Sports Management
Master of Arts
Introduction
Sports have always needed strong, visionary leaders — and that has never been more true than today. Our increasingly complex industry demands exceptional coaches, administrators, and business professionals who can step up to challenges, inspire others, and make bold decisions with confidence.
Whether you want to advance in your current career or wish to break into this exciting field, John Carroll University can help you reach your goals. Our practitioner-led Sports Management graduate program was designed for working coaches, administrators, and other professionals. You can complete your coursework 100% online, at your own pace.
Online & Accelerated Format
Earn your master’s degree in as little as one year, with a mix of asynchronous and live, online evening courses. Further accelerate your studies by taking courses over the summer term.
Hands-on & Engaged Learning
Attend JCU’s annual summer Sports Symposium, where you’ll engage with faculty, classmates, and guest speakers. Pursue an internship with a local organization, including Blue Streaks Athletics.
Industry Expertise & Connections
Benefit from the knowledge and connections of our expert faculty and the esteemed Mike Cleary Sports Management Board. JCU has strong relationships with regional sports teams and leaders. Plus, the Boler Professional Network opens doors to global corporate partnerships and executive mentorship.
The Triple Play with the Boler College of Business
We’ve adapted the Boler College of Business’s triple bottom line core philosophy - People, Profit, Planet - into a framework specifically for the sports industry:
- People: We develop leaders who prioritize their players and personnel above all else.
- Profit: We equip students with the business acumen to drive measurable results on the field and in the boardroom.
- Program: We empower future executives to build ethical and sustainable legacies that impact their communities for the greater good.
Take The Next Step
Academics
Program Overview & Outcomes
The master’s program highlights the core skills and knowledge sports professionals use every day, including psychology, communication, marketing, finance, and ethics.
With an M.A. in Sports Management, you’ll be prepared for careers in coaching, athletic development, athletic administration, and sports communication, as well as in business, marketing, and sales. In this program, you will:
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Grow into an effective leader through grounded principles of leadership with application to sport and the sports industry
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Gain an understanding of professional, legal, and ethical principles
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Learn to implement policy regulations and operational strategies
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Build written and verbal communication skills with knowledge of current events and issues in the sports industry
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Understand the concept of diversity and inclusion and its impact on sports in socially responsible decision making
Curriculum: What You Will Learn
This 30-credit program includes 10 courses, including a customizable capstone experience. You’ll explore topics like ethical leadership, sports finance, marketing and promotion, and the psychology of sport. See full degree requirements at the JCU Academic Catalog.
Admission
This program is open to individuals with a bachelor's degree. To apply, you need:
- an undergraduate degree in a recognized area from an accredited institution
- an undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 2.75
The following documents are required for a complete application:
- Online application
- Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
- Resume/CV
- Two letter(s) of recommendation
- Statement of purpose - in 400-600 words, explain your aims and goals for the program
Applicants are admitted on a rolling basis.
However, for best consideration, applications for specific terms should be received by the following dates:
- August 1: For a Fall semester start
- December 1: For a Spring semester start
- February 15: For Graduate or Athletic Assistant positions (fall semester start)
- April 1: For a Summer semester start
Frequently Asked Questions
Careers
Sports Management Careers: Where Our Alumni Go
JCU alumni work in a wide variety of sports management, coaching, and leadership roles — and for organizations of all kinds. Here are a few example employers and internship sites:
Other JCU Graduate Programs
If you’re interested in expanding your leadership potential or broadening your business knowledge, these additional JCU master’s programs may also appeal to you.
Next Steps
Request Information
Sign up to receive more information about JCU's M.A. in Sports Management in the Boler College of Business.
