What Can You Do With a M.S. in Sports Administration?
The sport and entertainment industry is rapidly growing; according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, entertainment and sports occupations are projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Nearly 107,000 openings are projected each year, on average, in the industry.[1] By the end of 2025, the industry is expected to be valued at nearly $600 billion.[2] That means plenty of opportunities to explore in this exciting and enriching field.
Whether you’re looking to break into the sports field or elevate your career, a M.S. in Sports Administration will develop your toolkit for a successful career in the industry. Learn about different careers in the sports industry.
Careers in Sports Administration
- Accounts Manager/Corporate Partnerships
- Athletic Administrator
- Athletic Director
- Business Development
- Facilities or Operations Manager
- Financial Management
- Gameday/Event Coordinator
- Legal Services
- Parks and Recreation
- Personnel Management
- Public Relations
- Resort Management
- Sports & Health Club Staff
- Sports Agent
- Sports Camp Director
- Sports Content Producer
- Sports Information Director
- Sports Mediator/Arbitrator
- Sports Writer/Blogger
- Ticket Sales
- Tournament Planner
- Youth Sports Coordinator
About Popular Careers in Sports
Facilities Manager[3]
Facilities managers have the responsibility for managing all aspects of sports venues and facilities. They are responsible for scheduling, inventory, security, maintenance, food and beverage, and all operational aspects. They liaise with game day staff, vendors, marketing, finance and almost every function of a team. Facilities managers are often viewed as a jack of all trades with a wide array of skills to ensure the smooth operation of a venue.
Gameday or Event Coordinator[4]
Gameday and event coordinators manage every detail of a game or an event. These dynamic individuals ensure that every critical detail is considered to ensure an effective event. They manage the pre-event planning and coordination, day-of preparation, and post-event or game follow-up. They often act as the liaison between fans and guests, organizations, venues, and more, all to ensure a high-quality experience for all parties.
Sports Marketing[5]
There’s a lot one can do in sports marketing. These individuals can be involved with ticket sales, promotions, sponsorship, advertising, social media, branding, merchandising, and more! These marketers ensure that the brand of an organization is highly visible and that fans have a premium experience. The personal nature of sports fandom means that personal engagement is an exceptionally valuable method for building loyalty. Sports marketers also need an in-depth level of knowledge about sports; it’s not just a matter of knowing the rules of the sport, but understanding the history, attitudes, and environment of players and fans.
Public Relations[6]
In the bustling sports industry, public relations professionals play a crucial role in managing the brand of organizations, teams, and individuals. These individuals focus on developing and maintaining positive images for athletes, organizations, teams, and venues. They act as the conduit between teams, individuals, and the media. Not only do they share relevant information but play an important role in promoting a team’s profitability. After all, fans are more likely to buy tickets, purchase merchandise, and fill stadium seats when there’s public interest.
About the PC M.S. in Sports Administration
Launching in fall 2025, Providence College is launching an online M.S. in Sports Administration. This program is designed to equip emerging and mid-career professionals in sports administration with the skills to grow and lead in their field. Coursework will combine critical business principles with athletic-specific competencies, rooted in the liberal arts tradition that makes Providence College unique. Offered through the AACSB-accredited School of Business, this program builds on the storied legacy of Providence College’s NCAA Division I athletic programs.
[1] “Entertainment and Sports Occupations.” BLS, 2023, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/entertainment-and-sports/home.htm#.
[2] “The 5 Most Promising Careers in Sports…” Best College, 2023, https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/careers-in-sports/.
[3] https://www.sports-management-degrees.com/job-profiles/sports-facility-director/
[4] https://www.sports-management-degrees.com/job-profiles/game-operations/
[5] https://www.sports-management-degrees.com/job-profiles/sports-marketing/
[6] https://www.sports-management-degrees.com/job-profiles/public-relations/
