Start your career path to becoming a sports business manager today. Learn about the steps, classes and educational options you will need to become a successful sports management specialist. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlight the best MBA programs for sports management.

Pursuing an MBA in sports management could be a strategic move if you're aiming to advance or pivot your career toward the business side of the sports industry. These specialized online MBA programs equip you with the knowledge and skills to excel in various sport and entertainment business roles by combining core business principles with sports management theory and practice. And online flexibility can allow you to balance your studies with professional commitments, making it a viable option for working professionals.

The curriculum of an MBA in sports management typically covers topics such as marketing, finance, facilities operations, sports event security management, and event management, all tailored to the sports context. Engaging with this coursework online means you can learn from virtually anywhere, applying contemporary methods and frameworks directly to your current or desired role in the sports industry. Additionally, many traditional and online MBA programs offer networking opportunities, access to industry experts, and hands-on projects to enhance your learning experience.

  • An MBA in sports management combines business acumen with sports industry insights.
  • Studying online provides flexibility and the ability to immediately apply learning.
  • Programs often include practical experiences and networking opportunities.

Featured Online Programs

Top 25 Best MBA in Sports Management Programs


1
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,723
    • Out-of-State:$32,434
  • Net Price: $22,291
  • Acceptance Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 83%
  • Total Enrollment: 32,229
  • Undergrad Students: 24,391
  • Graduate Students: 7,838
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • University of Massachusetts-Amherst
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2
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,659
    • Out-of-State:$30,132
  • Net Price: $22,077
  • Acceptance Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Graduation Rate: 73%
  • Total Enrollment: 23,163
  • Undergrad Students: 19,565
  • Graduate Students: 3,598
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • University of Oregon
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3

Shepherd University

Score: 77.02

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,280
    • Out-of-State:$11,484
  • Net Price: $9,827
  • Acceptance Rate: 96%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 48%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,235
  • Undergrad Students: 2,718
  • Graduate Students: 517
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Shepherd University
4
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,544
    • Out-of-State:$17,088
  • Net Price: $15,117
  • Acceptance Rate: 71%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 53%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,637
  • Undergrad Students: 7,345
  • Graduate Students: 4,292
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • University of Central Missouri
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5
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $2,520
    • Out-of-State:$4,140
  • Net Price: $19,277
  • Acceptance Rate: 93%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Graduation Rate: 55%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,539
  • Undergrad Students: 5,078
  • Graduate Students: 1,461
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Salem State University
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6
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,184
    • Out-of-State:$12,744
  • Net Price: $11,682
  • Acceptance Rate: 94%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 48%
  • Total Enrollment: 15,958
  • Undergrad Students: 10,153
  • Graduate Students: 5,805
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Texas Woman's University
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7
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,565
    • Out-of-State:$6,565
  • Net Price: $14,519
  • Acceptance Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,927
  • Undergrad Students: 8,454
  • Graduate Students: 1,473
  • Grads Salary: $68,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • Southeast Missouri State University
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8

Misericordia University

Score: 73.02

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,650
    • Out-of-State:$36,650
  • Net Price: $27,033
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,242
  • Undergrad Students: 1,776
  • Graduate Students: 466
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Misericordia University
9
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $3,979
    • Out-of-State:$11,334
  • Net Price: $13,322
  • Acceptance Rate: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 51%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,949
  • Undergrad Students: 10,427
  • Graduate Students: 2,522
  • Grads Salary: $65,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Fort Hays State University
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10
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,231
    • Out-of-State:$29,862
  • Net Price: $15,826
  • Acceptance Rate: 83%
  • Retention Rate: 66%
  • Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Total Enrollment: 14,018
  • Undergrad Students: 11,617
  • Graduate Students: 2,401
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Eastern Michigan University
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11

Belhaven University

Score: 70.3

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,890
    • Out-of-State:$10,890
  • Net Price: $19,794
  • Acceptance Rate: 43%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 46%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,627
  • Undergrad Students: 1,501
  • Graduate Students: 2,126
  • Grads Salary: $63,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Belhaven University
12
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $39,549
    • Out-of-State:$39,549
  • Net Price: $28,434
  • Acceptance Rate: 93%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,663
  • Undergrad Students: 1,118
  • Graduate Students: 545
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Franklin Pierce University
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13

Shorter University

Score: 67.42

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,800
    • Out-of-State:$16,800
  • Net Price: $13,490
  • Acceptance Rate: 97%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 32%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,515
  • Undergrad Students: 1,373
  • Graduate Students: 142
  • Grads Salary: $69,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Shorter University
14
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,678
    • Out-of-State:$13,356
  • Net Price: $13,786
  • Acceptance Rate: 69%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Graduation Rate: 38%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,860
  • Undergrad Students: 2,427
  • Graduate Students: 3,433
  • Grads Salary: $61,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • University of West Alabama
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15

Tiffin University

Score: 63.94

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,000
    • Out-of-State:$14,000
  • Net Price: $25,636
  • Acceptance Rate: 83%
  • Retention Rate: 60%
  • Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,044
  • Undergrad Students: 2,339
  • Graduate Students: 705
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Tiffin University
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16

Rogers State University

Score: 63.8

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,342
    • Out-of-State:$11,700
  • Net Price: $13,446
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 25%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,155
  • Undergrad Students: 3,046
  • Graduate Students: 109
  • Grads Salary: $69,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Rogers State University
17
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,458
    • Out-of-State:$10,458
  • Net Price: $18,832
  • Acceptance Rate: 93%
  • Retention Rate: 58%
  • Graduation Rate: 48%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,354
  • Undergrad Students: 1,328
  • Graduate Students: 4,026
  • Grads Salary: $59,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Concordia University-Chicago
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18
  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,704
    • Out-of-State:$10,440
  • Net Price: $13,224
  • Acceptance Rate: 99%
  • Retention Rate: 57%
  • Graduation Rate: 28%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,854
  • Undergrad Students: 1,588
  • Graduate Students: 1,266
  • Grads Salary: $64,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Adams State University
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19

Midway University

Score: 61.97

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,200
    • Out-of-State:$7,200
  • Net Price: $22,848
  • Acceptance Rate: 94%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 43%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,441
  • Undergrad Students: 1,203
  • Graduate Students: 238
  • Grads Salary: $63,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Midway University
20

Fisher College

Score: 57.26

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $27,342
    • Out-of-State:$27,342
  • Net Price: $26,257
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 55%
  • Graduation Rate: 26%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,421
  • Undergrad Students: 1,312
  • Graduate Students: 109
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Fisher College

Understanding Sports Management MBA Education


In exploring the world of sports management, you'll uncover the essential role that sports managers play in the intersection of business and athletics. This integral function supports the structure and success of sports entities.

Sports management is the field that focuses on the business aspects of sports and recreation. It encompasses a wide range of activities, from planning and organizing events to financial management, marketing, and operations within the sports industry. With a unique blend of business acumen and a passion for sports, professionals in this field ensure the smooth running of sports organizations, whether they're professional teams, college athletics, or community sports programs.

Role of a Sports Manager

As a sports manager, your role is both strategic and operational within a sports business, involving the direction of a sports organization's activities.

This includes:

  • Strategic Planning: Setting long-term goals and outlining the path to achieving them
  • Operations: Overseeing the day-to-day management, including the coordination of events, facilities, and staff
  • Financial Management: Handling budgets, maximizing revenue, and ensuring financial stability
  • Marketing and Promotion: Developing strategies to enhance fan engagement, sponsorship, and brand visibility
  • Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all activities align with the rules and regulations of the sports industry

In this capacity, you wield a significant influence over the business side of sports, contending with challenges and leveraging opportunities to advance the success and integrity of your organization.

Online MBA in Sports Management Overview


An MBA in sports management equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge for leadership roles in the sports industry.

This specialized degree blends business acumen with an understanding of the sports sector.

Sports Management Curriculum and Coursework

Your coursework in an MBA with a focus on sports management should cover a range of topics relevant to the field.

Expect to encounter subjects such as:

  • Sports Marketing: Explore marketing strategies specific to the sports industry.
  • Facilities Management: Learn about the operations and management of sports venues.
  • Sports Law: Gain insight into the legal aspects impacting sports organizations.
  • Finance and Budgeting: Understand financial management within the context of sports.
  • Event Planning and Promotion: Get equipped with the skills to organize and promote sports events.

Sports Management Program Format and Duration

The structure of an online Sports Management MBA is designed for flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with professional commitments.

Here's what you need to know about the format and duration of the program:

  • Delivery Mode: Fully online, with asynchronous (on-demand) or synchronous (real-time) class options.
  • Program Length: Typically, you can complete your MBA in about two years if enrolled full-time. Part-time options can extend the program's duration. Both are available through various business schools.
  • Credit Hours: Programs can vary but generally require around 30-40 credit hours for completion.

By choosing this pathway, you're setting yourself up for success in a sector that values strategic leadership and management expertise.

Benefits of an Online MBA in Sports Management


Pursuing an online MBA in sports management offers distinct advantages that can significantly enhance your career in the sports business sector.

Flexibility and Accessibility

With an online MBA in sports management, you gain the ability to balance your studies with personal and professional obligations.

Programs are designed to fit your schedule, allowing for:

  • Self-paced learning: You can progress through coursework at a pace that suits your lifestyle.
  • Remote access: Study from anywhere, whether at home or while traveling, as long as you have internet connectivity.

This flexibility ensures that your education does not disrupt your current job or family life.

Career Advancement Opportunities

An online master’s in sports management opens the door to a range of career possibilities within the sports industry.

You will be prepared for:

  • Leadership roles: Advance to managerial positions in sports companies and teams.
  • Specialized roles: Acquire knowledge in sports marketing, planning, promotion, and managing operations.

The specialized MBA curriculum equips you with a well-rounded business education that is tailored to the sports sector, increasing your employability and potential for career growth.

Choosing the Right MBA Program


When selecting the right online MBA in sports management for you, your focus should be on the program's accreditation and the practical experience of its faculty, as these factors directly impact the quality of education you will receive and your career prospects post-graduation.

Accreditation and Recognition

Ensure that the program you are considering is accredited. Accreditation by a recognized body, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), is crucial. It not only guarantees that the program meets rigorous educational standards but also assures that your degree will be respected by employers in the sports industry.

  • AACSB Accredited: Sign of rigorous academic standards
  • ACBSP Accredited: Sign of rigorous academic standards
  • AACSB vs ACBSP
  • Regionally Accredited: Widely recognized by employers

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Faculty Expertise and Industry Connections

The online MBA program should have faculty with a solid blend of academic credentials and real-world experience in sports management. Faculty with a history of working in the sports industry bring valuable insights and can share practical knowledge that extends beyond textbooks.

  • Industry Experience: Faculty with professional connections can provide networking opportunities.
  • Research and Publication: Evidence of faculty expertise and contribution to the field.

It's beneficial to choose a program where the faculty are not only educators but also active industry participants who can facilitate networking opportunities and practical learning experiences.

Sports Management MBA Admission Requirements


When you decide to apply for an online MBA in Sports Management, you'll need to meet specific educational qualifications and provide various application materials.

Academic Prerequisites

You must hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution to be eligible for an MBA program. A bachelor’s degree in business administration is ideal, but a degree in other fields may also be acceptable provided you have taken prerequisite courses relevant to business studies. In many cases, programs look for a minimum GPA, typically around a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, especially for your upper division coursework.

Application Process and Materials

Your application must include:

  • Completed application form: This can be done online through the university’s admissions portal.
  • Transcripts: Provide transcripts from all postsecondary institutions you've attended. If you hold an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree, the programs will review these transcripts to determine if foundation courses are necessary.
  • Letters of recommendation: Usually, two to three letters are required, vouching for your potential in graduate studies.
  • Additional requirements: Some programs may also require a statement of purpose or an application essay, and possibly scores from standardized tests such as the GMAT or GRE, though this varies by school, and some may waive this requirement.

Continuing Education and Professional Development


In the evolving landscape of sports management, you can enhance your expertise and career progression through targeted continuing education. Whether you're seeking to solidify your professional foundation or aiming for scholarly pursuits, there are appropriate certification programs and doctoral studies that await.

Certification Programs

Certified programs offer you specialized knowledge. If you hold an MBA degree, obtaining an online sports management certificate can expand your competencies in specific areas of the sports industry, such as marketing and event promotion, without committing to a full degree program.

These certificates often provide:

  • Immediate return on investment (ROI)
  • Updated knowledge on current industry practices
  • Enhanced professional credibility

Plenty of institutions might offer such certificates or courses that are designed to meet your needs for professional development.

Doctoral Studies in Sports Management

Should your aspirations lie in academia or high-level consultancy, a PhD in sports management is a considerable step.

This level of education typically involves:

  • In-depth research capabilities
  • Advanced teaching prospects
  • High competency in strategic management and organizational skills

Pursuing a doctoral degree can lead to opportunities in teaching at the university level, engaging in advanced research, and contributing to the sports industry as a thought leader. Various universities provide online and on-campus PhD programs that you can tailor to fit your career aspirations and schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions


How does an MBA help in sports?

An MBA in sports management equips you with leadership and business acumen tailored to the sports industry. This education can prepare you for overseeing sports teams, facilities, or organizations effectively, applying business strategies to a competitive and passionate field.

Can you complete an MBA with a specialization in sports management entirely online?

Yes, several reputable institutions offer online MBAs with a focus on sports management. These programs are designed to deliver comprehensive education in managing sports institutions and often allow for completion without the need to attend on-campus classes.

Can you make a good income in sports management?

Careers in sports management can be lucrative, with incomes varying significantly based on experience, role, and location. Leadership or executive positions within large sports organizations often command higher salaries.

Does sports management require a lot of mathematics?

While sports management is not math-intensive, it does require a solid understanding of finance and analytics for budgeting, marketing strategies, and operations, which are fundamental aspects in managing sports organizations.

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