Top 25 Online Masters in Sports Management that Require No GRE or GMAT 2022

By SMDG Staff

Earning an online master’s degree in sports management is a great way to advance your career and earn valuable certification essential to success in the industry. If it’s been awhile since you’ve completed your bachelor’s degree, the thought of retaking the GRE or GMAT can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are many great schools who do not require submission of GMAT or GRE scores when making an admission decision! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of entertainment and sports occupations is projected to grow by 10% through 2026, which is faster than average for most other occupations. Earning a master’s in Sport Management online–without submitting any GRE or GMAT scores–can give you the training and skills to kick off your sport management career, with the flexibility of an online program.

We created this ranking of the top online master’s in sports management without GRE or GMAT requirements based on information we received from the National Center for Education Statistics and the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation. We looked for schools offering an online master’s degree in sports management and narrowed our list to those that don’t require a GMAT or GRE score as part of their admission process. It is important to note that in lieu of these scores, some schools require a higher undergraduate GPA, letters of reference, or work experience to be fully admitted to the program. Every school is different so consult their admissions department prior to applying. We then created and applied a ranking system using average graduate tuition rate and student to faculty ratio. We awarded bonus points for sports management master’s online programs that hold COSMA accreditation.

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1 or less= 5 Points
16:1 to 20:1= 3 Points
Greater than 20:1= 1 Point

Average Graduate Tuition

Less than $10,000 per year= 5 Points
$10,000 to $15,000 per year= 4 Points
$15,000 to $20,000 per year= 3 Points
$20,000 to $25,000 per year= 2 Points
Greater than $20,000 per year= 1 Point

COSMA Accreditation

Programs earning COSMA accreditation= 3 Points

Below are our top 25 online master’s in Sports Management that require no GMAT or GRE scores.

#25 – Southern New Hampshire University – Manchester, New Hampshire

Master’s in Sports Management Online

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 28:1
Average graduate student tuition: $18,810/year
Points: 4
The top online master’s in sports management from Southern New Hampshire University was developed to help turn a passion for sports into a profession. This flexible online masters degree program can be completed in just 15 months by taking two courses each ten week term. Faculty have relevant real world experience. Online students have the support of dedicated career and academic advisors with knowledge of the sport management industry. There are no GRE or GMAT scores required for admission.

#24 – Northwestern University – Evanston, Illinois

Online Master’s in Sports Administration

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Average graduate student tuition: $54,120/year
Points: 6
The School of Professional Studies at Northwestern University has an online master’s in sport administration for those starting or advancing their career. Online master’s degree courses are taught by faculty with extensive professional experience in the field. Students can choose an optional specialization in sports analytics. This online master’s degree program is designed to be completed in two to three years of part-time study. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for admission, but students must submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a writing sample, current resume, and a statement of purpose.

#23 – Georgetown University – Washington, DC

Online Master’s in Sports Industry Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average graduate student tuition: $49,560/year
Points: 6
The online master’s in sports industry management offered by the School of Continuing Studies at Georgetown University is recognized for distinguished practitioner instructors who works at the highest levels of the sport industry. This 30 credit hour online master’s degree program includes courses in applied sports ethics, sports business and finance, strategic sports marketing, and sports leadership. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for admission, but students must submit transcripts from all graduate and undergraduate institutions, a resume, and letters of recommendation to be considered for acceptance into the program.

#22 – Adelphi University – Garden City, New York

Online MS in Sport Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average graduate student tuition: $40,750/year
Points: 6
The online master’s in sport management offered by Adelphi University is designed to give students the professional skills and leadership strategies to be successful in the sport management field. The streamlined master’s degree program can be completed in just 24 months, using a 100% online format that allows students to balance school with personal and professional obligations. Students can choose to specialize in sport marketing or collegiate athletic administration. Core sports management courses cover areas such as sport facility and event management, intramural and recreational management, and sport law and athletic compliance. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for admission.

#21 – Drexel University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Online MS in Sport Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average graduate student tuition: $34,155/year
Points: 6
The LeBow College of Business at Drexel University features a top online MS in sport management that prepares students to tackle the challenges facing the field. The online master’s degree program is designed to meet the need of existing sport professionals seeking career advancement as well as those just starting off in the field. This part-time, two year program is delivered through a flexible online format that meets the needs of busy sport management professionals. Students can waive the GRE/GMAT requirements if they meet the minimum GPA required for a waiver, have significant professional experience and progressive career experience, and have strong quantitative skills.

#20 – American University – Washington, DC

Online MS in Sports Analytics and Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average graduate student tuition: $30,744/year
Points: 6
The online MS in sports analytics and management from American University recognizes that technology and data are shaping the next generation of sports management professionals. Using a four-phase curriculum, online courses professionally align and include skill sets that industry employers are looking for. This 20-month, 30 credit hour, online master’s degree program was developed by experts coming from organizations such as the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the NFL Players Association, and the NBA. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for admission, but all applications should have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university.

#19 – DePaul University – Chicago, Illinois

Online Sport, Fitness and Recreation Leadership (MS)

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average graduate student tuition: $19,032/year
Points: 6
DePaul University features an innovative online master’s in sport, fitness and recreational leadership. This master’s degree program is designed for working professionals and all courses are available in a convenient online format. Students come to Chicago for two, two-day summer seminars for valuable networking and professional development. All students complete a culminating thesis or research project they will present during their final summer seminar. While GRE or GMAT scores are not required for admission, students should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and have professional work experience in sport, fitness, or recreation.

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

Online MS in Sport Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Average graduate student tuition: $6,552/year in-state and $17,904/year out-of-state
Points: 6
Texas A&M University has an online master’s in sport management for students who plan to be key decision makers in sport organizations. New online students are admitted each semester and most students can complete their master’s degree in just two years. Faculty are of all academic ranks and are experts in a variety of sport management areas. Students complete a graduate internship to take their knowledge and training and apply it in a professional setting. Admission is competitive and while GRE scores are not required for admission, students can use their scores to enhance their application.

#17 – University of Cincinnati – Cincinnati, Ohio

Online Masters in Sport Administration

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Average graduate student tuition: $12,790/year in-state and $24,532/year out-of-state
Points: 7
The University of Cincinnati offers an online MS in sport administration focused on developing tomorrow’s sport industry leaders. Students gain experience in finance, public relations, compliance, and student-athlete support services. In addition to earning a top online masters in sport management, students also have the opportunity to complete the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Certification Program. Full-time students can earn their online master’s degree in just twelve months. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for admission, but students are expected to have earned at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for undergraduate studies.

#16 – University of Northern Colorado – Greeley, Colorado

Sport and Exercise Science MS: Sport Administration Emphasis

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average graduate student tuition: $10,476/year in-state and $19,551/year out-of-state
Points: 7
The sport and exercise master’s from the University of Northern Colorado is a flexible online program focused on sport administration. The 12 month online master’s degree program covers areas like sport finance, program management, marketing, and fundraising. An internship opportunity provides students with the chance to put their knowledge into practice and gain valuable field experience. Graduates have secured jobs with the Denver Broncos, the New York Yankees, and multiple Olympic sport organizations. Students are not required to submit GRE or GMAT scores for admission, but applicants should have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least a 3.0 for consideration.

#15 – Campbellsville University – Campbellsville, Kentucky

Online MA Sport Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Average graduate student tuition: $10,080/year
Points: 7
Campbellsville University features an online master’s in sport management with emphases areas in either administration or marketing. Regardless of the concentration, students are prepared for leadership positions in the field including recreational, collegiate, and professional level sports. This IACBE accredited sport management program features eight week online courses and takes about two years to complete. Applicants do not need to submit GRE or GMAT scores as long as they have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least of 3.0.

#14 – Gonzaga University – Spokane, Washington

Online Master’s in Sport & Athletic Administration

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Average graduate student tuition: $16,725/year
Points: 8
The online top MA in sport and athletic administration from Gonzaga University gives students the edge to succeed in the competitive sport industry. Students develop skills in areas such as media relations, facilities management, leadership development, and risk management. Most students take about two years to complete this online master’s degree program while continuing to work while earning their degree. While there are no GRE requirements for admission, students should have a 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA or include an explanation of GPA statement when applying.

#13 – West Virginia University – Morgantown, West Virginia

Online Masters in Sport Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Average graduate student tuition: $9,990/year in-state and $25,776/year out-of-state
Points: 8
West Virginia University College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences offers an online MS in sport management with program tracks available in either comprehensive sport industry management or interscholastic athletic administration. Online master’s degree students pay the same low tuition rates as in-state students. The curriculum emphasizes the challenges facing sport industry professionals. Students will spend time focused on themes like business technology, sport management strategy, and problem solving while exploring their passion. There is no GRE requirement, but students should have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75.

#12 – University of Kansas – Lawrence, Kansas

Online Sport Management Master’s Degree

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average graduate student tuition: $9,989/year in-state and $23,366/year out-of-state
Points: 8
The Department of Health, Sport, and Exercise Sciences at The University of Kansas offers a flexible online master’s in sport management designed for working professionals. Students can graduate in just two years of study while studying areas like business communication and management. Throughout this affordable online master’s degree program, students work to develop an e-portfolio which demonstrates their skills and competencies to future employers. Students are not required to submit GRE or GMAT scores for admission, but they should have at least a 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA.

#11 – Western Carolina University – Cullowhee, North Carolina

Online MS in Sport Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Average graduate student tuition: $4,435/year in-state and $14,842/year out-of-state
Points: 8
The MS in sport management from Western Carolina University is a fully online program with no prerequisite coursework. Full-time students can complete their degree in just one year. Faculty are experienced sport management professionals recognized for their teaching expertise. GMAT or GRE scores are not required for admission but can be used to strengthen an application. Students must submit their official transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a 500 word essay addressing their professional aspirations to be considered for the program.

#10 – Canisius College – Buffalo, New York

Online Master’s in Sport Administration

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average graduate student tuition: $14,760/year
Points: 9
The online master’s in sport administration from Canisius College features a flexible hands-on curriculum. Students can choose to specialize in a variety of areas including intercollegiate athletics, amateur or professional sports, sports marketing, or event and facility management. Online coursework, internships, study abroad opportunities, and professional industry events give the program a unique edge. There are no GRE or GMAT scores required for admission and the application is free to complete online. Students need to submit their transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a resume for consideration.

#9 – Jacksonville University – Jacksonville, Florida

Online MS, Sport Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average graduate student tuition: $14,274/year
Points: 9
The top affordable online MS in sport management offered by Jacksonville University was designed to meet market demands while being flexible to accommodate working professionals. This 12 month online master’s degree program organizes courses over eight-week terms. Business and quantitative-based courses, as well as a real-world capstone course, prepare students for leadership roles within the field of sport management. Students are not required to submit GRE scores provided their cumulative undergraduate GPA is above a 3.0.

#8 – Baker University – Baldwin City, Kansas

Online MS in Sports Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 7:1
Average graduate student tuition: $10,188/year
Points: 9
The 33 credit hour top affordable online MS in sport management degree offered by Baker University is an 18-20 month program for future sport industry professionals. Online sports management courses are held year-round and new courses being offered every seven weeks. Instructors are working professionals, considered experts in their respective fields. Concentrations are available in finance, health care administration, human resources, or leadership and organizational change. There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for admission, students just need to submit their official transcript showing they earned their bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.

#7 – Briar Cliff University – Sioux City, Iowa

MSM with a Concentration in Sports Management

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Average graduate student tuition: $9,414/year
Points: 9
The top affordable sports management master’s program online from Briar Cliff University is designed to give sport management professionals a competitive industry edge. The convenient online format allows students to balance coursework with other obligations. Faculty members are accessible and are invested in their students’ success. Online master’s degree courses cover areas like public relations, human resources, finances, and recruitment. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for admission, but applicants should have an undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least a 3.0.

#6 – Northeastern University – Boston, Massachusetts

Online Master of Sports Leadership

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Average graduate student tuition: $24,027/year
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 10
The College of Professional Studies at Northeastern University has an affordable online master’s in sports leadership that prepares students to excel in a variety of sport-related occupations. Students can attend either part-time or full-time, completing their online master’s degree in under two years. This COSMA accredited program is delivered in a flexible online format. Students only need to come to campus for an intensive one-week summer institute. There are no GRE requirements for admission but students will need to submit a statement of purpose, a professional resume, two letters of recommendation, and their unofficial undergraduate transcripts.

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

Online Master’s of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management (PRTSM)

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average graduate student tuition: $8,917/year in-state and $25,405/year out-of-state
Points: 10
The Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management online master’s degree from North Carolina State University is a two year program designed for students who want to expand their professional opportunities. Students move through the online master’s program as a cohort, taking one course each seven-week semester. Online master’s degree courses align with the needs of the industry, covering key management functions. There is no GRE requirement for students with two years of professional full-time work experience.

#4 – Wilmington University – New Castle, Delaware

MSM with a Concentration in Sports Management Online

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Average graduate student tuition: $8,586/year
Points: 10
The College of Business at Wilmington University features an online affordable management master’s with a concentration in sports management. Online master’s degree courses cover areas like sports economics and finance, sports law, and sport service and event marketing. Students can complete the program at their own pace, adjusting their course load to accommodate personal and professional obligations. There are no GRE requirements for admission, but students are not considered degree candidates until they have completed four courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0, submit an official transcript, complete a program planning conference, and successfully completing an organization theory and design course.

#3 – Ohio University – Athens, Ohio

MS in Sport Administration Online

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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
Ohio University is a top ranked university according to U.S. News and World Report and offers an online master’s in athletic administration specializing in developing talented Athletic Directors. Students can complete their degree in just two years while preparing for NIAAA certification. Online master’s degree coursework covers areas such as risk management in athletics, HR management in sport organizations, and sport marketing. There is no GRE requirement for this COSMA accredited program, but students should have a minimum of two years of athletic administration or coaching experience at either the middle school or high school level prior to applying to the program.

#2 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia

MS in Sports Management – Sports Administration Online

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Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Average graduate student tuition: $7,904/year
COSMA Accreditation: Yes
Points: 11
Liberty University features an online MS in sport management with a focus on sports administration. This COSMA accredited master’s degree program is delivered through a state of the art online learning environment with new courses offered every eight weeks. Students can earn their online master’s degree in just two years, while continuing to meet personal and professional obligations. There are no GRE requirements for acceptance, but students must submit official undergraduate transcripts within 60 days of acceptance to the program.

#1 – Arkansas State University – Jonesboro, Arkansas

MS in Sport Administration Online

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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 online affordable master’s in sport administration that doesn’t require a GRE or GMAT is offered by Arkansas State University. This COSMA accredited online master’s degree program is incredibly affordable and can be completed in just 12 months. Sports administration courses cover areas such as sport governance and operations, sport leadership, sport communication, and sport law. All students complete an internship to gain valuable industry experience. There is no GRE requirement for acceptance, but students should have a bachelor’s degree or master’s with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 from an accredited institution.

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