Last Updated on June 18, 2023
Sports Management Degrees in North Carolina
In this guide, you’ll find the best sports management degrees in North Carolina. In addition, we’ll provide information on the best sports administration degrees available in North Carolina. North Carolina has a deeply rooted culture of sports, making it an excellent location for students interested in sport management. The state served as the launch pad for Michael Jordan’s exceptional career and is home to the renowned UNC-Duke rivalry.
“North Carolina provides opportunities to engage and to gain experience in all kinds of different sports that range from large professional sports, to Olympic style sports, to niche outdoor-specific sports, and anything in between.“
Dr. Alex Traugutt
Assistant Professor of Sport Management, Elon UniversityStudents pursuing sports management degrees in North Carolina have access to internships and volunteer opportunities across North Carolina and in some cases, neighboring states. There are highly ranked university sports programs, dozens of professional teams, and plenty of recreational sports leagues for all ages. The state’s top-notch employers in the sports industry are ideal for sport management students to seek internships and begin careers.
In This Guide
- Jump to Sport Management Programs in North Carolina
- Jump to MBA in Sport Management Programs in North Carolina
- Jump to Sports Administration Programs in North Carolina
What’s more, North Carolina boasts several fast-growing cities where opportunities abound. The low cost of living also makes it possible to establish your career while maintaining a good quality of life. Indeed, North Carolina’s thriving cities are at the forefront of job creation in the sports industry. In this climate of rapid development, the best sports management degrees in North Carolina prepare students for success in sports.
As the economy and population has grown in North Carolina, so too has the sport industry in the state. There are a number of professional teams, prestigious colleges, and innovative startups that are helping the industry expand even more.
A lot has changed since Jordan’s game-winning jumper in 1982 which clinched the National Championship for the Tar Heels over Georgetown, but the state is still a great place for anyone who loves sports and wants to advance their career.
Sports Management Degrees in North Carolina
With legendary D1 sports programs and multiple professional teams, North Carolina is a great place to study sport management and build your professional network. North Carolina State’s sport management program has ties to over 50 sports organizations nationwide. Indeed, among the best sports management degrees in North Carolina you’ll find some of the best programs of their kind in the nation.
In this section:
Sport Management Bachelor’s Programs
Barton College | Wilson, NC
Sports Management Major
Barton College | Wilson, NC
Sports Management Major
Total Tuition: In-State: $33430 per year
At Barton, students have the freedom to tailor their education to align with their career aspirations. They can prioritize hands-on learning experiences, such as internships and practicums, in order to acquire practical skills and industry knowledge. Additionally, there is a pathway for students to obtain both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree within a five-year timeframe. Many students also choose to complement their major with a minor in fields like Business, Broadcast Video Production, or Communication, among other options. Furthermore, every student graduates from Barton with a portfolio that can be utilized during their job interviews.
Belmont Abbey College | Belmont, NC
Sport Management
Belmont Abbey College | Belmont, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $18500 per year
Belmont Abbey’s distinguished faculty is dedicated to offering students a comprehensive education that emphasizes Catholic and Benedictine principles. Their goal is to cultivate a future generation of discerning and principled leaders while nurturing holistic development in students’ intellectual, physical, and spiritual dimensions. Their program is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of sports organization governance, the legal landscape in which they function, and the skills necessary for effective management, including technical expertise, interpersonal proficiency, and critical thinking abilities.
Catawba College | Salisbury, NC
Sport Management
Catawba College | Salisbury, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $31436 per year
Students at Catawba studying sports management have several options to choose from. They can pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sports Management or double major in Business and Sport Management. With the school’s location, students have easy access to sports and teams in the Charlotte and Greensboro area. What sets Catawba apart is its emphasis on hands-on experience. The school offers an established apprenticeship, practicum, and internship program, all of which are required for students. Through these programs, students gain valuable real-world experience and develop the skills needed to thrive in the sports industry after graduation.
Chowan University | Murfreesboro, NC
Sport Management
Chowan University | Murfreesboro, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $12940 per semester
Explore the world of sports at Chowan University. Their Sport Management program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers the essential principles of business and their application to the dynamic sports industry. With a major or minor in Sport Management, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary for diverse roles in Sports marketing, Facilities maintenance and supervision, Recreation administration, Sports information, and Athletic department administration. Prepare for a successful career in the exciting field of sports with Chowan University.
East Carolina University | Greenville, NC
BS In Sports Studies
East Carolina University | Greenville, NC
BS In Sports Studies
Total Tuition: In-State: $7239 per semester/Out-of-State: $23516 per semester
Customize your degree and career path by choosing a minor that aligns with your goals. Collaborate with esteemed faculty on research projects and explore thrilling topics. The university also offers a range of hands-on experiences beyond the classroom. Discover endless opportunities to excel in the field of sports at East Carolina.
Elizabeth City State University | Elizabeth City, NC
Sport Management
Elizabeth City State University | Elizabeth City, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $3260 per semester/Out-of-State: $7260 per semester
Enhance your career in sport management at ECSU. Their program offers three specialized concentrations: Management and Administration, Marketing and Promotion, and Sport Communication. In addition to comprehensive classroom instruction, students have valuable opportunities for hands-on experience through volunteer work and other industry engagements. Build your expertise, broaden your network, and explore exciting possibilities in the field with ECSU’s sport management program.
Elon University | Elon, NC
Sport Management
Elon University | Elon, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $38725 per year
Elon’s program empowers students to take charge of their education and customize their sports management degree to their unique interests and aspirations. In addition to their core studies, students must choose to either pursue a minor, double major, or study abroad, ensuring a well-rounded and dynamic educational experience. With a wide range of hands-on opportunities available, students will gain practical skills that are directly applicable to careers in professional sports, college athletics, recreation, and sport-related agencies.
Gardner-Webb University | Boiling Springs,, NC
Sport Management
Gardner-Webb University | Boiling Springs,, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $15610 per semester
The Sport Management program at Gardner-Webb University offers a thorough curriculum that encompasses all facets of the sports industry. Their students gain knowledge and instruction in management, business, communications, social ethics, governance, and leadership. This comprehensive education equips students for a variety of careers in sports management. At Gardner-Webb University, they prioritize hands-on learning experiences to enhance students’ abilities and understanding. Through internships, practicums, and real-world projects, their students have the opportunity to apply their classroom teachings and gain practical skills.
Guilford College | Greensboro, NC
Sport Studies Department
Guilford College | Greensboro, NC
Sport Studies Department
Total Tuition: In-State: $20200 per semester
Guilford offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that covers sports management, psychology, exercise science, and the science of human movement. Their goal is to produce graduates who excel in critical thinking and possess the practical skills necessary for success in the sports industry. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of making morally and ethically sound decisions.
High Point University | High Point, NC
Sport Management
High Point University | High Point, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $39752 per year
High Point University understands the ever-evolving sports industry and adapts its curriculum to best prepare students for their future careers. Their approach ensures students gain valuable knowledge and skills both inside and outside of the classroom. Through internships, research opportunities, and involvement in clubs like the Sport Management Association and Women Leaders in Sport, students can further enhance their learning and professional development. At High Point, they foster a dynamic and flexible education experience that sets students up for success in the sports industry.
Johnson and Wales University (Charlotte) | Charlotte, NC
Sports, Entertainment, Event Management (B.S.)
Johnson and Wales University (Charlotte) | Charlotte, NC
Sports, Entertainment, Event Management (B.S.)
Total Tuition: In-State: $35750 per year
Prepare for a Career in Sports and Event Management at JWU. Their program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the fast-paced world of venue management and sports event operations. Through a combination of hands-on internships and comprehensive classroom instruction, their students gain valuable experience and a strong foundation in this exciting field. Join JWU and take the first step towards a successful career in sports and event management.
Johnson C. Smith University | Charlotte, NC
Sport Management
Johnson C. Smith University | Charlotte, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $18784 per year
JCSU’s Sport Management programs offer both online and on-ground options to help students pursue their passion for sports. These programs provide students with a strong foundation in various areas related to the sports industry, such as management, marketing, law, leadership, psychology, ethics, and sociology. Through mandatory sport practicum and internship courses, students gain practical experience in the sports industry and enhance their career prospects. Their goal is to support students in reaching their goals and achieving success in their sport management careers.
Lees-McRae College | Banner Elk, NC
Sport Management
Lees-McRae College | Banner Elk, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $26490 per year
With a degree in Sport Management from Lees-McRae College, graduates gain access to a wide range of exciting career opportunities. Their program hones essential skills in management, finance, marketing, and law, all within the context of sports. Graduates can pursue fulfilling careers as athletic directors, sports administrators, event managers, or sports marketers. Their comprehensive curriculum delves into all facets of the sports world, equipping students with the tools to excel in athletic administration, coaching, personal training, sports media, and more. Unleash your potential in the sports industry with Lees-McRae College’s unparalleled Sport Management program. Start building your future today.
Lenoir-Rhyne University | Hickory, NC
Sport Management
Lenoir-Rhyne University | Hickory, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $39900 per year
A degree in Sport Management from Lenoir-Rhyne University is a valuable asset for anyone seeking a career in the sports industry. Graduates have a wide range of career options, including sports marketing, event management, administration, facility management, athletic coaching, and more. Their comprehensive Sport Management program provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this dynamic field. Students will learn about effective sports marketing strategies, event planning and execution, legal and ethical considerations, finance and budgeting, and other fundamental aspects of managing sports organizations. With a degree in Sport Management, you can unlock exciting opportunities in the world of sports.
Methodist University | Fayetteville, NC
Sport Management
Methodist University | Fayetteville, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $36260 per year
Choose your path to success in the dynamic field of Sport Management at Methodist University. Their students have two options for pursuing their passion: earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Sport Management or concentrate in Sport Management while majoring in Business Administration, Financial Economics, Management, or Marketing. Whichever path you choose, rest assured you’ll be part of the prestigious Reeves School of Business, accredited by the ACBSP.
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University | Greensboro, NC
Sport Science and Fitness Management
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University | Greensboro, NC
Sport Science and Fitness Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $18487 per year/Out-of-State: $31997 per year
NCATS provides a comprehensive Sport Science and Fitness Management program that equips students with a range of opportunities in the dynamic sports industry. Graduates of their program have gone on to successful careers as personal trainers, wellness coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, and more. With three distinct options to choose from – Pre-Physical Therapy, Business Administration, and Leisure Studies – students can tailor their education to their specific career goals.
North Carolina Central University | Durham, NC
Recreation Administration, Recreational Sport Management Concentration with Sport Coaching Minor, BS
North Carolina Central University | Durham, NC
Recreation Administration, Recreational Sport Management Concentration with Sport Coaching Minor, BS
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $466
The Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Administration, with a focus on Recreational Sport Management and a minor in Sport Coaching at North Carolina Central University, offers students a unique chance to gain valuable experience through internships, fieldwork, and hands-on projects. This program allows students to take the theoretical knowledge they have learned and apply it in real-world situations, allowing for the development of practical skills and the establishment of professional connections. The curriculum is comprehensive and combines the study of recreation administration, sport management, and sport coaching, making it an interdisciplinary approach that prepares students for a successful career in the field.
North Carolina State University | Raleigh, NC
Sport Management
North Carolina State University | Raleigh, NC
Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $27130 per year/Out-of-State: $47456 per year
Experience the cutting-edge technology and immersive learning opportunities available to NCSU students. Discover the business of sports through their hands-on classes and gain invaluable connections with over 50 prominent sport organizations. As a bonus, they even offer a specialized concentration in golf management. Complementing your studies, a 400-hour internship allows you to apply classroom concepts to real-world scenarios. Prepare for a successful career in the dynamic realm of sports management at NCSU.
Pfeiffer University | Misenheimer, NC
Bachelor Of Arts In Sport Management
Pfeiffer University | Misenheimer, NC
Bachelor Of Arts In Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $15580 per semester
Pfeiffer University offers an extensive curriculum that focuses on the intersection of Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Economics, and Accounting with the sports industry. Additionally, the university provides numerous hands-on learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
Queens University of Charlotte | Charlotte, NC
BS In Sport Management
Queens University of Charlotte | Charlotte, NC
BS In Sport Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $37348 per year
The Sport Management program at Queens University of Charlotte provides students with valuable hands-on experiences and practical learning opportunities. Through internships, real-world projects, and industry involvement, students can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the sports industry. The curriculum covers a wide range of areas in sports management, such as sports marketing, event planning, facility management, and legal considerations. With strong connections to local sports organizations, students have access to valuable networking opportunities. By participating in this program, students can enhance their employability and prepare for a successful career in sports management.
University of Mount Olive | Mount Olive, NC
Sports Management
University of Mount Olive | Mount Olive, NC
Sports Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $10809 per semester
Enhance your sport management degree at the prestigious University of Mount Olive by pairing it with a minor in Coaching or Sport Psychology. Gain practical experience through internships that allow you to apply theoretical concepts learned in the classroom. Their comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including sports marketing, effective managerial practices, entrepreneurship, athletic administration, facility management, and more. Prepare for a successful career in the sports industry with their holistic approach to education.
University of North Carolina | Chapel Hill, NC
Sport Administration
University of North Carolina | Chapel Hill, NC
Sport Administration
Delivery Method: On Campus
Total Tuition: In-State: $12522 per year/Out-of-State: $30248 per year
The University of North Carolina’s Sport Administration program offers students a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on the business and administrative aspects of the sports industry. Through specialized coursework, students develop expertise in key areas such as sport finance, program management, marketing, and law. This program prepares students for diverse roles within the sports industry, encompassing youth sports, intercollegiate sports, professional sports, amateur sports, and more. By exploring various sport settings, students gain a deep understanding of the unique challenges associated with each.
Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC
Sports Management
Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC
Sports Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $3491 per semester/Out-of-State: $5491 per semester
Gain knowledge in sports marketing, finance, facility management, event planning, and sports law. Prepare for a diverse career in the sports industry with our hands-on learning approach. Engage in internships, collaborate with local sports organizations, and participate in industry-related projects. At Western Carolina University, we provide the valuable experiences that help students thrive in the sports world.
Winston-Salem State University | Winston-Salem, NC
Sports Management
Winston-Salem State University | Winston-Salem, NC
Sports Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $5941 per semester
Gain a competitive edge in the world of sports with a degree from Winston Salem. Their graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in various fields such as sports media, stadium operations, marketing, sports management, recruiting, and more. At Winston Salem, they understand the importance of specializing in your chosen field. That’s why they offer concentration options as part of their degree programs. Choose from Marketing and Promotion, Management and Administration, or Sport Communications to customize your education and enhance your career prospects. Prepare for success in the exciting and fast-paced sports industry with a degree from Winston Salem.
Sports Administration Programs in North Carolina
North Carolina is a top state for sports administration education – and sports administration jobs. Across the state, sports programs, leagues and teams seek highly skilled sports administration professionals while North Carolina’s higher education system is well equipped produce sports administration graduates at the top of their field.
In this section:
Sports Administration Master’s Programs
Sports Administration Bachelors’s Programs
Sports Administration Master’s Degree Programs
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC
Masters in Sports Administration
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC
Masters in Sports Administration
Delivery Method: On Campus
Credits Required: 33 Credit Hours
Local Tuition (per Credit Hour): $0
Out of State Tuition (per Credit Hour): $0
Total Tuition: Every student has a teaching/graduate assistantship that provides a full tuition remission, stipend, and health insurance
UNC’s Sport Administration graduate program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has been equipping students for leadership roles in intercollegiate athletics since 1982. With a curriculum that covers administration, research methods, event management, marketing, legal issues, sport analytics, compliance, and economics/finance, students receive a comprehensive education that blends theory and practice. Over the past 30 years, we have successfully guided students to thrive academically and professionally in the sport industry. To complete the program, students are required to produce an independent Master’s thesis.
Sports Administration Bachelor’s Degree Programs
University of North Carolina | Chapel Hill, NC
Sport Administration
University of North Carolina | Chapel Hill, NC
Sport Administration
Delivery Method: On Campus
Total Tuition: In-State: $12522 per year/Out-of-State: $30248 per year
The University of North Carolina’s Sport Administration program offers students a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on the business and administrative aspects of the sports industry. Through specialized coursework, students develop expertise in key areas such as sport finance, program management, marketing, and law. This program prepares students for diverse roles within the sports industry, encompassing youth sports, intercollegiate sports, professional sports, amateur sports, and more. By exploring various sport settings, students gain a deep understanding of the unique challenges associated with each.
Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC
Sports Management
Western Carolina University | Cullowhee, NC
Sports Management
Total Tuition: In-State: $3491 per semester/Out-of-State: $5491 per semester
Gain knowledge in sports marketing, finance, facility management, event planning, and sports law. Prepare for a diverse career in the sports industry with our hands-on learning approach. Engage in internships, collaborate with local sports organizations, and participate in industry-related projects. At Western Carolina University, we provide the valuable experiences that help students thrive in the sports world.
MBA in Sports Management Degrees in North Carolina
North Carolina is a great place to build a career as a manager and executive in the growing sports business world. MBA courses often have the advantage of being offered fully online and can be completed while working full time.
Living in North Carolina
One big plus of living in North Carolina is its affordability. The cost of healthcare, housing, transportation, utilities, groceries and taxes are all below the national average. Also, the state is simply beautiful. With spots like the Outer Banks and the Smoky Mountains, it has something for any lover of the outdoors. The word is out now, however, as Charlotte and Raleigh/Durham, NC have found their way onto US News & World Report’s top places to live, and the state has become a popular destination for those relocating or retiring from around the country.
For young people who are considering a degree in sport management or searching for the best place to begin your career in the sports industry, this guide will show why North Carolina should be on our short list. The state is home to an exciting sports scene at every level, making it an ideal place to begin your journey into sport management and beyond.
Sports Media, Marketing, and Athlete Representation Opportunities
The state of North Carolina is prosperous, and has a strong economy. There are 13 Fortune 500 companies in the state, and there are over 40 minor and major league professional sports teams. Specific to the sports industry, there are major companies like Bespoke, Octagon, and IMG that are major players in terms of offering valuable sport management opportunities for young people entering into the sports industry.
Sports is big business in the Tar Heel state. The average annual wage across the Arts, Design Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occupations is over $58,000. North Carolina also has a number of professional sports teams, and some of the biggest and most successful college sports programs in the country.
Colleges and Universities in North Carolina – Opportunities for Sports Management Education and Employment
Some of the most distinguished universities in the U.S. are located in North Carolina. Private Universities like Duke and Wake Forest are nationally ranked on a number of surveys, and the state schools like UNC Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University are also very well regarded. Dr. Lyons from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University noted that most of his students “…stay in North Carolina, and most of them want to stay in North Carolina. Students have a tendency to live and work here in North Carolina. They like the weather, [Charlotte] is the 15th largest city in the country, but trust me it doesn’t feel like it, and for the most part there’s a lot of things to do, and there’s a lot of options.”
If you are interested in working in college sports North Carolina is a great place to start or further your career. We asked Dr. BerNadette Lawson-Williams from Johnson C. Smith University asked about North Carolina and working in sports and she noted that,
“…the headquarters for the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), which boasts some of the nation’s most widely recognized NCAA Division I member institutions is located in Greensboro, North Carolina with four ACC member institutions located in neighboring cities: University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Duke University, Wake Forest University, and North Carolina State University. Other prominent collegiate athletic organizations located in [North Carolina] include the: Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, the nation’s oldest African American athletic conference, which is headquartered in Charlotte, the Big South Conference, and the National Junior College Athletic Association, among others.”
The Best Sports Markets in North Carolina
Charlotte is the largest city in the state in terms of population. It also features the highest number of professional sports teams in NC. Dr. Lyons from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University had this to say about Charlotte. “Charlotte is a great sports city, a lot of innovation here, a lot of opportunities in terms of not just teams, but also on the youth and nonprofit level.
There are a few heavy-hitting sport marketing firms here as well. They have offices world-wide, like IMG, GMR, Bespoke, Octagon. You have these sports marketing firms that are located here in Charlotte as well as sports teams. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is located here in Charlotte, the Charlotte Motor Speedway, and there is a heavy influence of motorsports here, as well as industries that support motorsports.” There is even more to Charlotte, as ESPN, SPEED Productions, Raycom Sports all have offices there, as well as some major sports marketing firms like Bespoke, Octagon, as well as the biggest sports agency in the world IMG.”
The second most populated city in the state is Raleigh, but it is usually grouped together with Durham. There are powerhouse college teams in the Raleigh/Durham area like the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Duke Blue Devils. The Carolina Hurricanes (NHL) also play in the area, as well as a minor league baseball team. Charlotte and Raleigh/Durham are the two biggest markets in the state and hold all of the state’s top tier professional sports teams in a number of sports.
The opportunity to gain real-world experience in the sports industry is a significant part of any sport management degree. With so many top organizations and companies in the state, students who choose to pursue their degree in North Carolina have the chance to build an impressive network during their program. Before making your decision, be sure to ask questions about what types of internships, workshops, and volunteer experiences they offer.
Popular Sports in North Carolina
Officially, stock car racing is North Carolina’s official state sport. There are NASCAR racesthroughout the season in North Carolina, and the Haas F1 Team has their operations headquartered in Kannapolis. College Basketball is also extremely popular, and for good reason. With programs like UNC Chapel Hill, Duke, Wake Forest and Davidson there have been numerous powerhouse teams and Cinderella stories coming out of North Carolina and onto the March Madness stage almost yearly.
From the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Coast, the varied landscape of the state home to unbelievable golf courses and recreational sports. Regardless of whether you aspire to find a career in professional or D-I collegiate athletics, or a niche like golf, NASCAR, or the great outdoors, North Carolina is an excellent place to get your start.
Baseball
While there are no MLB teams in North Carolina, there are a number of minor league clubs. However, no one knows what the future holds. There is a very active movement to bring a MLB team to Raleigh/Durham. Aside from the MLB, North Carolina with its ideal climate for year-round training has attracted a number of teams and leagues at various levels, both amateur and professional. There are minor league teams scattered throughout the state and Dr. Lyons said that “You can’t go to a small city in North Carolina and not find a minor league baseball team.”
Basketball
Michael Jordan famously gained the national spotlight in 1982 as a freshman year at UNC, when he hit the shot that won UNC the championship. One thing that has been a constant since that time is the devotion North Carolinians have to college basketball. There have been so many memorable games and players coming out of North Carolina. Michael Jordan has come full circle in the state and in 2010 bought a controlling interest in the Charlotte Bobcats. With an NBA team and successful college basketball programs, North Carolina is a very interesting state basketball.
Teams:
NBA: Charlotte Hornets
NBA G League: Greensboro Swarm
East Coast Basketball League: Charlotte Tribe, East Carolina Cardinals, Hickory Hoyas, NC Coyotes, Rowan County Bulls, Winston-Salem Wolves
Football
North Carolina is lucky to have both an NFL team and successful college programs. The Panthers are regulars in the post-season and last won the NFC Conference Championship in 2015. The Panthers have a die-hard fan base and the games are a blast for fans either in the stadium or watching at home.
Teams:
NFL Carolina Panthers
National Arena League: Carolina Cobras
American Arena League: Carolina Energy
Hockey
North Carolina’s only NHL team, the Carolina Hurricanes, was formerly the Hartford Whalers. Since their move to North Carolina in 1997 they have won the Stanley Cup, and won division titles multiple times in recent years. That said, hockey is still relatively young in North Carolina, but it is certainly growing in popularity and the Hurricanes have seen some recent success under the leadership of Jordan Staal.
Teams:
NHL: Carolina Hurricanes
American Hockey League: Charlotte Checkers
Southern Professional Hockey League: Fayetteville Marksmen
Federal Prospects Hockey League: Carolina Thunderbirds
Lacrosse
While there are no professional teams, the sport is very much growing. In the last ten years both UNC Chapel Hill and Duke won the Men’s D1 National Championship. There was a short stint of a professional team based in Charlotte during the time of the Professional Lacrosse League, but that league has since folded.
Rugby League
The Carolinas Rugby League has over 40 amateur teams, and a very active community. All of the D1 North Carolina schools have a Rugby program. The sport is certainly growing, and more teams in various leagues willy likely be in the cards in the future.
Soccer
There are a number of pro teams across different leagues, and according to FieldLevel, there are over 250 soccer teams throughout the state. Most recently the Charlotte Football club was announced in 2019 and will have their inaugural season in 2021. This is an exciting time for soccer fans in North Carolina! They share a stadium with the Carolina Panthers which recently underwent a $50 million renovation.
Teams:
MLS: Charlotte FC
US League One: North Carolina FC
USL Championship: Charlotte Independence
National Women’s Soccer League: North Carolina Courage
The sports scene in North Carolina is varied and growing. Whether you are interested in youth, amateur, college, or professional leagues, there are options throughout North Carolina.
North Carolina offers a variety of options for students who wish to pursue a degree in sports management. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Appalachian State University, High Point University, East Carolina University, and Campbell University all offer excellent degree programs in the field. Check out our complete listings of the best sport management degrees in North Carolina.
Getting a sport management degree in North Carolina can vary widely in terms of cost. Generally speaking, the tuition cost for a bachelor’s degree at a college or university in North Carolina will range from about $12,000 to $40,000 per year depending on the school and program chosen. On top of tuition costs, there are also additional fees that may include general student fees, technology fees, and activity and recreation fees. Other costs to consider are books, supplies, room & board (if living on campus), and transportation expenses. Financial aid may be available in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, or work-study programs to help with the cost of a sport management degree in North Carolina.
Yes! There are many fully online sport management programs to choose from. Visit our Guide to the Best Online Sport Management Bachelor’s Degrees as well as our Guide to the Best Online Sport Management Master’s Degrees for essential information on these exciting programs.