance enhancements.

Online students have access to career coaching in their area of professional interest.

#20 – Northwestern University – Evanston, Illinois

Online Master’s in Sports Administration

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $54,120/year
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 6
The School of Professional Studies at Northwestern University features an online masters in sports administration program with an optional sports analytics specialization. Faculty have extensive professional experience in the field. Online sports management programs cover areas like:

sports marketing
sports business
the technology of sport
legal and ethical issues

All students complete either a capstone project course or a thesis.

#19 – Georgetown University – Washington, DC

Online Master’s in Sports Industry Management

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $49,560/year in-state and $27,335/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 6
Georgetown University features an inexpensive online master’s in sports industry management. Students will gain the inside knowledge needed for career development. Online sports industry courses cover areas like:

applied ethics in sports
sport law
sports leadership and management
sports business and finance
social responsibility and globalization in sports

With 30 credit hours, this online program takes about two years to complete. Graduates are prepared for positions in:

collegiate athletics
sports agencies
professional franchises

#18 – Drexel University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Master’s in Sport Management Online

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $34,155/year
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 6
The Lebow College of Business at Drexel University features a masters in sports management online offered in a part-time, two-year program. This low-cost online master’s program is designed for students who want to advance their career or shift to sports management. Online sports management degree courses cover areas like:

sport media and technology
public relations
leadership
negotiations
sports economics

Graduates are successful sport management professionals. They’ve gone on to work in areas like:

professional sports
media
business
e-commerce

#17 – American University – Washington, DC

Online MS in Sports Analytics and Management

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $30,744/year
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 6
The low-cost online master’s in sports analytics and management at American University is an innovative program. The curriculum focuses on how technology and data shape the future of sports management. The four-phase curriculum model feature courses that align with a broad set of skills in demand by employers. The credit hours required for this program is 30 and takes 20 months to complete. Online sports management degree courses cover areas like:

social engagement
strategic management of sports organizations
client communications
professional consulting

#16 – Old Dominion University – Norfolk, Virginia

MS in Sport Management Online

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,727/year in-state and $28,435/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 6
Old Dominion features an affordable 36 credit MS in sport management online offered through the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies. Online students will apply theory to practice in a variety of sports management settings. They’ll use critical thinking skills to come up with solutions to complex problems. Either an internship or thesis is required, along with six required courses and sports management electives. Graduates of this low-cost online master’s in sports management program have found success working in:

professional sports
health and fitness centers
event and facility operations
non-profit sport organizations

#15 – Saint Leo University – Saint Leo, Florida

Online MBA-Sport Business Concentration

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,498/year
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 6
The affordable online MBA with a concentration in sport business from Saint Leo University is a flexible program with a rigorous curriculum. The 36-credit hour, low-cost online master’s in sports management degree program can be completed in just one year. New students can begin the program at any of the six start times available each year. Online sports management degree courses are offered in:

managerial economics
risk management
facility planning
sports marketing
additional courses

An optional internship is available and encouraged for students not currently working in the sport industry.

#14 – Georgia Southern University – Statesboro, Georgia

MS in Sport Management (Online)

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,636/year in-state and $26,518/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 6
The Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology at Georgia Southern University offers an inexpensive online master’s in sports management putting students in the business of sports. With 36 credit hours, this low-cost online master’s program takes just 24 months to complete. Masters sport management online course offerings include current issues in sport administration and sport facility/event management. Graduates are prepared for different sectors of the sport industry including:

state and county sports commissions
sports marketing
athletic leagues and associations

#13 – Texas A&M University – College Station, Texas

Online M.S. in Sport Management

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,552/year in-state and $17,904/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 6
The Department of Health and Kinesiology at Texas A&M University features both a low cost traditional and online master’s in sports management with regional accreditation for future managers and administrators. With 36 credit hours, this affordable online master’s program accepts new students each fall. Both thesis and non-thesis tracks are available. All courses are available in a convenient format that can accommodate both full and part-time students. Online sports management course offerings cover areas like:

diversity in sport organizations
personnel management in sport
revenue generation in sport

Students can choose to complete a practicum in sports management for additional field experience.

#12 – University of Indianapolis – Indianapolis, Indiana

MS in Sport Management

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $36,422/year
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 7
It takes hard work and dedication to be a winning leader. The hybrid sport management program from the University of Indianapolis provides students with the expertise and knowledge needed for winning career prospects. The University of Indianapolis was the first program in the state earn COSMA accreditation. Students have the opportunity to engage in real-world projects and research project opportunities that directly apply to the workforce. Each students received individualized mentoring to complete the program. Most sports management coursework can be completed in a convenient online format. Students do meet several times each semester with an expert level practitioner. Both full and part-time students are welcome.

#11 – Northeastern University – Boston, Massachusetts

Online Master’s in Sports Leadership

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $24,027/year
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 7
The College of Professional Studies at Northeastern University features an affordable online master’s in sports leadership with sport management accreditation that prepares students for a variety of sport related roles. This practice-oriented program includes a one-week summer intensive in Boston. Online learning in courses cover:

ethical leadership
sports law
sports media relations
sport in society

Students can choose to specialize in professional or collegiate athletics and can take part in an integrated experiential learning opportunity.

#10 – The University of Southern Mississippi – Hattiesburg, Mississippi

M.S. in Sport Management Online

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,514/year in-state and $10,514/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 8
The University of Southern Mississippi features a low-cost top online master’s in sports management. Students will have the training and skills needed to be successful in a variety of sports management areas. An optional sport event security management concentration is available, the first of its kind in the country. Online sports management courses cover areas like:

socio-ethical issues in sport
financial management in sport
policy and governance
and trends and issues

A sports management practicum is required of all students, as well as a passing score on a comprehensive exam.

#9 – Western Carolina University – Cullowhee, North Carolina

M.S. in Sport Management Online

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $4,435/year in-state and $14,842/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: No
Points: 8
Western Carolina University features a top online master degree program in sport management that is one of the most affordable programs in the nation. Full-time students can complete their degree in just one year. Part-time students usually take two year to earn their degree. All courses are offered online and there are no prerequisites. Online sports management courses include:

project change management
project scheduling
sport administration
governance

An internship is required to gain professional work experience.

#8 – University of Louisville – Louisville, Kentucky

MS in Sport Administration Online

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,684/year in-state and $26,454/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 9
The University of Louisville College of Education and Human Development features an affordable online MS in sport administration. The program has sport management accreditation, so students feel confident they leave with the skills and knowledge needed for leadership roles. This 100% online master degree program in sport administration program provides students with flexible learning and personal attention. Online courses cover areas like:

sport policy
sports marketing
sport analytics
sports management and leadership

Students complete an internship to gain valuable hands-on professional training.

#7 – Endicott College – Beverly, Massachusetts

Athletic Administration Program M.Ed.

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,191/year
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 9
The Van Loan School at Endicott College features an affordable online athletic administration program designed for working professionals. Online sports management courses are offered in a convenient six-week format. Courses are taught by expert faculty with industry experience. Students can participate in a variety of networking opportunities. Personal advising and job placement support are additional program benefits. This COSMA accredited program features courses in:

facilities planning in sport
financial resources management
event planning
programming

There is no GRE required for admission.

#6 – Wingate University – Wingate, North Carolina

MA in Sport Management Online

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,250/year
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 9
The top low-cost online sport management program from Wingate University gives students the competitive edge needed to be successful in the sport industry. Sports management courses cover areas like:

PR and social media in sport
college athlete development
wellness
sport marketing and promotions

This COSMA accredited program is taught by full-time faculty with industry experience. The affordable online program offers specialization tracks in sport marketing and athletic administration and compliance. The online sports management masters at Wingate is highly competitive with other online programs.

#5 – Louisiana State University – Baton Rouge, Louisiana

MS in Kinesiology and Sport Management Online

Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,132/year
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 9
The inexpensive online master’s in kinesiology and sport management offered by Louisiana State University is a 36 credit program that can be completed in just one year. The affordable master’s program is delivered in a convenient format and combines sports management theory with practice. Sports management courses cover areas like:

sports law
organizational and behavior development in sport
governance and policy development

Online learning graduates are prepared for a variety roles and positions with both recreational and professional athletic organizations.

#4 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia

Master’s in Sports Management Online

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,904/year
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 9
The top affordable sports management online master’s degree from Liberty University is a 36-credit program that can be completed in just 18 months. Online sports management courses are offered in a flexible eight-week format. Specialization areas are available in:

coaching and athletic administration
outdoor adventure sports
sports administration
tourism.

Both thesis and non-thesis tracks are available for students in the sports management online program. Students can align requirements with their personal and professional goals, which is nice for flexibility in online programs.

#3 – Ohio University – Athens, Ohio

Online Master of Athletic Administration

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,444/year in-state and $17,436/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 11
Earning an affordable online COSMA accredited master’s in athletic administration from Ohio University can help students build careers as an athletic director. Low-cost athletic administration coursework is delivered in a 100% online format. Students can complete their degree in just two years. Graduates are prepared for NIAAA certification. There is no GRE required for qualified applicants, like some other online programs.

#2 – Troy University – Troy, Alabama

MS Online-Sport Management

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $7,650/year in-state and $15,300/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 11
Troy University features a COSMA accredited, low-cost online master’s degree in sports management. Unique course offerings cover areas like:

sport psychology
sport economics
sport marketing
sport consumer behavior

Electives include an internship and practicum experience. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available for students to choose. Non-thesis students can choose a concentration in either coaching or exercise science.

#1 – Arkansas State University – Jonesboro, Arkansas

Online MS in Sport Administration

Website
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average Graduate Student Tuition: $4,806/year in-state and $9,612/year out-of-state
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 11
Our top low-cost online master’s degree in sport management is offered by Arkansas State University. This affordable program is COSMA accredited and can be completed in just 12 months. Online sports management courses cover areas like sport in society and sport communications. All students complete an internship experience in an approved organizational setting. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings including:

country clubs
stadiums and arenas
collegiate athletic departments

Related Resources: