Sports MBA Programs

Sports MBA Programs
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An advanced degree in sports management can open career doors to administrative positions in athletics. If you would like to advance in your sports career or are interested in the business side of athletics, a sports MBA program can prepare you to ascend the ladder in your field. Knowing what programs are available and what your job possibilities will be can help you find the best degree program.

Campus Courses

Several universities offer MBA programs in sports subjects, including the George Washington University, Florida Atlantic University, the University of Central Florida, San Diego State University, University of Dallas, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Webber International University, Barry University, Western New England College, Ohio University and the University of Oregon, to name a few. Campus courses usually cover business and sports management theories and topics, as well as require hands-on fieldwork doing activities such as managing sports teams, calculating athletic budgets and devising team marketing strategies.

Online Programs

You can earn a sports MBA from home with an online master's degree. Bellevue University offers an online MBA with a concentration in executive coaching, Saint Leo University has a MBA program for sports business specialization and Tiffin University and Southern New Hampshire University Online have MBA programs in sports management. Online programs are usually the most flexible and can often be done at your own pace, and they can save money over traditional classes. The drawback may be that you miss out on hands-on training and in-person interactions.

Degree Topics

MBA sports degrees cover a variety of subjects that fall within the sports and business realms. Common course topics include sports management, sports marketing, ethics in sports, media relations, public relations, human resources management, sports law, financial management and current issues in sports. Most programs offer elective courses that allow you to specialize in certain areas of interest, such as marketing, sales, athletic directing or special event management.

Career Possibilities

A master's degree in business administration for sports can lead to jobs in the sports and business fields. Career possibilities include athletic director, sports team manager, ticket sales, sales management, financial management, sports team marketing, sports promotions, arena management, sports advertising, special events management, athletic recruiting and sports coaching. After earning a master's degree in sports, you may also teach sports and sports administration courses at some colleges and universities. With a state teaching certification, you can teach sports and fitness courses at primary and secondary education institutions as well.

References

Article reviewed by Jeannette Belliveau Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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