Professionals typically have the desire to advance within their careers. However, many simply feel they don’t have the time to go back to school. This ranking includes Master’s of Business Administration degrees with a focus on the growing field of Sports Management that can be earned entirely online. The online format is convenient, and allows working professionals, parents, and those with other obligations to maintain a work/life/school balance. Don’t have time to attend a traditional three-hour weekly class? Many universities realize that it is a reality for adult learners, and have created programs for students just like you! You can log in and complete a discussion board post before work, watch a professor’s lesson at your convenience, and complete longer projects or essays on the weekend. Students can also access these online programs from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. By taking online classes, students are able to eliminate the time it takes to drive to class, and who doesn’t want to add an extra hour to their busy day?
Students may wonder how to find a credible online degree that holds the same prestige as traditional on-campus degrees. In our ranking, we make it easy for you! All of the MBAs included in our ranking of the Top 20 Online Sports Management MBA Programs have been thoroughly vetted, based on rankings by publications such as U.S. News and World Report, regional and business accreditations, overall program affordability, and online student support services. Students can rest assured they will be making a wise investment in their career when selecting one of these top-notch programs.
It is essential for students to feel confident in the graduate school where they choose to pursue their MBA. This ranking is sure to help you find just what you’re looking for; an online Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management that meshes perfectly with your schedule and career aspirations.
Methodology
MBA Central collected data on online Sports Management MBA programs and ranked the programs based on the areas of Affordability (33%), Support Services (33%), and Quality of Classes (33%). In addition to the ranking order, every Online Sports Management MBA program is also given an Affordability Score. This score is awarded because of the total base tuition of the MBA degree, with ranges as follows:
Very Affordable: under $15,000
Affordable: between $15,000 and $20,000
Average: between $20,000 and $30,000
Above Average: between $30,000 and $50,000
Expensive: between $50,000 and $100,000
Very Expensive: above $100,000
#1 Southeast Missouri State University Harrison College of Business – Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Southeast Missouri State University is a public college accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. SEMO was founded in 1873, and currently is home to approximately 11,500 students each year. The main campus can be found in Cape Girardeau, and regional campuses accommodate students in Kennett, Sikeston, Poplar Bluff, and at Cape College Center. Southeast Online is ideal for non-traditional students, and delivers top-ranked, high-quality education according to U.S. News and World Report. Majors are added to keep up with industry demands, and today SEMO offers over 145 undergraduate majors and more than 75 graduate programs through five academic colleges. Internships and study abroad programs are available for all majors. Among the degrees offered to graduate students is the Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management. Potential candidates interested in pursuing the MBA in Sports Management must submit an application, copies of all official college transcripts, and GRE/GMAT scores.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Very Affordable
#2 University of Massachusetts Amherst Isenberg School of Management – Amherst, Massachusetts
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public university accredited through the New England Commission of Higher Education, and has an annual student body enrollment of over 30,000 students. UMass Amherst was founded in 1863, and serves as the flagship campus in Massachusetts. The university offers over 100 undergraduate majors, 77 master’s degrees, 48 doctoral programs through their 10 academic schools and colleges. U.S. News and World Report currently ranks UMass Amherst 26th among national universities. Additionally, UMass Amherst is listed among the 100 “Best College Values” by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine and by Money Magazine in its most bang for the buck category. Graduate students seeking an MBA in Sport Management can earn their degree through Isenberg School of Management. Prospective students interested in this program must submit a graduate school application, official transcripts from all universities attended, a personal essay, two letters of recommendation, a resume/CV, and GMAT/GRE scores.
Accreditation: AACSB, New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Above Average
#3 Fort Hays State University W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship – Hays, Kansas
Fort Hays State University is a four year, public college, founded in 1902, and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. FHSU currently offers a wide array of courses leading to associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees through four academic colleges to over 15,000 students annually. Over 200 programs are offered through the Virtual College. Online students are provided free online tutoring and writing support, career services, and tech support. Students can get involved in over 200 organizations or travel the world through the study abroad program. Even online students can serve as an officer of the Virtual Student Senate and join honor societies to enhance their leadership skills and feel more connected with their peers. Graduate Students may pursue an MBA with a concentration in Health and Human Performance/Sports Management through Fort Hays State University. Prospective students are encouraged to submit a graduate application, official transcripts, official GMAT/GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Very Affordable
#4 Florida Atlantic University College of Business – Boca Raton, Florida
Florida Atlantic University is a public, four-year university that is regionally accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. The main campus is in Boca Raton, and five satellite campuses offer students the opportunity to study in Dania Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, and in Fort Pierce. FAU offers more than 170 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs through its 10 academic colleges, and serves over 30,000 students each year. The Princeton Review names FAU among the “Best Southeastern Colleges.” The Carnegie Foundation classifies FAU as a research university with high research activity. Among the many academically rigorous degrees offered at Florida Atlantic University is the online Master’s of Business Administration in Sport Management. Ready to apply? In addition to the graduate and departmental application, prospective students must submit a current resume, personal essay, official college transcripts from all universities attended, and GMAT or GRE scores.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Above Average
#5 Franklin Pierce University College of Business – Rindge, New Hampshire
Franklin Pierce University is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university, accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. Franklin serves over 2,300 students annually and offers a wide array of associate’s degrees through doctoral degrees. The main campus is located in Rindge, and four additional locations are provided for graduate and professional programs. U.S. News and World Report, ranks Franklin Pierce among the top universities for Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees and Best Online MBA Programs. Working professionals are able to complete a higher education degree in a reasonable amount of time while balance a busy work schedule, family, and convenient online classes that can be accessed from anywhere at any time. A Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management can be earned through the College of Business. Prospective students must submit an online application, official transcripts, an updated resume, outline of professional aspirations, and an essay.
Accreditation: IACBE, New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Average
#6 Concordia University Wisconsin Batterman School of Business – Mequon, Wisconsin
Concordia University Wisconsin is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Concordia was founded in 1881, and is affiliated with the Lutheran Church. The beautiful 200-acre campus is on Lake Michigan. Approximately 7,300 students attend Concordia each year, and are able to choose from 77 bachelor’s degrees, 42 master’s degrees, and six doctoral programs, as well as 40 professional certificates through six academic schools. Concordia has received numerous accolades, including being ranked among the Best Online MBA programs by U.S. News and World Report, and #1 safest school and largest MBA program in Wisconsin. Among the many degrees offered is the highly acclaimed Master’s of Business Administration in Sport and Entertainment Business offered through the Batterman School of Business. In order to apply, students are encouraged to submit an application form, one-page essay, resume with academic and professional experience, two signed letters of recommendation, and all official transcripts.
Accreditation: IACBE, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average
#7 New England College School of Graduate and Professional Studies – Henniker, New Hampshire
![]() Students can earn a well respected online MBA in Sport and Recreation Management at New England College. This program prepares students to become intercollegiate coaches. |
New England College is a small, four-year, private, not-for-profit university, which serves about 2,800 students each year. New England College is regionally accredited through the New England Commission of Higher Education. Students are able to choose from 37 bachelor’s degrees, 12 master’s degrees, and one doctoral degree through four academic divisions. U.S. News and World Report ranks New England College among the best “Regional Universities-North, Tier 2.” Additionally, Time Magazine recognizes NEC for showing a large increase in student diversity. Students can complete a well-respected Master’s of Business Administration in Sport and Recreation Management through the School of Graduate and Professional Studies. The outstanding business programs are currently a “Candidate for Accreditation” by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Prospective students must submit an online application, official college transcripts from all universities attended, a personal essay, and a professional resume outlining business and sports experience.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Average
#8 University of Central Missouri Harmon College of Business – Warrensburg, Missouri
The University of Central Missouri is a four-year, public college, established in 1871, and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. UCM has over 12,000 students enrolled each year, and offers more than 150 programs of study leading to bachelor’s and master’s degrees through four academic colleges. Top publications consistently recognize UCM as one of the top universities in the nation. UCM is ranked among the top universities in the Midwest region by U.S. News and World Report and The Princeton Review. Graduate students can earn a prestigious Master’s of Business Administration with an emphasis in Sports Business through Harmon College of Business. Ready to apply? Simply submit an online application, college transcripts, and GMAT or GRE scores. The flexible, shortened semesters allow students to choose from six different start dates throughout the year.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Very Affordable
#9 Concordia University Chicago College of Business – River Forest, Illinois
![]() Students can earn a top-notch online Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management from Concordia University Chicago. This MBA prepares leaders in various sports management careers. |
Concordia University Chicago is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university, founded in 1864, and affiliated with the Lutheran Church. Concordia-Chicago is home to over 5,700 students, and offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degrees through the University’s five academic colleges. Students are able to participate in many service learning and leadership opportunities, such as volunteering with numerous non-profit organizations and churches, and going on national and international missions trips. Study abroad programs are offered in China, South Africa, and New England. Concordia is also a member of the Lutheran College Washington Consortium, a program that allows students to complete one semester of internships and courses in Washington. The College of Business gives graduate students an opportunity to complete their online MBA focused on the exciting industry of Sports Management. Students interested in this rigorous program must submit an application for admission, objective statement, two letters of recommendation, official college transcripts, and a professional resume.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average
#10 University of Southern Mississippi College of Business – Hattiesburg, Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi is a four year, university accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. The main campus is located in Hattiesburg, and an additional campus is in Long Beach. USM has over 14,000 students enrolled annually and offers over 140 undergraduate degrees and more than 220 graduate programs through four academic colleges. The Carnegie Foundation classifies Southern Miss as a “Research University” with “High Research Activity.” Students can also participate in 30 study abroad programs in destinations such as Japan, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. Notable alumni include professional athletes Torie Bowie, Brian Dozier, and Brett Favre. Graduate students can earn an MBA in Sports Event Security Management through the College of Business. In order to apply for this competitive MBA, students must submit an application, original transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and GRE/GMAT/MAT scores.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Affordable
#11 Ohio Dominican University Business Administration Department – Columbus, Ohio
![]() Students can earn a convenient online MBA with a Sports Management concentration at Ohio Dominican University. This program made our list with their reputation as a leader in the athletic industry. |
Ohio Dominican University is a four-year, private, not-for-profit, university founded in 1911, and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. ODU follows the Catholic and Dominican traditions, and has a close-knit culturally diverse community with an annual student body enrollment comprised of approximately 1,700 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1, allowing students to benefit from small class sizes and personalized interactions with professors as an essential component of the college experience. Ohio Dominican offers 40 undergraduate majors and nine graduate degrees. Among the many convenient programs provided, is the Master’s of Business Administration with a concentration in Sports Management. When compared to similar programs, this master’s is average in pricing, with tuition in between $20,000 and $29,999. Students interested in pursuing this MBA program must simply submit an online application, along with official college transcripts, and GRE scores.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average
#12 Johnson & Wales University College of Business – Providence, Rhode Island
Johnson & Wales University is a four-year, private, not-for-profit college, accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The main campus is located in Providence, and additional branch locations include North Miami, Denver, Charlotte, and a wide range of online programs. JWU was established in 1914 as a business school, and has grown to offer more than 80 bachelor’s and master’s degrees to approximately 1,200 students each year. Though JWU now offers many notable programs, it remains among the 40 largest business schools in the nation. JWU is among the best colleges in the Regional Universities North category from US News and World Report. Graduate students interested in completing an online Master’s of Business Administration in Sport Leadership can earn their degree through the College of Business. Potential candidates interested in pursuing this degree must submit an application, official copies of college transcripts, two recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Average
#13 Lynn University College of Business and Management – Boca Raton, Florida
![]() At Lynn University, students can earn an exceptional online Sports Management MBA. This flexible, online MBA gives students a strong business foundation, while allowing them to pursue their passion. |
Lynn University is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university located in Boca Raton, which serves 3,000 students annually. Lynn is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. Students can choose from more than 45 undergraduate degrees and 14 graduates degrees through six academic colleges. Students are able to save money via the iPad initiative, a program where all core texts are uploaded for free as e-readers. The core curriculum, the Dialogues of Learning, has gained national recognition from Inside Higher Education for focusing on three essential components; Self and Society, Justice and Civic Life, and Belief and Reason. The College of Business and Management offers an elite online Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management. This MBA is ranked among the top online degrees by U.S. News and World Report, and fifth in the region by South Florida Business Journal. Students wishing to apply to this outstanding program, must submit an online application, all official college transcripts, and an updated resume.
Accreditation: IACBE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Average
#14 Husson University College of Business – Bangor, Maine
Husson University is a four year, private, not-for-profit university, accredited through the New England Commission of Higher Education. Husson was founded in 1898, and is a small community of 3,600 students. Students are offered 72 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. All programs place emphasis on experiential learning, and 95% of students complete at least one internship. Tuition at Husson University is affordable. In fact, Husson is ranked #1 lowest priced, private university in New England accredited by NECHE. Additionally, 95% of students receive financial aid or scholarships to further assist with the cost of tuition. Among the many top-rated degrees offered at Husson, is the Master’s of Business Administration concentrating in Athletic Administration through the College of Business. This program is ranked among the top online MBAs by U.S. News and World Report. Interested applicants must submit an application, official college transcripts, one letter of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Accreditation: IACBE, New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Affordable
#15 Southeastern University School of Business – Lakeland, Florida
Southeastern University is a four-year, private, Christian, not-for-profit institution of higher learning and has a current student body enrollment of 7,000 students. Southeastern University carries regional accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, and is the largest college affiliated with the Assemblies of God religion in the United States. The Chronicle of Higher Education recently named Southeastern one of the fastest growing liberal arts colleges in the nation. Students are offered a top-notch education, with 55 undergraduate degrees, 16 master’s degrees, and two doctoral programs to choose from through their six academic colleges. Among the many outstanding programs offered at Southeastern University is the Master’s of Business Administration- Sports Management Track through the School of Business. Students interested in pursuing this MBA program must submit an application, official college transcripts from all universities attended, a sample writing assignment, two recommendations, and complete prerequisites in microeconomics, accounting, and statistics.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Average
#16 Bryan College School of Adult and Graduate Studies – Dayton, Tennessee
![]() Bryan College offers a well-rounded MBA with a specialization in Sports Management. This program is accelerated, online, and accredited. |
Bryan College is located near the scenic Smoky Mountains surrounded by spectacular views. Bryan is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. The motto of Bryan is “Christ Above All.” A small student body of 1,400 students consider Bryan their home away from home, and are offered 23 undergraduate majors and three graduate degrees. Students who complete their undergraduate degree at Bryan with a GPA of 3.5 or higher can pursue their master’s degree at Bryan tuition-free. Among the many convenient and flexible programs available, the School of Adult and Graduate Studies offers a Master’s of Business Administration including a specialization in Sports Management. Students wishing to apply to this elite program must submit an online application, official college transcripts from all universities attended, a professional resume, contact information for two professional recommendations, and a statement of intent.
Accreditation: IACBE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Average
#17 Hardin-Simmons University Kelley College of Business – Abilene, Texas
Hardin-Simmons University is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. HSU has received numerous accolades, including being currently ranked among Best Universities in the Western Region, Best Colleges for Veterans, and Best Value Schools by U.S. News and World Report. Additionally, The Princeton Review lists HSU in its Best in the West category, and The Times Higher Education World University Rankings recognizes HSU among top universities in the world. Hardin-Simmons offers more than 75 bachelor’s degrees and over 20 graduate programs spanning seven academic colleges, and serves an estimated annual enrollment of 2,200 students. The University maintains a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing students to receive personal attention from professors. Among the many programs offered at Hardin-Simmons University is the Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Business. Prospective students to this highly competitive program must submit an online application, official college transcripts, an essay, a detailed resume, and an interview with the MBA Director.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Average
#18 Belhaven University School of Business Administration – Jackson, Mississippi
Belhaven University is a four-year, private, nonprofit university accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. The main campus is located in Jackson, Mississippi, and satellite campuses are in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Dalton, Houston, Madison, Memphis, and Orlando. Many programs are offered online, as well. Belhaven, founded in 1883, offers over 70 academic programs leading to associate’s degrees through doctoral degrees to approximately 4,500 students annually. With a 12:1 faculty ratio, students will benefit from personal connections with their professors. All courses are instructed with a Christian worldview perspective, and Belhaven is affiliated with the Presbyterian religion. Graduate students can earn an online Master’s of Business Administration with a Sports Administration concentration through the School of Business Administration. Students interested in pursuing this convenient and flexible MBA program should fill out an application online. An admissions representative will contact you, and guide you through every step of the process.
Accreditation: IACBE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Average
#19 American Public University School of Business – Charles Town, West Virginia
American Public University is a four-year, private, for-profit institution of higher education accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. APU is a leader in online education, and offers more than 200 programs at the associate’s through the doctoral level to more than 46,000 students annually. A wide range of online support services are provided, including academic advising, study resources, and library access. Students can also participate in online forums, blogs, discussion boards, go on virtual field trips, and communicate via social media platforms. This online education allows students to become involved in ClearPath, a virtual community with a mentoring program and regional networking meetup opportunities. Many student organizations are also available to enrich the students’ experience. Graduate students may obtain a Master’s of Business Administration with a concentration in Sports Management through the School of Business. The application process at APU is simple. Students just need to apply online and submit an official college transcript conferring a bachelor’s degree.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Very Affordable
#20 University of West Alabama School of Graduate Studies – Livingston, Alabama
The University of West Alabama is a four-year, public institution of higher education, founded in 1835. UWA is regionally accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. Currently over 4,600 students attend UWA each year, and are offered more than 60 undergraduate majors and 10 graduate programs. The majority of these programs are available 100% online, giving easier access to students globally. These degrees are taught by professors with expertise in their field. Study abroad programs are offered at nine partnership institutions in locations such as Australia, Ireland, France, South Korea, Switzerland, and Japan. Among the many, academically challenging programs at The University of West Alabama is the online Master’s of Business Administration including a concentration in Sports Management through the School of Graduate Studies. In order to apply to this program, students must simply complete an online application and submit an official college transcript conferring a bachelor’s degree.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Very Affordable
Do you plan your schedule around your favorite sports teams or dream of managing a professional sports team? Maybe you played sports throughout college, and are trying to decide how to turn that passion into a career.
What will I learn in a sports management MBA?
A Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management is the perfect degree for avid sports fans with a business acumen. Students pursuing a Sports Management degree will take courses covering topics such as marketing, operations management, facility management, and public relations as they relate to sports.
While all MBAs in Sports Management will cover core business courses, such as law, finance, and promotions, there are also a number of specialized Sports Management concentrations. Specializations include Health and Human Performance, Recreation Management, Event Security Management, and Athletic Administration. If you already have an idea of the particular career path you’d like to pursue, it can be beneficial to select a similar concentration. For example, an individual interested in opening a health facility or managing athletic trainers could take the Health and Human Performance route. Someone who has future career aspirations to become a sports camp or youth sports director might consider the Recreation Management specialty. Whereas, an aspiring college athletic director would find the Athletic Administration track most beneficial.
Earning an MBA in Sports Management is a fairly easy process, with top-ranked universities offering flexible programs that meet your needs. Many programs are offered in a fully online format, so you can complete discussion boards and reading assignments at a time convenient with your schedule; even during half-time while watching the game! Typical programs range between 33 and 54 credit hours, with the average program being 36 credit hours. Accelerated programs can be completed within a year or two, so you don’t have to wait long to begin your dream career! An MBA in Sports Management is the ticket to an exhilarating occupation in the growing sports, entertainment, and recreation industry!
What jobs can I get with a sports management MBA?
College and amateur athletes are prime candidates for entering the competitive world of sports management. They are able to draw on their personal experiences to relate to athletes, and have established a network with other coaches, agents, and players. The sports industry is a rapidly growing field, with many exciting career possibilities. Sports Management encompasses careers at the youth, intercollegiate, and professional levels. Some of the unique career possibilities include agents and business managers of professional athletes, college athletic recruiters, marketing managers, athletic directors at universities, sports promoters, public relations managers, and special events managers.
There is a wide range of salaries within the sports industry, depending on the particular career you choose to pursue, level of education, and the level of athletes you work with. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, agents and managers for professional athletes earn a mean salary of $94,870. College athletic directors earn in the range of $52,960 and $182,150, depending on the number of athletic teams they are managing, the size of the university, and the popularity and overall success of the athletic teams. Those working in a recreational setting typically make significantly less money. For example, recreation workers will generally earn a maximum of $42,560. Individuals in Sports Management careers who hold a master’s degree earn approximately 20% more on average than those with just a bachelor’s degree.
There is also a larger than average projected growth in certain sports-related careers. A spike of about nine percent growth is anticipated for athletic administration careers by the year 2024. Those interested in athletic management, marketing, sales, public relations, and other sports-management careers can expect a growth of about six percent in the number of careers available by 2024.
How do I start my career in sports management?
Due to the competitive nature of the sports sector, earning a Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management is a wise investment to give candidates a competitive edge. In addition to enhancing their resume, students will have the opportunity to get their foot in the door through internships with sports organizations. When selecting an internship, it is imperative for students to think about their future career goals, and try to build that skill set. For example, students interested in sports broadcasting should try to find an internship with a local television network. Students should also seize opportunities to officiate sports, coach youth teams, and volunteer for professional organizations to gain exposure to a variety of sports careers and widen their network. Graduates go on to work in a variety of settings, including fitness facilities, parks and recreation departments, higher education institutions, professional teams, sports associations, and marketing firms.