Pursuing an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management is an excellent way to start your journey toward a fulfilling career in the sports industry. Not only will it provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry, but it will also equip you with the necessary skills to be successful in your chosen profession.
At present, the world of sports is continuously evolving, with new opportunities for sports management professionals emerging every day. An Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management will prepare you to take on these new challenges and pave the way for a successful career in the industry.
This blog will provide you with the necessary information regarding Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Sports Management. We will also guide you on choosing the best program, what career paths are available, and tips on how to succeed in this field. So, sit back, relax, and let us help you kickstart your career in Sports Management.
What is Sports Management?
Sports management refers to the commercial aspects of sports and entertainment. Many people who enjoy sports and possess qualities such as risk-taking and obstacle-overcoming can pursue online sports degrees and establish successful careers.
Sports managers work for a wide range of professional clubs and organizations, such as the National Football League, the NBA, the MLB, and the NHL. They may also work for recreational departments and sports marketing agencies.
The career options for sports managers are diverse, ranging from event managers and facilities managers to sports economists. They can also work in finance, promotion, or information professions.
Sports managers can work in various positions, including overseeing the front office or working behind the scenes. They may also serve as a liaison between players, coaches, and the media. All sports management professionals value energy, enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and collaboration regardless of their position.
Bachelor’s Sports Management Degree Holders’ Ideal Careers
Sports management degree careers attract professionals from diverse disciplines passionate about working with professional, collegiate, or recreational athletics. Sports organizations require employees with financial, operational, and marketing skills similar to those of any other business.
However, an aspiring sports manager should also comprehensively understand industry-specific issues. In addition, obtaining a sports management degree with a particular focus on the field can lead to a more marketable position.
The following are promising sport management job opportunities:
Athlete Development Specialists
Athlete Development Specialists work closely with athletes to help them improve their skills and performance. They design and implement training programs that are tailored to each athlete’s needs and provide guidance on nutrition and mental health.
They also act as mentors and motivators, helping athletes develop confidence and leadership skills that will serve them well on and off the field.
Contract Analysts
Contract Analysts work for sports organizations and are responsible for analyzing and negotiating contracts for athletes, coaches, and other personnel. They review and interpret contract language, research industry standards, and negotiate favorable terms for their clients.
They also work to ensure that all contract provisions are met and that all parties involved comply with the contract terms.
Event Coordinators
Event Coordinators are responsible for planning and executing sports events, including games, tournaments, and other competitions. They coordinate logistics such as venue selection, vendor contracts, and transportation arrangements.
They also manage event budgets and work with sponsors and other stakeholders to ensure that the event runs smoothly and meets the expectations of all involved.
Athletic Coaches
Athletic Coaches work directly with athletes to help them improve their performance and achieve their goals. They design training programs, provide feedback and guidance, and motivate athletes to push themselves to their limits.
They also act as mentors and role models, helping athletes develop the character traits and life skills that will serve them well on and off the field.
Sport Lawyers
Sports Lawyers work in the legal field and specialize in sports law. They represent clients in legal disputes related to sports, such as contract disputes, trademark infringement, and employment issues. They also advise clients on legal issues related to sports, such as regulatory compliance and intellectual property.
Sport Marketers
Sports Marketers work to promote sports events, teams, and athletes. They develop marketing strategies, create promotional materials, and work with media outlets to get exposure for their clients. They also work with sponsors and other partners to maximize the financial potential of sports-related marketing initiatives.
Contract Administrators
Contract Administrators work for sports organizations and manage contracts for athletes, coaches, and other personnel. They ensure that all parties involved comply with the terms of the contract, and they work to resolve any disputes that arise.
They also manage the logistics of contracts, such as payment schedules and termination clauses.
Director of Operations
Directors of Operations work for sports organizations and are responsible for overseeing the organization’s day-to-day operations. They manage staff, create budgets, and develop policies and procedures that ensure the smooth functioning of the organization.
They also work to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the organization’s operations and ensure that it meets its goals and objectives.
Public Relations Specialists
Public Relations Specialists work to manage the public image of sports organizations, teams, and athletes. They create and execute public relations strategies, handle media relations, and work to ensure that their clients are portrayed positively.
They also work to manage crises and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders such as fans, sponsors, and government agencies.
Top 15 Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Sports Management
#15. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities; AACSB
Overall Graduation Rate: 38%
Average Net Price: $9,379
The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) provides an affordable online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program with a concentration in sports management. The program offers a blend of business, leadership, and hands-on education.
Unique online coursework in the sports management concentration area includes Sports Analytics, The Legal Environment of Business, Sport Psychology, Social Media Marketing, and Sports Marketing.
Students can take elective courses to tailor the program to meet their professional goals. The sports management focus is available online through a combination of delivery options.
Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including working with college athletes and professional sports teams, the international business of sports, and amateur and youth sports organizations.
#14. University of Iowa
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 74%
Average Net Price: $17,599
The University of Iowa offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Sport and Recreation Management through the Department of Health and Human Physiology. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on the business aspects of the field.
It aims to prepare leaders to address global sporting issues, and it is taught by award-winning faculty in a supportive and collaborative learning environment. The program includes both concentration and foundation sports management courses online and opportunities for field experience in sports management.
Students can earn their degree entirely online, from anywhere in the world, without any on-campus residency requirements. Financial aid is available to eligible students, making this program accessible to a wide range of individuals.
#13. Colorado Mesa University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 38%
Average Net Price: $15,324
CMU’s online Bachelor of Science in Sports Management is designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue various careers in the sports industry. Its curriculum focuses on event planning, leadership, organizational management, and sports evaluation.
Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management at CMU can open doors to further education, such as an MBA or a master’s degree in sports management. The Davis School of Business offers an MBA sports management online program with a Sport Management track, and financial assistance is available to eligible students.
#12. Bellevue University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 23%
Average Net Price: $15,229
Boston University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management for individuals who have a keen interest in the business aspects of sports. This program allows students to explore their passions and equips them with essential knowledge and skills in business management and leadership.
Moreover, students have the option to choose from various elective courses that cater to their specific interests. To supplement their major in sports management, students at BU can also pursue a minor in business administration.
Additionally, a 120-hour internship provides students with valuable hands-on experience in sports management, preparing them for a diverse range of careers in this field. Eligible students can also apply for financial aid.
#11. Mercy College
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Overall Graduation Rate: 71%
Average Net Price: $15,027
MC’s Bachelor of Business in Sports Management is designed to provide students with practical experience and promote academic excellence and professional development. The program offers a comprehensive overview of the business aspects of sports.
This sports business degree program is available completely online, and students are not required to be physically present on campus. Students can complete the program in approximately four years with a full-time course load.
Upon graduation, students will be well-prepared to thrive in various fields related to sports management.
#10. American Public University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 49%
Average Net Price: $11,916
American Public University (APU) offers an online Bachelor’s in Sports Management program that gives students a comprehensive understanding of sports administration. The program also offers an opportunity to obtain certification in ticket sales. It is a dynamic program that teaches both strategic and tactical thinking.
The online courses in this program are structured in an eight-week format, with monthly course starts. The program culminates in a senior seminar in sports management, which provides students with practical, hands-on tools for succeeding in the sports industry.
Furthermore, networking skills and job interview preparation are incorporated into the capstone course. Eligible students can apply for financial aid.
#9. Concordia University – Saint Paul
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Overall Graduation Rate: 53%
Average Net Price: $15,944
The online Bachelor of Arts in Sport Management program at CU places emphasis on core concepts in sports theory and business. Students are equipped with the skills to plan, develop, and manage sports facilities.
Furthermore, the program provides opportunities for students to gain sports expertise, a customized internship, and assistance from alumni professionals.
The program’s courses are available in short, seven-week online sessions, with no requirement for on-campus residency. Students can complete the 120-credit hour program in as little as two years.
CU’s Sport Management program has an impressive track record of 95% of its graduates receiving job offers within a year of completing their degree.
Graduates have been successful in various roles, including athletic directors, coaches, sports information directors, and sporting facility managers. Eligible students can apply for financial aid to support their studies.
#8. University of Memphis
Accreditation: SACS
Overall Graduation Rate: 57%
Average Net Price: $14,251
The University of Memphis offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sport and Leisure Management program with a diverse curriculum. This program equips students with the skills needed for sports marketing and management careers, facility and event operations, and other administrative positions in the sports industry.
This online sports management degree program allows students to complete all their courses remotely without the need for campus visits. Furthermore, they can also gain hands-on experience within their local geographical area.
The 120-credit hour program can be completed from anywhere, and students may also receive credit for previously completed coursework at another university.
#7. Monroe College
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Overall Graduation Rate: 57%
Average Net Price: $12,054
MC’s online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Sports Management program equips students with essential management, marketing, and finance skills required in the sports industry.
Moreover, the program addresses legal and ethical issues commonly encountered in sports and prepares students for the responsibilities of sport management professionals.
MC offers students in the Sports Management program various networking and internship opportunities, providing them with valuable hands-on experience in the field. Eligible students can apply for financial aid to support their studies.
#6. University of Minnesota Crookston
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; ACBSP
Overall Graduation Rate: 56%
Average Net Price: $11,935
The online Bachelor of Science in Sports Management program at UM-Crookston is accredited by the ACBSP and is an excellent option for students with an AS or AAS degree. The program welcomes both incoming first-year students and those already working in the sports industry.
Small class sizes and faculty with exceptional academic and real-world knowledge enhance the program’s quality.
This degree program is taught flexibly online and includes experiential learning projects and real-world case studies. These features help students stay up-to-date with current trends and best practices in the industry. To graduate, students must complete 120 credits.
UM-Crookston also offers an online Sports & Recreation Management Certificate. Eligible students can apply for financial aid to help support their education.
#5. Florida International University
Accreditation: SACS
Overall Graduation Rate: 67%
Average Net Price: $9,398
Florida International University (FIU) provides an affordable online Bachelor’s degree in Recreation and Sports Management. This program equips students with the skills needed to thrive in the fast-paced recreation sports industry.
The curriculum combines fundamental knowledge with real-world applications, including industry-specific finance, law, and marketing courses.
The degree program is available entirely online, and students have the flexibility to complete it at their own pace. They can access lectures and receive real-time feedback from instructors.
Additionally, students can collaborate with peers from all over the country on various projects. Personal success coaches are also available to provide one-on-one guidance to students.
#4. University of Florida – Online
Accreditation: SACS
Overall Graduation Rate: 72%
Average Net Price: $9,024
The College of Health and Human Performance at UF offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Administration. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills required to apply core principles of a master’s in sports administration, marketing, finance, and legislation to sports organizations.
UF-Online is a fully online college platform that offers courses taught by the same elite faculty as the traditional on-campus program. Some of the courses offered include:
- Sport and Society
- Sports Facility Design and Management
- Business Finance
- Social Issues in Sport
- Sports Marketing
- The Legal Environment of Business and Entrepreneurship
To gain practical work experience, all students in the program are required to complete a full-time sports management internship during their final semester. This 40-hour-per-week internship helps students transition from the classroom to the field, preparing them for positions such as facility manager, sports event manager, and more.
#3. Davenport University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; IACBE; COSMA
Overall Graduation Rate: 48%
Average Net Price: $18,924
The BBA program in sports management at DU is accredited by COSMA and covers critical business areas related to sports. This program equips students with the skills necessary to pursue careers in sport management or any other field, regardless of its relation to sports.
The program is offered fully online and requires the completion of 120 credit hours, including courses such as Sports Governance and Regulation, Analytics, Athletic Leadership and Coaching, Financial Analysis for Business Managers, and Sport Communication and Promotion.
The program also includes a practical internship component that requires the completion of 300 clock hours. This internship provides students with valuable hands-on experience and has previously placed students with organizations such as the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings. Eligible students can apply for financial aid to support their education.
#2. Shorter University
Accreditation: SACS; COSMA
Overall Graduation Rate: 37%
Average Net Price: $16,438
Shorter University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Sports Management program through the Ledbetter College of Business. This program is grounded in sound business principles and emphasizes the relationship between sports and business.
As a Christian University, Shorter’s program is designed to prepare Christian leaders for diverse roles in the professional sports industry.
To help students prepare for their future careers, Shorter University offers a lecture series focused on career advice, interview, and resume techniques. Additionally, they host a job fair to enable students to make valuable connections in the sports industry.
Shorter University also provides an Associate of Science in Sport Management program and a Master of Business Administration in Sport Management program. Eligible students can apply for financial aid to support their education.
#1. Troy University
Accreditation: SACS; COSMA
Overall Graduation Rate: 52%
Average Net Price: $12,486
Troy University offers a COSMA-accredited program in sports management. The program is taught by experienced faculty dedicated to ensuring student success both inside and outside the classroom. Instructors use case studies to help students understand trends in future work environments.
The program’s curriculum consists of 120 credit hours, including:
- Courses on Event Management in Hospitality
- Sport & Tourism Managemen
- Leisure in Society
- Analytics in Hospitality
- Sport & Tourism Management
- Research Methods in Hospitality
- Sport & Tourism Management
- Revenue Generation in Hospitality
- Sport, and Tourism Management
- Case Studies in Sports Management
TU provides students with hands-on internship opportunities to gain valuable experience in the field and improve their chances of landing a great job after graduation.
Troy University also offers an M.S. in Sport and Fitness Management for students looking to further their education and career in this field. Eligible students can apply for financial aid to support their studies.
The Basics of Sports Management
A degree in sports management is not a bad investment in your future. But if you think sports management is all free tickets and championship rings, you have a few things to learn. Yes, sports management can be a profitable career, but it is not easy.
Sports managers have to have experience in leadership, business, and communications and a master’s in athletic administration. They have to be adept at working with teams and individuals. They are managers, coaches, and mentors.
Sports management grads do not usually just graduate and jump into managing the hottest teams in the country. They have to prove their worth first. Sports management grads usually cut their teeth by working on marketing programs, publicity, sponsorships, deals, and arena operations. Some sports management grads become agents or talent scouts.
But, no matter what career path you end up on, to be successful in the field, you will need to have a few important skills. This includes the following:
1. You Can Go With the Flow
Sports management is a fast-paced field. And when you are dealing with teams of athletes, there are always issues that will need your attention. You have to be able to focus on what you are doing at the moment but also be able to pivot quickly to something else. You will need to juggle lots of responsibilities and be able to move from task to task with flexibility.
2. You Believe That Time is Money
The reason the sports industry is so massive and lucrative is that people work hard with the time they are given. Athletes and managers have to manage time efficiently in order to fit in practices, games, appearances, meetings, and training and still have some family time left over.
A sports manager sets the tone for the entire organization, so if you do not respect your own time, your employees and team won’t see it as a priority, either.
3. You Put Systems Into Place
The organization is key when you are working in a career with so many moving parts. Sports managers have schedules, salaries, scouting reports, player files, media requests, operational reports, meetings, practices, and so much more on their plates.
You will need a system for dealing with everything that comes your way. You might use apps to organize time, space, and files. Or you might write everything down. Your system of organization does not matter; it just matters that you have one that works for you.
4. You Know Communication Goes Both Ways
People in positions of power often feel like they don’t have to listen to others. But sports managers cannot expect a team environment to be dictated by one person. As a manager, you’re both an excellent communicator and an active listener.
You make your non-negotiables known, and you let the team know when things are flexible. You solicit feedback and make sure you have all the details before making comments that impact your staff and team.
5. Your Brain is an Analytical Machine.
Sports managers often come into situations where the previous person in their position failed in some way. You have got to be able to turn around the routines and expectations of a team by thinking about the game in new ways. You see patterns, and you use data to make improvements.
If these skills sound like ones you have already got or that you want to learn in order to get into the sports industry, the Bachelor of Science in Sports Management at Grand Canyon University is just the program to help you launch your career.
What Makes Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management Worth Pursuing?
Let’s survey the reasons why you should start taking into consideration online degrees as an option to get started in this field.
Save Time and Money While Working a Job
Compared to traditional programs, online degrees in Sports Management take less time to complete on average, with many offering accelerated options. This means you can complete your degree in a shorter amount of time, often by a year or more.
Pursuing an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management allows you the flexibility to work while studying. By not having to attend classes on campus, you can balance your work schedule and study at night, making it easier to work part-time or full-time while pursuing your degree.
Online degrees in Sports Management are also more cost-effective than traditional programs because you are not using the school’s facilities. Many programs offer flat tuition rates, even if you attend a school outside of your state.
This means that you can save money on tuition costs, making an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management an affordable option for many.
Internship Experience in Your Area
Just like traditional sports management degree programs, online programs typically require students to complete an internship. This is because schools understand the importance of gaining work experience in the field.
Through an internship, you can gain real-world experience and learn more about the industry. An internship can also help you identify which career path in the sports industry is right for you.
By working in a particular field, you may discover that it’s not the right fit for you, but you will still have gained valuable experience that can be applied to future opportunities. Online sports management degree programs often allow students to choose their own internships, provided the department approves them.
This flexibility enables students to complete internships in their own area without having to relocate or commute long distances. By choosing an internship that aligns with their interests and career goals, students can gain valuable work experience while still pursuing their degree online.
Networking Opportunities
Internships are an important aspect of sports management degree programs as they provide valuable networking opportunities. It is, therefore, beneficial that most online programs require internships as part of the graduation requirements.
Online schools understand that distance from campus can be a challenge, which is why they offer options for interviewing for internships. This ensures that students have access to a variety of opportunities and can select an internship that aligns with their interests and career goals.
It is important to remember that internships offer more than just work experience; they also provide opportunities to network with professionals in the field. By developing relationships with companies and agencies through internships, students can increase their chances of being considered for employment opportunities after graduation.
More Employment Choices
An Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management can expand employment options in the sports industry, regardless of whether the degree was earned online or through traditional means. Employers focus on the knowledge and skills gained through the degree rather than the mode of delivery.
A degree in Sports Management can serve as a gateway to a variety of career paths in the sports industry, such as marketing, event coordination, and sports agent representation. By obtaining this degree, students can position themselves for success in the industry and open up exciting career opportunities.
Flexibility With Study Options
When pursuing an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management, there are many options to choose from. Students have the flexibility to decide whether they want to study part-time or full-time and whether they prefer asynchronous or synchronous classes.
Some programs even offer the option to download course materials onto smart devices, providing students with additional flexibility in their studies.
The biggest advantage of online education is the ability to balance work, life, and education to achieve career goals on their own terms.
Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Sports Management allow students to choose the educational path that best suits their needs.
With flexible scheduling options and the ability to study from anywhere, students can pursue their education while balancing work and personal responsibilities. This level of flexibility is a key benefit of online education.
Achieve Your Goal Through Getting the Right Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management
Take the first step towards your dream career by enrolling in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management.
Remember, success in this field requires hard work, dedication, and a passion for sports. We believe that with the proper guidance, you can make the right decision. With the right mindset and the knowledge gained from pursuing a degree in Sports Management, you can achieve great things in the sports industry.
Good luck, and we hope to see you out there in the field, making a difference in the world of sports.
