Best Online Bachelor's Degree in Sports Management Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online bachelor's degree program in sports management?

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Expect a mix of core business courses and specialized sports management classes, covering topics such as facility operations, sports ethics, and business analytics.
• Practical Experience: Most programs emphasize hands-on learning through internships, practicums, or capstone projects, enabling you to gain real-world experience.
• Interactive Learning: Online delivery methods typically include a combination of recorded lectures, live virtual discussions, and collaborative projects with classmates.
• Faculty Expertise: You will learn from professors with direct experience in the sports industry, offering valuable insights and mentorship.

Where can I work with an online bachelor's degree in sports management?

• Professional Sports Teams & Leagues: Roles in marketing, sales, event coordination, or stadium operations for organizations like the NFL, NBA, or a local team.
• Collegiate Athletics: Positions in athletic departments at universities or colleges, from athletic director and compliance officer to marketing and fundraising.
• Sports Marketing & Sponsorship Agencies: Work for firms that manage brand partnerships, promotions, and media relations for athletes and sports organizations.
• Recreation and Community Sports: Manage programs and facilities for municipal parks and recreation departments, youth sports organizations, or fitness centers.
• Event Management & Hospitality: Organize and run sports tournaments, major games, or other athletic events for a variety of clients.

How much can I make with an online bachelor's degree in sports management?

• Entry-Level Positions: Roles like Athletic Marketing Coordinator or Sales Representative can see average salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $50,000.
• Mid-Level Management: With experience, positions such as Athletic Director or Marketing Manager can command salaries in the $60,000 to $80,000 range.
• Senior & Specialized Roles: Experienced professionals in high-level positions like Director of Operations or Sports Agent can earn upwards of $100,000, with top earners reaching well over that, depending on the organization and location.

Best Online Bachelor's Degree in Sports Management Programs for 2025

An online bachelor’s degree in sports management prepares students for leadership roles in athletics, recreation, and the broader sports industry. The best programs blend business strategy with sports expertise, offering flexible learning formats and practical experience—similar in structure to accelerated online mba in sports management pathways for advanced study.

1. American Public University

The Online Bachelor of Science in Sports Management at American Public University is a program for students who are interested in coaching and administration within collegiate, community, or high school sports. This online degree improves students' understanding of coaching theory, strategy, and business skills like marketing, promotion, and public relations. It is an ideal choice for those interested in sports-related careers such as intercollegiate coaching or front-office administration.

This program also provides essential knowledge in sports finance and law. Graduates of this program learn to apply management concepts to sport facility operations and examine the application of ethical solutions in the industry. The degree also prepares students to appraise the socio-historical context of sport as it relates to contemporary society and describe the impact of legal principles on sport management processes.

• Program Length: Typically 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: No formal tracks, but elective options are available
• Tuition Cost: $350 per credit hour (standard), $250 per credit hour (preferred military rate)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Concordia University Chicago

The online Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management at Concordia University Chicago is designed for students passionate about careers in collegiate, community, or high school sports administration. It uniquely combines core business principles with specialized knowledge, so graduates gain an improved understanding of sports administration, coaching theory, and strategy.

The curriculum covers essential business skills such as marketing, promotion, public relations, and finance, while also delving into crucial aspects like sports law. This degree is an ideal choice for individuals aiming for roles in interscholastic or intercollegiate coaching and front-office administration, as it prepares them for the specific demands of the dynamic sports industry. Students learn to apply management concepts to the operations of sport facilities, and they also examine the application of ethical solutions within the sport management industry. 

• Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: None specified
• Tuition Cost: $505 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 128 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Indiana Tech

The Indiana Institute of Technology, or Indiana Tech, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sport Management program for individuals who love competing on the athletic field, and this program prepares them for a successful career in the expansive sports industry. The curriculum focuses on strategies in real-world sport business applications, so students develop the problem-solving and strategic-planning skills necessary to succeed.

The faculty, with extensive professional and academic experience, integrates principles from professional sports organizations and the North American Society of Sport Management into the program’s content. Students will also participate in multiple field experiences and internships, which provide valuable career experiences with real sports-related organizations. 

• Program Length: Typically 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: None stated
• Tuition Cost: $515 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration with a concentration in Sport Leadership designed for students who want to become leaders in the sports industry, and it provides specialized training to manage, coach, and motivate others. This program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in professional sports organizations, so graduates are prepared for a variety of roles within the NFL, NBA, and MLB.

The curriculum focuses on key principles in sport administration, and it teaches students to handle financial and administrative challenges within the field. A student will also complete a practicum requiring 300 hours at an approved facility, and they can potentially apply those hours at their current place of employment with departmental approval. The program's core curriculum covers topics from ethical and legal issues to financial planning, so students gain a comprehensive understanding of the business side of athletics.

• Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Sport Leadership
• Tuition Cost: $445 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA)

5. Maryville University of Saint Louis

Maryville University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Rawlings Sport Business Management is distinguished by a close partnership with Rawlings Sporting Goods and deep connections to the St. Louis sports industry. The online degree is designed to help students build a future in the business of sports management, and it reflects a strong academic partnership with a globally recognized brand. The program's curriculum addresses the most pressing challenges in the field, so it prepares students for tomorrow's opportunities in an industry that is a major player in the global economy.

Students can choose between two in-demand concentrations, Results-Centered Sales and Sport Data Analytics, and this allows them to tailor their education to maximize their marketability. Coursework is backed by leaders like Rawlings Sporting Goods, which means students learn proven skills and techniques through experiential and market-relevant coursework. 

• Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Results-Centered Sales; Sport Data Analytics
• Tuition Cost: $575 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 128 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

6. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Sports Management for students who want to take their passion for sports further, and it provides key industry knowledge needed to be competitive in the field. The program’s curriculum is built by professionals working in the field, so you can count on learning relevant and industry-specific topics.

The courses introduce foundational knowledge and skills in management, marketing, and ethics from a sports perspective, and they give students a strong base in business principles. The program's faculty brings decades of experience from the athletics field, and they are passionate about helping students reach their career goals.

Students learn to apply principles of business and economics and analyze global influences and ethical issues in sports businesses. An internship or an experiential learning course are hands-on opportunities crucial for career development. 

• Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: No formal tracks; electives available in areas like marketing or event management
• Tuition Cost: $342 per credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

7. University of Florida

The University of Florida offers an Online Bachelor of Science in Sport Management designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge of the management, marketing, finance, and law aspects of sports organizations. Students can pursue careers in a wide variety of organizations, including professional sport franchises and intercollegiate athletics, so they have many different opportunities to succeed.

The curriculum includes core courses like Social Issues in Sport and Sport Marketing, and students can also choose from several elective courses to customize their education. This program culminates with a part-time or full-time internship for hands-on experience, or students can choose a non-internship option to meet their requirements.

• Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: No specified tracks; wide choice of electives
• Tuition Cost: $111.92 per credit hour (in-state), $500.00 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

8. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa’s online Bachelor of Science in Sport and Recreation Management prepares students for leadership roles in both the sport and recreation industries. This program prepares leaders to meet challenges in the global sport arena, and its award-winning faculty fosters a collaborative learning environment for analyzing and resolving issues in the business and culture of sports. Students with this degree find diverse career opportunities in community recreation, intercollegiate athletic departments, and professional sport teams, and it also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in related fields.

Students in the program have opportunities for both guided field experiences, led by professors at organizations like Special Olympics of Iowa, and independent field experiences, which can be student-initiated internships. 

• Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: No formal tracks; electives in areas like business or communications
• Tuition Cost: $387.00 per credit hour (in-state), $387.00 per credit hour (out-of-state) for Distance and Online
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

9. University of Minnesota Crookston

The University of Minnesota Crookston offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Sport and Recreation Management that helps students develop knowledge and expertise in sport and recreation with a strong management orientation, so it emphasizes active learning and responsive teaching. The curriculum is technology-driven, focusing on communication and human relations, and it ensures graduates hone skills in general business disciplines like management, marketing, and finance.

Students also gain proficiency in written and oral communication specific to the sport and recreation industry, and they learn to apply industry-specific technological tools and operating procedures. Program graduates are well-prepared to manage, assist in the management of, or find employment in a vast array of sport and recreation organizations, including professional sport franchises and athletic apparel companies.

Furthermore, the university also offers online Sport and Recreation Management minor and certificate programs, which cover various aspects including sport ethics, leadership, and event planning.

• Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: None specified
• Tuition Cost: $12,148 Full-time (12+ credits)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

10. University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana’s online Bachelor of Science in Sport Management offers an in-depth exploration of the sports industry, combining business fundamentals with sport-specific applications. Students learn from experienced faculty and work directly with USI's Division I athletic teams, so they gain up to 400 hours of internship experience starting from their freshman year.

The program includes opportunities to attend the Sport Management Summit and other conferences, which prepare students for leadership roles in the sports industry. This degree is designed to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for achieving entry-level and management positions within the large and varied sports industry setting.

This comprehensive program ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles, and it helps them succeed in a wide range of sport-related careers.

• Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: None specified
• Tuition Cost: Indiana Resident $299.19/credit hour; Non-Resident Reciprocity (KY) $299.19/credit hour; Non-Resident $727.23/credit hour; Non-Resident Online Only $349.19/credit hour
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

You may also want to consider our list of affordable online sports management degree programs if cost is a main concern.

What is the average cost of an online sports management bachelor's degree?

The cost of an online bachelor’s degree in sports management can vary significantly based on the institution type (public or private) and your residency status. Understanding these cost factors is crucial for effective financial planning.

• Per Credit Hour: Tuition typically ranges from approximately $129 to $600 per credit hour, though some programs may fall outside this range.
• Total Program Cost: The overall cost for a 120-credit bachelor’s degree can range from around $36,000 to over $60,000, depending on the school's per-credit rate.
• In-State vs. Out-of-State: Public universities often offer reduced tuition rates for in-state residents compared to out-of-state students.
• Private Institutions: Private universities usually charge a flat tuition rate for all students, which can sometimes be higher than in-state public rates.

Careful research into each program’s specific tuition and fees is essential to determine the total investment required for your degree. Many online programs aim to be more affordable by minimizing campus-related expenses.

As shown in the graphic below, in 2023, a total of 17,134 degrees were awarded in sport and fitness management, marking a 2.01% decline from the previous year. The average wage for professionals in this field was $75,877, showing a significant growth of 5.35%. Tuition costs saw an upward trend, with the median in-state public tuition growing by 4.35% to reach $7,716, while median out-of-state private tuition increased by 2.5% to $32,800.

The workforce for sport and fitness management professionals also expanded, with 780,408 people in the field, representing a 5.95% growth. The average age of employees saw a slight increase of 0.597% to 36.1 years old—similar to trends seen in graduates from accelerated online urban planning degree programs.

Despite a slight decrease in the number of degrees awarded, the field is experiencing positive growth in both average wages and the overall size of its workforce, indicating a robust job market for those with a degree in this area.

What are the financial aid options for an online sports management bachelor's degree?

Pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in sports management is a significant investment, but various financial aid options are available to help offset the cost. Exploring these avenues can make your education more accessible and affordable.

• Federal Student Aid: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs.
• Institutional Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships specifically for online students or those pursuing degrees in sports management.
• Private Scholarships: Numerous organizations, foundations, and industry associations offer scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or specific sports-related criteria.
• Military Benefits: Active duty service members, veterans, and their families may qualify for tuition assistance, GI Bill benefits, or other military-specific grants.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some employers offer reimbursement programs that cover part or all of your tuition costs for degrees related to your job.

Contact the financial aid office of each prospective university early in your application process to understand all available options and deadlines.

These costs are nothing compared to the income opportunities in the sports sector. In 2024, the global sports market generated revenue of US$112.4 billion, projected to grow to US$137.8 billion by 2027—offering potential similar to graduates from top CompTIA Cloud Plus online training programs in tech-driven industries.

The market comprises various segments, including media, ticket sales, and merchandise, and is driven by popular sports such as soccer, football, basketball, baseball, and cricket. This data highlights a positive financial trend in the sports industry, indicating a strong and expanding market.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online sports management bachelor's degree program?

Admission to an online bachelor’s degree program in sports management typically requires a foundational academic background along with specific admissions criteria. Understanding these requirements is the first step in your application journey.

• High School Diploma or GED: This is a foundational requirement for all undergraduate programs, demonstrating completion of secondary education.
• Minimum GPA: Many programs require a minimum high school GPA, often around 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, though some may offer conditional acceptance for lower GPAs.
• Standardized Test Scores: While many online programs are test-optional, some may consider SAT or ACT scores as part of the admissions process.
• Transfer Credits: For students with previous college coursework, many programs accept a significant number of transfer credits, potentially reducing both time and cost to complete the degree.
• Personal Statement/Essay: Some institutions may request a personal statement to assess your motivation, career goals, and fit for the program.

Always review the specific admission requirements for each program you’re considering, as they can vary by institution—just as entry requirements vary in top online cyberops training bootcamps that demand specific foundational skills.

What courses are typically in an online sports management bachelor's degree program?

An online bachelor’s degree in sports management offers a well-rounded curriculum that blends business fundamentals with specialized sports industry knowledge. The coursework prepares students for a variety of professional roles.

• Introduction to Sport Management: A foundational course covering the principles, theories, and overall structure of the sports industry.
• Sport Marketing: Focuses on marketing strategies for sports teams and events, including branding, promotions, and fan engagement.
• Sport Finance: Examines budgeting, revenue streams, and financial decision-making in sports organizations.
• Sport Law & Ethics: Covers legal topics such as contracts, intellectual property, and ethical issues in the sports world.
• Sport Operations & Facility Management: Addresses the planning and management of sports events and venues.
• Sociology of Sport: Explores the social impact of sports, including diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Business Core Courses: Includes essential business subjects like accounting, economics, management, and communication.

This diverse curriculum ensures graduates are equipped with both business acumen and industry-specific expertise. These can also meet athletic director requirements for schools and sports organizations.

What types of specializations are available for sports management graduates?

Many online sports management programs offer the option to specialize in a particular area of interest, allowing you to tailor your education to match your career goals.

• Sport Marketing & Sales: Emphasizes advertising, promotion, and branding within sports organizations.
• Event & Facility Management: Focuses on the logistics and operations of sporting events and venue management.
• Sport Analytics: Teaches data analysis techniques to evaluate player performance, business decisions, and fan engagement. For some, business analytics vs data science degree options may be a serious career decision.
• Athletic Administration: Prepares students for administrative roles in school and college athletic departments.
• Sports Business: Offers a broader business foundation with a focus on the economic and financial side of sports.
• Esports Management: Provides insights into the management, marketing, and growth of the competitive gaming industry.

Choosing a specialization can boost your career readiness and deepen your expertise in a niche area of the field.

How do you choose the best online sports management bachelor's degree program?

Selecting the right program requires a thoughtful evaluation of academic, financial, and personal factors. Consider the following when comparing options:

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized agency, which helps with credit transfer and enhances employment credibility.
• Curriculum Alignment: Make sure the courses offered match your interests and long-term career goals.
• Faculty Expertise: Review faculty bios to see their industry experience and professional achievements.
• Internship Opportunities: Look for programs that offer internships or experiential learning, which can improve job prospects.
• Program Structure & Flexibility: Determine if the delivery format (e.g., synchronous or asynchronous) and schedule match your lifestyle.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Weigh the overall program cost against available aid, scholarships, and payment options.

Doing your research will help ensure the program fits your needs and sets you up for long-term success.

What career paths are available for graduates of online sports management bachelor's degree programs?

Graduates with an online degree in sports management can pursue a wide range of roles across the sports, entertainment, and recreation industries.  A common choice is deciding between sports management vs sports administration.

• Athletic Director: Manage athletic programs at schools or colleges, including budgeting, scheduling, and staff supervision.
• Sports Marketing Coordinator: Design and implement marketing campaigns to promote sports teams, events, or athletes.
• Sports Event Coordinator: Plan and execute local or large-scale sporting events.
• Sports Facility Manager: Oversee the daily operations and maintenance of sports venues.
• Sports Agent Assistant: Support agents in contract negotiations, endorsements, and client relations.
• Community Relations Coordinator: Create outreach programs that build relationships between sports teams and their communities.
• Ticket Sales Representative: Drive revenue through ticket and premium package sales.
• Sports Public Relations Specialist: Manage public image and media relations for athletes or organizations.

These roles offer diverse opportunities in a dynamic and growing industry.

Let us look at salary variations for sports management graduates by state, as shown in the graph below. Florida and West Virginia have the lowest salaries for sports management, at $36,166 and $37,467, respectively, followed by Arkansas at $40,019. The two next lowest paying states are Georgia, with a salary of $40,865, and Louisiana at $41,385.

In contrast, the highest salaries in the field are found in Washington at $54,814 and the District of Columbia at $54,689. Other top-paying states include New York, where salaries are $52,947, Massachusetts at $52,855, and Alaska with an annual salary of $52,120. There is a clear trend showing that salaries for sports management professionals vary widely by location, with states in the Northeast and on the West Coast generally offering higher compensation than those in the Southeastern United States.

How much can I earn with an online sports management bachelor's degree?

Salaries in sports management vary widely based on job title, experience, employer type, and location. However, the degree offers solid earning potential across many roles.

• Entry-Level Roles: Positions such as Sports Marketing Coordinator or Ticket Sales Representative typically earn $40,000–$50,000 annually.
• Mid-Level Management: Athletic Directors at smaller schools or Marketing Managers may earn between $60,000 and $80,000.
• Specialized Roles: Sports Data Analysts or Facility Managers can expect salaries starting at $60,000 to $75,000. Sports psychologist salary ranges are around this much as well.
• Senior & Executive Positions: High-level executives in professional sports organizations can earn well over $100,000, with some surpassing $200,000 annually.

A bachelor’s degree in sports management provides the foundation for advancement and increasing earning potential over time.

The overall salary landscape for sports management professionals in the US indicates a wide range of earning potential as shown in the graph below, with the 10th percentile at $43,565 and the 50th percentile, or median salary, at $62,355. Entry-level and coordinator positions typically fall on the lower end of the spectrum, with an account coordinator earning an average of $40,903 and a sports information director earning $41,055.

Other roles in this range include a social media coordinator at $42,609, an event coordinator at $42,662, and a marketing coordinator making $46,330. As professionals gain experience and move into mid-level positions, salaries increase; for example, a recruiter averages $51,084, an account manager makes $54,571, and an operations manager earns $61,483.

The highest earning potential is seen in senior and executive roles, where salaries climb significantly. An athletic director at a larger institution can earn between $86,490 and $132,277, and a director of operations can exceed $100,000, with top earners reaching $108,500.

Furthermore, a sports marketing director commands an average of $144,579, while a vice president of sports management averages $157,532. This data clearly illustrates a direct correlation between a professional’s experience and position and their earning potential within the sports management field.

This data illustrates a clear progression in earning potential as individuals advance from support roles to more managerial responsibilities within the industry. The figures highlight that while initial salaries may be modest, significant growth is possible with experience and specialization.

What is the job market like for graduates of an online sports management bachelor's degree?

The job market for sports management graduates is growing and increasingly diverse, offering opportunities across a range of sectors.

• Industry Growth: Expanding global audiences and technological advancements are fueling continued growth in sports-related fields.
• Diverse Opportunities: Jobs are available in professional leagues, college athletics, recreation departments, event planning, and esports.
• Importance of Experience: Internships and hands-on projects during your degree program are key to landing a job post-graduation.
• Networking: Building relationships with faculty, peers, and professionals is essential for career development.
• Competitive Landscape: While the field is competitive, especially for high-profile roles, prepared graduates with experience stand out.

Graduates who leverage both academic knowledge and practical experience will be well-positioned for success.

Should I Pursue a Graduate Degree After My Online Sports Management Bachelor's?

For many professionals, a bachelor's degree is a solid foundation, yet a graduate degree can further enhance strategic leadership, specialized expertise, and long‐term career growth in the sports industry. Advanced credentials not only help in navigating complex organizational challenges but also open doors to higher-level roles and decision-making positions. Comparing pathways for additional study can be crucial; for example, those seeking a business edge might explore programs such as cheap MBA online that blend contemporary business acumen with sport-specific applications.

What are some current and future trends in sports management?

Staying ahead of trends is essential in the ever-evolving sports industry. Here are some key developments shaping the future of sports management:

• Esports Growth: The explosive rise of competitive gaming is creating demand for professionals in event planning, team operations, and marketing.
• Data Analytics & AI: Organizations are increasingly relying on analytics and AI for performance tracking, fan engagement, and strategic planning. An online data analytics degree may also be a career option for some.
• Personalized Fan Experiences: Technology is enabling teams to create more immersive, individualized fan experiences both in-person and online.
• Sustainable Event Management: There’s a growing focus on reducing the environmental impact of sports events through sustainable practices.
• Wearable Technology: GPS trackers and performance monitors are enhancing athlete training and injury prevention.
• Women’s Sports Expansion: Growth in women’s sports leagues and sponsorships is opening new management and leadership roles.
• Globalization of Sports: International expansion is creating opportunities for culturally aware professionals with global business skills.

These trends signal a future where innovation, inclusivity, and data-driven strategies will define success in the industry.

The global sports analytics market was valued at US$3.53 billion in 2023 and is projected to surpass US$20.48 billion by 2032, with a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.51%, as shown in the graphic below. This substantial growth is primarily driven by the surging use of wearable technology and the increasing adoption of AI for real-time data analysis. These technologies allow for in-depth insights into player performance, health metrics, and strategic development, which are critical for coaches and analysts.

The market's expansion is further fueled by the availability of more affordable and high-performance computing solutions, as well as a rising need for advanced streaming analytics to enhance fan engagement. While football holds a significant 22% market share within the sports analytics sector, the use of analytics extends to player recruitment and scouting by evaluating both basic and advanced metrics. This trend highlights the industry’s shift toward a data-driven approach to both on-field and off-field operations.

Here's What Graduates Say About Their Bachelor's Degree in Sports Management

Other Things You Should Know About Online Sports Management Bachelor's Degrees

Is a sports management degree worth it?

A sports management degree is a valuable investment for individuals who are passionate about the business side of sports and want to gain a competitive edge in a highly dynamic and popular industry. The degree provides a strong foundation in business principles like marketing, finance, and event management, all tailored to the unique context of sports. It's a great option for those who want a career in sports but are not interested in being an athlete.

While some positions may not require this specific degree, having it can set you apart from other candidates and open doors to specialized roles that require a deep understanding of the industry. The degree also helps develop transferable skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving, which are valuable in a variety of fields. The degree is particularly effective when combined with real-world experience, such as internships, which allow you to apply your knowledge and build a professional network.

Do you need an internship for an online sports management degree?

While not all online sports management programs have a mandatory internship requirement, gaining an internship is a crucial component for success in this field. The sports industry is highly competitive and built on relationships, making real-world experience and professional networking vital for landing a job. An internship provides a window into the daily operations of a sports organization and allows you to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting.

Internships serve as an extended job interview and can often lead to a full-time position or a strong professional reference. Many online programs, though delivered remotely, will either require an internship or strongly encourage it, often providing support and resources to help students find suitable placements in their local area. Whether required or not, pursuing at least one internship is highly recommended to build your resume and make a lasting impression.

Are there any online sports management programs with a concentration in esports?

Yes, the growing popularity of the esports industry has led many universities to offer specialized programs or concentrations in this field. These programs combine traditional sports management principles with a focus on the unique business models, technology, and culture of competitive video gaming. They are designed to prepare students for a variety of roles in this rapidly expanding sector.

These concentrations may be offered as part of a sports management degree or as a separate program altogether, with courses that cover topics such as esports event management, team administration, broadcasting, and marketing. Institutions like Ferris State University, Northwood University, and SUNY Canton are among those that have developed degree programs that allow students to specialize in esports management, providing a unique and timely education for a modern career path.