Last Updated on March 7, 2024
Sports Management Degrees in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is an excellent place to study, intern, and build a career in the sports industry. The affluent greater Boston Metro Area is home to a large and dynamic sports market employing a large number of professionals.
The highly populated corridor from Boston to New York City includes Worcester, Ma; Providence, Rhode Island; Hartford and New Haven, Connecticut, with many professional and semi-pro sports teams and opportunities for sports management professionals.
In This Guide
- Sport Management Programs in Massachusetts
- MBA in Sport Management Programs in Massachusetts
- Sports Administration Programs in Massachusetts
Why Study Sports Management in Massachusetts?
With so much going on in Massachusetts’ sports and education world, it’s easy to see why it is a top choice for students, job seekers, and entrepreneurs looking to make it in the sports industry. We recommend taking a serious look at the excellent colleges and universities, along with the impressive number of potential employers in the area. Massachusetts is home to vibrant communities highly rated for quality of life and access to outdoor attractions, and could be an excellent fit for students seeking a career in the sports industry.
Sports Management Degrees in Massachusetts
Completing a sports management degree at one of Massachusetts’ prestigious state and private institutions is a solid move for advancing your career in sports. Academic excellence and a strong sports market mean a wealth of academic and practical opportunities.
In this section:
Sport Management Master’s Programs
Sport Management Bachelor’s Programs
Sports Management Master’s Programs
Be sure to visit our Master’s in Sports Management Guide for complete information about choosing the right Master’s program for you.
Lasell University | Newton, MA
Master of Science in Sports Management
Lasell University | Newton, MA
Master of Science in Sports Management
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 36 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $600
Unearth the M.S. in Sport Management at Lasell University, where you can embark on a transformative educational journey from the comfort of your own home. This comprehensive and innovative program is tailored to the fast-expanding professional sports market, which currently boasts a staggering value of $64 billion dollars. Equipping you with the essential knowledge and skills to thrive in this dynamic industry, their curriculum is designed to meet the demands of this ever-evolving field. Take advantage of the projected 15% year-over-year growth, as reported by Forbes, and seize the opportunity to pursue a rewarding and lucrative career in the professional sports industry.
Springfield College | Springfield, MA
Master of Science
Springfield College | Springfield, MA
Master of Science
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 33-36
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,138 per credit
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $1,138 per credit
Expand the skills to thrive in the sports business industry with the MEd/MS in Sports Management and Recreation at Springfield College. This comprehensive program equips students to excel in both for-profit and non-profit sports organizations. Their master’s degree curriculum immerses students in real-world, project-based learning experiences, covering key topics such as marketing, performance management, event planning, budgeting and financial management, and strategy and leadership. What sets their program apart is their partnerships with esteemed organizations like Major League Baseball, the American Hockey League, the Red Sox Foundation, and the Special Olympics. These collaborations provide unique educational opportunities and unparalleled networking connections. They cultivate the leaders of tomorrow through a hands-on curriculum that emphasizes leadership and management skills. Their ideal student is proactive, eager to learn and take risks, and committed to making a difference. With their Humanics mission at the core, students enhance their lives and contribute to society. Don’t miss out on the chance to join their thriving network of alumni who are active in the industry. Discover the exciting possibilities that await you in the world of sports management.
University of Massachusetts, Amherst | Amherst, MA
Master of Science in Sport Management
University of Massachusetts, Amherst | Amherst, MA
Master of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 35 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $30,260 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
Unlock your potential in the exciting world of sports management with the Isenberg Master of Science (MS) program in Sport Management at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This prestigious program, offered by the McCormack Department of Sport Management, is designed to equip you with the skills, credibility, and connections needed to thrive in this dynamic industry. Join a passionate community of like-minded individuals and immerse yourself in a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of sport management, from marketing and finance to law and analytics. Gain real-world experience through internships and industry partnerships, and position yourself for success in the field. Elevate your career and take the first step towards reaching the top with the Isenberg MS in Sport Management.
Sports Management Bachelor’s Programs
Check out our Sports Management Degree Guide for complete information about what to look for in an undergraduate Sports Management program.
American International College | Springfield, MA
Sports And Recreation Management
American International College | Springfield, MA
Sports And Recreation Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $38220 per year
Enhance your career opportunities in the sports and recreation industry with the American International College Sports And Recreation Management program. This comprehensive course focuses on applying management theory and business concepts to address the unique challenges faced by organizations in this dynamic field. With a curriculum covering diverse areas such as marketing, communication and public relations, legal issues, economics and finance, and business operations, you’ll gain the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the sports entertainment and recreation industry. In addition to classroom learning, their program also offers valuable on-the-job experience through internships with a wide range of sport organizations. Whether it’s public and private facilities, professional sports teams, intercollegiate athletics, youth and community sport programs, or sport management and marketing agencies, they’ll help you secure an internship that aligns with your career goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to join the ranks of successful professionals in the exciting world of sports and recreation management. Enroll in American International College’s program today.
Anna Maria College | Paxton, MA
Sport Management
Anna Maria College | Paxton, MA
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $36920 per year
The Sport Management program at Anna Maria College offers a comprehensive and diverse curriculum that provides graduates with numerous exciting opportunities in the sports industry. Whether it’s working with professional sports teams, collegiate athletic departments, or high school athletic departments, graduates can make a meaningful impact on athletes’ lives and contribute to the success of sports organizations. Additionally, graduates can pursue careers in facility and event management, fundraising for nonprofits, and various industries that support the sports industry, such as sports marketing, sports media, sports technology, sports hospitality, and sports retail. With their well-rounded education, graduates from Anna Maria College are well-prepared to thrive in the fast-paced world of sports and contribute to the growth and success of this multi-billion dollar industry.
Assumption University | Worcester, MA
Bachelor of Arts in Sport Management
Assumption University | Worcester, MA
Bachelor of Arts in Sport Management
Delivery Method: On Campus
Total Tuition: $45,900 per year
The exceptional Sports Management program at Assumption University, renowned for its robust academic offerings. Their curriculum provides comprehensive education in business principles, sports marketing, event planning, facility management, and more. With a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, their university prepares students for success in sports management. Through internships, cooperative education programs, and experiential learning, students gain practical experience and forge industry connections. They foster relationships with sports organizations, clubs, and agencies, offering networking opportunities through guest speakers, workshops, and career fairs. With small class sizes and dedicated professors, their supportive environment empowers students to thrive. Their strong alumni network enhances career prospects by offering connections, internships, and job placements in sports management. A Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management from Assumption University opens doors to exciting opportunities in sports marketing, event management, facility operations, and beyond.
Dean College | Franklin, MA
Center For Business, Entertainment And Sport Management
Dean College | Franklin, MA
Center For Business, Entertainment And Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $42,146 per year
The Center for Business, Entertainment, and Sport Management at Dean College has established strategic partnerships with industry giants like Kraft Sports + Entertainment and the Providence Bruins. Through these partnerships, they offer their students exclusive opportunities to excel in competitive fields. Their unique combination of a dynamic curriculum and hands-on experience allows you to apply what you learn in the classroom to a fast-paced, cutting-edge marketplace. They are devoted to your success and offer a range of academic programs and real-world opportunities for aspiring professionals in areas such as radio and TV reporting, marketing, security supervision, event planning, venue management, and athletic training.
Eastern Nazarene College | Quincy, MA
Bachelor of Science in Sport and Movement Science
Eastern Nazarene College | Quincy, MA
Bachelor of Science in Sport and Movement Science
Delivery Method: On Campus
Concentrations: Sports Marketing, Finance, Event Management, and Facility Operations
Total Tuition: $27,212 per year
At Eastern Nazarene College, Sports Management students receive top-notch education from experienced faculty who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. Their program goes beyond theory and incorporates hands-on experiences like internships, projects, and case studies to provide practical skills in the sports management industry. They offer valuable networking events and connections with professionals in the sports industry, but their program also emphasizes the development of essential skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving. In addition, as a Christian institution, they integrate values into the academic journey, ensuring a comprehensive education that covers crucial subjects like sports marketing, event management, facility operations, sports law, and finance. With this unique combination of knowledge and practical experience, their Sports Management program prepares students for successful careers in the field.
Elms College | Chicopee, MA
Sport Management
Elms College | Chicopee, MA
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $36596 per year
Unearth how sport management majors at Elms College become exceptional leaders in a variety of areas. Their comprehensive program equips you with a solid foundation in business principles, allowing you to specialize in your specific area of interest. Whether your passion lies in coaching and sport science, event promotion, marketing, or facilities and operations, their sport management degree empowers you with the skills and knowledge you need to excel in the dynamic world of organized sports. Through their interdisciplinary approach, they delve into the ethical, legal, and cultural aspects of athletics, providing you with a well-rounded understanding of the history of professional sports and the challenges they face today. Join their program and become a knowledgeable and versatile leader in the exciting field of sport management.
Endicott College | Beverly, MA
Sport Management Program
Endicott College | Beverly, MA
Sport Management Program
Total Tuition: In-State: $34470 per year
The Sport Management program at Endicott College offers a comprehensive education and practical training in the field of sports. They strive to provide a challenging academic experience in a supportive and collaborative environment. Their program emphasizes professionalism, collegiality, and scholarly pursuits. At Endicott, internships are an integral component of their curriculum, and they often result in employment prospects upon graduation. Their sport management internships encompass a wide range of opportunities, including positions with professional sports teams, college athletics departments, sport marketing firms, amateur sports organizations, resorts, and health and fitness clubs. By enrolling in their Sport Management program, you will gain the knowledge and experience needed to excel in the dynamic world of sports. Prepare yourself for a rewarding career in the industry with them at Endicott College.
Fisher College | Boston, MA
Sport Management (BS)
Fisher College | Boston, MA
Sport Management (BS)
Total Tuition: In-State: $31700 per year
Experience explosive growth in the sport industry? Seek specialized knowledge and skills sought by top organizations? Look no further than Fisher College’s Sport Management program. Their meticulously crafted curriculum empowers students to gain both theoretical expertise and practical know-how, ensuring success across various industries. And for those passionate about the sports world, they offer a specialized understanding of how these skills apply in this dynamic field. Join them and unlock your potential for greatness in the sport industry.
Lasell University | Newton, MA
Sport Management
Lasell University | Newton, MA
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $40350 per year
Unlock a world of opportunities with a B.S. in Sport Management from Lasell University. Discover the keys to success in the fast-paced and ever-evolving sports industry. Their comprehensive program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel as an athletic director, sports agent, sports analyst, and more. Dive deep into the foundations of sport management, exploring how organizations function and thrive in this dynamic field. Gain valuable hands-on experience and showcase your expertise in real-world sport organizations. Prepare for a rewarding career that merges your passion for sports with professional excellence.
Merrimack College | North Andover, MA
Sport Management Concentration
Merrimack College | North Andover, MA
Sport Management Concentration
Total Tuition: In-State: $42401 per year
Come across at the exciting world of sports management at Merrimack College. Their concentration in sport management equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel in the fast-paced sports industry. Whether your passion lies in intercollegiate or professional sports, their program prepares you for a dynamic career in the heart of the action. With a focus on the unique opportunities and challenges of the sports industry, you’ll learn how to navigate the diverse needs of players, fans, retailers, and media outlets. Sharpen your quantitative skills through statistical analysis and data interpretation, enabling you to identify opportunities for player and program improvement. Not only will you gain invaluable expertise, but their program also provides a solid foundation for further studies in law or business administration. Don’t miss out on the chance to turn your love for sports into a thriving career. Join them at Merrimack College and become a leader in the exciting world of sport management.
Newbury College | Brookline, MA
Bachelor of Science in Business Management – Sport Management Concentration
Newbury College | Brookline, MA
Bachelor of Science in Business Management – Sport Management Concentration
Total Tuition: In-State: $33940 per year
Prepare for success in the dynamic world of sports business with Newbury College’s Bachelor of Science in Business Management – Sport Management Concentration. Whether your goal is to work in professional sports organizations, collegiate athletic departments, event management companies, or sports marketing agencies, this program will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills. Gain valuable insights into managing sports events, marketing sports products, and understanding the business side of the industry through classroom instruction, practical experiences, and internships. Their data-driven approach will provide you with a strong foundation in analyzing trends, making informed decisions, and implementing effective strategies. With concise language and headings, their program delivers relevant and up-to-date knowledge efficiently. Their professional tone instills confidence and credibility, preparing you to excel in your career. They encourage reader engagement, urging you to actively participate in research, industry events, and networking to enhance your understanding and prepare you for the competitive sports industry.
Nichols College | Dudley, MA
BSBA in Sport Management
Nichols College | Dudley, MA
BSBA in Sport Management
Delivery Method: On Campus
Concentrations: Governance and Management of Amateur and Professional Sports; Sport Facility, Management; Event Management; High School and Collegiate Athletics Administration; and Sponsorship and Sales.
Total Tuition: $37,300 per year
Get a comprehensive sports industry education at Nichols College. Their program covers sports marketing, event planning, sports law, finance, and facility operations, preparing you for diverse field challenges. They prioritize hands-on learning through internships, cooperative education programs, and real-world projects for a career headstart. Connect with industry professionals and alumni through guest speaker events, workshops, and career fairs for networking opportunities. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors who guide and support you. Their alumni network offers valuable connections and insights into different career paths. Through partnerships with sports organizations and businesses, access industry resources, internships, and job openings. Enhance your skills with their professional development programs covering resume writing, interview preparation, and networking strategies.
Nichols College | Dudley, MA
Sport Management
Nichols College | Dudley, MA
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $35290 per year
Make ready for a successful career in the sports industry with a Sport Management major (BSBA) from Nichols College. Their graduates are equipped to step into leadership roles in this dynamic and competitive field. In this program, you will learn from experienced faculty members who have a collective experience of over 50 years in marketing, coaching, and team management. With their guidance, you will delve into a range of topics such as amateur and professional sports governance and management, sport facility management, event management, high school and collegiate athletics administration, and sponsorship and sales. Gain the skills and knowledge you need to excel in the world of sports management with Nichols College.
Regis College | Weston, MA
Sport Management (BS)
Regis College | Weston, MA
Sport Management (BS)
Total Tuition: In-State: $43716 per year
Join the intricacies of the sports industry and transform your love for sports into a fulfilling career in sport management. As a key component of their Health and Fitness Studies department, their sport management degree program at Regis University offers comprehensive education in the field, empowering students to apply their knowledge, sharpen their critical thinking skills, and engage in immersive learning experiences. Through a combination of lectures, assignments, and hands-on activities, supplemented by industry visits and guest speakers, students gain a well-rounded understanding of sport management. They receive ample practical training in areas such as event planning, facility assessment, marketing and promotion, and the creation of athletic administration manuals. To complement their classroom education, students are strongly encouraged to seek real-world experience, and in their senior year, they are required to complete two internships. At Regis, they believe in equipping their students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to excel in the dynamic and competitive sports industry. Join them and embark on a journey to turn your passion for sports into a rewarding and impactful career in sport management.
Salem State University | Salem, MA
Bachelor of Science in Management in Sport and Movement Science
Salem State University | Salem, MA
Bachelor of Science in Management in Sport and Movement Science
Delivery Method: On Campus
Concentrations: Sport Management, Recreation Management
Total Tuition: In-state: $11,979 per year, out-of-state: $16,003 per year
Are you passionate about making a positive impact on people’s lives through recreational activities? The Recreation Management program at Salem State University prepares students for careers in this field. Whether it’s nature, art, music, sports, or fitness, They’ll help you develop the skills needed to manage and enhance recreational programs and facilities. Interested in sports management? Their Bachelor of Science degree in Sport and Movement Science covers all aspects of the field, from marketing to event management, strategic planning to conflict resolution. Their hands-on approach emphasizes field experiences, internships, and practical projects, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings and build a professional network. With a degree from Salem State University, you’ll have plenty of career options in the sports industry. Whether you aspire to be a sports administrator, event coordinator, facility manager, or marketing specialist, our program will prepare you for success. Plus, their Bachelor’s Degree in Management in Sport and Movement Science offers an affordable education without sacrificing quality.
Springfield College | Springfield, MA
Sport Management
Springfield College | Springfield, MA
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $19965 per semester
Kickstart your career in the booming international business of sport management with Springfield College’s comprehensive Sport Management major. Their program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the complex world of sport operations and management. Designed to provide a unique blend of business management and specialized sports training, their major offers the perfect balance for aspiring sport management professionals. Through internships with prestigious organizations like the Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, you’ll have the opportunity to sharpen your skills and gain practical experience. Join them at Springfield College and become a leader in the exciting field of sport management.
Suffolk University Boston | Boston, MA
BSBA in Sports Management
Suffolk University Boston | Boston, MA
BSBA in Sports Management
Delivery Method: On Campus
Concentrations: Sports Marketing, Finance, Event Management, and Facility Operations
Total Tuition: $44,812 per year
Unlock your potential in sports management at Suffolk University. Our comprehensive Bachelor’s Degree program offers endless opportunities in this dynamic field. Explore all aspects of the sports industry, including marketing, event management, facility operations, law, ethics, finance, and more. Acquire the knowledge and skills for a successful career. Located in Boston, Suffolk University provides unique advantages for sports management students. Proximity to organizations, teams, and events offers internships, field experiences, and networking opportunities. Our esteemed faculty members bring industry insights and connections, guiding you towards internships and job placements aligned with your goals. At Suffolk University, we believe in creating meaningful connections. Benefit from networking events, speaker series, and conferences with sports management professionals. Our career services team assists with resume development, interview skills, and job search strategies. Immerse yourself in Boston’s vibrant sports culture. Join our alumni network for mentorship, networking, and job referrals to support your journey towards a successful sports management career.
University of Massachusetts Amherst | Amherst, MA
Sport Management
University of Massachusetts Amherst | Amherst, MA
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $7895 per semester/Out-of-State: $17889 per semester
The McCormack Department of Sport Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a unique program that combines sport management with business education. Their undergraduate students are driven and enthusiastic about the world of sports. They provide them with the necessary skills in business, leadership, and sport education to succeed in the rapidly growing and diverse sports industry. Join them and prepare for a rewarding career in sports.
Western New England University | Springfield, MA
Sport Management
Western New England University | Springfield, MA
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $36606 per year
Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree by majoring in Sport Management at Western New England University. Their versatile program allows you to delve into the exciting field of sport management and explore various career paths through internships, research opportunities, and field experiences. In today’s sports industry, analytics is playing an increasingly significant role in sport analysis. That’s why they offer certification in SAP alongside your BSBA degree. Take your education to the next level with their accelerated combined bachelor/law degree program or their five-year Bachelor/Master of Science in Sport Leadership and Coaching program. Their graduates have successfully pursued careers in major league and collegiate sports, sporting goods, facilities operations, marketing and media, as well as in recruiting, coaching, and agent roles. Discover where their careers have taken them. What sets their program apart is their esteemed faculty, who bring years of experience in various aspects of the sports industry and maintain strong connections to the field. Their professors prioritize teaching excellence while also actively pursuing research in their specialties. Additionally, through lectures organized by the Center for International Sport Business, you’ll have the invaluable opportunity to learn from renowned voices in the world of major sports.
Westfield State University | Westfield, MA
Bachelor of Science in Sports Management Concentration
Westfield State University | Westfield, MA
Bachelor of Science in Sports Management Concentration
Delivery Method: On Campus
Concentrations: Sport Management Principles, Covering Areas Such as Sports Marketing, Event Management, Facility Operations, and Sports Law
Total Tuition: In-state: $11,882 per year, out-of-state: $17,962 per year, New England regional: $12,367
Elevate your career in the sports industry with a Bachelor’s degree in sports management from Westfield State University. Their program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering essential topics such as sports marketing, event management, finance, and law. Their experienced faculty members bring real-world expertise and valuable insights into today’s sports industry trends and challenges. Gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience through internships, job opportunities, and networking events with industry professionals. Customize your education with specializations in sports marketing, event management, facility operations, or sports analytics. Their emphasis on practical learning through internships, projects, and case studies prepares you for success in sports organizations, marketing agencies, event management companies, and athletic departments. Open doors to entry-level and mid-level positions in the sports industry with a Bachelor’s degree in sports management. Take the first step towards a rewarding career by joining our program at Westfield State University today..
Sports Administration Programs in Massachusetts
From the UMass system to the ivy leagues, you’ll have access to the best professors, equipment, and internships as a sports administration student in Massachusetts. Opportunities to join sports organizations from the high school level to the pros abound, while the even larger market of New York City is within reach here.
In this section:
Sports Administration Master’s Programs
Sports Administration Master’s Programs
Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA
Master of Science in Sport Administration
Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA
Master of Science in Sport Administration
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 30 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $40,000 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
Uncover the Master of Science in Sport Administration program at Boston College. This program is designed for those with a passion for the sports industry and a desire to lead. Get ready to thrive with their comprehensive curriculum that melds theory and practical application, preparing you for the complexities of the sports business. Their esteemed faculty brings a wealth of industry experience and academic expertise to the classroom, covering essential topics such as sports marketing, finance, facility management, legal issues, and strategic management. Enhance your knowledge of the sports industry and sharpen critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills. Plus, gain invaluable hands-on experience through internships, practicum experiences, and industry partnerships, which will not only enhance your learning but also help you build a powerful professional network. With the Master of Science in Sport Administration, confidently pursue a variety of exciting career paths in the field of sport administration.
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
Locate the Master of Science in Sports Leadership program at Endicott College – your pathway to becoming a respected leader in the fast-paced sports industry. Their tailored program is designed to propel your career forward and help you achieve your professional goals. Experience an all-encompassing curriculum that seamlessly combines theory and real-world application. Develop crucial leadership skills, strategic thinking abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of the evolving sports business landscape. Gain a deep insight into sports marketing, finance, athlete development, sports law, and ethical leadership through engaging coursework, thought-provoking case studies, and immersive experiential learning. Their faculty consists of seasoned professionals and industry experts, ensuring a top-tier education that is current and relevant. At Endicott College, they prioritize personalized attention and mentorship. Benefit from small class sizes that foster a collaborative learning environment, enabling you to grow and thrive. Their extensive alumni network and industry connections offer invaluable networking opportunities and access to exciting career prospects. As a student, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including their on-campus athletics complex – a hub for experiential learning. Situated in Massachusetts, an energetic sports hub, they offer unique internships and partnerships with major sports organizations. Take the leap and join the next generation of leaders in the sports industry with their renowned program at Endicott College.
MBA in Sports Management Degrees in Massachusetts
With some of the best schools and biggest teams in the country in close proximity to one another, your journey to the top of an exciting sports organization may well begin in the Bay State.
In this section:
MBA in Sport Management Programs
MBA in Sports Management Programs
University of Massachusetts, Amherst | Amherst, MA
MBA/Master of Science in Sports Management
University of Massachusetts, Amherst | Amherst, MA
MBA/Master of Science in Sports Management
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 72 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $29,556 (total cost)
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $66,080 (total cost)
GRE (or GMAT) Required: Yes
Get ready to level up your career in the sports industry with the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Their MBA/MS program offers a top-notch curriculum in Sport Management that prepares students for success. But that’s not all – their strong alumni network is here to support you every step of the way. Their graduates have gone on to achieve incredible careers in sport management, and they’re ready to share their connections, mentorship, and professional advice with you. With a multidisciplinary approach, their program covers everything you need to know about the sports industry, from marketing to finance to ethics and leadership. Their experienced faculty will guide you through real-world scenarios and industry insights, helping you stay ahead of trends and challenges. Plus, they offer internship opportunities that give you hands-on experience and a chance to apply your knowledge in a practical setting. And to top it all off, you’ll have the option to work on a comprehensive research or consulting project, further enhancing your problem-solving and analytical abilities. When you graduate from our MBA/MS program in Sport Management, you’ll be equipped for a wide range of career opportunities. You could find yourself working with professional sports teams, leading sports marketing agencies, or managing events for top companies. The possibilities are endless, and with their strong focus on leadership and management, you’ll be ready to excel in any role you choose.
Massachusetts is a Sports and Education Mecca
New England generally – and Massachusetts specifically – is known across the country for quality education and passionate sports culture. Beyond the headlining schools like Harvard, MIT, Boston College, and Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts also includes “Little Ivy” schools Amherst and Williams and a number of other excellent institutions across the Bay State. With one of the highest concentrations of quality colleges and universities in the country – nearly 80 schools, according to U.S. News and World Report, Massachusetts is a true hub of academic talent. Nearly half of the public high schools in the country placed in the top 25% of all schools in the country, a statistic that speaks to the culture of educational quality throughout the state.
The next factor that makes Massachusetts an ideal place to study a degree in sports management is the importance of sports in the region. In 2020, Forbes Magazine named Boston as the top sports city in the country, which will come as no surprise for anyone who has witnessed the passion of the city’s the fan bases. Each of the four major American sports teams – the Red Sox, Celtics, Bruins, and Patriots – own a storied history that is legendary in its own right. The fact that they all hail from the same city – sharing 38 championships all-time and 12 championships since 2001 Boston – is all the more impressive.
While the professional teams of Massachusetts have had their success, the is also a tradition of excellence that carries down through the collegiate and minor league teams in the region as well. Since experiential learning is a significant part of sports management, students should always be considering the types of opportunities that each school might be able to offer outside of the classroom. From minor league affiliate teams to the Cape Cod Baseball League, there are a number of quality organizations in close proximity to Massachusetts where sports management students can plug in and gain valuable experience. Whether through formal internships or capstone projects or volunteering whenever possible, the more experience that you can get early in your journey, the better served you will be further down the road.
Cultivating Your Professional Network
There is a great deal to learn while pursuing a degree in sports management. Most universities house their sports management program inside their business department, meaning that you can expect a solid foundation of business fundamentals. Depending on the program and the concentration areas offered, sports management degrees often offer the chance to take courses in various subjects like marketing, analytics, event or facilities management. The sooner that you are able to gain some real-world experience in a field that you could imagine yourself pursuing, the better. Because let’s face it – it is impossible to know how much you will like something until you try it.
When you find yourself immersed in a real-world experience, it is important to remember that you are making an impression every minute of every day. Those around you – especially your supervisors – might well end up serving as references for you in one way or another, so be sure to put your best foot forward and practice good habits every day.
This is why studying your sports management degree in a place like Massachusetts is so important. In a recent interview with SportsDegreesOnline.org, Professor Steve McKelvey – director of the Sport Management Graduate program, explained how the sports management alumni network available at a place like UMass can help student plug in to very specific niches:
“[As a sport management student], you are going to be exposed much more to the industry directly and its alumni network which is critically important. If I’m a sports management student and I want to network with one of our alum who works at the Celtics, I’m going to get a much better response from that alum if I call up or send an email and say, “I’m a sports management student, I’d like to talk to you about your career.” Versus an accounting major saying, “I’m an accounting major, I’d like to talk to you about your career.”
Professor Steve McKelvey, UMass Amherst
These conversations and connections can easily blossom into real opportunities, showing what an amazing asset these alumni networks can be for students.
Sports Management Careers in Massachusetts
Boston’s professional sports teams and their minor league affiliates are also supportive of young people looking to break into the sports industry. Every year the Boston Red Sox hosts a career fair that helps connect job candidates and employers. Brittany Jacobs of Nichols College, spoke about the wide variety of opportunities in the greater Boston area:
“Another interesting facet is that there are jobs available at all levels: professional (including major and minor league teams), college, high school, a plethora of outdoor-related sports roles (ski resorts, adventure companies, etc.), stadiums, and for those sports history folks – there are a number of sporting hall of fame museums in Massachusetts”
Brittany Jacobs, Nichols College
This includes the Basketball Hall of Fame, and the Volleyball Hall of Fame, both located in Western Massachusetts. On top of all of this, there are major annual sporting events like the Boston Marathon and the Head of the Charles Regatta which are both great volunteer opportunities for students to gain behind-the-scenes experience at world-class events.
Professor Anthony DOnofrio, Director of Sport Leadership at Endicott College, believes that Massachusetts is among the best places to launch a career in Sports Management:
“A lot of the teams and the contacts and resources we have here in Boston, obviously the professional teams with the college athletics in this area, [are a huge asset.] There are also a lot of the non-profits, [for example] we work with the Cam Neely foundation, those guys are fantastic. I think that the networks, the contacts and the opportunities working in this industry, we probably have more opportunities than elsewhere in the United States.”
Dr. Anthony DOnofrio, Endicott College
Below, you will find a list of the professional sports teams in Massachusetts. In addition to these teams, there are several other teams locate in nearby New England states, many of which are a part of the same networks.
Baseball
Major League Baseball: Boston Red Sox
International League (AAA): Worcester Red Sox
Basketball
National Basketball League: Boston Celtics
Football
National Football League: New England Patriots
Indoor Football League: Worcester Pirates
New England Football League: Boston Bandits, Mass State Wolverines, Middleboro Cobras, North Shore Generals
Hockey
National Hockey League: Boston Bruins
American Hockey League: Springfield Thunderbirds
East Coast Hockey League: Worcester Railers
National Women’s Hockey League: Boston Pride
Lacrosse
Lacrosse
Major League Lacrosse: Boston Cannons
Rugby
Rugby League
USA Rugby League: Boston Thirteens
Rugby Union
Major League Rugby: Boston Free Jacks
Soccer
Major League Soccer: New England Revolution
US League One: New England Revolution II
US League Two: Black Rock FC, Boston Bolts, Seacoast United Phantoms, Western Mass Pioneers
National Premier Soccer League: Boston City FC, Greater Lowell Rough Diamonds
Baseball
Major League Baseball: Boston Red Sox
International League (AAA): Worcester Red Sox
Basketball
National Basketball League: Boston Celtics
Football
National Football League: New England Patriots
Indoor Football League: Worcester Pirates
New England Football League: Boston Bandits, Mass State Wolverines, Middleboro Cobras, North Shore Generals
Hockey
National Hockey League: Boston Bruins
American Hockey League: Springfield Thunderbirds
East Coast Hockey League: Worcester Railers
National Women’s Hockey League: Boston Pride
Lacrosse
Lacrosse
Major League Lacrosse: Boston Cannons
Rugby
Rugby League
USA Rugby League: Boston Thirteens
Rugby Union
Major League Rugby: Boston Free Jacks
Soccer
Major League Soccer: New England Revolution
US League One: New England Revolution II
US League Two: Black Rock FC, Boston Bolts, Seacoast United Phantoms, Western Mass Pioneers
National Premier Soccer League: Boston City FC, Greater Lowell Rough Diamonds