M.A. in Sport Management: Curriculum

Different theories of leadership and management styles are introduced and what their impact is on organizational structure, productivity, and decision making. Students will examine their individual management and leadership styles as they relate to sport management administration. This course will analyze how leadership is not only different from management but also more effective in today’s workplace.

This international travel course supports students’ program learning with first-hand experience.

Discusses critical aspects of human resource management as it relates to sport organizations. An overview is given of major functions and concepts regarding the management and administration of human resources in the organization including: recruitment, development, motivation, compensation, benefits administration, employee relations, and human resource information systems.

This course will examine the application of marketing principles in the sport industry. Elements of corporate partnerships related to sport marketing will also be explored along with business strategies of sponsorships, branding, promotions, and event marketing.

This course examines the various research methodologies used in organizational settings. It provides an overview of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies including research design, data collection and analysis, interviewing, case studies, and action science. The philosophy, ethics, and politics of management research are introduced.

This course will examine the relationships between the sport industry, media, and technology. The course will explore various mediums such as radio, television, online forums, blogs, and social media, in terms of their history, function, impact, and ethical implications in the sport industry. Students will also examine the importance of technology in sport and how to integrate this knowledge into sport business.

This course takes a multi-disciplinary approach to the theories and practices of facility design, construction, and operations. The course will examine a wide variety of both indoor and outdoor sports facilities including stadiums, gymnasiums, golf courses, fitness centers, and athletic fields. Students will also examine event management and programming within the context of stadium and arena management.

Legal Aspects of Sports is an overview of legal aspects that will be relevant to sport managers in areas of recreation, athletics, facilities, and business. The course will examine risk management strategies along with law related to operation and administration of sport-related programs. Students will explore case studies relating to the legal aspects of sports.

The practical aspects of the strategic and operational roles of accounting and finance are explored, including applications of strategic planning, budgeting, financial performance, and fiscal and ethical responsibility in a sport management setting.

This course explores the ethical and sociological issues in sport and recreation settings. Students will critically analyze problems and issues from an ethical and sociological perspective. Students will further examine contemporary case studies to think reflectively about the topics presented in the course in relation to present life experiences and future plans.

The capstone course provides the sport professional with the opportunity to synthesize the learning which has taken place throughout the program. It further focuses upon the practical application of knowledge within the industry. The capstone will serve as an assessment of student learning within the Master of Arts in Sport Management and Master of Science in Coaching and Athletic Administration.

Sales is an essential revenue producing function for any commercial organization. Sport and recreations have a unique marketing relationship of product and inventory with the consumer and marketplace. The course is designed for the student to learn the theoretical concepts and the application of skills and practices associated with the sports sales process. Through readings and lectures, the course will examine the rationale regarding the benefits and disadvantages of various sales and promotional methodologies. This course will then concentrate on promotional and sales strategies, campaigns, and techniques.

This international travel course supports students’ program learning with first-hand experience.