Sports Management & Admin. Programs Overview
Do you want to start a sports career? Earning a degree in sport management is a wise first step. Sports management courses help students get ready for a variety of opportunities in the rapidly growing sports business. A number of colleges and universities in Virginia offer degree programs in sport management and depending on the line of work you’re interested in, you may choose to finish a four-year Bachelor’s degree or go after a Master’s or doctoral degree. The key is to find a high-quality program that will provide you with the educational experience you need for success. No matter what degree path you choose, you’ll study topics such as finance, management, marketing, communications, and economics, all through the lens of professional sports and recreation. These abilities can be applied to a variety of careers in the sport industry. Degree holders may work as marketers, team managers, journalists, or contract agents. Others go on to work as coaches, facility directors, or athletic directors. If you’re looking for accredited sports management degree programs in Virginia, you’ve come to the right place!
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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?
Each degree has a different cost and time commitment. Although there are expedited and part-time options, full-time students typically finish a Bachelor’s degree in sports management in four years. A Master’s degree in sports administration typically lasts 24 months, or nearly two years. The specifics, however, will change based on your schedule and how frequently the institution offers its classes. The typical length of time to obtain a Ph.D. in sports management is three to five years. The primary factor here is the length of time needed to complete the dissertation that Ph.D. candidates must submit.
In other words, how long it takes you to complete your sports management degree will depend on the educational route you decide to take.
Curriculum and Example Courses
The majority of sports management programs require students take both general education and degree-specific classes. The main courses you might anticipate taking in a sport management program are listed below.
Sports Analytics
Data is crucial in the world of sports and recreation, both on and off the field. As a result, as part of your sport management degree, you can expect to take a sports analytics course. This course covers the fundamentals of data analysis as well as how to apply such analysis in a business setting. Students also learn how to improve marketing performance by leveraging data and modeling techniques such as page views, social media shares, and cost per customer acquisition.
Sports Tourism
Traveling to a specific destination to watch or participate in a sporting event is referred to as sports tourism. A sports tourism class will teach you the fundamentals of managing and leading sporting events that attract tourists. Sports tourism classes cover topics such as event planning and development, site selection, marketing, legalities, and the history of the industry. Students will also investigate the impact of sports on local communities and economic development.
Difference Between Sports Management & Sports Marketing
There are significant distinctions between sports management and sports marketing. Sports marketing is concerned with promoting the sport to fans and the general public, whereas sports management is concerned with maximizing a team’s performance during a game or competition. The goal of sports marketing is typically improved fan engagement, whereas the goal of sports management is frequently improved team or athlete performance.
What Are The Standard Entrance Requirements to Enroll?
The following is a list of the most common admission requirements for sports management programs. However, keep in mind each university will have its own set of requirements, which you can find on each school’s website.
Bachelor in Sports Management
- Transcripts of grades
- High School 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Military University | Charles Town | Virginia | Bachelor | Online B.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| American Military University | Charles Town | Virginia | Bachelor | Online B.S. in Sports and Health Sciences | Click Here |
| American Military University | Charles Town | Virginia | Bachelor | B.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Bluefield College | Bluefield | Virginia | Bachelor | Bachelors in Exercise & Sport Science with an concentration in Sport Management | Click Here |
| George Mason University | Fairfax | Virginia | Bachelor | B.S. in Sport Management | Click Here |
| James Madison University | HARRISONBURG | Virginia | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sport & Recreation Management | Click Here |
| Liberty University | Fairfax | Virginia | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg | Virginia | Bachelor | Bachelor of Science, Sport Management (residential) | Click Here |
| Old Dominion University | Norfolk | Virginia | Bachelor | Online Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Old Dominion University | Norfolk | Virginia | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Radford University | Radford | Virginia | Bachelor | BS in Exercise, Sport, and Health Education | Click Here |
| Shenandoah University | Winchester | Virginia | Bachelor | BBA in Sport Management | Click Here |
| University of Lynchburg | Lynchburg | Virginia | Bachelor | Bachelor's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Virginia State University | Petersburg | Virginia | Bachelor | B.S. in Health & Physical Education with a Minor in Sport Management | Click Here |
| American Military University | Charles Town | Virginia | Master | Online Graduate Certificate in Athletic Administration | Click Here |
| American Military University | Charles Town | Virginia | Master | Online Graduate Certificate in Sports Management | Click Here |
| American Military University | Charles Town | Virginia | Master | Online M.S. in Sports and Health Sciences | Click Here |
| American Military University | Charles Town | Virginia | Master | Online M.S. in Sports Management | Click Here |
| George Mason University | Fairfax | Virginia | Master | M.S. Sport & Recreation Studies | Click Here |
| James Madison University | HARRISONBURG | Virginia | Master | Master's in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sport & Recreation Leadership | Click Here |
| Liberty University | Fairfax | Virginia | Master | Master of Science in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg | Virginia | Master | Master of Science, Sport Management | Click Here |
| Liberty University Online | Lynchburg | Virginia | Master | Online M.S. in Sport Management-Outdoor Recreation | Click Here |
| Liberty University Online | Lynchburg | Virginia | Master | Online M.S. in Sport Management-Sport Administration | Click Here |
| Old Dominion University | Norfolk | Virginia | Doctorate | Online Doctor of Philosophy, Education – Sport & Recreation Management Emphasis | Click Here |
| Old Dominion University | Norfolk | Virginia | Master | Online Master's in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Old Dominion University | Norfolk | Virginia | Master | Online MS in Education with an Emphasis in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Old Dominion University | Norfolk | Virginia | Doctorate | Doctor of Philosophy, Education – Sport & Recreation Management Emphasis | Click Here |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond | Virginia | Master | Online M.Ed. in Sport Leadership | Click Here |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond | Virginia | Master | Online M.Ed.-M.B.A Dual Degree - Sport Leadership | Click Here |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Richmond | Virginia | Doctorate | Online PhD in Sport Leadership | Click Here |
| Virginia State University | Petersburg | Virginia | Master | Masters in Sport Management | Click Here |
| Bridgewater College | Bridgewater | Virginia | Bachelor | Health & Exercise Science BS | Click Here |
Old Dominion University
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method: On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credits Hours
The purpose of this program is to prepare students for entry-level positions in the sports industry. Students gain knowledge and skills that will prepare them for careers with professional sports teams and leagues, intercollegiate athletics, sport facility and event management companies, sport marketing agencies, and other sport-related businesses. Students must have an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher to be admitted to this sports management program.
Master of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method: Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Students will be prepared for leadership positions in the sports sector through this curriculum. Students are given the academic and practical knowledge they need to handle the opportunities and difficulties that come with jobs in the sport business. Applicants for the M.S. in Sport Management are required to have a 2.8 cumulative GPA or higher (on a 4.0 scale) and a GRE score of 291 or higher (verbal and quantitative sections) or a score of 400 or higher on either the GMAT or MAT.
Accreditations
Virginia Commonwealth University
Master of Sport Leadership
Delivery Method: Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Students will be equipped to develop professional and amateur athletes and manage sports programs in a variety of academic, public, and private sectors through this sport leadership program. Students have the ability to focus on the subjects most important to them and the most applicable to the sports business thanks to the interdisciplinary faculty and curriculum. Students must have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, transcripts from all previous college work, three letters of recommendation addressing their potential for graduate study in education, and a written statement of their career interests in order to be admitted.
Accreditation
Liberty University
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method: Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credit Hours
In this program, students will learn about the history of the sports industry and how knowledge of other fields, such as sociology, finance, and law, helps a sports team succeed. In order to engage fans and entice sponsors, students will learn how to successfully lead a sports organization and plan its communications, marketing, and events. For admission, all applicants must have a 2.0 or above cumulative GPA and must submit an admission essay as well as official high school transcripts.
Master of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method: Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
This program offers numerous options to meet the needs of recent undergraduate students, non-traditional students, international applicants, and working professionals. It is intended to prepare competent, effective leaders with a Biblical worldview who will set high standards and assume leadership roles in the sports industry. For admission in good standing, a regionally or nationally accredited Bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required.
Accreditations
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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.
George Mason University
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method: Online, On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credit Hours
Sport marketing, finance, ethics, law, operations, event planning, management, and leadership are among the topics covered in the sport management coursework. Students must also complete a practicum and an internship before graduating, providing them with real-world experience and connections in sports-rich metropolitan Washington, D.C., which is home to twelve major and minor league professional sports teams.
Master of Science in Sport and Recreation Studies, Concentration in Sport Management
Delivery Method: On-Campus
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Foundational coursework in core management, marketing, finance, law, facility and event operations, and leadership, combined with elective and capstone opportunities, prepares students for a career with private for-profit, nonprofit, or public sector sport organizations. Admission requires a baccalaureate and/or graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education, as well as a minimum 3.00 GPA on a 4.00 scale in baccalaureate study.
Accreditations
James Madison University
Bachelor of Science in Sport and Recreation Management
Delivery Method: On-Campus
Credits Required: 120 Credit Hours
The sport and recreation program’s mission is to create a community of learners by providing high-quality education integrating theory, practice, and personal development into the study of the hospitality, sport, and recreation industry sectors. It pushes students to think critically, use technology, and value the global community on the whole.
Master of Science in Sport and Recreation Leadership
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 33 Credit Hours
Students will be prepared to work at all levels of sport and recreation administration, from high school and college coaching and athletic administration to professional and amateur sport associations, parks and recreation agencies, and youth sports programs. Admission requires an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
Accreditation
Career & Salary Opportunities in Sports Management & Administration in Virginia
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts from 2021 to 2031, overall employment in the entertainment and sports industries will increase by 13%, and a sports management degree can qualify you for a wide range of behind-the-scenes positions in the exciting world of sports. Many coaches, trainers, facility managers, sports marketing and business professionals, and player agents have academic backgrounds in this ever-changing industry.
One way to carve out a rewarding career in sports is to assist talented athletes in securing future stability and long-term careers as players and beyond. Virginia has a number of agencies, media firms, and companies that serve the top players in the game, making it a good place to work in this field. Hook Sports Marketing, for instance, specializes in the newest branch of collegiate athletics, NIL (name, image, and likeness) which helps student-athletes profit from their talents on the court or field of play in a way that complies with NCAA regulations.
Furthermore, Virginians love NASCAR, and the state annually hosts a number of significant races. In fact, the oldest NASCAR team in the nation is Wood Brothers Racing, which is based in Virginia. Job and internship seekers should definitely consider NASCAR as another possible route to a lucrative career in sports.
