Sports Management & Administration Degree Programs in Pennsylvania

Overview

As glamorous as it may sound, sports management is a difficult field to break into. It takes a lot of work and effort, which is why someone must be well-prepared before entering the race. This is where a degree in sports management comes into play. It prepares graduates to enter the spectacular world of sports, games, and entertainment by providing them with proficiency in all of the skills required.

There are many different degree options available to students. You might be able to complete a bachelor’s degree program in sports management where you’ll study topics like finance, communication, sports law, sports history, sports marketing, managing sporting events, managing sporting facilities, and ethical and legal concerns in sports.

There is also a master’s degree program, with the majority of the courses covering management, teamwork, contract negotiation, sports psychology, and statistics and analytics related to sports.

These sports management degrees will lead to a variety of career opportunities. Graduates of sports management programs are frequently employed as athletic trainers, player or coach agents, team marketers, ticket sales specialists, and even sports event planners. 

With the sports industry expected to grow, now is an excellent time to pursue a sports management degree in Pennsylvania, so continue reading.

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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?

Curriculum and Example Courses

Most programs require students to take a combination of general education and degree-specific classes, as well as core business courses such as marketing, communications, and finance. Some popular courses in a sport management program are listed below.

Ethics in Sport Management: Sports principles, dilemmas, and conflicts, as well as coaching practices, funding practices, management issues, and social (cultural) roles, will be discussed.

Sport Marketing: Students are introduced to the depth and breadth of marketing strategies and principles as they relate to the sports sector in this foundational course. It is a study of basic marketing principles as they relate to all facets of the sports industry.

Degree Timelines

A study program in sports management often lasts for:

  • Bachelor’s degrees: 4 years
  • Master’s degrees: between 1-2 years

Difference Between Sports Management & Sports Marketing

Sports management and sports marketing are very different in that the former focuses on day-to-day internal operations, whereas the latter prioritizes work with the public.

What Are The Standard Entrance Requirements to Enroll?

The following is a list of the standard entry requirements for degrees in sports management. However, it’s important to bear in mind that every university will have specific prerequisites, which you may check 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 NameCityStateProgram LevelProgram NameProgram URL
Alvernia UniversityReadingPennsylvaniaBachelorB.A. in Sports ManagementClick Here
Arcadia UniversityGlensidePennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sport ManagementClick Here
California University of PennsylvaniaCaliforniaPennsylvaniaBachelorOnline B.S. in Professional Golf Management StudiesClick Here
California University of PennsylvaniaCaliforniaPennsylvaniaBachelorOnline B.S. in Sport Management StudiesClick Here
California University of PennsylvaniaCaliforniaPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport Management StudiesClick Here
Delaware Valley CollegeDoylestownPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sports Turf ManagementClick Here
DeSales UniversityCenter ValleyPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sport ManagementClick Here
Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaBachelorBS in Business Administration, Sport BusinessClick Here
East Stroudsburg UniversityEast StroudsburgPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport ManagementClick Here
Gannon UniversityEriePennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport Management and MarketingClick Here
Holy Family UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sports Marketing - ManagementClick Here
Indiana University of PennsylvaniaINDIANAPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport AdministrationClick Here
Keystone CollegeLa PlumePennsylvaniaBachelorOnline B.S. in Sport & Recreation ManagementClick Here
Keystone CollegeLa PlumePennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport & Recreation ManagementClick Here
Kutztown UniversityKutztownPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Leisure and Sport StudiesClick Here
Kutztown UniversityKutztownPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor of Science in Sport ManagementClick Here
La Roche CollegePittsburghPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelors in Exercise and Sport ScienceClick Here
Lancaster Bible CollegeLancasterPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sports Management & Biblical StudiesClick Here
Lancaster Bible CollegePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor of Science in Sport Management and Biblical StudiesClick Here
Lock Haven UniversityLock HavenPennsylvaniaBachelorOnline Bachelor's in Sport AdministrationClick Here
Lock Haven UniversityLock HavenPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sport AdministrationClick Here
Messiah CollegeMechanicsburgPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sport ManagementClick Here
Millersville UniversityMillersvillePennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport AdministrationClick Here
Misericordia UniversityDallasPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sports ManagementClick Here
Neumann UniversityAstonPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sports ManagementClick Here
Penn State UniversityUniversity ParkPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Commercial and Community Recreation ManagementClick Here
Point Park UniversityPittsburghPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sport, Art & Entertainment ManagementClick Here
Robert Morris UniversityMoon TownshipPennsylvaniaBachelorBSBA with a concentration in Sport ManagementClick Here
Saint Josephs UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sport MarketingClick Here
Seton Hill UniversityGreensburgPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sports ManagementClick Here
Slippery Rock UniversitySlippery RockPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport ManagementClick Here
Slippery Rock UniversitySlippery RockPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor of Science, Sport ManagementClick Here
Temple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor of Science in Sport and Recreation ManagementClick Here
University of Pittsburgh, BradfordBradfordPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport & Recreation ManagementClick Here
University of Valley ForgePhoenixvillePennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport ManagementClick Here
Waynesburg UniversityWaynesburgPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sport ManagementClick Here
Westminster CollegeNew WilmingtonPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's in Sport ManagementClick Here
Widener UniversityChesterPennsylvaniaBachelorBachelor's Sport & Event ManagementClick Here
Wilkes UniversityWilkes-BarrePennsylvaniaBachelorB.B.A. in Sports ManagementClick Here
Wilson CollegeChambersburgPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport ManagementClick Here
York College of PennsylvaniaYORKPennsylvaniaBachelorB.S. in Sport ManagementClick Here
California University of PennsylvaniaCaliforniaPennsylvaniaMastersOnline Master of Sport ManagementClick Here
California University of PennsylvaniaCaliforniaPennsylvaniaMastersMaster of Sport ManagementClick Here
Drexel UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaMastersMS Sport BusinessClick Here
East Stroudsburg UniversityEast StroudsburgPennsylvaniaMastersM.S. in Sport ManagementClick Here
Indiana University of PennsylvaniaIndianaPennsylvaniaMastersM.S. in Sport ScienceClick Here
Keystone CollegeLa PlumePennsylvaniaMastersOnline Masters in Sport Leadership & ManagementClick Here
Lock Haven UniversityLock HavenPennsylvaniaMastersOnline M.S. in Sport ScienceClick Here
Lock Haven UniversityLock HavenPennsylvaniaMastersM.S. in Sport ScienceClick Here
Millersville UniversityMillersvillePennsylvaniaMastersM.Ed. in Sport ManagementClick Here
Neumann UniversityAstonPennsylvaniaMastersM.S. SPORT BUSINESSClick Here
Penn State UniversityUniversity ParkPennsylvaniaMastersM.S. in Recreation, Park and Tourism ManagementClick Here
Penn State UniversityUniversity ParkPennsylvaniaDoctoratePhD in Recreation, Park and Tourism ManagementClick Here
Robert Morris UniversityMoon TownshipPennsylvaniaMastersMBA in Sport ManagementClick Here
Temple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaMastersMaster of Science in Sport BusinessClick Here
Temple UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaDoctoratePhD in Business Administration with a Concentration in Sport and TourismClick Here

Penn State University

Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management – Commercial Recreation and Tourism Management Option
Delivery Method:
Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credit Hours

This program focuses on recreation/leisure service management in the private/commercial, non-profit, and public sectors. Students interested in careers in a variety of commercial settings, such as resorts, theme parks, convention centers, sports and fitness facilities, including arenas and stadiums, tourism promotion/planning agencies, and employee recreation departments within corporations, will benefit from the private/commercial focus. You must be a high school graduate or have completed your GED to apply for this program.

Accreditation

Pennsylvania Western University

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method:
Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credit Hours

The program combines theoretical knowledge of sport management with practical, hands-on experience, ensuring that you gain the skills that employers in today’s sport business environment require. Inside sales representative, food and beverage supervisor, merchandise assistant, ice rink manager, soccer program coordinator, site manager, and athletic operations assistant are some of the job titles held by recent graduates. You will be considered for admission after a careful review of your high school record, academic coursework, and SAT/ACT scores. Attention is given to your personal essay, extracurricular activities and letters of recommendation if submitted.

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management with a Professional Golf Management Concentration
Delivery Method:
Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credit Hours

During this program, you will spend 16 months in the field, networking with golf industry professionals and gaining hands-on experience through paid internships at top facilities around the world. You will also have the opportunity to assist with major PGA Tour events. Admission requires an official high school transcript (or GED certificate and scores), but SAT or ACT scores are optional.

Master of Science in Sport Management (Sport Management Concentration)
Delivery Method:
Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours

Sport management students at PennWest California are successful in a variety of important top roles, including athletic director, head football coach, fitness center director, and physical education instructor. They are well-prepared for top roles in management and leadership within the sports industry. Research Methods in Sport, Sport Marketing, Public Relations in Sport, Legal Aspects in Sport, and Sport Ethics are among the courses offered in this program. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.00 or higher and official transcripts from an accredited undergraduate institution.

Accreditation

Robert Morris University

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Sport Management Concentration)
Delivery Method:
On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credit Hours

Students can better comprehend the scope, diversity, and distinctiveness of the recreation and sport sector thanks to this program. Graduates of the program are able to communicate effectively and professionally, use leadership and interpersonal skills to effectively manage, and understand the need of networking skills for employment and career advancement in the business. Students in this academic program may take coursework in Sport Marketing, Survey of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), and Applied Sport Analytics, among others. Students seeking to enroll must submit official high school transcripts showing all grades and GPA, or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Preference is given to students with a 3.0 GPA or higher.

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.

Temple University

Bachelor of Science in Sport and Recreation Management
Delivery Method:
On-Campus
Credits Required: 124 Credit Hours

Students interested in sport and recreation careers in the private/commercial sector, public recreation and park agencies, professional sports, interscholastic/intercollegiate athletics, youth sport agencies, voluntary agencies, campus services, armed forces, and corporate/industrial settings will benefit from this program. Admission requires at least a B average in high school classes and a GPA of 3.0 or higher in college-prep courses.

Master of Science in Sport Business
Delivery Method:
Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours

This program’s goal is to prepare future leaders in policymaking, management, supervision, education, and research. The program includes a study of current trends, issues, and policies affecting sport and leisure services. It is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in athletic administration, marketing and promotions, recreation and event management, and sport analytics by providing a multifaceted approach to the study of sport business. All applicants must provide credentials equivalent to the appropriate baccalaureate degree at Temple University.

Accreditation

Lock Haven University

Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method: On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credit Hours

This sport management major is driven by two important goals: gaining practical experience and developing expertise in industry-specific technology applications. Coursework is specifically designed to prepare you to excel in your career. Sport Marketing, Sport Management and Leadership, Sport Business Finance, Sponsorship and Fundraising, Sport Law and Ethics, and Sport Media Communications are some of the topics covered. Official transcripts are necessary for admission consideration, although SAT/ACT test results are not.

Master of Science in Sport Science
Delivery Method:
Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours

This is a completely online graduate degree program with courses designed to allow you to complete the program in one calendar year or part-time. This program attracts students from all over the country and is ideal for those who want to work as professionals in sport settings or who want to advance in their current sport-related careers through advanced training. Students can pursue one of three tracks in the Master of Science in Sport Science: Sport Management, Sport & Exercise Psychology, and Internation Sport Management. Students must submit official college transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of professional goals to complete the admissions process.

Accreditation

Drexel University

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Sport Business Major
Delivery Method:
On-Campus
Credits Required: 180 Credit Hours

The program provides students with the opportunity to match their skills, abilities, and interests with a specific niche within the sport industry. Students will gain the knowledge and skills required for success in professional sports organizations, collegiate athletics, sport media companies, and businesses that support and complement the sport industry. Prospective students must submit transcripts from each high school attended, including all coursework from grades nine (9), ten (10), and eleven (11) as well as two letters of recommendation.

Master of Science in Sport Business
Delivery Method:
Online
Credits Required: 45 Credit Hours

A master’s degree in sport business is intended to help you land your dream job in today’s multibillion-dollar sports industry. This program provides a practical foundation for careers in professional or college sports, as well as sport marketing firms, sport agencies, and other sport organizations, by seamlessly integrating the sports application of law, economics and finance, marketing, media, and promotions with a top-tier business curriculum. This master’s degree requires a bachelor’s degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution, as well as an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. It is also advised that you have at least two years of prior work experience, even if not in this field.

Accreditation

Career & Salary Opportunities in Sports Management & Administration in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to numerous championship sports teams, as well as a devoted fan base and a rich history. It has eight teams competing at the highest levels of the five major American sports (baseball, football, soccer, hockey, and basketball). With a large sports market, top pro teams, and proximity to both East Coast and Midwestern sports markets, Pennsylvania is one of the best places in the country to kick off your sport management career. The following are some of the career paths that a sport management degree will prepare you for.

Athletic Coach: Coaches teach, mentor and train athletes in both professional and recreational contexts. A coach is in charge of preparing athletes for games, developing drills and team-building exercises, developing game strategy, and assisting athletes in their individual and collective improvement.

Sport Marketer: Sports marketers promote sporting events and organizations such as the Olympics and the National Football League. They may also promote specific high-profile athletes. In general, sports marketers strive to tell a story that both promotes their respective organizations and sports in general.

Sports Degrees in Other States

New Jersey

Delaware

Maryland