Students can choose a bachelor’s, master’s or a doctoral program in sports business. Those who pursue a bachelor’s or a master’s degree get a chance to work in a sports-related setting or participate in a field experience. Whereas others, who are pursuing a doctoral program, have to complete research projects and assess case studies.
What Is Sports Business Studies?
Sports business studies focus on working on the business side of a sports related organization. During this program, students learn the fundamental concepts of business operations that help them in their professional life. This includes the accounting, management, and marketing side of the sports business. Along with the business aspect, students also get a chance to study the legal side of the sports industry.
Some students prefer to get a bachelor’s degree, while others opt for a master’s or a doctorate program.
What Can You Do with A Degree in Sports Business?
Sports business is a competitive career and a lot of people aspire to be a part of it. Those who graduate from this program have plenty of career options. Some may pursue their careers in sports business; however, those who want to choose an academic field can opt for teaching or research. Some individuals work in human resources, finance department, or sales offices as well.
The following are some of the career paths chosen by sports business graduates.
Financial Analysts
Financial analysts help individuals and businesses in making decisions related to investments. They study business and economic trends and give suggestions accordingly. These professionals examine the financial statements of a company to assess its value. They evaluate the strength of the firm’s management team, write reports, and plan meetings with the officials of the company. They meet with the executives of the company to have a better insight into their vision. In a sports business, the need to do finances is the same as in any other business.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $81,590 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 6% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $94,160 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 58,810 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | New York | $132,290 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
Public relations managers formulate and direct plans which are supposed to enhance the image of an organization among the masses. They review press releases and help in sponsoring corporate events as they improve the image of the client or organization. These professionals also put their client’s point of view in front of the media.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $116,180 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 8% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $132,630 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 9,210 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | District of Columbia | $191,960 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
What to Expect from a Sports Business Degree?
A program in sports business may focus on various sports business functions and activities. Typically students would major in a business related subject, with a concentration on sports business. Some programs allow students to specialize in a certain area like sports marketing, sports media relations, and recreation, etc. Students do an internship during the program and gain hands-on experience. Basic Accounting, Recreation Program, and Sports Psychology, etc. are some of the courses taught during these programs.
How to Choose a Sports Business Degree?
These are some of the things you should consider before choosing a program in Sports Business:
- Choose an accredited program
- Check if there are scholarships available
- Consider the total cost and time needed to finish the degree
- Check if the specialization you desire is being offered or not
Sports Business Degree Admission Requirements
To pursue a bachelor’s degree in sports business, students need to have a high school diploma. Some schools may require a SAT score. Those who want a master’s degree need to have a bachelor’s degree, meet a minimum CGPA requirement, and have a good GRE score.