B.S. Sport Management
120
Credit Hours
75%
Max Transfer Credit
Class Type
100% online, 6 & 12-week courses
Next Start Date
Jun 30, 2025
Cost Per Credit

Get in the game with an online sport management degree

Sports is big business and the business is changing rapidly. According to the Business Research Company, today’s global sports industry is worth over $500 billion and growing. Rapid digitization, emergence of e-sports and the globalization of the sports industry have created a massive demand for professionals who are able to shape the future of sports. The B.S. in Sport Management major provides big-league career opportunities for sports-minded individuals with a head for business. You’ll learn how essential business concepts translate to the sports industry and open the door to a variety of roles.

Program Availability

On Site

Accredited Online University

Nearly 80% of our students take online courses.

Real-World Practitioners

Benefit from the experience of sport management professionals

Relevant Curriculum

Prepare to tackle the sport management challenges of today and tomorrow

IACBE Accredited

Our program follows best-practice standards for business education.

Program Overview

Build your leadership skills and style to excel in the sports industry

Franklin’s sport management curriculum unites sport science research and sport industry theory with the practical knowledge of sport management in order to enhance your understanding of sport business concepts and techniques so that you can achieve results when working with athletes. You’ll get a comprehensive introduction to the coaching profession at various levels including high school, club, youth, recreational and intercollegiate college programs. 

In addition to the focus on athlete performance, you’ll also learn what it takes to establish a sport club organization. You’ll learn to develop, manage, and sustain a highly organized club by creating a business plan and a mini-grant proposal. 

You’ll also examine the leadership role in management and responsibility of leaders in sports. In addition to analyzing various leadership styles and techniques, you’ll also get insight into the unique challenges associated with leading people in sports. 

Learn to maximize the impact of fundamental business principles  

Franklin’s B.S Sport Management curriculum conveys essential concepts from the functional areas of business within a sports context. You’ll learn marketing as it applies specifically to the sports industry including sponsorships, licensing, global issues and after-marketing techniques that are common to sports promoters. You’ll also explore the legal, ethical and social issues related to sports information. In addition, you’ll acquire the knowledge you need to manage athletic programs in schools, colleges, community centers and other venues including how to navigate legal, ethical and social issues related to the NCAA, NAIA and OHSAA. 

Supplement your online coursework with required field experience

Put your knowledge to the test and get practical experience with an on-site field experience at an organization of your choice. Tailor your degree to your ultimate career ambition with an internship in a school district, college or university or even a minor or major league franchise. You’ll build on-the-job skills under the direction of an on-site supervisor and a Franklin faculty member. In the past, students have pursued ticketing opportunities with the Cincinnati Reds and event planning with the Dayton Dragons.

Earn your degree from a university built for busy adults

Earn your degree on your terms by taking classes 100% online. Accredited and nonprofit, Franklin was built from the ground-up to satisfy the needs of adult learners. Our seamless transfer process and team of academic advisors will help ease your transition to becoming a student, while our flexible course schedules help to balance your education with work, family and life. Get started on your future today.

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International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)

The Ross College of Business at Franklin University has received specialized accreditation for its business programs through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) located at 11960 Quivira Road in Overland Park, Kansas, USA. For a list of accredited programs please view our IACBE member status page

Click here to see our IACBE Public Disclosure of Student Achievement. 

For more information about the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, please click here or visit www.iacbe.org.

Future Start Dates

Start dates for individual programs may vary and are subject to change. Please request free information & speak with an admission advisor for the latest program start dates.

Summer 2025
June
30
Recommended Register By:
Jun 20
Fall 2025
August
18
Recommended Register By:
Aug 8
Fall 2025
September
29
Recommended Register By:
Sep 19
Fall 2025
November
10
Recommended Register By:
Oct 31
Spring 2026
January
5
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Dec 26
Spring 2026
February
16
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Feb 6
Spring 2026
March
30
Recommended Register By:
Mar 20
Summer 2026
May
18
Recommended Register By:
May 8
Summer 2026
June
29
Recommended Register By:
Jun 19
Fall 2026
August
17
Recommended Register By:
Aug 7
Fall 2026
September
28
Recommended Register By:
Sep 18
Fall 2026
November
9
Recommended Register By:
Oct 30
Spring 2027
January
4
Recommended Register By:
Dec 25
Spring 2027
February
15
Recommended Register By:
Feb 5
Spring 2027
March
29
Recommended Register By:
Mar 19

Your Best Value B.S. Sport Management

Choose Franklin's B.S. Sport Management and get a high-quality degree that fits your life and budget. 

Keep the Credit You've Earned

57
AVG TRANSFER HOURS

On average, students transfer in 1/2 of the credits required.

Transfer MORE Credits, Pay LESS for your Degree*

$11,940
|
$26,666
Max Transfer Credits
Avg Transfer Credits
*$398 per credit, 124 Total Credits, 94 maximum transfer credits, 57 average transfer credits.

Have Credit? Save Time!

26
MONTHS TO COMPLETE

Previously earned credit saves you time toward your degree. 

Completion time is calculated based on full-time status and average transfer credits. 

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$49,352
Total Tuition
(After Partner Discount)

Highly Recommended

98%
STUDENT SATISFACTION

98% of graduating students would recommend Franklin to their family, friends and/or colleagues.

Source: Franklin University, Office of Career Development Student Satisfaction Survey (Summer 2023)

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Curriculum & Course Descriptions

120 Semester Hours
Fundamental General Education
English Composition
ENG 120 - College Writing (4)

In this course, students acquire the writing competencies necessary for completing analytical and argumentative papers supported by secondary research. A variety of assignments, beginning with personal reflections, build upon one another, as students develop ideas that respond to, critique, and synthesize the positions of others. Students systematize and organize knowledge in ways that will help them in all their courses. The course also emphasizes the elements of critical reading, effective writing style, appropriate grammar and mechanics, clarity of language, and logical and cohesive development. It culminates in submission of an extended, documented research paper.

Mathematics
MATH 215 - Statistical Concepts (4)

This course introduces the student to statistics with business applications. The course covers both descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics included are: measures of central tendency; measures of dispersion; graphical displays of data; linear regression; basic probability concepts; binomial and normal probability distributions; confidence intervals; and hypothesis testing. These topics will be covered using a basic knowledge of algebra and Microsoft Excel. Note, this course has proctored exam(s).

AND

Choose either MATH 140 Introduction to Quantitative Reasoning or MATH 150 Fundamental Algebra as the prerequisite. Course can count as a University Elective.

Social and Behavioral Sciences
PSYC 110 - Introduction to Psychology (4)

This course is a survey of the various fields of study comprising modern scientific psychology. We will examine the theories, research findings, and applications in each of the major areas of psychology, with the goal of providing students with practical information they can apply to their personal and professional lives. The topic areas covered in the course include learning and memory, motivation and emotion, human development, theories of personality, psychopathology, and social behavior.

AND

2 credits from the following types of courses:
Choose from the Anthropology, Geography, History, Political Science, Psychology, or Sociology disciplines.

Science
SCIE 244 - Foundations of Anatomy & Physiology (4)

This course is designed for students interested in the allied healthcare professions. The course focuses on the fundamental concepts of anatomy and physiology that are necessary to be successful in any allied healthcare program. This course can be used to fulfill the general education science with a lab requirement, however, it is not recommended for students outside the allied health professions.

SCIE 254 - Health & Human Disease (4)

This course is designed for students pursuing allied health professions and provides an overview of human health and disease processes. Students will learn about common diseases and how they affect human health at cellular, organ, and systemic levels. Emphasis will be placed on the body as a system and how disease impacts the human body as a whole. The course focuses on the fundamental concepts of health and human disease that are necessary to be successful in any allied healthcare program. The pre-requisite for SCIE 254 is successful completion (a C or better) in SCIE 244.

Arts & Humanities

6 credits from the following types of courses:
Choose from the Art, English Literature, Fine Arts, Humanities, Music, Philosophy, Religion or Theater disciplines.

Additional General Education
PF 121 - Basic Learning Strategies (2)

This course prepares students to be successful lifelong learners both academically and in their chosen careers. Franklin courses require a high level of self-directed learning and focus on the skills required in the workplace and the classroom that are easily transferrable between the two environments. The course includes strategies for time management, goal setting, reading comprehension, and advancing communication skills, including the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments.

OR PF 321 - Learning Strategies (2)

This course prepares students to be successful lifelong learners both academically and in their chosen careers. Franklin courses require a high level of self-directed learning and focus on the skills required in the workplace and the classroom that are easily transferable between the two environments. The course includes strategies for advancing communication skills, including the use of electronic tools to participate in virtual environments. The assignments and activities in the course are created to closely simulate teamwork found in the workplace.

AND

COMM 150 - Interpersonal Communication (4)

By using applied critical and creative thinking, students in this course will develop a set of communication skills that will enhance their personal and professional relationships and endeavors. This course will focus on skill development in key areas such as self, perception, listening, verbal messages, conversations, relationships, conflict management, persuasion, and presentation skills.

OR SPCH 100 - Speech Communication (4)

This basic public-speaking course intends to improve the student's ability to think critically and to communicate orally. Theory and practice are provided in various speaking situations. Each student is required to speak before an audience, but class work also involves reading, gathering and organizing information, writing, and listening.

AND

ENG 205 - Business & Professional Writing (4)

This is an advanced composition course focusing on writing for business and professional purposes. Students will review the writing conventions commonly expected within business and professional environments, as well as strategies for analyzing rhetorical situations within those environments. Coursework includes analysis, revision, and research exercises, as well as substantial practice in composing business correspondence. The final project is an extensive, researched business proposal developed in stages and presented to the class. Students will be encouraged to relate course materials to their major programs and workplace experiences.

Major Foundational
ACCT 202 - Financial/Managerial Acct for Non-Majors (4)

This course is an introduction to financial and managerial accounting. It is designed for non-accounting majors. Financial accounting emphasizes how general purpose financial statements communicate information about the business's performance and position for users external to management. It emphasizes how the accountant processes and presents the information. The course also examines the major elements of the financial statements. The managerial accounting portion of the course studies internal reporting and decision-making. The course assists those who wish to learn "what the numbers mean" in a clear, concise and conceptual manner without focusing on the mechanical aspects of the accounting process.

BSAD 220 - Business Law (4)

A study of the everyday legal problems encountered in business with emphasis on the areas of legal procedure, contracts, agency, employment law, business organizations and torts, with cases relating to these and other areas.

ECON 210 - Introduction to Microeconomics (4)

An introduction to economic theory involving the examination of how decision making by firms and individuals is shaped by economic forces. Emphasis is placed on demand, supply, market equilibrium analysis, and basic market structure models. The invisible hand as the driving force for economic decisions as well as market externalities are discussed. The class concentrates on providing a balanced approach to studying economic agents' behavior and the global implications and outcomes.

FINA 301 - Principles of Finance (4)

This course is designed to survey the field of finance and provide the foundation for more advanced finance coursework. Topics include sources of business and financial information, financial statement analysis, the time value of money, the nature and measurement of risk, financial institutions, investments and corporate finance.

MGMT 312 - Principles of Management (4)

This course explores the basic concepts and processes of management. Students will explore the functional roles and processes of planning, leading, organizing, and controlling comprising the manager role. Students develop skills related to the manager function that are required in today's competitive environment.

MKTG 300 - Marketing (4)

Theory, strategies and methods are foundational to the informed practice of marketing. Students investigate the importance of marketing to an organization or cause, the interrelationship of the difference phases of marketing, the marketing of goods versus services, analysis and identification of markets, pricing strategies and digital marketing tactics.

AND

Completion of ACCT 215 - Financial Accounting & ACCT 225 - Managerial Accounting can fulfill the ACCT 202 requirement.

Major Area Required
SPM 207 - Principles of Sport Management (4)

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to fundamental principles and practices in the field of sport management, highlighting career opportunities and essential knowledge for success in the industry. Students will explore contemporary topics and key principles related to sport management.

SPM 306 - Sport Marketing (4)

This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of sport marketing, focusing on the promotion, selling, and advertising of products and services within the sports and physical activity industries. Students will explore marketing communications strategies, public relations (PR), fan engagement, digital marketing, and branding.

SPM 370 - Technological Advancements in Sport (4)

This course explores the evolving role of technology in the sports industry, focusing on innovations that enhance performance, improve fan engagement, and optimize business operations. Students will examine technologies such as wearable devices, virtual and augmented reality, digital media, and the increasing use of data analytics in decision-making across sport organizations. The course will highlight the ethical considerations and future trends in sport technology, while providing an understanding of how these advancements are reshaping the sports landscape.

SPM 380 - Governance, Policy and International Sport (4)

This course examines the governance structures, policies, and regulations that shape the global sports landscape, with a focus on international sport organizations, government bodies, and private sector stakeholders. Students will explore how governance frameworks influence policy decisions across various levels of sport, including amateur and professional sectors. Key topics will include the governance of major sport organizations (e.g., the IOC, FIFA), policy development in international sport, the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, and the role of data analytics in driving decisions. Additionally, students will investigate the human aspect of governance, focusing on the ethical, cultural, and societal challenges that impact global sport.

SPM 423 - Sport Facility and Event Management (4)

This course provides an in-depth exploration of sport facility and event management, focusing on the administration of health, physical education, and recreation programs. Students will analyze the responsibilities of sport facility managers, including physical plant management, equipment procurement and maintenance, risk management, insurance, and public relations. Emphasis is placed on the integration of technology and sport analytics in facility operations and event planning to enhance decision-making, optimize resource allocation, and improve fan experiences.

SPM 491 - Sport Management Capstone (4)

The Sports Studies Capstone provides students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills from the Sport Management program to a real-world project. The course includes a comprehensive project where students conduct a strategic analysis of a sport organization, propose solutions, and create an implementation plan. This capstone experience prepares students for career success in sport management and related fields.

Major Electives

At least 16 credits from the following courses:

SPM 210 - Introduction to Esports (4)

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the rapidly growing esports industry, examining its evolution, structure, and cultural impact. Students will study the components of the esports ecosystem, including professional, collegiate, and high school levels, and the roles of key stakeholders such as game developers, sponsors, and broadcasters. Emphasis is placed on analyzing current trends, technological advancements, and emerging opportunities within esports.

SPM 351 - Sport Law (4)

This course provides information into the legal issues related to the sports field. Topics will cover the time frame from amateur through professional sports. Basic legal principles affecting the management of recreation and sports programs, liability and risk assessment of those programs will be covered.

SPM 430 - Sport Sales, Revenue and Sponsorship (4)

This course offers an in-depth exploration of sport promotion, sales management, and revenue generation in the sports industry. Students will study the principles of sponsorship, licensing, and global sponsorship strategies, while exploring modern marketing techniques including digital marketing and after-marketing. The course emphasizes the use of data analytics to enhance sales strategies, customer relationship management, and sponsor engagement. Students will gain insights from current professionals in the field and develop the skills necessary to manage sponsorship deals, generate revenue, and navigate the global landscape of sports promotion.

SPM 410 - Sport Management Internship (1-4)

This course provides qualified students with an opportunity to receive academic credit for supervised professional training and work experience in a public or nonprofit organization or participation in approved professional organizations or associations. The Internship is an ongoing seminar between the student, the faculty member and the Internship supervisor. During the Internship students must meet periodically with the faculty representative, obtain professional experience at a level equivalent to other senior level courses, and submit materials as required in the Internship Application and Learning Agreement. Students seeking to obtain credit for an internship experience must follow the University policies and guidelines for Internships outlined in the Academic Bulletin. Participation cannot be guaranteed for all applicants.

SPM 450 - Principles of Sport Administration (4)

This course provides students with the essential knowledge and skills to manage athletic programs in schools, colleges, community centers, and other sports venues. Students will gain an understanding of key organizational structures, communication strategies, and the financial aspects of sport management. The course will also emphasize the role of data analytics in decision-making and investigate ethical, legal and social issues affecting sport administration.

SPM 480 - Special Topics in Sport Management (1-4)

This is a variable content course in Sport Management in which students pursue topics or subjects of current interest that are not a part of the regular curriculum. When a special topics course is offered, a course description will be published online in the course schedule for the trimester in which the course is offered.

SPM 499 - Independent Studies in Sport Management (1-4)

Independent studies courses allow students in good academic standing to pursue learning in areas not covered by the regular curriculum or to extend study in areas presently taught. Study takes place under faculty supervision and graded on either a Pass/No Credit or a letter grade basis. (See the "Independent Studies" section of the Academic Bulletin for more details.)

SPM 470 - Leadership in Sport (4)

This course explores the role and responsibilities of leadership in sports organizations, with a focus on leadership styles, techniques, and management. Key topics include motivation, behavioral and situational leadership, and the evolving challenges of leadership in the 21st century. Students will examine the application of coaching methodologies and explore how leadership practices impact performance both on and off the field. The course will also emphasize the importance of sport analytics and data-driven decision-making in sport environments.

AND

Students may take a graduate level course to fulfill requirements in an undergraduate program. Please review the academic policy and speak with your academic advisor for more details. Students should choose from the following graduate courses: Any graduate introductory course, e.g., MGMT 707.

AND

Or additional transfer related coursework, certificates, or credentials.

University Electives

22 credits from the following types of courses:
Any undergraduate courses offered by the University except developmental education courses.

Additional Requirements

All students are required to pass College Writing (ENG 120), and either Basic Learning Strategies (PF 121) or Learning Strategies (PF 321) prior to enrolling in any course at the 200 level or above. Students who enroll at Franklin with 30 or fewer hours of transfer credit are required to pass PF 121 Basic Learning Strategies in place of PF 321 Learning Strategies. Interpersonal Communication (COMM 150) or Speech Communication (SPCH 100) must be taken prior to enrolling in any course at the 300 level or above. Students must also meet the University algebra competency requirement.

Academic Minors

Personalize your degree with a minor. Explore available minors, learn how minors can benefit you, and find out what requirements you must meet to earn a minor.

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B.S. Sport Management Program Details

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Employment Outlook

12%

From 2023-2033, jobs in Business & Leadership are expected to increase by 12%

Occupation Median Salary (2023) Job Postings (2023) Projected Growth (2023-2033)
Occupation
Marketing Managers $157,622 187,107 12%
Marketing Managers
Median Salary: $157,622
Job Postings: 187,107
Projected Growth: 12%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Marketing Managers plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm’s profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm’s customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Product Managers49,07926%
Marketing Managers35,29319%
Directors of Marketing11,7006%
Product Marketing Managers9,2365%
Digital Marketing Managers9,7585%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Marketing164,47763%
Product Management95,16937%
Project Management70,77327%
New Product Development66,06225%
Marketing Strategies41,79716%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Management of Companies and Enterprises12%
Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services9%
Computer Systems Design and Related Services7%
Software Publishers4%
Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services3%
Insurance Carriers3%
Other63%
Public Relations Specialists $66,747 51,971 11%
Public Relations Specialists
Median Salary: $66,747
Job Postings: 51,971
Projected Growth: 11%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Public Relations Specialists promote or create an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media. May specialize in using social media.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Communications Specialists18,75136%
Marketing Communications Specialists4,2658%
Communications Coordinators3,3026%
Communications Associates2,8996%
Public Relations Specialists2,3715%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Marketing26,81741%
Public Relations13,91921%
Social Media11,98318%
Project Management11,92618%
Newsletters10,16416%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Advertising, Public Relations, and Related Services13%
Religious Organizations6%
Business, Professional, Labor, Political, and Similar Organizations5%
Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals5%
Management of Companies and Enterprises5%
Education and Hospitals (State Government)5%
Other62%
Athletic Trainers $57,930 55,446 16%
Athletic Trainers
Median Salary: $57,930
Job Postings: 55,446
Projected Growth: 16%
Occupation
Job Titles
Skills
Industry
Description

Athletic Trainers evaluate and treat musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses. Provide preventive, therapeutic, emergency, and rehabilitative care.

Projected Growth
Job TitleJob Postings% of Job Postings
Athletic Trainers28,16851%
Certified Athletic Trainers13,34224%
Assistant Athletic Trainers4,4078%
Outreach Athletic Trainers2,6125%
Head Athletic Trainers1,0262%
Show More
SkillJob Postings% of Total Postings
Athletic Training14,30483%
Rehabilitation9,01452%
Sports Medicine6,70639%
Injury Prevention3,86222%
Sports Injuries3,72922%
Show More
 
Industry% of Occupation in Industry
Offices of Physicians16%
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools15%
Education and Hospitals (State Government)14%
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)14%
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals12%
Offices of Other Health Practitioners12%
Other17%

Employment outlook data is provided by Lightcast and represents labor market trends in the United States. It is not specific to Franklin University graduates or any particular degree level. Franklin University cannot guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

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