Last Updated on February 26, 2022
Sports Management Degrees and Career Opportunities in Missouri
For young people who are looking for the perfect location to study sport management, the state of Missouri should be near the top of anyone’s list. Missouri has a great deal to offer in the world of sport, regardless of which part of the industry you are interested in. The state has an incredible variety of sports organizations at the professional, collegiate, semi-professional, and amatuer levels. Sports culture is also a big part of life in Missouri, making it a prime location for thriving sports-related businesses.
In This Guide
- Jump to Sport Management Programs in Missouri
- Jump to MBA in Sport Management Programs in Missouri
- Jump to Sports Administration Programs in Missouri
Missouri has also produced it’s fair share of talent and iconic athletes across all sports. Yogi Berra (NY Yankees Catcher), Rusty Wallace (NASCAR driver) and current NBA stars Jayson Tatum and Bradley Beal all hail from St. Louis, while David Cone (NY Yankees Pitcher and Commentator) is from Kansas City, and Payne Stewart (Golfer) was from Springfield.
Sport Management Degrees in Missouri
Missouri has a unique location in America’s Heartland, professional sports teams in all major sports, and excellent trade organizations such as the Saint Louis Sports Commission. As a sports management student in Missouri, you’ll have excellent internship options while as a graduate, you’ll be able to network and seek employment in one of the country’s most exciting sports markets.
In this section:
Sport Management Master’s Programs
Sport Management Bachelors’s Programs
Sport Management Master’s Programs
Missouri Baptist University | St. Louis, MO
Master of Science in Sport Management
Missouri Baptist University | St. Louis, MO
Master of Science in Sport Management
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 31 Credit Hours
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $593
Introducing Missouri Baptist’s Masters of Science in Sport Management: the pathway to becoming an esteemed leader in the dynamic sports industry. Led by experienced professors who blend practical wisdom with Christian values, this program equips you with the essential skills for success. What sets this degree apart is its flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace. Whether you’re a busy professional or juggling multiple responsibilities, this program is tailored to accommodate your unique lifestyle. In just 18 to 24 months, you can earn your degree and unlock a world of career opportunities.
Missouri State University | Springfield, MO
Master of Professional Studies in Sports Management
Missouri State University | Springfield, MO
Master of Professional Studies in Sports Management
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 33 Credit Hours
Total Tuition: $15,483 per year
GRE (or GMAT) Required: No
The University of Minnesota’s M.Ed in Sport Management program offers a curriculum that encompasses key areas of sport management such as sports marketing, facility management, event planning, finance, and ethics. This program provides students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in the fast-paced world of sport management. Emphasizing practical skills highly sought after in the sports industry, the program offers valuable hands-on experience through internships, research projects, and immersive learning opportunities. These opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge and gain valuable insight into the field.
Sport Management Bachelor’s Programs
Central Methodist University | Fayette, MO
Sports Management Degree Program
Central Methodist University | Fayette, MO
Sports Management Degree Program
Total Tuition: In-State: $25000 per semester
The Sport Management program at Central Methodist University offers a comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of the sports industry. Their program equips students with knowledge and skills in sports marketing, event management, facility operations, sports law, and finance. This well-rounded education prepares their students for various careers in the exciting field of sports. Central Methodist University places great importance on providing hands-on learning experiences to enhance students’ practical skills. Through internships, practicums, and real-world projects, students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in actual sports organizations.
Columbia College | Columbia, MO
Bachelor’s Degree In Sport Management (Online)
Columbia College | Columbia, MO
Bachelor’s Degree In Sport Management (Online)
Credits Required: 120
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $375 per credit hour
Enhance your career in the sporting world with a fully online sport management bachelor’s degree from Columbia College. Their program offers exciting electives in areas like sport psychology and diversity to equip graduates with the versatility needed for success in various organizations, from local clubs to prestigious leagues and international sports entities.
Culver-Stockton College | Canton, MO
Bachelor Of Science In Sport Management (Online)
Culver-Stockton College | Canton, MO
Bachelor Of Science In Sport Management (Online)
Credits Required: 120
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $350 per credit hour
Culver Stockton College’s Online Sport Management program offers flexibility with a rolling admissions schedule and multiple start dates every 8 weeks. Before embarking on the degree program, C-Stockton performs a thorough review of prior credits and experience. This enables us to create a personalized study plan tailored to each student’s goals in the field of sport management. They are committed to guiding their students towards success in their chosen career path.
Culver-Stockton College | Canton, MO
Sport Management
Culver-Stockton College | Canton, MO
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $27315 per semester
Experience the real world while studying at Culver-Stockton. Their wide range of options allows students to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings. Explore study abroad programs, job shadowing, internships, on-campus athletic opportunities, and student-run clubs. Additionally, their Travel Study program offers the chance to visit major U.S. cities. Whether you aspire to a career in professional sports or youth/community sports, their degree is the perfect fit.
Evangel University | Springfield, MO
Sport Management
Evangel University | Springfield, MO
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $12217 per semester
Develop vital skills and insights in sports management at Evangel University. Their comprehensive program equips students with the ability to effectively oversee sports facilities, organize exciting events, implement strategic sport marketing techniques, navigate legal and risk mitigation strategies, and comprehend the intricate connection between sports and society. Graduate prepared to excel in the successful management of sports organizations.
Fontbonne University | St. Louis, MO
Bachelor Of Science In Sports Management
Fontbonne University | St. Louis, MO
Bachelor Of Science In Sports Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $28330 per year
Fontbonne University faculty and staff are committed to supporting students’ success by providing a range of resources, such as career counseling, networking assistance, and on-campus interview opportunities. Their alumni network is particularly beneficial in the St. Louis area, but graduates have also found gainful employment in the sports industry nationwide.
Graceland University – Missouri | Independence, MO
Sport Management
Graceland University – Missouri | Independence, MO
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $30650 per year
Get ready for a flourishing career in the sports industry with Graceland University’s comprehensive curriculum. Their program equips students with a strong foundation in economics, marketing, and management, ensuring they possess the essential skills for success. Additionally, students have the opportunity to specialize in either sport marketing or sport administration, tailoring their education to their specific career goals. The program is offered by the esteemed C.H. Sandage School of Business, known for its emphasis on practical, hands-on learning approaches.
Lindenwood University | Saint Charles, MO
Sport Management (BA)
Lindenwood University | Saint Charles, MO
Sport Management (BA)
Total Tuition: In-State: $9270 per semester
Experience a comprehensive and dynamic education at Lindenwood University. Their interdisciplinary approach equips students with the core business theories needed to excel in the diverse sports industry. Benefit from small class sizes and a dedicated faculty, ensuring personalized attention and guidance. Their commitment to experiential learning allows you to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios through engaging case studies. Additionally, an internship is integrated into their curriculum, providing invaluable hands-on experience. Prepare for a successful career in any sector of the sports industry with a degree from Lindenwood University.
Maryville University | Town and Country, MO
B.S. In Sport Business Management
Maryville University | Town and Country, MO
B.S. In Sport Business Management
Delivery Method: Online
Credits Required: 128
Maryville’s program, in collaboration with Rawlings, offers students an extraordinary opportunity to engage with a renowned organization in American sports. With specialized tracks in sports analytics and results-driven sales, Maryville provides students with the ability to acquire valuable expertise in these highly sought-after fields. Their program requires 128 credits, making it the most comprehensive online bachelor’s program in 2023. Join us to develop the skills needed for success in the dynamic world of sports.
Maryville University | St. Louis, MO
Sport Business Management
Maryville University | St. Louis, MO
Sport Business Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $24766 per year
At Maryville University, students pursuing the Sport Business Management Major will receive comprehensive training in business, economics, and finance. But it doesn’t stop there. Their students also have the chance to apply these skills in real-world settings through a variety of volunteer opportunities and internships available with organizations in St. Louis and the midwest. To ensure every student’s success, they provide a supportive environment where they work closely with a life coach. Additionally, their small class sizes, with an average of just 14 students, allow for an intimate educational experience.
Missouri Baptist University | St. Louis, MO
B.A. or B.S. in Sport Management
Missouri Baptist University | St. Louis, MO
B.A. or B.S. in Sport Management
Credits Required: 120
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $482 per credit hour
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $482 per credit hour
Missouri Baptist University offers transfer students the opportunity to transfer up to 96 credits towards their online sport management bachelor’s program. This affordable, online program is designed to guide students on a path that will ensure they keep pace with the needs and expectations of the profession.
Missouri Baptist University | Saint Louis, MO
Sport Management
Missouri Baptist University | Saint Louis, MO
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $12,382 per semester
Immerse yourself in the world of sports with the Sport Management program at Missouri Baptist University. Their comprehensive curriculum covers all aspects of the sports industry, giving you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. From sports marketing and event management to facility operations, sports law, and finance, our program ensures you have a well-rounded education. Their hands-on approach to learning includes internships, practicums, and real-world projects, providing you with valuable experience in the field. Prepare for a rewarding career in the sports industry with Missouri Baptist University.
Rockhurst University | Kansan City, MO
Sport Management
Rockhurst University | Kansan City, MO
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $19750 per semester
Rockhurst University provides opportunities for incoming students to pursue a minor or major in Sport Management. The major in sports management can be combined with various subjects, including journalism, nonprofit leadership studies, and communication, to tailor a degree that aligns with their career aspirations. As part of this program, students will have the chance to complete an internship or a workplace experience, allowing them to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to the dynamic world of sports.
Southeast Missouri State University | Cape Girardeau, MO
Sport Management
Southeast Missouri State University | Cape Girardeau, MO
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $6779 per semester/Out-of-State: $12951 per semester
Discover the vibrant sport management department at Southeast Missouri State University — a powerhouse that teams up seamlessly with the athletic department. As a distinguished D1 institution, students are afforded numerous opportunities to immerse themselves in these renowned programs and accumulate invaluable hands-on experience through class projects, practica, and internships. With an impressive $20 million in scholarships already bestowed, securing an education here is not only accessible but also priceless.
Saint Louis University | St. Louis, MO
Sports Business, B.S.
Saint Louis University | St. Louis, MO
Sports Business, B.S.
Total Tuition: $25,040 per semester (98% of first-time freshman received financial aid in FY2020)
St. Louis University offers an incredible internship program that allows students to collaborate with local sports teams and organizations. This valuable experience equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in sports management, marketing, brand representation, facility management, or event planning. Graduates of St. Louis University are well-prepared to excel in these exciting and dynamic fields.
University of Central Missouri | Warrensburg, MO
Sport Management BS
University of Central Missouri | Warrensburg, MO
Sport Management BS
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $238
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $475
The University of Central Missouri, located near Kansas City, offers students incredible opportunities to engage with the city’s professional sports teams. Furthermore, their department boasts a well-established internship program that assists students in securing internships tailored to their unique personalities, skills, and career aspirations. In addition, an impressive 86% of their graduates find employment, with many working in professional, amateur, and corporate sports environments. Join us to launch your career in the exciting world of sports.
University of Missouri | Columbia, MO
Parks, Recreation and Sport (Sport Management)
University of Missouri | Columbia, MO
Parks, Recreation and Sport (Sport Management)
Total Tuition: In-State: $13264 per semester/Out-of-State: $17204 per semester
The University of Missouri offers a comprehensive Sport Management program that emphasizes the business side of the sports and recreation industry. Through a combination of coursework and internships, students gain valuable hands-on experience. Their program boasts a large alumni network, with over a hundred graduates annually. These alumni have gone on to successful careers with professional sports teams, private sport agencies, and public city and state organizations. Additionally, they offer an accelerated bachelor’s/master’s program for motivated undergraduate students. Upon graduation, their students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to secure positions in the exciting world of sports management.
Webster University | St. Louis, MO
Sports & Entertainment Management
Webster University | St. Louis, MO
Sports & Entertainment Management
Delivery Method: On Campus
Total Tuition: In-State: $28500 per year
Webster University stands as a prominent institution in the St. Louis region and proudly serves as the designated Graduate School of the esteemed St. Louis Cardinals. Their program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to secure entry-level positions within professional sports teams, college athletics departments, arenas, stadiums, live performance theaters, and various entertainment venues. Their curriculum is consistently updated to align with the ever-evolving trends within the sports industry, allowing students to analyze these trends and recognize the possibilities and obstacles they present.
William Woods University | Fulton, MO
Sports Management Concentration
William Woods University | Fulton, MO
Sports Management Concentration
Total Tuition: In-State: $25,750 per semester
Enjoy the cutting-edge facilities at William Woods University. Their state-of-the-art fitness center and the Center for Human Performance, a $1.3 million facility, offer top-of-the-line exercise testing and rehabilitation equipment. Students at WWU have the unique opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in the real world through internships and their NAIA athletic program, which is further strengthened by partnerships with local institutions. Enhance your education with at least 37 credit hours of exercise science courses, complemented by a core curriculum that covers sports laws, sports marketing, and athletic management. Gain a comprehensive understanding of economic and financial management in the sports industry. Experience excellence at William Woods University.
Sports Administration Degrees in Missouri
Missouri is an excellent place to learn the concepts and dynamics that allow sports organizations to thrive and learn the skills that will make you a key player on any team. Whether you want to work in sports at the local, state, or national level, your sports administration degree is your ticket to a bright future in sports.
MBA in Sport Management Degrees in Missouri
Set your sites on a top position in a major sports team or sports-related business, then equip yourself with the skills, experience, and network that will support you in your journey. With its central location among several of the country’s biggest sports cities, Missouri is a smart place to pursue your MBA in Sport Management.
Studying Sport Management in Missouri – Leveraging the State’s Sports Scene
Missouri has all of the elements that young students seeking a career in the sports industry should be looking for. The state is home to two major sports cities – St. Louis and Kansas City – and it also has a number of smaller cities with impressive college, minor-league and semi-pro teams and organizations. Since a significant part of any sport management education will involve meaningful, structured learning outside of the classroom, the presence of so many organizations is a boon for students and young professionals alike.
Networking and Sports Job Placement in Missouri
”Being in the middle of the state this provides students a breadth of opportunities both locally and in other cities nearby such as in Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Chicago to collaborate with for courses and volunteer experiences. Our students intern and are employed world-wide to name some agencies are students are employed with include: Milwaukee Bucks, St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, Boys and Girls Club Columbia, MO, Houston Astros, Chicago Parks and Recreation, O’Fallon Hoots, University of Missouri Athletics, Missouri State Parks, Denver Parks and Recreation.”
Dr. Jennifer Wentz of the University of Missouri, on studying UM’s home town of Columbia, MO
“For any student that is involved with sports business as a career path, it is important to develop a network very early on, and having any school that is located close to those organizations in the sports industry that you are interested in, and having them physically in your area allows you to network that much easier.”
Dr. Brett Boyle, Saint Louis University
Professors and professionals alike will tell you that experiential learning opportunities are very important in the sports industry for several reasons. First, these experiences are your chance to prove yourself. If you are able to make the most out of each opportunity – by being punctual, going the extra mile wherever possible, and being kind and personable with the people you encounter – you will naturally be building your professional network. These individuals can vouch for you (as references) for your next opportunity, which potential employers will also want to see.
Media, Marketing, and Athlete Representation
Missouri has a number of nationally recognized sports agencies. There are a number of agencies in St. Louis alone that specialize in representing professional American football players and coaches. Kansas City also has its fair share of agencies with high profile clients across all sports. Examples include KMG Sports, Sports Management Associates, and Integrity 9 Sports & Entertainment.
MIssouri is also home to a number of major marketing firms that specialize in media, corporate partnerships, and more. Missouri generally – and St Louis specifically – is home to a very strong media and marketing industry. Firms with major offices here include Momentum Worldwide, EAG Advertising and Marketing, Timmermann Group, the Caprola Squad, Forward Sports Marketing, and BAM Marketing Agency. The presence of these companies and organizations – combined with the solid sports industry – makes Missouri an incredibly attractive place for young people who are interested in this part of the business.
The Sports Industry in Missouri
There are a number of professional sports teams across all of the major sports in MIssouri, as well as a number of collegiate sports programs and plenty of municipal and community sports opportunities.
Kansas City is home to three professional sports franchises in the Chiefs and the Royals, and Sporting KC. Aside from traditional sports teams, Kansas City is also home to exciting tech and ecommerce sports companies like Pro Athlete Inc which has tools and software to match athletes with ideal equipment, allowing them to maximize their performance. This is just one of a number of startups and similar companies who are thriving here. Saint Louis features organizations at each level, amateur to professional, allowing students the chance to gain experience in a number of different settings. The city is home to two of the most historic and successful professional sports franchises in the region in St. Louis Blues and Cardinals, and will welcome an MLS expansion franchise – St. Louis City SC – starting in 2023.
In 2020, Stadia Ventures from St. Louis, and MassChallenge Texas partnered together to create a sports-centered startup incubator. This will hopefully bring even more sports tech and esports companies to the area (as well as investment capital).
Sports Teams in Missouri
Major League Baseball:
National Football League
National Hockey League
Major League Soccer
- Sporting Kansas City
- St. Louis City SC (Starting in 2023)
Outside of the top tier major league programs, there are a number of development leagues and smaller professional leagues. These can provide a great opportunity for people to start their career. Another bonus is that they are usually in interesting parts of the state, outside of bigger cities, with easy access to nature and national/state parks Many people find this attractive, but of course the ideal city size is subjective.
Baseball
Missouri has a storied baseball history. The St. Louis Brown Stockings (predecessor to the Cardinals) were one of the eight original teams in the national league founded in 1875. The team was bankrupt and flailing until it was bought for $1,800 in 1881 by Chris Von der Ahe.Von der Ahe was a Prussian immigrant and entrepreneur who had a successful brewery and grocery store in St. Louis. He noticed that many of his patrons were attendees from the local baseball games going for a post-game drink. He sold tickets for just 25 cents, hoping to make money on beer sales. Chris Von der Ahe is seen as one of the first sports teams owners with a larger than life profile and persona which the media and local sports fans gravitated towards [source]. The team was bought later by another beer baron, August Busch in 1953 when the team was considering moving to Milwaukee.
Teams:
Major League Baseball: St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City RoyalsDouble-A Central: Springfield Cardinals
Basketball
While there are no NBA teams in Missouri the college basketball scene is vibrant and the University of Missouri has a very devoted fanbase. The Mizzou Tigers are regulars in the NCAA tournament and have won the SEC conference championship a total of 8 times. According to FieldLevel, there are 348 amateur and college Men’s Basketball teams in Missouri, so there is plenty of opportunity for careers in Basketball in Missouri!
Football
Football has a long tradition in Missouri. Throughout the years there have been different NFL teams in St. Louis, like the St. Louis Cardinals (Now based in Arizona), and the St. Louis Rams (now in Los Angeles). The Kansas City Chiefs were originally the Dallas Texans and were founded in 1960, however they have played as the Kansas City Chiefs since 1963. With the most dynamic quarterback in the league poised to start for many years to come – and Andy Reid at the helm – the future remains incredibly bright for the Chiefs.
National Football League: Kansas City Chiefs.
Hockey
Hockey has grown in popularity in St. Louis, and the only NHL team in the state- the St. Louis Blues have seen some recent success. They won their first Stanley Cup in 2019 and had a strong performance in the 2020 season before the abrupt end of the season due to Covid-19.
National Hockey League: St. Louis RamsEast Coast Hockey League: Kansas City Mavericks
Soccer
Soccer is growing quickly in Missouri! The MLS is excited to announce the St. Louis City Soccer Club as an expansion team which will debut in 2023. They have built an impressive stadium and practice facility. There are teams in smaller leagues as well.
Major League Soccer: Sporting Kansas City, St. Louis City Soccer Club (Starting in 2023)
USL Championship: Saint Louis FCMajor Arena Soccer League: Kansas City Comets
Collegiate Athletics in Missouri
There are five Division I schools in Missouri, of which the University of Missouri Tigers are regarded as the top team most of the time. In 2021, the Tigers made a deep run in the College World Series, putting the program on the map nationally.
Missouri is also home to 14 Division II schools as well as a number of minor league teams around the state. For those who are pursuing an advanced degree in a field like exercise science, nutritional science, or even athletic training, access to teams nearby who are open to research partnerships is a huge asset. As you are searching out which programs are the best fit, be sure to ask plenty of questions about what types of partnerships and opportunities are regularly possible for students.
Recreation Management Opportunities in Missouri
There is big business in outdoor recreation opportunities in Missouri. There are plenty of municipal jobs, as well as community recreation leagues and a number of major events like State Fairs which require an immense amount of coordination and planning.
There are a number of State Parks throughout the state where you can help visitors learn more about and experience the great outdoors. WIth its vast forests, four seasons, interweaving waterways, and beautiful lakes, it is a great place to be outside!
Also a growing field is experiential education in Missouri. There is plenty of beautiful outdoor space, and a growing number of organizations. Coolworks is a great resource for finding seasonal outdoor education jobs. The Missouri Department of Conservation also regularly posts jobs related to outdoor education as well as recreation management.
Below is a comprehensive list of programs located in Missouri which should make your search for the perfect program as straightforward as possible.