Last Updated on December 8, 2022
Sports Analytics Certificate Programs
“Sports is a big money-making industry, and data are being collected on the teams and athletes all the time. You have to imagine that this problem is not going away and we need statistically savvy people to analyze this type of data.”
– Professor Erin Schleip, Director of Sports Analytics at Mizzou
The age of analytics has arrived. Data driven decision making is now a part of every industry, and the best way to future-proof your career is to become proficient in analytics.
This is especially true in the sports industry. For young people who dream about being successful in the business of sports, analytics is now a huge part of the game at every level.
In this Guide…
Sports Analytics Certificate Programs
What Value Does a Sports Analytics Certificate Add?
What Skills Will I Learn from a Sports Analytics Certificate?
What Courses Make Up a Certificate in Sports Analytics?
Online Sports Analytics Degree Program Listings
On Campus Sports Analytics Degree Program Listings
Sports Analytics Certificate Programs: A Great Way to Jumpstart a Successful Career in Sports
A Sports Analytics Certificate is a surefire way to increase your earning potential. For recent graduates and young professionals looking for a way to advance their career, earning a certificate in data analytics could be a wise decision. Data-driven decision making is more important than ever, and those who understand how to leverage data analytics will find themselves in high demand.
What Value Does a Sports Analytics Certificate Add?
The future of decision making in the sports industry and beyond will be informed by data analytics. As such, those who are fluent in analytics will be highly sought after for years to come.
It is important to understand that Sports Analytics can pertain to everything from on-field problems, sport science and player performance, and the business side of sports. Regardless of which area of the sports industry you aspire to work in, the process of interpreting, visualizing, and communicating the stories hidden within data remains the same. For many, the most accessible way to earn this skill set is to earn a Sports Analytics Certificate.
While there are opportunities throughout the sports industry, there are multitudes more opportunities in the business side of analytics than elsewhere. Dr. Dan Larson, who teaches Sports Analytics at the University of Oklahoma, explains the dynamic this way,
“My sense is that the opportunities are much over-weighted by business intelligence. That’s the core of the business, their revenue-generating proposition and understanding of the consumers, and like I said it has been a lot more developed over time with the general business and marketing operations.”
Dr. Dan Larson, Director of Sports Analytics at the University of Oklahoma
The good news is the skill set that a Sports Analytics Certificate will prepare you with is highly transferable. Once you know understand the process, you can approach as wide variety of situations.
Since the sports industry has such a vast audience, there are endless companies seeking sponsorships and partnerships that provide access to their customers. In an interview with Sports Degrees Online, Professor Darin White explained these relationships,
“Sports teams are buried in data on the business side of the organization. We’ll take ticketing data, social media data and help teams better determine how they can drive revenue from that data… Another part is focusing on the sponsorship side, [which is a seventy billion dollar [industry] just for North America in terms of total sponsorship spending each year…There are so many brands out there that leverage sports property, so you have to achieve their marketing objectives as well. [Sports Data Analysts] help those brands understand the value they are actually getting from those partnerships.”
Dr. Darin White, Sports Analytics Director at Samford University
Another example on the business side is through interactive technology. Teams are investing heavily in in-game entertainment to encourage viewers to stay tuned as much as possible. It is not uncommon for teams to have things like live predictions of the next play, or the result of the current situation to increase engagement from fans. All of these in-game, statistics-based activities are produced by the sports analytics team.
Sports analytics expertise now informs and guides the most significant business decisions made in the sports industry. Launching a new app that increases fan engagement exponentially can help the bottom line in significant ways. Professor Ted Hayduk explains the analytics upside of the NFL’s recent decision to move 100% of their game tickets to mobile only,
“If you have to download their app to utilize their digital tickets, now they can interface with all the other data consumers are giving off. If you are purchasing team gear on Fanatics, scrolling through Instagram and interacting with team content, they’ll be able to package that into one big user profile.”
Sports analytics is also changing the game through the lessons of sport and exercise science. More data is being collected for each team and each athlete at the collegiate and professional levels than ever before, including vitals, speed, and acceleration. This data collection goes far beyond traditional statistics like passes, goals, and touches. For young people who dream of being a part of the front office of a major sports team, it is imperative that you know enough about sports analytics to understand this language.
What Skills Will I Learn from a Sports Analytics Certificate?
For sports industry professionals, it is hard to imagine a skill set that adds more value and earning potential than a certification in data analytics. Every company and organization has more data than they know what to do with, so the prospect of adding someone to their team that can help them derive value from it is very appealing.
Likewise, if you already have a position at a company and you are looking for a way to climb the career ladder, a Sports Analytics Certificate could be the difference-maker. Since you already understand the inner workings of the business, the addition of a data-driven skill set will greatly increase your value to the organization.
Here is an overview of the sports analytics process:
Processing and Interpreting Data – You will need to learn a programming language like R or Python that will allow you to view the data in various ways to find insights and patterns.
Visualization – Once you have discovered a useful trend, you must use charts and graphs to display your findings so that various stakeholders can easily understand what you want to share.
Communication – Finally, you must propose concrete action items that will allow the organization to take advantage of your findings. While sifting through data is necessary, the numbers mean nothing if they cannot be clearly communicated. It takes a certain type of talent to convey complicated information in a simple way, however, this is a talent that can be achieved with practice.This is where the ability to “sell” your story becomes very important, because the success of your proposition depends on whether the group buys it.
What Courses Make up a Certificate in Sports Analytics?
Data Science – Data science is a core part of every sports analytics certificate program. Expect to learn the basics of at least one coding language (either Python or R) as part of the course.
Statistics – A solid understanding of statistics is also a key part of a Sports Analytics Certificate. Understanding how statistical analysis and modeling works is foundational to analytics.
Sports Media and Marketing – Understanding fandom and how the business of sports is different than other industries is a key part of Sports Analytics. Learning how to use data analysis in a sport-specific context is of great importance.
Sport Science Analytics – With the advent of wearable technology, the mountain of data related to on-field performance has exploded. This is one of the fastest growing parts of the Sports Analytics field.
Online Sports Analytics Certificate Programs
Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA
Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics
Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA
Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 12
The Boston College Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics program offers specialized coursework and training in sports analytics, equipping students with the skills to analyze and interpret data related to sports performance, player evaluation, team strategies, and more. The sports industry is increasingly relying on data analytics to drive decision-making and gain a competitive edge. By pursuing a graduate certificate in sports analytics, students can acquire the knowledge and expertise that are highly valued in this evolving field. Graduates of the program can pursue various career paths within the sports industry, such as sports data analyst, performance analyst, scouting analyst, or sports consultant. The demand for professionals with expertise in sports analytics is continuously growing. Students will gain hands-on experience working with real-world sports data sets and using analytical tools and techniques. They will develop proficiency in data collection, statistical analysis, data visualization, and predictive modeling, which are essential skills in the field of sports analytics. Boston College has a strong network of alumni and industry connections in the sports industry. Students have opportunities to engage with professionals, participate in internships, and collaborate on research projects, enhancing their professional network and potential career prospects. The program may incorporate interdisciplinary coursework, drawing from fields such as statistics, computer science, mathematics, and sports management. This holistic approach provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the multiple dimensions of sports analytics. Boston College offers a research-oriented environment, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge research projects in sports analytics. This experience can contribute to advancements in the field and provide valuable insights for future career endeavors.
Northwestern University | Chicago, IL
Sports Analytics Certificate Program
Northwestern University | Chicago, IL
Sports Analytics Certificate Program
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 12
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Northwestern University’s Sports Analytics Certificate Program provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills in sports analytics, allowing them to understand and analyze data related to sports performance, player evaluation, game strategy, and more. The sports industry has seen a significant increase in the use of data analytics for decision-making. By completing a Sports Analytics Certificate Program, students can gain a competitive edge in the job market and pursue various career paths, such as sports data analyst, sports performance analyst, or team strategist. The program equips students with practical skills in data collection, data analysis, statistical modeling, and visualization techniques specific to sports analytics. These skills are highly transferable and applicable to other industries beyond sports. Northwestern University in Illinois is known for its strong connections in the sports industry. Students studying the Sports Analytics Certificate Program can benefit from networking opportunities, internships, and collaborations with professionals and organizations in the field. Northwestern University offers a vibrant research environment, allowing students to engage in cutting-edge research projects in sports analytics. This hands-on experience can enhance their analytical and problem-solving abilities. The Sports Analytics Certificate Program may involve coursework from various disciplines, including statistics, mathematics, computer science, and sports management. This interdisciplinary approach provides a well-rounded education and prepares students to tackle complex challenges in the sports analytics field.
Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY
Certificate of Advanced Studies in Sport Analytics
Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY
Certificate of Advanced Studies in Sport Analytics
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 12
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,802 per credit hour
Total Tuition: $1,802 per credit hour
The Certificate of Advanced Studies in Sport Analytics program at Syracuse University provides specialized coursework focused on sport analytics, allowing students to gain in-depth knowledge and skills in analyzing sports data. They will learn statistical analysis techniques, data visualization, predictive modeling, and other analytical methods specific to the sports industry. The curriculum is designed to align with the current trends and demands of the sports analytics field. Students will learn practical applications of analytics in areas such as player performance evaluation, game strategy, fan engagement, and sports business decision-making. Syracuse University may offer opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships, research projects, or collaborations with sports organizations. This hands-on experience can enhance their skills and provide valuable insights into the actual challenges faced in the sports analytics industry. Syracuse University’s location in New York provides proximity to various sports organizations, professional teams, and industry leaders. Students may have opportunities to network and connect with professionals in the field, potentially leading to internships, job placements, or mentorship opportunities. The program may have faculty members who are experts in the field of sports analytics. Their industry experience and academic expertise can provide valuable guidance and mentorship to students. The growing demand for professionals with expertise in sports analytics opens up various career opportunities. Graduates of the program may pursue careers in sports teams, leagues, sports media companies, sports technology firms, or sports consulting agencies. Syracuse University may offer research opportunities in sports analytics, allowing students to contribute to the advancement of the field. Engaging in research can enhance their analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and understanding of cutting-edge techniques and methodologies.
University of Michigan | Ann Arbor, MI
Sports Performance Analytics
University of Michigan | Ann Arbor, MI
Sports Performance Analytics
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 15
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,848 in state, $3,391 out of state
The Sports Performance Analytics program at the University of Michigan provides specialized coursework and training in sports analytics, allowing students to develop expertise in analyzing and interpreting data related to sports performance. They will gain knowledge in areas such as statistical analysis, data visualization, and predictive modeling specific to the field of sports. The demand for professionals with skills in sports analytics is increasing in the sports industry. By studying at the University of Michigan, students can acquire practical skills that are highly valued in the industry, making them competitive candidates for careers in sports analytics and related fields. The program may offer opportunities for students to work on real-world sports analytics projects, giving them hands-on experience in applying their knowledge and skills. This practical application can enhance their understanding of the field and prepare them for real-world challenges. The University of Michigan has a strong network of alumni and connections within the sports industry. Students studying sports performance analytics can benefit from networking events, guest lectures, and industry partnerships, which can provide valuable connections and potential career opportunities. The University of Michigan is known for its collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to education. Students studying sports performance analytics can collaborate with faculty members and peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering a rich learning environment and encouraging innovative thinking. The University of Michigan provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, research resources, and industry-standard software and tools for sports analytics. Students can leverage these resources to enhance their learning experience and conduct research in their areas of interest. Graduates of the program can pursue various career paths within the sports industry, such as sports data analyst, performance analyst, sports consultant, or work for professional sports teams and organizations. The skills and knowledge acquired during the program can open doors to exciting opportunities in the sports analytics field
University of Missouri | Columbia, MO
Certificate Program in Sports Analytics
University of Missouri | Columbia, MO
Certificate Program in Sports Analytics
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 12
The program in Sports Analytics provides students with a focused curriculum in sports analytics, allowing them to develop expertise in analyzing sports data. Students will gain a deep understanding of statistical analysis, data visualization, predictive modeling, and other analytical techniques specifically applied to the sports industry. The field of sports analytics is rapidly growing, and there is a high demand for professionals with strong analytical skills in the sports industry. By completing a Certificate Program in Sports Analytics at the University of Missouri, students can enhance their career prospects and pursue roles such as sports data analyst, sports performance analyst, or sports marketing analyst. The program may emphasize practical learning experiences, such as hands-on projects and real-world case studies. This approach allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-life sports scenarios, preparing them for the challenges they may face in the industry. The University of Missouri often has strong connections with the sports industry, providing students with networking opportunities and access to industry professionals. These connections can lead to internships, job placements, and collaborations, facilitating valuable industry exposure and enhancing students’ professional development. A Certificate Program in Sports Analytics may adopt an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating concepts from data science, statistics, sports science, and business analytics. This holistic approach equips students with a well-rounded skill set, enabling them to tackle complex problems and work effectively in cross-functional teams. The University of Missouri is known for its research programs and facilities. Students studying sports analytics may have the opportunity to engage in research projects, collaborate with faculty members, and contribute to cutting-edge research in the field. This research experience can deepen their understanding of sports analytics and open doors to further academic or industry opportunities. Besides technical skills, a Certificate Program in Sports Analytics fosters personal and professional growth. Through collaborative projects, interaction with faculty and industry professionals, and exposure to real-world challenges, students can develop the critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities necessary for success in the field.
University of Missouri | Columbia, MO
Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics
University of Missouri | Columbia, MO
Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 12 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $5,442 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
The University of Missouri Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics program offers specialized coursework in sports analytics, allowing students to develop a deep understanding of data analysis techniques specifically tailored to the field of sports. Students will gain expertise in statistical analysis, data visualization, predictive modeling, and other analytical tools used in sports analytics. The demand for professionals with skills in sports analytics is increasing in the sports industry. By pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics at the University of Missouri, students can enhance their career prospects and gain a competitive edge in the job market. They may pursue roles such as sports data analysts, sports performance analysts, or sports marketing analysts. The program may incorporate hands-on projects and real-world case studies, enabling students to apply their knowledge and skills to practical scenarios. This practical experience helps students develop problem-solving abilities and prepares them for the challenges they may face in the field of sports analytics. The University of Missouri has strong connections with the sports industry, offering students access to networking opportunities with professionals and organizations in the field. These connections can lead to internships, job placements, and collaborations, providing valuable industry exposure and enhancing students’ professional development. The University of Missouri is known for its research programs and facilities. Students studying sports analytics may have the opportunity to engage in research projects, collaborate with faculty members, and contribute to cutting-edge research in the field. This research experience can deepen their understanding of sports analytics and open doors to further academic or industry opportunities. The Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics program may adopt an interdisciplinary approach, integrating concepts from data science, statistics, sports science, and business analytics. This comprehensive approach equips students with a well-rounded skill set, enabling them to tackle complex problems and work effectively in cross-functional teams. Pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics not only provides students with technical skills but also fosters personal and professional growth. Through collaborative projects, interaction with faculty and industry professionals, and exposure to real-world challenges, students can develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities essential for success in the field.
Wilmington University | New Castle, DE
Undergraduate Certificate in Sport Analytics
Wilmington University | New Castle, DE
Undergraduate Certificate in Sport Analytics
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 12
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $346 per credit hour
Wilmington University Undergraduate Certificate in Sport Analytics provides students with a focused curriculum that covers essential topics in sport analytics, including statistical analysis, data visualization, predictive modeling, and sports performance evaluation. This specialized knowledge equips students with the skills and expertise needed to excel in the field. The program at Wilmington University emphasizes hands-on learning and the practical application of sport analytics techniques. Students have the opportunity to work with real-world data sets and gain experience using industry-standard software and tools. This practical approach prepares students to tackle real-world challenges in sports analytics. Wilmington University has established connections with local sports organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, networking, and industry collaborations. These connections can enhance students’ career prospects and provide valuable industry insights. The Undergraduate Certificate in Sport Analytics is designed to be flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments. Online and on-campus course options are available, providing convenience and accessibility for students. The faculty at Wilmington University’s Sport Analytics program bring a wealth of industry experience and academic expertise to the classroom. Students benefit from their guidance, mentorship, and practical insights into the field of sports analytics.