MBA programs that offer a concentration in Sports Management are designed to combine cutting edge business savvy with the unique industry of sports management and sports entertainment. Professionals who are driven to become major players in the business side of sports will gain a working knowledge of the legal issues, culture, marketing techniques, financial issues and management aspects of sports in order to become leaders of enterprises, team managers, marketing and public relations managers for sports teams and more. These kinds of leaders are all dedicated to promoting a team’s image and success aside from its athletic performance or championship status. Online programs make it even easier for business professionals to become sports managers due to a flexible format and the ability to study remotely. These perks allow professionals to study, go to work, and still make room for family and personal time without having to worry about commuting or adhering to a strict classroom schedule.

To be eligible for an MBA in Sports Management program, you will need to submit a transcript showing you have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Many schools will require you to have majored in a business-related field. You may also have to submit work experience or internship experience in sports management and business. Once you have been accepted, you will take a combination of business core courses, like management, advanced marketing and market research, business ethics, management information systems and more. Specific sports management courses will cover topics like management of sport and convention venues, management of intercollegiate athletics, sports law, sports marketing, finance in sport, sports public relations, sports administration and others. These classes will reinforce your working and theoretical knowledge of business principles, as well as introduce you to in-depth practices and strategies that are unique to the sports management industry.

Sports managers occupy a variety of careers, including college sports administrators, sports park and venue managers, franchise managers, and marketing, financial and advertising officers or consultants for sports teams. The salary range for managers of professional sports teams is much higher than local teams or college teams, and some salaries may even depend on the success of the team.