Overview
A degree in sports management can pave the way for an exciting career in the sports world. Sports management programs can be taken full-time, part-time, and even online. College athletics, social and cultural challenges in the sports industry, marketing, and theory with practical application in management and sports are just a few of the topics students will learn. Graduates in sports management frequently go on to work in the sports industry, either directly with athletes to help them secure contracts or as administrative staff within a team. Sports management professionals understand the business side of sports and play an important role in college and professional sports all over the world. So, if you love sports, earning a sports management degree from one of Ohio’s accredited colleges or universities will undoubtedly help you land your dream job.
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Featured Sports Management and Admin Programs
- GRE/GMAT Waived
- Flexible Learning Format
- Designed For Career Leadership
Georgetown University Online
Master of Professional Studies in Sports Industry Management
Become a leader in the sports industry and earn your master’s in sports management online or on campus with Georgetown University, one of the world’s leading academic research institutions.
- 100% Online
- Application Fee Waived
- High-Growth Area
American University Online
Master of Science in Sports Analytics Management
American University’s online MS in Sports Analytics and Management will equip you to become a strategic sports manager with the skills needed to measure the impact that emerging technologies are having on sports organizations and society.
- AACSB Accredited
- Nationally Recognized
- Top-Ranked Program
Ohio University
Master of Sports Administration (OMSA)
Recognized for excellence by the prestigious Commission on Sport Management Accreditation, graduate ready to pursue college athletics, professional sports, and sports media.
- Bachelors & Masters Programs
- 100% Online & Affordable
- In-Demand Tracks
Campbellsville University
Online Sport Management Degrees
Make a name for yourself in a field that you are passionate about with a sport management degree from Campbellsville University Online.
What Will I Learn in A Sports Management Program or Sports Administration Program?
Degree Timelines
The average length of a sports management program is:
| Degree | Credit Requirements | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 60-70 credits | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120 credits | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree | 50-70 credits | 1-3 years |
| Doctorate | Program-required coursework including thesis or dissertation | At least 4yrs |
In other words, the time it takes to complete your sports management degree will be defined by the educational path you choose. Transferring credits, attending an accelerated program, or attending school part-time can all have an impact on how long it takes to finish your degree.
Curriculum and Example Courses
Undergraduate courses will typically cover topics such as finance, communication, sports law, sports history, sports marketing, sport event management, and sport facility management to provide students with a better overall understanding of the business and legal aspects of the sports industry. Masters in Sports Management programs are more intensive and build on general knowledge gained at the undergraduate level, allowing you to specialize and become an expert in the field of your choice.
Difference Between Sports Management & Sports Administration
Sports management and sports administration are often used to refer to the same profession. The term “management” may evoke thoughts of more business-oriented careers in sports. This category may include marketing for athletic organizations, increasing ticket sales, seeking sponsors, developing business relationships with local communities, facility management, and public relations. Accounting, finance, and human resources may also fall under this umbrella.
Sports administration, on the other hand, is focused on the supervision and development of athletes. This group includes team managers, coaches, agents, and trainers who work directly with talent to improve their performance. Whether its managing rosters, signing new talent, honing skills, or representing athletes in contract discussions, effective talent support is critical to any franchise.
What Are The Standard Entrance Requirements to Enroll?
The following is a list of the most typical entrance requirements for sports management degrees. But keep in mind that every university will have unique requirements, which you may find on the school’s website.
Bachelor in Sports Management
- Transcripts of grades
- Highschool diploma
- Letter of recommendation
- Letter of motivation or personal statement
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Masters in Sports Management
- Minimum GPA (established by each university individually)
- Bachelor’s degree in Sports, Business, or other related subjects
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
| School Name | City | State | Program Level | Program Name | Program URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio University | Athens | Ohio | Bachelor | BS in SPORTS MANAGEMENT | Click Here |
| College of Occupational Professions | Lima | Ohio | Bachelor | BS IN Sport Marketing & Management | Click Here |
| Ashland University | Ashland | Ohio | Bachelor | Online B.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Ashland University | Ashland | Ohio | Bachelor | B.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Baldwin Wallace University | Rd. Berea | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Bowling Green State University | Bowling Green | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Bowling Green State University | Bowling Green | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science in Education, Sport Management Program | Click Here |
| Cedarville University | Cedarville | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Business Management | Click Here |
| Cleveland State University | Cleveland | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| College of Mount St. Joseph | Cincinnati | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Franklin University | Columbus | Ohio | Bachelor | Online Bachelors in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Franklin University | Columbus | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelors in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Kent State University | Kent | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Administration | Click Here |
| Malone University | Canton | Ohio | Bachelor | B.A. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Marietta College | Mariett | Ohio | Bachelor | B.A. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Miami University of Ohio | Oxford | Ohio | Bachelor | B.S. in Kinesiology & Health with a concentration in Sport Leadership & Management | Click Here |
| Mount Vernon Nazarene University | Vernon | Ohio | Bachelor | B.A. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Ohio Dominican University | Columbus | Ohio | Bachelor | B.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Ohio Northern University | Ada | Ohio | Bachelor | B.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Ohio University | Athens | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor of Sport Management | Click Here |
| Otterbein University | Westerville | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Shawnee State University | Portsmouth | Ohio | Bachelor | B.S. in Sport Studies | Click Here |
| The Ohio State University | Columbus | Ohio | Bachelor | B.S. in Sport Industry | Click Here |
| The University of Akron | Akron | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelors in Sport Studies | Click Here |
| Tiffin University | Tiffin | Ohio | Bachelor | Online Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Administration | Click Here |
| University of Dayton | Dayton | Ohio | Bachelor | B.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| University of Findlay | Findlay | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's Sports Business Strategy | Click Here |
| University of Mount Union | Alliance | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sports Business | Click Here |
| Wilmington College | Wilmington | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Wittenberg University | Springfield | Ohio | Bachelor | Online Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Wittenberg University | Springfield | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Xavier University | Cincinnati | Ohio | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Ashland University | Ashland | Ohio | Master | Online MBA in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Ashland University | Ashland | Ohio | Master | MBA in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Bowling Green State University | Bowling Green | Ohio | Master | Master in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Bowling Green State University | Bowling Green | Ohio | Master | Master of Science in Education, Sport Administration specialization | Click Here |
| Cleveland State University | Cleveland | Ohio | Master | Master's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Kent State University | Kent | Ohio | Master | Master's in Sport & Recreation Management | Click Here |
| Ohio Dominican University | Columbus | Ohio | Master | M.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Ohio University | Athens | Ohio | Master | Master of Online Science in Athletic Administration | Click Here |
| Ohio University | Eastern | Ohio | Master | Master of Sports Administration | Click Here |
| The Ohio State University | Columbus | Ohio | Doctorate | Doctor in Philosophy in Sport Management (PhD) | Click Here |
| The Ohio State University | Columbus | Ohio | Master | M.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| The University of Akron | Akron | Ohio | Master | Masters in Sport Science/Coaching | Click Here |
| Tiffin University | Tiffin | Ohio | Master | Online MBA in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Tiffin University | Tiffin | Ohio | Master | MBA in Sport Management | Click Here |
| University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati | Ohio | Master | M.S. in Sport Administration | Click Here |
| Wittenberg University | Springfield | Ohio | Master | Online M.A. in Athletic Coaching | Click Here |
| Xavier University | Cincinnati | Ohio | Master | Master's in Sport Administration | Click Here |
Ohio University
Bachelor of Sport Management (B.S.M)
Ohio University’s undergraduate sport management program is designed to provide students with the academic preparation and practical training needed for success in the sport industry. Students will be able to understand broad sports business knowledge across disciplines, learn how to operate a venue and event, reason and solve sports business problems, and lead and collaborate with people from various backgrounds to form new sports business ideas, strategies, and conclusions after completing this program. Candidates admitted to this major typically rank in the top 20% of their high school classes and have a strong college preparatory curriculum. They are expected to have an above-average high school GPA (3.0 or higher) as well as leadership potential demonstrated through participation in extracurricular activities or work experience. To obtain this degree, you must complete the University’s General Education requirement and complete a minimum of 120-credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 for all hours attempted. You must also maintain a 2.2 minimum GPA in your major courses and earn a C- or better in each required course.
Master of Sports Administration and Master of Business Administration Dual Degree
The MBA/MSA dual-degree program will prepare students for positions of leadership in the expanding sports and entertainment industries. It combines the MBA program’s business curriculum with the specific concepts and challenges of the sports industry. To be admitted, you must have a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree, a few years of work experience preferably in the sports industry, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The MBA program is a three-semester academic program that includes 36 credit hours in accounting, finance, strategy, management, and marketing, among other topics, to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of core business concepts. The MSA program requires 36 credit hours to complete. Research Methods in Sports Administration, Law of Sports, and a spring-quarter capstone course are required courses. Sports & Consumers, Sponsorship in Sports, Facility Management, Revenue Generation in Sports, Athletic Fundraising, and Intercollegiate Athletics Governance make up the remaining credits.
Accreditation
The Ohio State University
Sport Industry, Bachelor of Science in Education
This 120-hour program prepares students for entry into the sport and leisure industry through theory and practice. Students learn the legal aspects of sport and physical activity, the organization and administration of public recreation, and the delivery and promotion of sport and leisure services.
Sport Management, Master of Science in Kinesiology
The innovative and globally recognized master’s degree in sport management will teach you the fundamentals of the profession and prepare you for careers ranging from facilities managers and sports marketers to athletic directors and head coaches in all areas of sport. You will learn the basics of sport management, such as sport management and leadership, sport marketing principles, legal issues in sport, planning and managing sporting facilities and events, and sport management theory and techniques. There is no GRE requirement, but you must have a bachelor’s degree to apply.
Sport Management, Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology
The 57-hour Ph.D. sport management program at Ohio State prepares you to be a leader in the field. You will have the opportunity to tailor your studies, improve your research skills, and be encouraged to pursue your passions, whatever they may be. This flexible program allows you to participate in a variety of research projects and gain exposure to a wide range of interdisciplinary areas at Ohio State. To apply, you must have a master’s degree and GRE test scores.
Accreditation
ADVERTISEMENT
Featured Sports Management and Admin Programs
- GRE/GMAT Waived
- Flexible Learning Format
- Designed For Career Leadership
Georgetown University Online
Master of Professional Studies in Sports Industry Management
Become a leader in the sports industry and earn your master’s in sports management online or on campus with Georgetown University, one of the world’s leading academic research institutions.
- 100% Online
- Application Fee Waived
- High-Growth Area
American University Online
Master of Science in Sports Analytics Management
American University’s online MS in Sports Analytics and Management will equip you to become a strategic sports manager with the skills needed to measure the impact that emerging technologies are having on sports organizations and society.
- AACSB Accredited
- Nationally Recognized
- Top-Ranked Program
Ohio University
Master of Sports Administration (OMSA)
Recognized for excellence by the prestigious Commission on Sport Management Accreditation, graduate ready to pursue college athletics, professional sports, and sports media.
- Bachelors & Masters Programs
- 100% Online & Affordable
- In-Demand Tracks
Campbellsville University
Online Sport Management Degrees
Make a name for yourself in a field that you are passionate about with a sport management degree from Campbellsville University Online.
Tiffin University
Bachelor of Business Administration in Sports Management
This on-campus program is a hands-on, professional program that combines key business skills with a comprehensive understanding of the sport business. From club management, facility development, and sponsorships to branding, media contracting, and sports analytics, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and experience you’ll need to turn a lifelong interest in sports into a rewarding career. Students need to complete a 121-hours of coursework to graduate.
Master of Business Administration in Sport Management
The 14-month, 32-36 credit MBA program prepares students for management roles in a variety of sports and recreation settings by exposing them to courses in managerial economics and finance, quantitative business, human resources, global and transnational management, strategic management, legal and ethical issues in management, marketing, decision making, and more. It is available in both on-campus and online formats. No GRE/GMAT is required to apply.
Accreditations
Kent State University
B.S. in Sport Administration
Through a balanced academic program and numerous practical experiences, the program prepares students for careers in the sports industry. Graduates are prepared to pursue careers in sport program management, facility management, event planning, sports marketing and public relations, and sports marketing and public relations. The curricular balance of sport, business, and sociological courses, as well as practical experiences, distinguishes this program of study from others in Ohio and across the country. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours and have a GPA of at least 2.5.
M.A. in Sport Administration
The program’s core provides students with a foundation in management theory and application in sport settings. The student will develop a program of study, in collaboration with their advisor, that will help them meet their educational and professional goals. For unconditional admission, a minimum overall GPA of 3.00 is required.
Accreditation
Xavier University
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
The 120-credit program allows students to engage in nine curricular studies: management, societal ethics, sports law, communications, finance, marketing, economics, exercise science, and sport fieldwork. Each may, B.S. students help organize Cincinnati’s famous Flying Pig Marathon. Students can also intern with regional teams like the Detroit Pistons, Cincinnati Reds, or Pittsburgh Steelers.
Master of Education in Sport Administration
This online program allows students to focus on a specific area of study within the sports industry through independent research projects, internship opportunities, field experiences and elective credits. Areas of focus include sport management, sport marketing, sport finance, personnel, legal issues and NCAA rules and regulations. This M.S. degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours with a minimum overall GPA of 2.800.
Accreditation
Career & Salary Opportunities in Sports Management & Administration in Ohio
Sports Management degrees will lead to a variety of career opportunities and prepare you for roles such as coach, sports agent, sports marketing manager, public relations specialist, sports data analyst, and facilities manager.
Because Ohio is home to major professional sports teams including Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Guardians, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Columbus Crew, and FC Cincinnati, your chances of getting hired by sports teams, sports leagues, athletics departments, and sports facilities are high. In fact, according to the BLS, Ohio is among the top states with the highest employment level in coaches and scouts implying that sports management graduates will really have plenty of job options. Furthermore, if you’re a golf fan, Swing Fit Golf Club, Cincinnati’s premier indoor golf facility, and Muirfield Village, are always looking for high-quality employees.
