Last Updated on January 11, 2023
Online Master’s in Sports Administration
In the sports industry, there is a great deal of competition for the best jobs. Networking and experience are extremely important for people who are trying to move up the ladder, but there are an increasing number of positions which require a master’s degree.
In this Guide…
What Can I Do with a Sports Administration Degree?
What Careers are Available for Master’s in Sports Administration Graduates?
What Courses Comprise an Online Master’s in Sports Administration Degree?
What are the Benefits to Studying a Master’s in Sports Administration Degree Online?
How Much Do Online Master’s in Sports Administration Programs Cost?
Do Online Master’s in Sports Administration Degrees Include an Experiential Learning Component?
The good news is that earning a master’s degree has never been easier. There are more online degrees being offered each year, and the increased availability has meant that there are also more affordable options than ever.
Online Master’s of Sports Administration programs are designed to prepare graduates for success at every level of sports and athletics. Sports Administration is a multidisciplinary field which includes core elements of business, marketing, finance, and event and facility management. Many programs also offer concentration areas in subjects like collegiate athletics, analytics, or coaching and leadership.
What Can I Do With A Sports Administration Degree?
In the wide world of sports, the vast majority of positions do not require a master’s degree. However, as people with experience in the professional world can attest, oftentimes the best way to set yourself up for a promotion or a pay raise is by earning a master’s degree. This is especially true for those who work for educational institutions, or for those who aspire to reach the level of a manager, supervisor, or director.
For busy professionals currently working in sports and athletics who are eager to make the leap up to a dream job, an Online Master’s Degree in Sports Administration could make that vision into a reality. And considering how affordable many programs are, the degree might pay for itself in a very short time.
The actual return on investment for graduates of master’s programs tends to vary depending on what type of industry the individual is working in. According to the BLS, those working in the business world – which would apply to sports organizations and many other companies in the industry – see “some of the highest wage premiums for workers with a master’s degree”. Further, the BLS also mentions that nearly 20% of all master’s degrees are awarded to those in education, and that “the payoff for these degrees is usually relatively high”. This is excellent news for those currently working in high school or collegiate athletics, as earning an online master’s degree could make a significant difference financially.
(Jump ahead to School Listings)
What Careers are Available for Master’s in Sports Administration Graduates?
Graduates with a Master’s Degree in Sports Administration will be equipped with the tools needed to step in to any organization – be it high school or collegiate athletics, or in the business of sports – and make a positive impact. Whether you are someone who is seeking their first position in the sports industry, or you are trying to make the leap to the next level, a master’s degree can open doors that were previously out of reach. In the last five years, one in three companies have revised their educational requirement standards in a trend that is likely to continue going forward.
Sports Administration graduates might find themselves in the following roles:
- Athletic Director
- Facilities Manager
- Recreation Center Manager
- Director of Sports & Recreation
- Parks & Recreation Director
- University Recreation Director
- Sport Performance Specialist
- Marketing Director
- Director of Partnerships
- Scouting Director
- Coach
What Courses Comprise a Master’s in Sports Administration Program?
The curriculum for a Master’s in Sports Administration Degree covers a wide variety of topics which professionals are sure to encounter while working in the sports industry. Having said that, there can often be significant differences between different programs. For this reason, t is important to review the curriculum structure – including elective courses – thoroughly before deciding which program is the best fit for you and your career goals.
Here are a few of the course subject areas that are commonly found in a Master’s in Sports Administration program:
Sport and Athletic Leadership – Educational theory concerning the dynamics involved when working with teams and athletes in a school environment.
Sports Marketing – a foundation on marketing principles as they relate to the sports industry, including sponsorship, licensing, branding, and more.
Ethics in Sports – ethical issues that relate to sport, teams, and athletes.
Sport Tech – an examination into how technology is changing sports, from sport science to the fan experience.
Organization in Sport – how sports organizations large and small are structured and how they are managed.
Sports Law – Legal issues in sports
What are the Benefits to Studying a Master’s in Sports Administration Degree Online?
For busy professionals who are looking for a way to build qualifications and skills to level-up their career, an Online Master’s in Sport Administration could be an excellent option. Many online programs feature both synchronous and asynchronous learning, allowing students to study and learn material while still enjoying the benefits of learning with a like-minded cohort.
For individuals who are already in the workforce, the ability to pursue an advanced degree on their own time is one of the reasons why degree programs like an Online Master’s in Sports Administration are so popular. Since Sports Administration is a multidisciplinary field of study, it provides students with the opportunity to build their skills in a range of different areas. Those who are already working in the sports industry will likely find that they are constantly getting better at doing the jobs they have while also preparing themselves to take on more responsibilities.
How Much Do Online Master’s in Sports Administration Programs Cost?
There is great variation in the cost of Online Master’s in Sports Administration programs. Many universities offer significantly discounted in-state tuition rates for residents, and further many state universities offer reciprocal rates for residents of nearby states as well. It is always worth looking into these discounts, as they can sometimes be about half of the cost of the full tuition.
Having said that, there are a growing number of colleges and universities that specialize in offering low-cost degree programs to students. Tuition at these institutions can be as low as $7,500 per year, with entire degree programs coming in at around $11,000.
On the other end of the spectrum, top-tier schools price their programs at $40,000 and up. Students must do their diligence when comparing program costs because there might be situations where spending more on the program cost will be worth it in the long run. If a particular institution is known to have a strong alumni network and professors who are known to be industry leaders in a particular discipline, spending more on tuition might make sense.
However, for students who already have their own professional network and who already have their sights set on a particular position, the extra bells and whistles of an expensive program might not make sense.
Do Online Master’s in Sports Administration Degrees Include an Experiential Learning Component?
One potential concern for students who are considering an Online Master’s Degree in Sports Administration is that they won’t have the opportunity to engage in any “hands-on” or experiential learning. The good news is that those who are already working in the sports industry will be able to use real world situations from their jobs any time class project opportunities present themselves.
For those who are not currently working in the sports industry, these class projects still represent an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with teams and organizations in your area. Be sure to ask them if they might have any volunteer or shadowing opportunities that would allow you to gain some real world experience while helping to address a need within their organization. Alumni networks can be a great way to discover these opportunities.
Available Degrees:
Arkansas State University | Jonesboro, AR
Master in Sports Administration
Arkansas State University | Jonesboro, AR
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $317
Total Tuition: $11,412 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
This program was designed to prepare graduates to be leaders throughout the sports industry, whether in the collegiate, professional, or recreational and leisure ranks. It features a robust internship program which will help you gain real world experience that will increase your marketability after graduation. The course can be completed in as few as twelve months and the focus areas of the program include Sports and Marketing Sales, Athletic Administration, Faculty Management, and Fiscal Management.
Belhaven University | Jackson, MS
Master of Sport Administration
Belhaven University | Jackson, MS
Master of Sport Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $535
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Belhaven University’s program combines technical skill, academic theory, practical skills and Christian values to deliver students the education needed to be a leader in the sports industry. The highly qualified faculty have extensive experience with professional and collegiate organizations as well as large corporations, so students will benefit from learning from diverse perspectives. The program is delivered in 7-week classes, and takes two years to complete
Canisius College | Buffalo, NY
Master in Sports Administration
Canisius College | Buffalo, NY
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 33 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $860
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
A Jesuit institution, the sports administration program at Canisius College focuses on developing the whole student while also preparing them for success in the sports industry. The program features many courses which make up the MBA program, ensuring that many of the skills you learn will be applicable across the professional world. Students will participate in the Institute for Research in Sports (IRIS) on campus, gaining experience with cutting edge sports technology and research.
Clemson University | Clemson, SC
Master of Science in Athletic Leadership
Clemson University | Clemson, SC
Master of Science in Athletic Leadership
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $37,422 per year
Clemson’s Master of Science in Athletic Leadership program is specifically designed for aspiring coaches and athletic administrators. The two year, part time program is designed around the collegiate athletic calendar to enable working professionals to complete the coursework while also tending to life’s other responsibilities. There is a strong focus on ethics and leadership theory in this program, and Clemson leverages some of the best technology available to create a positive learning environment for students.
Coker College | Hartsville, SC
Master of College Athletic Administration
Coker College | Hartsville, SC
Master of College Athletic Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $638
Total Tuition: $19,140 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Coker College’s program is designed to help professionals compete for top-level positions within the sports industry. Students should expect to learn how to create dependable budgets, manage fundraising and marketing campaigns, navigate compliance and ethical issues, and much more.
Concordia University of Texas | Austin, TX
M.A.Ed in Coaching and Sports Administration
Concordia University of Texas | Austin, TX
M.A.Ed in Coaching and Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Coaching
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $580
Total Tuition: $19,475 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Concordia University’s program prepares graduates for leadership roles throughout the industry. With a focus on developing and applying research as well as laws in sports, this program culminates in an action research project instead of a thesis project. All graduate faculty have PhDs, so they are well equipped to teach the leaders of tomorrow.
Endicott College | Beverly, MA
Master of Science in Sports Leadership
Endicott College | Beverly, MA
Master of Science in Sports Leadership
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 39 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $530
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $530
Total Tuition: $20,700 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Endicott’s faculty includes experts from NHL, NBA, MLB, NCAA organizations, as well as the Olympics. Online courses and rolling admissions make this an ideal program for suiting students’ busy schedules as they prepare to take on leadership roles in the sports industry.
Fresno Pacific University | Fresno, CA
Master in Sports Administration
Fresno Pacific University | Fresno, CA
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $560
The Master’s in Sports Administration is offered fully online, allowing professionals to further their qualifications in sports administration while still working. This program is designed to cater to the needs of individuals with extensive experience in the professional world of sports administration, while also being a great fit for those without any experience.
Hampton University | Hampton, VA
Master in Sports Administration
Hampton University | Hampton, VA
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 33 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Intercollegiate Sports, Sports Business Leadership, International Sports
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $695
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
With three unique concentration areas, the Hampton University Sports Administration program offers students the chance to specialize in some of the more interesting niches of the sports industry. This program is offered online and is a great way to give your career a boost while learning at a historic university.
Midwestern State University | Wichita Falls, TX
M.Ed in Sports Administration
Midwestern State University | Wichita Falls, TX
M.Ed in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $379.55 per credit hour, the total cost for 36 credit hours is $13,663.80 or $6831.90/year for 18 credit hours
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Midwestern State’s Sports Administration program prepares graduates for success in a wide variety of roles in sports administration. Offered through the kinesiology department, this program incorporates current research and industry best practices into its curriculum.
Northwestern University | Chicago, IL
Master of Science in Sports Administration
Northwestern University | Chicago, IL
Master of Science in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 33 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Sports Analytics
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,287
Total Tuition: $42,482 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Northwestern leverages its big city feel, its well-established sports program, and its legendary network of alumni to offer it’s master’s degree in sports administration. Courses are offered on weeknights at both the Chicago and Evanston campuses. This program features the change to specialize in Sports Analytics, and a faculty teeming with professors who have remarkable experience throughout the sports industry. The program requires ten courses plus a thesis project. Students must take four analytics courses to earn the sports analytics specialization.
Ohio University | Athens, OH
Online Master of Athletic Administration
Ohio University | Athens, OH
Online Master of Athletic Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 78 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $33,676
Total Tuition: $53,656 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
Ohio University’s Dual MBA/MS in Sports Management Degree is one of the most well respected programs of its kind in the US, having existed for fifty years. The program begins with a one year, three semester MBA program which provides students with an exceptional foundation in marketing, strategy, management and finance. The second year delves into sports industry specific knowledge, including core courses, a diverse selection of electives, and a capstone project. The faculty of this program are leaders in the industry, and 85% of graduates now work in key positions throughout the sports industry, a prestigious network that graduates can look forward to leveraging.
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
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Oral Roberts Sports Administration program differentiates itself by placing importance on the development of the whole person as defined in its mission statement. This approach produces effective leaders who are uniquely prepared to succeed in cutting edge technical areas such as fantasy sports and interactive viewing. The program can be completed in 20 months, and culminates with an applied project that allows students to pursue a specific area of interest.
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 has earned the reputation of being one of the best value degrees, coming in under $10K for the full program. The faculty includes active collegiate coaches, scouts, and strength and conditioning who practice the same advanced theories that they teach. The program incorporates discussions and issues from other states and situations, allowing for a diverse foundation of learning experiences.
St Thomas University | Miami Gardens, FL
Master in Sports Administration
St Thomas University | Miami Gardens, FL
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $800
St Thomas University launched the very first Sports Administration undergraduate program back in 1973, and the school’s mission of helping students pursue a career that they are passionate about holds true today. The program has an impressive alumni network across the sports industry, proof that graduates are well prepared for success in the real world
Tarleton State University | Stephenville, TX
Master Program in Recreation & Sports Management
Tarleton State University | Stephenville, TX
Master Program in Recreation & Sports Management
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $500
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $909
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Starting in Fall 2021, Tarleton State University offer will offer two concentrations– Sport Administration and Exercise Science. Both are 30 hours. The Sports Administration concentration is fully online and designed to be completed in 1 year while the Exercise Science concentration is a hybrid model and designed to take 2 years. Students in the Exercise Science program will benefit from robust laboratory and research experiential learning opportunities.
Tusculum University | Tusculum, TN
Master in Sports Administration
Tusculum University | Tusculum, TN
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $400
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Tusculum University’s program can be completed in one year, including a summer internship opportunity which allows students to put their knowledge to practice. Graduates are well prepared for management positions throughout the sports industry.
University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati, OH
Master in Sports Administration
University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati, OH
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $746
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $761
Students of the University of Cincinnati’s Sports Administration program will be prepared to succeed in any area of the diverse sports industry. This program also offers students the chance to complete the NIAAA Certification, ensuring that graduates will be ready for a variety of top-tier roles upon graduation. The dedicated team of advisors, strong network of alumni, and flexibility of the program curriculum separate it from similar programs.
University of Louisville | Louisville, KY
Online Master of Science in Sport Administration
University of Louisville | Louisville, KY
Online Master of Science in Sport Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36
Total Tuition: $726 per credit
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Optional
Louisville offers this 100% online Master’s of Sport Administration program through the College of Education and Human Development. This program prepares students for success in the business of sports, including a focus on financial and accounting concepts including financial analysis ratios, annual reports, and more.
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton, TX
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SPORT ADMINISTRATION
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton, TX
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SPORT ADMINISTRATION
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $935 + Fees
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
This fully online program helps busy professionals build their credentials and experience without stepping away from their full-time work, and can be completed in as little as 12 months. Graduates will be prepared for a wide variety of positions within the sports industry. The program has rolling admission as students may begin the program in any term. You can find more information here.
University of North Florida | Jacksonville, FL
Master in Athletic Administration
University of North Florida | Jacksonville, FL
Master in Athletic Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $27,004 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
The University or North Florida’s program was created to help meet the growing demand for managers in the sports industry. This program consists of 15 credits of sport-specific courses, 15 credits of educational leadership courses, and the final six credits in Education and Human Services.
Upper Iowa University | Fayette, IA
Master in Sports Administration
Upper Iowa University | Fayette, IA
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Offered by the school of Business and Professional Studies, this degree is offered entirely online which follows an intensive 8-week schedule that is ideal for driven professionals. Graduates will be well prepared to enter the workforce and contribute immediately.
Wayne State College | Wayne, NE
MSE in Athletic Administration
Wayne State College | Wayne, NE
MSE in Athletic Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 42
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $299
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $380
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Wayne State College | Wayne, NE
Master’s in Human Performance and Wellness Management
Wayne State College | Wayne, NE
Master’s in Human Performance and Wellness Management
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $299
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $380
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Wayne State University | Detroit, MI
Master in Sports Administration
Wayne State University | Detroit, MI
Master in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Concentrations: professional, interscholastic, intercollegiate, commercial
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $771
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,562
This program is meant both for career-changers, as well as people already involved in the sports industry who are looking to learn more, or advance themselves within their organization or industry. The course load focuses on administration, finance, marketing, risk management, and also includes a professional internship. Also, it is flexible by nature and with its online delivery method, allows people to study while balancing other work and responsibilities.
West Liberty University | West Liberty, WV
M.Ed. in Athletic Administration
West Liberty University | West Liberty, WV
M.Ed. in Athletic Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Concentrations: Coaching
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $460
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
West Liberty’s program was created to allow individuals advance their credentials and qualifications. This program is specifically designed for those pursuing a career in community, school, or university sports.
William Patterson University | Wayne, NJ
M.S. in Sport Administration
William Patterson University | Wayne, NJ
M.S. in Sport Administration
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36
Total Tuition: $771 per credit for in-state and those who qualify for waiver
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
William Patterson’s M.S. in Sport Administration consists of 100% Online coursework plus an internship or thesis component. This structure makes the program very accessible to a wide range of students seeking a career in sport administration.