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Last Updated on September 29, 2023

Sports Management Degrees in Washington (WA)

Washington is a populous West Coast state with natural beauty to spare and many exciting sport management opportunities at all levels of sport. Measuring outcomes for citizens using over 70 metrics in categories such as health care, education, economy, opportunity, and more, U.S. News & World Report ranks Washington as the No. 1 state in the country. This likely comes as no surprise to Emerald State residents, who have the highest life expectancy in the nation and pay no sales tax!

In This Guide…

If you’re planning on starting or advancing your career in Washington’s sports industry, be advised that jobs here pay well! According to the BLS, Washington is home to over 48,000 jobs in the Sports, media, and arts industries. The average salary of someone working in these industries is over $66,000, which puts the state at the high end of this career field.

Sports Management Degrees in Washington (WA)

The following list will help you with your school search and get you started on the road to a rewarding sports career. Remember to dig deeper than websites and marketing materials and really look at the faculty, internship opportunities and what alumni say about each program you’re considering. Ratings and rankings can tell you a little, but there’s no one-size-fits all sport management program.

In this section:
Sport Management Master’s Programs

Sports Management Master’s Programs in Washington (WA)

Be sure to visit our Master’s in Sports Management Guide for complete information about choosing the right Master’s program for you.

Seattle University | Seattle, WA
MBA in Sport Entertainment

Delivery Method: On Campus

Credits Required: 55 Credit Hours

Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $750

Get ready for a successful career in the sports industry with Seattle University’s Sport Entertainment MBA program. This two-year program is taught on campus through evening classes, allowing you to continue working while pursuing your degree. They believe in the power of leadership development and sports analytics, making this program a perfect fit for aspiring professionals. As a student, you’ll have access to an impressive network of internship opportunities in Seattle, as well as a formal mentor network to guide and support you. Take your passion for sports to the next level with Seattle University’s Sport Entertainment MBA program.

Washington State University | Pullman, WA
Sport Management Masters Degree

Delivery Method: On Campus

Credits Required: 34 Credit Hours

Total Tuition: In state: $5,380 per year, Out of state: $12,851 per year.

Washington State University prioritizes hands-on learning for sport management students. The program offers internships, practicum courses, and collaborative projects to ensure students can apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and develop essential industry skills. In pursuit of a Master’s Degree in Sport Management, students can expect a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including sports marketing, event management, facility operations, and financial management. This degree equips students with a profound understanding of the business aspects within the sports industry.

Sports Management Bachelor’s Programs in Washington (WA)

Check out our Sports Management Degree Guide for complete information about what to look for in an undergraduate Sport Management program.

Sports Administration Programs in Washington

Washington’s many sports teams at all levels mean great opportunities for sports administration professionals. In particular, well funded public school systems are a great place to get a foot in the door in a sports administration career. Read on for a comprehensive list of Washington’s sports administration degree programs.

Sports Administration Bachelor’s Programs

Sports Administration listings are below, and our Sports Administration Degree guide is an excellent resource worth checking out as well.

Sports Administration Master’s Programs

If you are searching for a Master’s in Sports Administration degree, be sure to check out our Sports Administration Graduate Degree guide – it will help you on your journey!

Gonzaga University | Spokane, WA
Master in Sports & Athletic Administration

Delivery Method: On Campus and Online

Credits Required: 31 Credit Hours

Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,035

Gonzaga’s comprehensive program covers various key areas essential for success in the sports industry. These areas include marketing, leadership development, financial analysis, community outreach, team building, media relations, and team and game operations. Graduates of this program have gone on to work in esteemed positions at major sports organizations such as MLB, MLS, WNBA, and renowned collegiate athletic programs nationwide.

University of Washington | Seattle, WA
M.Ed in intercollegiate Athletic Leadership

Credits Required: 48 Credit Hours

Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $756

Total Tuition: $36,288 per year

Get ready for a future in collegiate athletics leadership with the specialized program at the University of Washington. Their unique hybrid structure combines online learning, classroom experiences, and practical internships, allowing flexibility for students no matter where they’re located. This intensive program consists of 48 credits, but rest assured, the majority of our students (a whopping 98%) graduate within just one year. And here’s the best part – over 90% of our graduates secure full-time employment within three months of graduation. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your career in this exciting field.

MBA in Sports Management Programs in Washington State

The growing number of MBA programs with a sports focus includes some programs in Washington. In general, these are a great degree to insure you have the business chops to make it in the competitive sports industry. Complete listings for sports-focuses MBA programs in Washington can be found below, and be sure to review our guide to MBA in Sports Management Degrees for more information.

Seattle University | Seattle, WA
MBA in Sport and Entertainment Management

Delivery Method: On Campus

Credits Required: 50

Total Tuition: $45,000

GRE (or GMAT) Required: Optional

Upon completing the Master of Science program in Kinesiology and Health from Seattle University, graduates are well-equipped for a variety of career paths. They can pursue careers in exercise science, sports performance, health promotion, wellness coaching, corporate wellness, and research. The comprehensive curriculum, research opportunities, and practical experience provided by the program prepare students to excel in their chosen careers and make a positive impact on individuals and communities’ health. At Seattle University, students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and laboratories, providing significant opportunities for engaging in cutting-edge research projects alongside experienced faculty members. This research allows students to deepen their understanding of kinesiology and health concepts, develop critical thinking skills, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Through internships, clinical experiences, and community engagement projects, students have hands-on learning opportunities to gain practical skills in kinesiology and health. These experiences not only enhance theoretical knowledge but also provide valuable real-world experience, preparing students for a seamless transition into the professional field after graduation.

The Sports Industry in Washington State

Washington is known for being home to some of the U.S. largest and most successful companies including Amazon, Microsoft, Starbucks, and Boeing. The state is also home to some very successful sports franchises and college sports programs. The city of Seattle is seeing growth in population, economy, and also sports franchises as the NHL’s newest team the Seattle Kraken will take to the ice in 2021. Gonzaga, Washington State, and the University of Washington are big time players in several different college sports.

There are not only professional and college sports opportunities, but also a lot of outdoor recreation and leisure opportunities. Washington state has three different national parks, and 120 state parks. Not only does it make it a great place to live, but it also is an industry in itself. In the winter there is skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, and the summer has mountain biking, hiking, rafting, and over 300 golf courses.

Seattle is the biggest city in Washington state and is undergoing continuing economic growth and development. From 2010-2021 the city’s population grew over 27%. They are home to all of the state’s top tier professional teams and it is known to be a great place to live and work.

On the opposite side of the state from Seattle, Spokane is the second-biggest city in Washington and is home to the Gonzaga Bulldogs, who are the 2020 and 2021 Men’s Basketball NCAA Division I Champions. They also have minor league baseball, and a Junior’s Ice hockey team as well as an indoor football team.

Washington State Sports Teams

There are a number of professional and semi-professional teams in Washington, as well as competitive college teams, and amateur leagues across different sports. On top of all that, Washington has a very active population, is a great place to live, and there is no shortage of outdoor sports available during all times of the year.

Washington State Baseball Teams

The Seattle Mariners are Washington’s biggest baseball team, but there are also a number of minor league teams scattered throughout the state. On top of that, teams like Gonzaga and Washington State have graduated a number of players who have gone on to the major leagues, and the teams themselves also are regulars in the annual NCAA Tournament

Major League Baseball: Seattle Mariners

Northwest League: Everett AquaSox, Spokane Indians, Tri-City Dust Devils

Pacific Coast League: Tacoma Rainiers

Washington State Basketball Teams

Basketball is popular in Washington state, especially at the college level. The Gonzaga Bulldogs consistently have a strong team and have won several national championships in recent years. The WNBA’s Seattle Storm is the most well-known and successful professional team in Washington.

Women’s National Basketball Association: Seattle Storm

American Basketball Association: Seattle Mountaineers

Washington State Football Teams

The Seahawks are beloved by fans all over the Pacific Northwest and have had very strong teams in recent years. The Seahawks are a major employer in Seattle and are regulars in the postseason. The fans are diehard, and have set the world record for the loudest crowd roar and even created an earthquake in the process.

National Football League: Seattle Seahawks

Northern Cascade Football League: Tri City Rage

Washington State Hockey Teams

Like the rest of the country, hockey is growing in popularity in the Pacific Northwest. The NHLs newest team, the Seattle Kraken, has its inaugural season in 2021, and hockey fans are very excited to have a hometown team in Seattle.

National Hockey League: Seattle Kraken

Western Hockey League: Spokane Chiefs

Washington State Soccer Teams

Washington has teams competing in top-tier men’s and women’s leagues, and the fan base is devoted and active in the community. The Sounders play at Lumen Field, also home to the Seattle Seahawks. Outside of Seattle, there are plenty of teams at various levels, including development teams for the Souders and OL Reign.

Major League Soccer: Seattle Sounders FC

National Women’s Soccer League: OL Reign

National Premier Soccer League: Inter United FC, Seattle Sporting FC

Women’s Premier Soccer League: ISC Gunners FC, OSA FC, Seattle Sounders Women

USL Championship: Tacoma Defiance

Beyond the City – Recreation Management Washington State

Washington has hundreds of state forests, three national parks, thousands of miles of river, and thousands of acres of protected land. Universities throughout the state offer degrees in recreation and conservation management. The Washington State Recreation and observation office also awards thousands of dollars in grants and could be a great career path for those passionate about environmental conservation and the outdoors.