Bachelor's Degrees in Sports Management
From the proliferation of professional sports teams to the expansion of collegiate athletics, the United States sports industry has become a ubiquitous presence in our culture. Athletes have become role models, anti-role models, and celebrities because of their physical talents. Sports, sporting events, and athletes have been necessary for political and cultural reasons as well, whether nationally or internationally. Sports can manifest a collective, human desire to overcome difficulties and experience success through dedication and skill.
And it makes sense given that sport is a perfect marriage of the human need for physical movement and play, and given how there are so many different kinds of sports making it possible for anyone to participate. But sport is also big business, with billions of dollars generated by professional and collegiate sports every year. The combination of the science and psychology of sport with business and management practices is what a Sport Management degree offers. Students who pursue such a degree are preparing themselves for positions in advertising, recreation management, health and fitness, facility or event management, client relations, and organizational leadership.
And there is no better time to get involved, as the Department of Labor predicts industry growth to increase faster than average rates for all occupations. The median wage in the industry also outpaces the average salary at $42,940, and if you become an agent or work in one of the many ancillary sport organizations in the industry, your average wage is even higher—up into the mid-$60,000. So, if you are interested in lacing up and getting in the game, then check out our list of the 5 Best Bachelor's Degrees in Sport Management!
Questions About Online College
What is a bachelor's degree in sports management?
A bachelor's degree typically takes four years to complete. Students who pursue a BA in sports management learn about the leadership and business sides of the sports industry.
What kind of jobs can you get with a sports management degree?
Students who earn a degree in sports management can work as athletic directors, fitness managers, and sports marketers.
Is sports management a BA or BS?
A BS in sports management focuses on statistics and the economics of sports. A BA in sports management focuses more on management and marketing.
Featured Online Schools
What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Sports Management
Sports Management Courses
Earning a degree in sports management prepares learners for administrative or management careers in sports. Students who enroll in sports management programs take a variety of courses, including the examples listed below.
Some sports management programs allow students to pursue a concentration. Degree-seekers may concentrate in sports administration, sports medicine, or sports analytics. Learners interested in pursuing a master's degree can also choose a concentration during their program.
History of Sports: This course teaches foundational knowledge of the history of sports. Students learn about how sports evolved. They also study the major historical influences on playing, managing, and regulating sports. The course also focuses on helping students understand how sports may grow or change in the future.
Event Management: This course helps students understand how to coordinate, plan, and manage events. Event management not only focuses on the event itself but also the economic impact, fundraising, and sponsorships. Students also learn about the importance of crowd management, concessions, and customer service at events.
Athletic Leadership and Coaching: Students in this course learn the basics of good leadership and different coaching methods. Coursework explores sports leadership theories and practices and how to create a productive sports environment. Students also learn about how motivation and organization help create a good team.
