Sports management is a booming and competitive field with plenty of opportunities to explore. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that about 108,900 job openings are expected every year, thanks to both new positions being created and people leaving the field. If you’re passionate about sports and dream of being part of this exciting industry, it’s a smart move to start by checking out the country’s best colleges for sports management.
In this blog, we name 10 of the best colleges for sports management and how they earn that title. We also provide a list of what to look for in the best sports management programs.
- The Top 10 Colleges for Sports Management
- How to Choose the Best Sports Management College
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
The Top 10 Colleges for Sports Management
Sports management is all about handling the business side of the sports world. It covers everything from managing budgets and organizing events to planning, marketing, and overseeing the operations of professional sports teams or organizations.
While most people think of managing a team or athlete as the main job in sports management, the field is so much broader. It stretches across professional leagues, college sports, and even recreational activities. It opens up tons of exciting opportunities for you to explore.
Getting into the best colleges for sports management can give you a solid head start in the industry. Let’s take a look at some of the best sports management programs in the USA!
1. University of Michigan
- Location: Ann Arbor, MI
- Acceptance rate: 18%
- Cost of attendance:
- $35,450 (in-state)
- $76,294 (out-of-state)
The Sports Management (SM) program at UMich is designed to prepare you for an exciting career in the global sports industry. The curriculum dives into sports’ cultural and business side, using real-world case studies and hands-on consulting projects led by top-notch faculty.
After graduation, many students launch their careers with leading sports organizations and corporate businesses, while others choose to continue their education in fields like business, law, accounting, or urban planning.
Graduates of the program have landed roles with major leagues like the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and MLS, as well as with teams such as the Detroit Red Wings, New York Mets, and Milwaukee Bucks. Others have joined top agencies like Creative Artists Agency, Wasserman, and Endeavor, or industry giants like ESPN, the NCAA, The New York Times, and Nike. If you’re looking for a pathway to success, this program ranks among the best colleges for sports management, opening doors to countless opportunities.
2. Rice University
- Location: Houston, TX
- Acceptance rate: 9%
- Cost of attendance: $78,200
Sports Management at Rice University is a dedicated major that offers two unique concentrations: Sports Law and Sport Leadership. An important part of the program is the internship experience, which provides hands-on learning opportunities. Students gain incredible access to internships thanks to Rice’s partnerships with major organizations like the Houston Astros, Texans, Rockets, and Dynamo. To graduate, you’ll need to complete at least six credit hours of internships, which equals 300 working hours.
Unlike most schools where sports management is just an emphasis within broader degrees like Physical Education, Kinesiology, or Health, Rice offers it as a stand-alone major housed within the Department of Sport Management. This distinction sets Rice apart as one of the best colleges for sports management, offering a focused and immersive path into the field.
3. The University of Texas at Austin
- Location: Austin, TX
- Acceptance rate: 31%
- Cost of attendance:
- $30,752-$34,174 (in-state)
- $61,180-$69,310 (out-of-state)
The Sport Management program at UT Austin sets you up for a career in managing, marketing, and running sports programs in education, the sports business world, or even the entertainment industry. Along with completing the required courses, you’ll also participate in a semester-long internship to gain real-world experience. The program helps you build skills in business and marketing analysis, resource management, law, ethics, and leadership—all within the context of sports organizations.
With connections to Austin FC, Longhorn Athletics, and other local sports organizations, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get hands-on experience in professional sports settings. There’s also a chance to explore opportunities in the entertainment industry, including ACL Music Festival, SXSW, and Circuit of the Americas.
If you want to continue your education, you might pursue graduate studies in sports management, law, business, or physical culture and sports studies. Programs like this one rank among the best colleges for sports management.
4. University of Miami
- Location: Coral Gables, FL
- Acceptance rate: 19%
- Cost of attendance: $93,140
The sports administration major at the University of Miami is designed to get you ready for a career in the sports industry. The Kinesiology (KIN) department works hard to connect students with top-tier sports organizations and environments. It allows you to build valuable skills and gain practical, hands-on experience essential for succeeding in today’s competitive sports world.
This major requires 42 credit hours of Kinesiology coursework and a public speaking class to enhance your communication skills. Once you’ve completed all the coursework, you must also finish a 9-credit internship. With its comprehensive approach, the program stands out as one of the best colleges for sports management in the country.
5. University of Florida
- Location: Gainesville, FL
- Acceptance rate: 23%
- Cost of attendance:
- $23,530 (in-state)
- $45,808 (out-of-state)
A Bachelor of Science in Sport Management equips you with the knowledge to ethically apply management, marketing, finance, and legal concepts within the sports industry. The program opens doors to various opportunities, whether you’re aiming for roles in professional, collegiate, or amateur sports organizations.
You’ll need to complete 120 credits of required coursework to earn this degree. During your final two years, you’ll focus on professional core courses, related options, and electives that let you specialize in areas of interest.
As part of the program, you can choose between two paths: completing a 12-credit internship or opting for a non-internship route. If you go for the internship, it’s a 13-week, approved experience designed to wrap up after finishing all your coursework. Programs like this are what make some of the best colleges for sports management stand out
6. University of Georgia
- Location: Athens, GA
- Acceptance rate: 43%
- Cost of attendance:
- $28,142 (in-state)
- $48,538 (out-of-state)
The Sport Management program is designed to prepare you for a career in the global sports industry. It combines essential business practices with a deep dive into the unique needs of the sports world. You’ll explore the role of sports in society, tackle the sociological and philosophical aspects of the industry, and learn about the policies that shape it at both government and organizational levels.
Graduates from this program have worked with top-tier organizations, including the NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, and MLS. Many have joined professional teams like the Atlanta Braves, Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta United, Atlanta Falcons, Gwinnett Stripers, and Dallas Cowboys.
Others have landed roles with major agencies such as IMG, Creative Artists Agency, Octagon, and Melt, or industry leaders like ESPN, the NCAA, Nike, and more. Programs like this stand out as some of the best colleges for sports management
7. Southern Methodist University
- Location: Dallas, TX
- Acceptance rate: 61%
- Cost of attendance: $89,676
The Sport Management (SM) major offers a solid curriculum that gives you the skills needed to succeed in the sports industry. It starts with an essential class, APSM 2310 – Contemporary Issues in Sport Management, which sets the foundation for the program.
Through a mix of coursework and hands-on learning, this program prepares you for a range of career options, including sports marketing, managing professional, collegiate, or amateur sports organizations, representing professional athletes, sports public relations, and sports facility and event management.
The program wraps up with a mentored senior project, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting. Programs like this make some of the best colleges for sports management stand out, offering the tools and experience you need to kickstart your career.
8. Florida State University
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Acceptance rate: 25%
- Cost of attendance:
- $25,762 (In-State)
- $39,692 (Out-of-State)
Florida State’s bachelor’s degree in sports management is a solid introduction to the sports industry, blending practical learning with insights from current industry research. The program allows you to customize your education with electives in business, recreation, and other related fields, so you can focus on what interests you most.
The curriculum includes ten core classes (30 credit hours) that combine theory with hands-on applications for sports management. If you’re looking to fast-track your education, you can choose the combined B.S./M.S. pathway in Sport Management.
This option lets you complete 12 graduate credit hours that count toward your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. You’ll also gain valuable experience through practicum and service hours, connecting with professionals in the field and building your resume.
With its tailored approach and real-world opportunities, Florida State stands out as one of the best colleges for sports management, giving you the tools to launch a successful career.
9. Texas A&M University – College Station
- Location: College Station, TX
- Acceptance rate: 63%
- Cost of attendance:
- $31,058 (in-state)
- $59,336 (out-of-state)
If you’re considering diving into the world of sports management, a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management could be the perfect fit. This program is about preparing you for roles as an administrator or manager in athletic programs, health clubs, or country clubs. It even opens doors to entry-level management jobs in college or professional sports organizations.
This degree stands out because it keeps up with the latest trends in the sports industry, ensuring you’re ready to compete in the job market. To wrap up your studies, you’ll choose four options for your final experience: an internship, a capstone project, an international experience, or undergraduate research.
The internship lets you apply what you’ve learned in real-world settings while building valuable connections in the industry. If you’re more into hands-on academic challenges, the capstone project allows you to tackle a complex assignment that pulls together everything you’ve learned. If you’re aiming for a career in sports management, exploring the best colleges for sports management can help you find the program that aligns perfectly with your goals.
10. North Carolina State University
- Location: Raleigh, NC
- Acceptance rate: 47%
- Cost of attendance:
- $27,451 (in-state)
- $51,662 (out-of-state)
If you’re passionate about building a career in sports and related industries, a degree in sports management could be your perfect match. At NC State, the Sport Management program gives you a well-rounded education, blending solid management principles with a global understanding of how sports shape social, economic, political, and technological landscapes.
The program’s curriculum includes 38 hours of professional coursework covering recreation philosophy, management techniques, sports finance, sports law, and more. You’ll also get to tailor your experience with 30 hours of free electives—whether pursuing a minor or creating a custom track to align with your career goals. Lastly, you’ll complete a 10-week internship with a sports agency.
For those aiming to break into the sports industry, exploring the best colleges for sports management, like NC State, could set you up for success in this exciting career path.
How to Choose the Best Sports Management College
Sports management programs can vary widely depending on the college or university, so finding the right fit takes a bit of thought. There are a few important factors to keep in mind when choosing the program that aligns with your goals, as well as some aspects that might not be as important as they first seem. If you’re exploring options, looking into the best colleges for sports management can be a great starting point to narrow down your choices.
1. Years active
While sports have existed for centuries, the modern sports industry is relatively new, so not all colleges offer sports management degrees. Schools with longer-established programs often provide more refined coursework and a stronger academic foundation.
2. Notable alumni
Older sports management programs often stand out because they’ve had more time to establish themselves and build strong connections within the industry. These programs frequently produce notable alumni who have achieved significant success in various areas of sports management, such as working with professional sports teams, major leagues, or renowned agencies.
3. Top-notch staff
When choosing a sports management program, don’t overlook faculty quality. Even top universities may have poorly staffed programs. Look for professors with real-world sports industry experience and effective teaching skills. To find the best colleges for sports management, focus on those with knowledgeable, experienced faculty who can guide you inside and outside the classroom.
4. Location and proximity to internships
Like many industries, sports management thrives in specific hotspots. Cities such as Boston, New York, and Philadelphia on the East Coast and Los Angeles on the West Coast are key hubs for the field, offering unparalleled opportunities for aspiring professionals.
Location matters because hands-on experience is essential in sports management. Internships provide the practical knowledge and connections needed to launch your career. For example, Philadelphia is home to teams like the Phillies, Eagles, Flyers, and 76ers, making it a prime internship location. The best colleges for sports management are often situated in or near these major cities, giving students access to valuable opportunities.
Here are the cities to consider:
- Los Angeles, California
- New York City, New York
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Miami, Florida
- New Orleans, Louisiana
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is sports management an in-demand career?
Yes, sports management is a growing field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in entertainment and sports occupations will grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, adding about 108,900 job openings each year. This growth is driven by increasing public interest in sports and the expansion of athletic programs at various levels.
2. Is sports management a lucrative career?
Yes, sports management can be a lucrative career. Salaries vary widely based on role, experience, and location. For instance, sports managers in the U.S. earn an average annual salary of $69,598, with a typical range between $55,570 and $92,290. High-level positions, such as athletic directors or sports marketing managers, can command even higher salaries, especially within major sports organizations. Additionally, top executives in sports organizations can earn substantial incomes; for example, Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia, earns approximately $3.62 million annually
3. Is sports management a difficult major?
Sports management is not typically considered one of the most difficult majors, but it does require a mix of business, communication, and industry-specific knowledge. You’ll need to study subjects like marketing, finance, and law, along with gaining practical experience through internships. Success in this major depends on your ability to combine classroom learning with real-world application in a competitive field.
Takeaways
Sports management is an exciting field that combines business, marketing, and leadership in the world of sports. A degree in this area opens up opportunities in professional, college, and recreational sports, with a focus on gaining real-world experience through internships.
- Cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Philadelphia serve as important cities for sports management, offering students unparalleled access to internships with professional teams and organizations.
- A program’s success often hinges on its faculty. Professors with real-world sports industry experience and strong teaching skills can provide the practical knowledge and mentorship students need to succeed.
- Hands-on experience is critical in sports management. Programs that require internships, such as Rice University’s 300-hour internship or the University of Florida’s 12-credit internship path, ensure students graduate with valuable industry experience.
- Still undecided whether sports management is for you? Work with a college admissions expert and get assistance in choosing the best collegiate path for you.
Author
