Best Online Master’s in Sports Management Programs of 2025

The sports industry relies on experienced professionals to plan marketing campaigns, negotiate athlete contracts, and run sports organizations. With a master’s in sports management, you’ll prepare for exciting careers in sports organizations.

While a bachelor’s in sports management can get your foot in the door, a master’s strengthens management and leadership skills. Keep reading to learn more about how a master’s in sports management can advance your career.

Many sports enthusiasts dream of landing sports management careers. An online sports management master’s program can help prepare individuals for a career in sports. People with a passion for athletics and strong business and problem-solving skills may find this degree intriguing. In such programs, students cover a variety of topics, including management, marketing, and law.

Graduates from online sports management master’s programs can pursue various roles, including athletic director, events coordinator, or sports marketing manager. Individuals can also utilize their skills outside the sporting world in sales, marketing, or business development roles.

A master’s in sports management program is a great pathway to becoming a leader in all things business in the sports industry. You’ll learn the concepts, theories, and best practices around sports, entertainment, and products.

Getting a master’s degree can also boost your career. Research by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that a master’s degree can lead to higher pay and job stability.

Many online master’s programs provide the same education as in-class programs. Studying online gives students extra flexibility to balance their education and personal commitments better. Many online programs offer asynchronous classes, allowing students to study anytime.

Online sports management master’s programs can help students gain the necessary skills to pursue roles in the sports industry. Graduates can utilize their newfound knowledge in sales, marketing, operations, and more.

Most programs require 30-40 credits or about two years of full-time study. Part-time learners may need up to three years. Students can sometimes complete accelerated programs in a year.

When preparing for graduate school, note that these programs often require internships. Internships allow you to gain in-demand skills and network with others in the field before graduating.

Aside from general core coursework, many programs offer various specializations to help you focus your classes on the areas where you hope to work. Each school has its unique offerings, but common options include:

How much money you make depends on how you use your master’s in sports management. According to the BLS, advertising, promotions, or marketing management professionals earned more in median annual salary than agents and business managers of athletes. In comparison, general and operations managers — the sector with the most available jobs — earned a median annual salary of $101,280.

Sports management programs prepare you to become a sports administrator. For example, you could manage a fitness facility or leverage your skills in finance and sales. Or you could work in professional sports, college athletics, or sports and entertainment. Common careers include: