Last Updated on February 26, 2022
Sports Degrees in Oklahoma
Universities in Oklahoma offer a wide variety of sports degrees. With top tier collegiate and professional sports teams, Oklahoma is a great place to both study and work in sports. Oklahoma has several Division I schools and almost a dozen Division II schools to choose from. On top of that, the state has professional and minor league teams in basketball, baseball, hockey, and soccer. While the pro teams may have more national clout, college sports for many Oklahomans are much more relevant. Thus, the college programs are a great place to get involved – whether by volunteering or interning – in Oklahoma. Getting your foot in the door with an organization through an internship or volunteer opportunity can even lead to a future position with the team.
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Oklahoma is home to a number of public and private colleges and universities which offer programs in sport management, athletic training, exercise science, and kinesiology. This guide will provide a snapshot of what it is like to live and work in Oklahoma and why the Sooner State deserves consideration as a place to launch your career in sports. At the bottom of this page we then provide you with a complete list of degree programs available in the state.
Sport Management Degrees in Oklahoma
With a number of quality institutions and sports organizations in the state, Oklahoma is an excellent place to pursue a degree in Sport Management. Oklahoma University offers a Sport Business major, as does Oklahoma State University – and both of these institutions offer top-tier Big 12 athletic programs where students can learn how things run under the bright lights. Southwestern Oklahoma State, Oral Roberts University, and Oklahoma Wesleyan University all offers a bachelor’s in sport management programs, while Southwestern also offers a master’s in sport management.
In this section:
Sport Management Master’s Programs
Sport Management Master’s Programs
Southern Nazarene University | Bethany, OK
Sport Management and Administration, MA
Southern Nazarene University | Bethany, OK
Sport Management and Administration, MA
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $575
The Master’s degree program in Sport Management at SNU covers various aspects of the sports industry, such as sports marketing, event management, facility operations, and sport finance, this program provides a well-rounded education. Their faculty, consisting of experienced professionals with practical experience in the sports industry and academic expertise, is dedicated to providing students with quality education and mentorship.
Southern Nazarene University | Bethany, OK
Master in Sports Management and Administration
Southern Nazarene University | Bethany, OK
Master in Sports Management and Administration
Delivery Method: On Campus and Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $575
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
The Sports Management program at SNU was specifically designed to cater to busy professionals. With the flexibility of classes being offered either once a week in the evening or entirely online, it provides convenience for those with packed schedules. Notably, the program includes a highly recommended personal connections trip. This unique opportunity allows students to interact with professionals and gain firsthand insight into their work life and responsibilities. Additionally, the program offers exceptional networking and internship connections, with possibilities at renowned organizations such as the Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Pistons. Embrace the chance to advance your career in the sports industry through SNU’s Sports Management program.
MBA with a Concentration in Sport Management in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is home to a number of master’s level programs which focus on the business of sport. Oklahoma University is home to the flagship MBA program in the state, and it also offers an online option. The University of Central Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University also offer and MBA program – all three of these options do not have a specific concentration, but there is plenty of room to specialize in sport through special projects and internships.
Sports Administration Degrees in Oklahoma
Again, Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers an online Master’s in Sports Administration program. Students interested in sport administration programs should be sure to include sport management programs in your search.
In this section:
Sports Administration Master’s Programs
Sports Administration Master’s Programs
East Central University | Ada, OK
M.Ed in Sports Administration
East Central University | Ada, OK
M.Ed in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 33 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $318
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $675
Prepare for a leading role in education and athletics with East Central University’s program. Their comprehensive curriculum equips students to excel as athletic directors, coaches, and in other leadership positions. Gain expertise in sports marketing and management, and align your education with the standards set by both the NASSM and the NASPE. Start your journey towards a successful career in the sports industry at ECU.
Oral Roberts University | Tulsa, OK
Master of Science in Sports and Leisure Administration
Oral Roberts University | Tulsa, OK
Master of Science in Sports and Leisure Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $450
Oral Roberts Sports Administration program prioritizes the holistic development of individuals, as outlined in its mission statement. This results in highly successful leaders who excel in advanced domains like fantasy sports and interactive viewing. Their program can be finished in just 20 months, culminating in an applied project that enables students to specialize in their area of passion.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University | Durant, OK
Master of Science in Sports Administration
Southeastern Oklahoma State University | Durant, OK
Master of Science in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Business, Educational Leadership, Native American Leadership
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $330
Total Tuition: $9,900 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Southeast Oklahoma State’s Sports Administration program is renowned for its exceptional value. Priced at under $10K for the entire program, it offers exceptional quality without breaking the bank. The faculty consists of experienced collegiate coaches, scouts, and strength and conditioning experts who not only teach but also practice cutting-edge theories. What sets this program apart is its focus on real-world discussions and diverse perspectives, giving students a well-rounded education that goes beyond state boundaries.
Kinesiology Degrees in Oklahoma
Kinesiology is a broad topic and there are many programs in Oklahoma that cater to the different specializations such as exercise physiology, bio mechanic, education, sport and exercise psychology, and more. So whether you are looking to build an academic, clinical, or sport-related career in kinesiology, there are colleges and universities in Oklahoma that specialize in all of the above fields. The University of Central Oklahoma offers a Kinesiology and Exercise/Fitness Management degree, and Southeast Oklahoma State University offers a number of programs out of its kinesiology department.
In this section:
Kinesiology Master’s Programs
Kinesiology Master’s Programs
Northeastern State University | Tahlequah, OK
Master of Science in Health and Sport Science
Northeastern State University | Tahlequah, OK
Master of Science in Health and Sport Science
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 32
Concentrations: Health Education, Sport Administration
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $292
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $606
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
Run down a world-class curriculum in Health and Sport Science at Northeastern State University. Their program covers a wide range of topics, including exercise physiology, fitness assessment, nutrition, sport psychology, and research methods. Through their hands-on learning experiences, students acquire a solid foundation of knowledge and skills. At Northeastern State University, they believe in the value of practical application. That’s why they provide access to state-of-the-art facilities, laboratories, and clinical settings. This allows their students to translate their theoretical knowledge into real-world scenarios. But it doesn’t stop there. They also value the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. That’s why they offer opportunities for research and scholarly activities. Their dedicated faculty members provide mentorship and expertise in the field, ensuring their students receive the guidance they need to succeed. Upon graduation, their students have a wide range of career opportunities to explore. They can become sports performance coaches, wellness coordinators, or health educators, just to name a few possibilities.
Oklahoma State University | Stillwater, OK
Master’s in Leisure Studies
Oklahoma State University | Stillwater, OK
Master’s in Leisure Studies
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 36
Total Tuition: $25,040 in-state, $35,380 out-of-state; fall and spring semesters, 12-credits each
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Earn your Master’s degree in Leisure Studies from Oklahoma State University and open doors to a range of exciting career opportunities in leisure and recreation management, event planning, community development, and tourism organizations. Their rigorous program covers all aspects of leisure, recreation, and tourism management including event planning, outdoor recreation, sports management, and community development. With a focus on practical experiences, internships, fieldwork, and research projects, you’ll put your knowledge into action in real-world settings. Their dedicated faculty will provide mentorship, guidance, and academic support, while their strong industry connections offer networking events, guest lectures, and valuable partnerships. Additionally, they encourage and support research and scholarly activities, allowing you to contribute to the knowledge and advancement of the field.
University of Central Oklahoma | Edmond, OK
Master of Science in Wellness Management – Exercise Science
University of Central Oklahoma | Edmond, OK
Master of Science in Wellness Management – Exercise Science
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 36
Total Tuition: $3,041 in-state tuition and fees per semester with 9 credit hours. $6,794 out-of-state tuition and fees per semester with 9 credit hours.
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
Northeastern State University’s Master’s degree program in Wellness Management – Exercise Science offers a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses exercise science, wellness management, and related fields. Their program provides students with a solid understanding of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for successful careers in the health and wellness industry. At Northeastern State University, they prioritize hands-on learning, real-world experiences, and research projects, allowing their students to apply what they’ve learned in a practical setting. Their faculty team is comprised of experienced professionals in the field of exercise science and wellness management, providing valuable mentorship and research collaboration opportunities. Their curriculum is designed to meet the needs of the industry, covering the latest advancements in exercise science, health promotion, fitness assessment, and program design. They also provide ample networking opportunities for their students to connect with professionals in the health and wellness industry through guest lectures, conferences, and industry partnerships.
Exercise Science Degrees in Oklahoma
There are exercise science programs that are focused on strength & conditioning, sports medicine, coaching, and research. No matter what your desired career path, if it is related to exercise science, there is certainly a school in Oklahoma that could be a great match. On top of that, with the college sports teams, professional teams, hospitals, sports departments, and recreational leagues, there is no shortage of internships available for dedicated students looking to gain real-world experience and apply their classroom lessons to clinical and real-world settings.
OSU offers an Applied Exercise Science program which also has a 3+2 option for a master’s degree as well. Oklahoma University offers a Health and Exercise Science degree at both the undergraduate and graduate level.
In this section:
Exercise Science Master’s Programs
Exercise Science Master’s Programs
Southern Nazarene University | Bethany, OK
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Southern Nazarene University | Bethany, OK
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Delivery Method: On Campus and Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Health and Human Performance, Health Promotion and Wellness
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $575
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Scout the world of opportunities in the health and fitness industry by studying exercise science at Southern Nazarene University. With a degree in exercise science, you can embark on exciting careers as a fitness trainer, health coach, or rehabilitation specialist. Their program offers flexible study options to accommodate students handling work and family commitments. If you aspire to pursue advanced studies, their M.S.Ed. in Exercise Science can serve as a stepping stone towards further education in fields like doctoral programs or medical school. Their experienced faculty members bring their expertise to the table, providing valuable insights and guidance to enhance your learning experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to unlock a rewarding career path in the rapidly growing health and fitness industry. Choose Southern Nazarene University for your exercise science education.
University of Oklahoma | Norman, OK
Master of Science in Health and Exercise Science
University of Oklahoma | Norman, OK
Master of Science in Health and Exercise Science
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 30-36 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $346
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $957
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
The University of Oklahoma’s Department of Health and Exercise Science offers a renowned program covering various fields. Students can delve into areas such as Exercise Physiology, Health Promotion, Health and Exercise Science, and Sports Data Analytics.
Sport Analytics Master’s Programs
Oklahoma is home to a growing number of programs in the exciting new field of Sports Analytics.
University of Oklahoma | Norman, OK
Master of Science in Sports Data Analytics
University of Oklahoma | Norman, OK
Master of Science in Sports Data Analytics
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $346
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $957
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
The Sports Analytics Master’s program at OU offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on Sports Performance Analytics, Health Promotion Evaluation, and research and statistics. Their students also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through a full internship at the renowned Health and Exercise Science department. Apply your knowledge in real-world situations and excel in the field of sports analytics.
Athletic Training Master’s Degree Programs in Oklahoma
Oklahoma State has an excellent Athletic Training program which includes an option for incoming undergraduates to finish in five years with a MAT. The University of Central Oklahoma and Tulsa University both offer strong CAATE certified MAT programs which could be great options for prospective students.
In this section:
Athletic Training Master’s Programs
Athletic Training Master’s Programs
University of Tulsa | Tulsa, OK
Master of Athletic Training
University of Tulsa | Tulsa, OK
Master of Athletic Training
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 55
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $874
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $874
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Their program offers a well-rounded education with a mix of classroom learning and hands-on experience. Their didactic courses are carefully planned and integrated to maximize your learning potential. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through supervised practice courses. These experiences will not only prepare you for the real-world challenges of athletic training but also help you develop essential professional skills. Get ready to become a top-notch athletic trainer at the University of Tulsa’s Master of Athletic Training program. With 55 credit hours packed with cutting-edge research, knowledge, and techniques, this program covers all the necessary aspects to excel in the field. You’ll be trained on the latest CAATE 2020 Athletic Training Education Competencies, ensuring you’re up to date with industry standards. During these supervised practice courses, you’ll have the chance to directly care for patients with various injuries and from different backgrounds. From high-contact sports to non-contact activities, male or female patients, upper or lower extremity injuries, and even general medical conditions – you’ll be exposed to a wide range of scenarios to broaden your skillset.
What is it like to live in Oklahoma?
One big perk of living in Oklahoma is that the cost of living – including housing and rental prices – are lower than most states, as are food, utilities, and transportation expenses. As time goes on, the demographics of Oklahoma’s residents tilt younger compared to most other states. There are a number of startups and innovative companies in Oklahoma City and other cities that are bringing in youth and an economic boost to the state. This will certainly be beneficial for sports programs that rely on tax dollars, as well as growing the market for professional sports teams.
The economy of Oklahoma, in general, is quite stable and is home to several fortune 500 companies like BanFirst, Chesapeake Energy, and Paycom, and this prosperous economy is a great complement to the low cost of living. U.S. News & World Report ranked Oklahoma as the #3 most affordable state in the country. On top of that, the culture in Oklahoma is unique in terms of its laid-back people, and its delicious food offerings! Barbecue is big here, and the local taste combines styles of surrounding areas like Texas and Kansas City to create a satisfying and savory flavor.
On the weekends there are plenty of state parks and nature reserves to visit complete with hiking trails, lakes, campgrounds, and water sports. The state is known for its wide-open spaces, and at night it lends itself to beautiful displays of stars.
Are there Sports Jobs in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has many high-quality opportunities for people looking to build a career in the sports industry. The state is home to professional teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and FC Tulsa as well as two teams in the Big 12 – the Oklahoma Sooners and the Oklahoma State Cowboys. College football is huge in Oklahoma and for many every Saturday during football season revolves around their team of choice.
There are also an array of minor league teams scattered throughout the state, which provide excellent opportunities for students of fields like sport management, athletic training, and kinesiology to gain real-world experience. Volunteer opportunities can lead to Internships, which can in turn lead to full-time positions down the road. Students who work hard and take advantage when given the chance – regardless of what type of opportunity it is – earn important references and connections from their supervisors and mentors, which are an important part of the professional journey.
Education in Oklahoma
The public education system in Oklahoma is improving and is adjusting to considerable growth in the last 20 years. Despite this growth, Oklahoma has managed to maintain a graduation rate that is higher than the national average, while the cost per pupil is one of the lowest in the country.
In terms of higher education, the state school system in Oklahoma is quite remarkable and they have some outstanding programs related to sports, medicine, and other industries. Also, for people who are raising a family in Oklahoma, the state has a universal pre-k program in which 74% of all eligible four-year-olds are currently enrolled.