In this article, we profile the top 50 most affordable online master’s in sport management programs.
According to the United States Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of entertainment and sports occupations is projected to grow ten percent through the year 2026. This projected growth is faster than the average of all occupations. This growth rate includes positions such as coaches and scouts, entertainment and sports directors, sports agents and managers, umpires, and other sports officials. We evaluated over 230 colleges and universities that offered master’s in sport management online programs.
To be considered for our list of the most affordable master’s in sport management online programs, colleges or universities must be regionally or nationally accredited and offer at least one online sport management program. While some schools on our list offer a master’s in sport management online degree, others offered online MBA programs with a concentration in sport management or sport administration. We also checked rankings for each school or program with major publications like U.S. News and World Report and noted when a school had received recognition. Also, graduate tuition was collected from the National Center for Education Statistics (College Navigator), and schools were listed in order of affordability.
Below is our list of the top 50 most affordable online master’s in sport management degree programs.
#50 – Northwestern University
Online Master’s in Sports Administration
Evanston, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $52,679
The master’s in sport management online degree program at Northwestern University is offered through the School of Professional Studies and can be completed entirely online. First-rate faculty teach the eleven required courses. Some of the required classes include foundations of leadership, fundamentals of sports marketing, legal and ethical issues in sports management, management and organization of sports, and sports public relations and crisis management. An optional sports administration specialization is also available. Admission requires two letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and official transcripts. U.S. News and World Report ranks Northwestern #11 among best national universities and #21 in best value schools.
#49 – Georgetown University
Online Master’s in Sports Industry Management
Washington, District of Columbia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $48,331
Georgetown University offers sport management online degree programs like the master’s in sports industry management. The robust curriculum is designed to deliver a balanced and practical understanding of both theories and tactics that shape today’s global sports business. Some of the required courses include applied ethics in sports, global strategies in sports, law and negotiation, sports business and finance, sports leadership and management, and sports marketing and public relations. While Georgetown is not the most affordable school on our list, it is nationally ranked among the 20 best in the country by U.S. News and World Report. Also, U.S. News ranks the institution #26 in best value schools thanks to academic quality and availability of financial aid.
#48 – Adelphi University
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Garden City, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $40,492
Adelphi University’s sport management online master’s programs can be completed entirely online. Students may earn their degree in 24 months by taking a series of streamlined classes. The institution also offers two specializations for students who want to tailor their degree toward areas of interest. These specializations include collegiate athletic administration and sport marketing. Some of the required courses include contemporary issues in sport management environment, introduction to sport management, research in sport management, sport management personnel and program evaluation, and technology in sport management. Application for admission does not require the GRE or GMAT. U.S. News and World Report ranks Adelphi as a top national university. In fact, the most recent publication of best colleges lists Adelphi #151 in national universities.
#47 – University of Miami
Online Master of Education in Sport Administration
Coral Gables, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $36,332
University of Miami’s master’s in sport management online degree program is 100% online and can be completed in 20 months, depending on student pace. Thirty credits are required to graduate, and all courses are delivered online and taught by University of Miami faculty members. Some of the required courses include advanced sport information management, essential leadership skills in sport, fiscal management in sport administration, globalization in sport, organization and administration in sport programs, and sport sponsorship. Students take one course at a time, and each course runs seven weeks. University of Miami ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 46th best national university and 59th best value school in the country.
#46 – Drexel University
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $33,996
Drexel University offers sport management online degree programs designed for graduate students looking to land their dream job in the sports industry. The online master’s in sport management is fully online and offers classes taught by Drexel professors. Courses include business statistics, leadership and professional development, leadership in sport management, managing the total enterprise, measuring and maximizing financial performance, social issues in sport, sport law, and sport industry management. To be admitted to the program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0, and present two years of prior work experience. While GRE and GMAT scores are not required, they are accepted and may make your application more competitive. U.S. News and World Report ranks Drexel #94 in best national universities and #70 in best value schools.
#45 – DePaul University
Online Master’s in Sport Fitness and Recreation Leadership
Chicago, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,689
Some of the top online sport management programs for graduate students looking to gain awareness of current trends and issues and acquire credentials that qualify them for leadership roles in the sports industry are found at DePaul University. The online master’s in sport fitness and recreation leadership is a fully online program that requires letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and work experience for admission. Classes are delivered online and taught by university professors. These classes include a total of 12 courses (48 credit hours) such as advanced care of the athlete, advanced health and science concepts in sport, ethics and diversity in sport, facility and risk management in sport, and strategic communication and marketing in sport. There are two short summer sessions (three days) required and must be completed face-to-face. U.S. News and World Report ranks DePaul #120 in best national universities.
#44 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Manchester, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810
One of the most affordable master degree in sports management online degree programs on our list is offered by Southern New Hampshire University. This fully online program is designed for those who want to pursue careers in collegiate and professional sport management organizations. Classes are offered 100% online and explore topics like management of sport organizations, research methods in sport management, and sport marketing and media. Flexible start dates throughout the year allow students to jump into the program at different times. The program is accredited by both the NEASC and ACBSP, and Southern New Hampshire University is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school #1 among most innovative schools, #83 among best value schools, and #86 among best regional universities in the North.
#43 – Franklin Pierce University
Online MBA in Sports Management
Rindge, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,200
For those looking to become business leaders in the sports industry, Franklin Pierce University offers a sport management online master’s. This online MBA in sports management combines online learning with flexible full or part time completion options. To be admitted to the MBA program, students must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a GPA of 2.8 or better. There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for admission. Courses are delivered online and include topics of study like change management, media relations in sports management, qualitative and quantitative, and sports facility management. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Franklin Pierce #146-#187 in best regional universities in the North.
#42 – Wayne State University
Online Master’s in Sport Administration
Detroit, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,164
Wayne State University offers a master degree in sports management online program that is ideal for working students. Flexible online classes and the option of completing either an internship or thesis are part of this advanced degree program designed to prepare students for leadership roles within the sports industry. Some of the courses include collegiate athletic administration, concepts of supervision and management, equity and access in sport, introduction to sports administration, sport finance, and sports marketing. Admission requires official transcripts and an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.5. Wayne State is an accredited institution. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #223 in best national universities and #129 in top public schools.
#41 – Temple University
Online Executive Master’s in Sport Business
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,054
Temple University’s online sport management programs include the executive master in sport business. This program is powered by the Fox School of Business’ online MBA program and designed for professionals with at least five years of industry experience. The program consists of ten three-credit courses, which are taken one at a time over a five-week period. Some of the courses include data analytics in sport, legal issues in sport, sport financial and economic systems, sport for development, the sport workplace, and understanding sport consumers. Application for admission requires an earned bachelor’s from an accredited institution, official transcripts with a satisfactory GPA, and GRE or GMAT scores. Temple is a top ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks Temple #115 in best national universities and #92 in best value schools.
#40 – Gonzaga University
Online Master’s in Sport and Athletic Administration
Spokane, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,845
The master’s in sport management online degree program at Gonzaga University is for individuals looking to enter the big business world of sports and athletic administration. Classes may be completed online and are taught by the same university professors who instruct on campus. There are ten required classes, one internship, and no on-campus visits. Some of the courses include administration in sport and athletics, ethical and legal aspects in sport, facility management in sport and athletics, sport and athletic finance, and sport and athletics in social context. To be eligible for admission, Gonzaga requires an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. U.S. News and World Report ranks Gonzaga #4 in best regional universities in the West.
#39 – Houston Baptist University
Online Master’s in Kinesiology – Sport Management
Houston, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,550
Houston Baptist University offers a sport management online degree that focuses on kinesiology. Classes may be completed entirely online and are taught by university professors. These courses include applied research methods in sports and kinesiology, ethical issues in sport management, event and facility management, financial management in sport, legal issues in sport, marketing management, and statistics for behavioral sciences. A total of 35 credit hours in coursework must be completed. Admission requires the GRE, and submitted test scores may not be more than five years old. Houston Baptist is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks HBU #70 in best regional universities in the West.
#38 – California University of Pennsylvania
Online Master’s in Sport Management Studies
California, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,203
California University of Pennsylvania offers a sport management online master’s degree program designed for individuals interested in professional careers in leading sports organizations. There are three concentrations to choose from that allow students to tailor their degree. These concentrations include intercollegiate athletic administration, sport management, and strategic sport analysis. The program takes approximately 13 months to complete. Some of the online courses include leadership and management in sport, legal aspects in sport, public relations in sport, research methods in sport, sport ethics, sport governance, and sport marketing. U.S. News and World Report ranks California University of Pennsylvania #146-#187 in best regional universities in the North.
#37 – University of Massachusetts
Online MBA in Sport Management
Amherst, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,367
The Isenberg School of Management at University of Massachusetts offers a master degree in sports management online program that is designed for those interested in professional sport management careers. Classes are delivered entirely online and expose students to a variety of sport management and business topics. Some of the required courses include advanced negotiations for managers, applied sport market research, consumer sales strategies, data management for business leaders, negotiations theory and practice, project management, and sport analytics. To apply, students must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. UMASS is ranked and accredited. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the institution #75 in best national universities and #84 in best value schools.
#36 – Fresno Pacific University
Online Master’s in Sport Administration
Fresno, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,039
Fresno Pacific University offers a sport management online degree program designed to prepare graduates for administration positions in the sports industry. No GMAT or GRE scores are required for admission. Classes are delivered 100% online and offer in-depth study in contemporary trends and issues found in the sports industry. A total of 30 credits are required, and completion of the program generally takes just five semesters. Some of the required courses include sport administration professional development, sport career development, sport leadership and administration, sport marketing, and sport sales and sponsorship. Fresno Pacific is an accredited institution. Also, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school #41 in best regional universities in the West and #41 in best value institutions.
#35 – University of the Southwest
Online MBA in Sport Management and Recreation
Hobbs, New Mexico
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,376
University of the Southwest offers an affordable master’s in sport management online degree program for those interested in the world of business and how it applies to the sports and fitness industry. The program is 100 percent online and flexibly designed so that students may work at their own pace. This program is ideal for working individuals and those with obligations outside of education. Some of the MBA in sport management classes include physical education and sports administration, probabilities and statistics, sports management economy and finance, and sports marketing. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of the Southwest #96-#126 in best regional universities in the West.
#34 – Virginia Commonwealth University
Online Master’s in Sport Leadership
Richmond, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,633
The School of Education at Virginia Commonwealth University offers part-time online/hybrid sport management programs that are ideal for working individuals. The master’s in sport leadership is an M.Ed. degree program that offers classes online and in the classroom. While the program is not fully online, students may take several classes via distance learning while integrating into the campus for the remainder of their course load. Admission to the program requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts from previous college work. Courses include leadership models in sport, marketing of sport, sociology of sport, sport business, sport law, and sports psychology. U.S. News ranks VCU #171 in best national universities and #90 in top public schools.
#33 – Tiffin University
Online MBA in Sports Management
Tiffin, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,900
Tiffin University’s sport management online master’s program is an MBA with a concentration in sports management. This program can be completed fully online and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Courses are taught by university professors and include business strategies in sport, communication and fundraising in sports, fundamentals of quantitative business, personnel management in sport, and quantitative business analysis and research. The school and its successful graduate network helps students complete a 200-hour mentorship, which helps solidify information learned throughout the program. U.S. News and World Report ranks Tiffin #93 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
#32 – Washington State University
Online Master’s in Education – Sport Management
Pullman, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,799
The College of Education at Washington State University offers a master degree in sports management online program with two completion options – the thesis option or the non-thesis option. Admission requires three letters of reference, transcripts showing all previous university coursework, and satisfactory GRE test scores. Courses cover a variety of topics in business, education, and sport management. Some of the topics include financial management in sport, human resource management in sport, legal socio-cultural issues in sport, and research and development in sport. WSU is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the institution #140 in best national universities and #87 in best value schools.
#31 – University of Florida
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Gainesville, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,737
University of Florida’s sport management online degree program is designed to equip students with leadership skills and knowledge applicable to the amateur, collegiate, and professional arena and field of sport. Rigorous curriculum is shaped and taught by Florida’s faculty who are active in research and the delivery of online learning. Some of the courses required for the degree include athlete training and development, finance for sports organizations, psychology and physiology of high-performing athletes, risk management and legal issues relating to sport, and sport marketing. Specialization options are also available so that students may tailor their sport management degree toward areas of interest such as athlete development and sport law. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Florida #42 in best national universities and #93 in best value schools.
#30 – SUNY Cortland
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Cortland, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,500
Affordable sport management online programs that cater to working students are offered by SUNY Cortland College. This program is designed for students who are interested in working in sport and are either currently employed or are unable to attend traditional on-campus classes. Courses are conveniently offered and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses include business and finance of sport, policy and strategic management in sport organizations, research methods in sport management, sport law, and sport marketing. During the last semester of the program, students are required to complete either an internship or a thesis in sport management. U.S. News and World Report ranks SUNY Cortland #48 in best regional universities in the North and #13 in top public schools.
#29 – Louisiana State University
Online Master’s in Kinesiology – Sport Management
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,447
Louisiana State University offers one of the most affordable sport management online programs on our list. The master’s in kinesiology degree can be completed in as little as 12 months and offers a specialization in sport management. This program is fully online and requires no thesis. Some of the online courses include administrative problems in kinesiology, economic issues in sports, financial issues in sport, organizational behavior and development in sport, social issues in sport, and sport law. A total of 36 credit hours (12 classes) are required. Near the end of the program, a research component is also required, and students take independent study and/or research methods classes. U.S. News and World Report ranks LSU #133 in best national universities and #140 in best value schools.
#28 – University of Northern Colorado
Online Master’s in Sport & Exercise Science – Sport Administration
Greeley, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,238
The master degree in sports management online program at University of Northern Colorado is a 12-month program that features online delivery and convenient courses. The program generally takes 12 months to complete, though on average students earn their degree in 12-15 months. A total of 30 credits are required and courses are taught by the same professors who teach on campus. Some of the courses offered include administration of sport organizations and employees, critical thinking and ethical considerations in sport administration, financial management for sport organizations, and sport promotion and marketing. You must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university and have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better to be considered for admission. The GRE is not required. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of Northern Colorado #231- #300 in best national universities.
#27 – Old Dominion University
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Norfolk, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,904
Old Dominion’s sport management online master’s degree is designed to provide you with the sports business knowledge and experience to embark on a challenging and rewarding career in the sports industry. Thirty-six credit hours, including a capstone, are required to satisfy the degree. The capstone allows students to choose from two options: an internship or thesis. Online courses include applied research methods in education, introduction to research methods in education, management and leadership in sport, sport finance, sport law, and strategic marketing in sport. A series of electives are also offered and allow students to tailor their degree toward areas of interest. Old Dominion is an accredited and ranked national university. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks ODU #231 – #300 in best national universities.
#26 – Southern Connecticut State University
Online Master’s in Sport and Entertainment Management
New Haven, Connecticut
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,674
One of the most affordable online sport management programs on our list is the online master’s in sport and entertainment management degree at Southern Connecticut State University. With rolling admissions and a fully online course load, this program is ideal for working students. Courses include facility and event management, global issues in sport and entertainment, leading sport organizations, marketing and sales in sport and entertainment, operations research, sport and entertainment finance, and sport and entertainment law. A special project or thesis is also required. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Southern Connecticut #130 in best regional universities in the North and #44 in top public schools.
#25 – The University of Texas
Online M.Ed. in Sport Management
Austin, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,490
The University of Texas’ College of Education offers a master’s in sport management online degree program with the same benefits as the in-person program but with flexible online delivery. The degree requires no thesis and can be completed in two years. Classes are limited to 25 students. The small learning environment makes it possible for students to forge relationships with peers and their professors. Some of the required courses include ethics in sport, facility and event management, human resource management in sport organizations, legal issues in sport, sport finance, and strategic management in sport organizations. Application to the program requires two letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and GRE scores. U.S. News and World Report rank the school #56 in best national universities and #123 in best value schools.
#24 – Bryan College
Online MBA in Sports Management
Dayton, Tennessee
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,328
Bryan College offers sport management online programs like the online MBA in sports management. This fully online MBA is IACBE-accredited and designed to offer deep insight in areas of sport and business. The program moves at a fast pace and allows students to finish their degree in as little as 18 months. Courses include business in a global environment, integrated strategic management, leading the sports organization, managerial economics, sports facility and event management, sports finance, and sports marketing. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout the program. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Bryan College #68 in best regional universities in the South and #34 in best value schools.
#23 – Mississippi College
Online Master’s in Athletic Administration
Clinton, Mississippi
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,222
Mississippi College offers a master degree in sports management online program designed for those who wish to work in the administrative areas of sports and athletics at a college or secondary school. The program consists of 37 credit hours that are completed over a two-year cycle. Also, two concentrations are offered and allow students to tailor their degree. These concentrations include intercollegiate and interscholastic. Some of the courses, depending on the selected concentration, include basics of effective leadership, finance in higher education, issues and concepts of personnel management, and legal structures and legal issues. U.S. News and World Report ranks Mississippi College #32 in best regional universities in the South and #12 in best value schools.
#22 – Lasell College
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Newton, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,960
Lasell College’s sport management online degree emphasizes a highly personalized and flexible education experience that is available fully online. There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for admission and classes are capped at 23 students. The small class atmosphere makes it ideal to form peer relationships and interact with professors. There are also four specialization options that allow students to tailor their degree. These specializations include athletic administration, parks and recreation, sport leadership, and sport tourism and hospitality management. Some of the required courses include administrative procedures, financial management in the sport industry, leisure studies foundation, and sport sponsorship and marketing. U.S. News and World Report ranks Lasell #130 in best regional universities in the North.
#21 – University of Memphis
Online Master’s in Sport Commerce
Memphis, Tennessee
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,697
One of the most affordable sport management online master’s programs on our list is the master’s in sport commerce at University of Memphis. The degree is designed for working students and professionals who want to gain leadership skills and apply them to the field of sport commerce. Classes are delivered online and taught by University of Memphis professors. These classes are delivered at flexible times and locations that accommodate busy schedules. While the program is predominantly online, students can take on-campus classes if they choose. University of Memphis is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school #231 #300 in best national universities.
#20 – Baker University
Online Master’s in Sports Management
Baldwin City, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,368
Baker University offers sport management online programs designed for working graduate students. The online master’s in sports management is a 33-credit hour program that links the classroom with experienced professionals to create a virtual learning community. The program takes 18 to 20 months to complete, though some students earn their degree in just 12 months. Classes are taught by industry professionals and Baker University professors. Some of the classes include communication and public relations in sport, legal aspects of sport business, marketing strategies in sport, organizational culture and dynamics, and sports facility and event management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Baker #46 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #71 in best value schools.
#19 – Belhaven University
Online Master of Sports Administration
Jackson, Mississippi
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,170
Belhaven University’s online sport management programs include the master’s in sports administration. This fully online graduate program is designed to develop skills through an intense study of sports administration-related classes. Some of the courses include current issues and trends in sports administration, current issues in human resources, legal and regulatory environment for sports, sports finance and budgeting, strategic leadership, and venue and event management. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better. U.S. News and World Report ranks Belhaven #78 in best regional universities in the South.
#18 – Saint Leo University
Online MBA in Sports Business
Saint Leo, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,990
Saint Leo University offers sport management online programs that include the MBA with a specialization in sports business. This fully online business degree is the first MBA sports business program to be accredited by the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA). Enrolled students take up to two courses per eight-week term and complete 36 credits to graduate. Courses include financial and managerial accounting, financial aspects of sport, global business management, human resource in management, professional development, risk management and legal concepts in sport, and sport marketing. U.S. News and World Report ranks Saint Leo #61 in best regional universities in the South and #23 in best value schools.
#17 – Ohio University
Online Master’s in Athletic Administration
Athens, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,715
Ohio University offers a master degree in sports management online that is designed to prepare students to become leaders in sports and athletic administration. No GRE is required for admission, though students must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Required courses adhere to the same curriculum of the on-campus degree. These courses include athletic fundraising, intercollegiate athletics governance, research methods, sponsorship in sports, sports administration, and sports and consumers. During the final semester, students may participate in an internship, which satisfies additional credit requirements. U.S. News and World Report ranks Ohio University #151 in best national universities and #78 in top public schools.
#16 – West Virginia University
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Morgantown, West Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,450
West Virginia University’s College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences offers a master’s in sport management online degree program designed to prepare students to become professionals in the sport industry. Two program tracks are available: a low residency track and a fully online pathway. The comprehensive sport industry management track is a low residency program, while the interscholastic sport administration path is fully online. After courses are taken, students participate in field experiences and research projects. Valuable hands-on industry experience allows students to build relationships and gain an understanding of the field through the program’s mentorship program. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #187 in best national universities and #99 in top public schools.
#15 – Missouri Baptist University
Online Master’s in Fitness Management
Saint Louis, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,405
One of the most affordable sport management online programs on our list is the fitness management master’s degree at Missouri Baptist University. This fully online program is ideal for those interested in careers as certified athletic trainers, health and physical education teachers, business owners, or wellness coaches and counselors. All classes are delivered online and are taught by university professors. A Christian perspective is delivered as part of the curriculum. Courses include chronic diseases and obesity, fitness management, research methods, sport finance, sport law, sport psychology, and a thesis proposal and research. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Missouri Baptist as a top institution. In fact, the most recent publication of Best Colleges ranks the school #126-#165 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
#14 – Texas A & M University
Online Master’s in Sport Management
College Station, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,065
Texas A&M University offers sport management online master’s programs designed for busy and working students. The online master’s degree consists of 36 credits with no thesis required for completion of the degree. While the GRE is not required for admission, satisfactory scores can enhance the application. Students have the option of following a full-time or part-time schedule depending on needs and availability. Some of the courses offered in the program include diversity ethics in sport organizations, financial management in sport, management of sport organizations, personnel management in sport, and sport media and communications. U.S. News and World Report ranks Texas A&M #69 in best national universities and #43 in best value schools.
#13 – Georgia Southern University
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Statesboro, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,728
Some of the most affordable online sport management programs on our list are found at Georgia Southern University. The master’s in sport management is a fully online degree program designed to fit the needs of working adults. To be admitted to the program, students must submit GRE or GMAT scores less than five years old, provide a resume with quality work experience, and provide transcripts with an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.5. Some of the courses seen in the program include current trends in sport administration, financial and strategic management in sport, research and analysis in sport, revenue generation in sport, sport administration, and sport facility and event management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Georgia Southern #231-#300 in best national universities.
#12 – Liberty University
Online Master’s in Sports Management
Lynchburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,723
Liberty University offers a master degree in sports management online designed for sports enthusiasts. The program is accredited by the Commission on Sports Management Accreditation (COSMA). Several specialization options are offered and allow students to tailor their degree toward areas of interest. These specializations include coaching and athletic administration, outdoor adventure sport, sports administration, and tourism. All classes are delivered online and taught by Liberty instructors. These classes run eight weeks in length and include courses like economic and financial management of sport, ethics in sport, social issues in sport management, and sports marketing and public relations. U.S. News and World Report ranks Liberty #231-#300 in best national universities.
#11 – Wilmington University
Online Master’s in Management – Sports Management
New Castle, Delaware
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,438
Wilmington University’s College of Business offers sport management online programs designed for graduate students with a bachelor’s degree. The master’s in management offers a concentration in sports management and National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) approved courses for the Certified Athletic Administrator exam and certification. Classes are delivered online and include analysis of decision making, business strategy in sports management, leadership development and change management, organization theory and design, sports economics and finance, sports law governance and compliance, and sports service and event marketing. U.S. News and World Report recognizes Wilmington as an unranked university.
#10 – Troy University
Online Master’s in Sport and Fitness Management
Troy, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,362
Troy University’s sport management online programs include the master’s in sport and fitness management. This online program is designed to propel students into positions of administration and leadership within the sports and fitness industry. Courses are delivered online, and students have the option of completing an internship for career preparation. The program is one of the few of its kind to have received accreditation by the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA). While the degree serves as preparation for career entry, courses and curriculum also prepare students for doctoral programs. U.S. News and World Report ranks Troy #89 in best regional universities in the South and #34 in top public schools.
#9 – University of Southern Mississippi
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,218
University of Southern Mississippi offers a sport management online degree that is ideally designed for those interested in working in administrative roles within the sports industry. An optional emphasis allows students to tailor their sport management degree even further by taking classes in sport event security management. All courses are delivered online and are taught by the same professors who lead on-campus classes. These classes include applied research methods and statistics in sport, financial management in sport, policy and governance in sport, socio-ethical issues in sport, sport marketing and public relations, and sport venue and event management. A comprehensive exam is required for all master’s students and must be passed in order to graduate. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as a top 300 national university.
#8 – Concordia University
Online Master’s in Coaching and Athletics Administration
Irvine, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,914
Concordia University offers online sport management programs that include the master’s in coaching and athletics administration. This program is highly customizable and provides a wide range of classes and electives that can be tailored toward areas of athletic interest. Some of the core courses offered include ethics and sport, legal aspects of sport, principles of coaching and leadership, and research methods and analysis. Electives are available in specific sport areas like cheerleading, coaching lacrosse, soccer, and track and field. A culminating project and portfolio must be completed as part of the degree requirements. Concordia is accredited and ranked with major publications. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks Concordia #41 in best regional universities in the West and #36 in best value schools.
#7 – University of South Alabama
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Mobile, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,578
University of South Alabama’s master’s in sport management online degree program focuses on elements of the sports industry with an emphasis on sport event and organizational management. The program may be completed entirely online by taking classes that are both convenient and flexibly designed for working students. Some of the classes include administration of health, physical education, and sport; educational research and evaluation; sport event law and risk management; sport event marketing; and sport leadership and organizational behavior. U.S. News and World Report ranks University of South Alabama #231-#300 in best national universities. The program and school are both accredited.
#6 – Indiana State University
Online Master’s in Sport Management
Terre Haute, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,472
Indiana State University offers sport management online master’s programs designed for working professionals who have experience in public or private organizations. The program emphasizes eight competency areas established by the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM). These emphasis areas include ethics in sport management, legal aspects and risk management in sport, marketing of sport programs and facilities, and research methods and applications. Admission requirements include a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0. The GRE is not required for admission. U.S. News and World Report ranks the university #231-#300 in best national universities.
#5 – Western Carolina University
Online Master of Sport Management
Cullowhee, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,361
The fully online sport management programs at Western Carolina University include the master’s in sport management degree. All courses for the master’s in sport management online program are flexible and conveniently designed, and there are no prerequisites, which means classes can be completed in no particular order. Some of the courses include critical issues in sport, economics and financial aspects of sport, managing enterprise projects, sport administration and governance, sport in the global marketplace, and sport marketing. An internship experience is available for students, but program director approval is needed. Admission requirements include official college transcripts (a 3.0 GPA is recommended) and two letters of recommendation. U.S. News and World Report ranks Western Carolina #38 in best regional universities in the South and #13 in top public schools.
#4 – Texas Woman’s University
Online Master’s in Kinesiology – Sport Management
Denton, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,072
Texas Woman’s University offers sport management online programs that include the master’s in kinesiology with an emphasis in sport management. This program is 100% online and can be completed in just four semesters. Flexible enrollment allows students to be admitted in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. The classes are taught by university professors and include a kinesiology core (six credits) and sports management emphasis (thirty credits). Some of the courses include applied statistical principles, financing the sport enterprise, legal issues in sport, sport in American society, and sport promotion and publicity. An internship or thesis option are also offered. Texas Woman’s is accredited and ranked among the top 300 best national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#3 – Florida Atlantic University
Online MBA in Sport Management
Boca Raton, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,657
Florida Atlantic University offers a sport management online degree program designed for those interested in earning an online MBA with an emphasis in sport management. The program is AACSB-accredited and offers courses online or on campus. Both pathways mirror each other in curriculum and vigor. Admission requires an earned bachelor’s in any discipline, official transcripts with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better, a personal essay, and scores from the GMAT or GRE. Classes cover business and sport management topics. Some of the courses include advanced financial management, communication skills for business professionals, managing the sport enterprise, sport business analytics, sport law, and sport marketing. U.S. News and World Report ranks Florida Atlantic #231-#300 in best national universities and #216 in best business programs.
#2 – Eastern New Mexico University
Online Master’s in Physical Education – Sport Administration
Portales, New Mexico
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,462
The master’s in sport management online degree program at Eastern New Mexico University can be completed 100% online but has the option of taking some courses in person. A total of 36 credit hours are required for the program, which is comprised of core courses, electives, and a master’s thesis. Some of the courses include applied sport psychology, sport and the media, sport event management, sport facility management, sport finance and economics, and strategic sport marketing. Two emphasis areas allow students to tailor their degree toward areas of interest, such as coaching or sport administration. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #96-#126 in best regional universities in the West.
#1 – Arkansas State University
Online Master’s in Sport Administration
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,121
Arkansas State University offers the most affordable master’s in sport management online degree program on our list. In as little as 12 months, students may complete their online sport administration master’s degree. All classes are delivered online and are taught by ASU professors. Some of the required courses include ethical issues in sport, sport communications, sport finance and budgeting, sport law, sport leadership, sport marketing, and a research design component and internship. The program is accredited by the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA) and ranked by major publications. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #68 in best regional universities in the South and #25 in top public schools.
BCO Staff
October 2019
This concludes our list of the top 50 most affordable online master’s in sport management degree programs.
Related: