What You Should Know About This Degree
Sports management degrees like a BBA or MBA approach the field from a business perspective, while a BS or MS program incorporates a broad range of technical skills. When comparing programs, look at their curricula to determine which better suits your career goals and learning preferences.
Depending on your career aspirations, you may need additional education or licenses to gain employment. For example, if you are interested in becoming a sports lawyer, you will need a law degree in addition to your sports management degree. Sports agents must be licensed by the leagues whose players they represent. The licensure requirements vary by league; some require a master’s and work experience, while others only require a bachelor’s degree. There are also individual states that grant licenses to sports agents.
Even if all of the coursework for a program can be completed online, some sports management programs have an experiential learning component like an internship. This type of hands-on experience is highly valued in the industry, so if you have the option to work in a real-world setting, it can increase your employability post-graduation.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching Online Sports Management programs:
- Is there an accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s track? Schools that offer both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in sports management may allow students to begin master’s-level coursework while they are still enrolled in the bachelor’s program. If you are considering getting a master’s degree as well as a bachelor’s, attending a program that offers this accelerated track can save you time and money.
- Does this program offer the specialization that I want? There are several areas of specialization within sports management, including marketing, leadership, coaching, and athlete development. If you are considering focusing on a particular area, be sure to select a program that offers specific coursework in your area of interest.
You should also review the program’s application requirements and deadlines. Gathering this information early will help make your admissions process go smoothly. This information is usually available on the program’s website, or you can contact the school’s admissions office.
Also, be sure to research your options for financing your education, and be mindful of deadlines for scholarships, assistantships, and loans. If you are currently employed, find out if your employer offers any tuition assistance benefits.