Master's degrees in Sports Management teach students all the business aspects related to the sports and recreation industry. Future graduates learn how to manage a professional team, how to ensure the financial stability and growth of a sports facility, and how to run a recreational department or a marketing department for sports companies.
You should study a Master's in Sports Management if you love sports just as much as you love business. It's the ideal career for people with a great sense of sportsmanship and competitivity, with a lot of energy, passion, and the desire to collaborate with people and make a mark in the sports industry.
While most Sports Management courses are offered as M.Sc. (Master of Science) or M.A. (Master of Arts) degrees, there are some programmes offered as M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration) degrees. It usually takes 1 or 2 years to graduate. You can choose between studying a general Sports Management degree or one of the various specialisations. Some of the most popular are Athletic Training, Sports Marketing, Sports Business, Exercise Science, Recreation Administration, Sports Coaching, and others.
The courses you'll take during a graduate degree in Sports Management vary from one university and programme to another. However, you can expect to take classes in Sustainable Stadium and Event Management, Human Capital Management, Leadership in Sport, Research Methods for Sport, Sports Business and Strategic Thinking, Management Challenges, Sports and the Law, etc.
Sports Management classes also help students develop essential industry-related skills. They range from analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork to organisational abilities, time management, creativity, and attention to details. These skills are essential for sports managers who work with various teams, athletes, or even universities and need to find a balance between their ideas and the clients' expectations.
Sports Management graduates can work in any sport environment where business insights are needed. They might manage the marketing department, oversee the organisation of events, or take charge of professional teams. Some of the most popular jobs are athletic director, contract negotiation manager, event coordinator, facilities manager, financial analyst, marketing coordinator, sports agent, etc.
The most recent and exciting trends in the sports industry are women's sports growing in popularity, e-sports expected to generate over 1 billion USD in 2020, and the implementation of 5G technology could offer fans the connection speed they've been waiting for.
Read more about studying a Sports Management degree
Not sure if Sports Management is for you?
Universities in China are easily among the best higher education institutions both in Asia and worldwide. Tuition fees are affordable when compared to those at Western universities, and the Chinese government offers a large number of scholarships — over 40,000 — to attract international students. You can study English-taught degrees, but don’t miss the opportunity to learn Chinese. It will offer you a big advantage in the job market, both in China and internationally. While studying and living here, you can explore the rich local culture and habits, such as the emphasis on family, the traditional festivals, the passion for tea, etc.
Read more about studying abroad in ChinaCan you handle the weather in China?
Wishlist