Our list of the best degree in sports management online features only accredited schools, ranked by the number of students graduating with this program.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, Louisiana State University offers an online bachelor’s in sport administration with 159 graduates, as of last year.
- The University of Iowa’s bachelor’s in sport and recreation management reports the highest median earnings on our list at $65,473, just four years after graduating.
- Southern New Hampshire University Online enrolls 154,212 online undergraduates, making it the most popular online school on our list.
Read our methodology for details on rankings, data sources, and inclusion criteria.
Best Degrees in Sports Management Online 2025
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana State University | 159 | $11,970 | $57,216 | 92% | |
| University of Iowa | 127 | $31,374 | $65,473 | 94% | |
| University of Florida | 119 | $15,000 | $57,216 | 92% | |
| University of Louisville | 113 | $16,200 | $52,717 | 90% | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | 109 | $9,900 | $47,920 | 69% | |
| Liberty University | 102 | $11,700 | $48,277 | 75% | |
| University of Minnesota - Online | 81 | $24,512 | $62,213 | N/A | |
| University of Minnesota | 81 | $36,402 | $62,213 | 93% | |
| Maryville University | 36 | $16,200 | $47,238 | 62% | |
| University of Memphis | 34 | $16,890 | $50,267 | 85% | |
| Davenport University | 33 | $29,220 | $51,060 | 81% | |
| Colorado Mesa University | 25 | $13,779 | $49,140 | 88% | |
| Campbellsville University | 22 | $12,720 | N/A | 71% | |
| Monroe University | 24 | $42,300 | N/A | 95% | |
| Shorter University | 21 | $11,880 | $50,900 | 75% |
Best Degrees in Sports Management Online 2025 - Program Details
- Graduates: 159
- Annual Tuition: $11,970
- Median Salary: $57,216
- Recommendation: 92%
Why we like them: Ranked in the #1 sport for being the most popular sport administration degree online, LSU awarded 159 of these degrees to graduates. LSU's Sport Commerce track has COSMA accreditation across all degree levels in sport management, a trustworthy signal of high quality. There is a required 300-hour practicum.
- Graduates: 127
- Annual Tuition: $31,374
- Median Salary: $65,473
- Recommendation: 94%
Why we like them: UI's online BS in sport and recreation management has a dual-mode field experience model you can tailor to your goals. Guided Field Experience sections are faculty-led with defined learning objectives and partner organizations, while Independent Field Experiences are student-initiated with faculty and site-supervisor oversight.
- Graduates: 119
- Annual Tuition: $15,000
- Median Salary: $57,216
- Recommendation: 92%
Why we like them: UF's bachelor's program in sports management online has an online format that supports location-agnostic experiential learning, highlighted by a student completing a Miami Heat internship while finishing the degree, so you can target marquee placements where you live. UF has the best chance of success, statistically, with a 92% graduation and retention rate.
- Graduates: 113
- Annual Tuition: $16,200
- Median Salary: $52,717
- Recommendation: 90%
Why we like them: UofL distinguishes its online sports administration program with a double-internship design that you complete twice for the Culminating Undergraduate Experience, formally integrating community-based learning and applied projects. We also like that you can tap a quantified, 450-plus employer network that amplifies exposure to placements and hiring opportunities.
- Graduates: 109
- Annual Tuition: $9,900
- Median Salary: $47,920
- Recommendation: 69%
Why we like them: SNHU's online sport management bachelor's program requires either an internship, practicum, or an advanced experiential learning course. It's also a business-accredited (ACBSP) program, which means it's grounded in economics, marketing, operations, and finance.
Inside the Top Online Sports Management Bachelor’s Programs
The data tells a clear story, which is that online sports management degrees have matured and now mirror the competitiveness of the industry they serve.
Our “best” list is organized by the highest number of graduates per online program, which is a direct read on market validation, employer familiarity, and a large alumni base that's good for networking. In a field where relationships can launch careers, programs producing the most graduates often create the widest swath of opportunities.
This is why we ranked by the number of successful graduates in sports management:
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Bigger alumni footprints inside pro clubs, college athletics, recreation departments, agencies, and vendors.
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More consistent internship demand and repeat employer relationships (teams return where placements work).
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Course rotations that run — fewer cancellations, more electives in sales, analytics, digital, or venue ops.
Across all fifteen programs, the data reveals a pattern of high student satisfaction and persistence. Below, we dive further into the details, discussing recommendation rates, salaries from program graduates, and more.
Earnings in Context: Where Sports Meet Business
The earnings data paints a vivid picture of how program design translates into real-world payoffs
Four years after graduation, alumni from Iowa ($65,473) and both Minnesota programs (each at $62,213) are leading the field — numbers that surpass the national median of $54,870 across all entertainment and sports occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (). These schools share some key ingredients: structured fieldwork, business integration, and high retention and graduation rates. Their students are actively running mock franchises, managing facilities, and analyzing data, all of which prepare them for leadership roles that command stronger early-career wages.
Alumni from Iowa ($65,473) and both Minnesota programs (each at $62,213) are leading the field — numbers that surpass the national median of $54,870 across all entertainment and sports occupations...
Programs in the $49,000-$52,000 range (e.g., Colorado Mesa, Memphis, Davenport, and Shorter) reflect graduates that are likely to move into operations, marketing, and sales, which are roles that bridge athletics and business. The BLS notes that coaches and scouts earn around $45,920, while athletes and sports competitors earn $62,360. That spread mirrors what we see here: The closer a program leans toward management, analytics, or business development, the closer its outcomes align with the upper end of that wage spectrum.
At the lower end of the earnings data, Maryville, Liberty, and SNHU hover around $47,000–$48,000, yet their programs still provide meaningful entry points into the sports industry. These schools often serve working adults and career changers seeking flexibility, so graduates may begin in community recreation, youth programs, or grassroots sport organizations — fields that tend to start lower on the pay scale but build steadily with experience.
The takeaway is that pay follows purpose and preparation. Programs that fuse business foundations with field experience (i.e., those that teach how to market a team, monetize fan engagement, or run a sports venue) are launching graduates into the higher-earning roles BLS identifies within the sector.
Meanwhile, programs emphasizing accessibility and mission-driven tracks feed the roles of coaches, coordinators, and recreation leaders who form the backbone of the industry.
What Students Really Say About Their Schools
Our recommendation rate is a proprietary metric drawn from more than 90,000 verified student surveys that we've collected. It captures something that traditional rankings rarely do: would graduates actually recommend their school to others? This number reflects the lived experience — how supported students felt, whether online learning worked for them, and if they believe their education held real career value.
Across this list, the median recommendation rate is a remarkable 88%, signaling a consistently positive online learning experience.
At the top, Monroe (95%) and Iowa (94%) have the strongest student satisfaction overall across departments. LSU and UF follow closely at 92%, showing that large public universities can still deliver personalized, high-quality online experiences.
Schools like Colorado Mesa (88%), Memphis (85%), and Davenport (81%) remain solidly above the national average, while even larger-scale online institutions — Liberty (75%) and SNHU (69%) — hold steady considering their vast enrollments.
For future sports management majors, your career will rely on relationships, mentorship, and networks, and schools with strong student satisfaction are often the ones that foster these connections most effectively.
FAQs About Online Sports Management Degrees
What Is a Bachelor Degree in Sports Management?
A degree in sports management online focuses on the business side of the sports industry, covering areas like management, marketing, finance, and law. With the flexibility of online learning, students build the expertise needed for roles in collegiate athletics, professional leagues, and other sports organizations.
Sports are an important part of our society. Whether it’s PhysEd in grade school, intramural and pick-up games, or professional sports teams, sports are all around us. For professional teams to have success, they need to have managers that ensure their operations run smoothly.
Sports managers are in charge of the business aspects of sports, like sponsorships, contracts, and communicating with the media. An online sports management degree program teaches skills in business communication, marketing, information technology, and more. Sports managers must know how to navigate the media and public relations, the economics of sports, and the laws that affect players.
Most bachelor’s degree programs require a high school diploma or GED, an admissions essay, an interview, and standardized test scores during the application process. Some programs may also require an internship or capstone project to graduate.
How Long Is a Sports Management Degree?
Bachelor’s degrees in sports management take about four years. Some schools accept transfer credits from other institutions, which may allow you to graduate with your bachelor’s degree faster.
Can You Get an Online Sports Management Degree?
Absolutely, that's what our list above is all about. Each accredited school we list hosts a 100% online sports management degree. These are available remotely and are just as respected as in-person degrees. As long as your institution is accredited, then potential employers will see your degree as legitimate. Institutions become accredited when an independent association, such as the , determines that a school has the financial resources to provide ongoing education that meets quality academic standards.
Online programs use a learning management system (LMS) to give students access to their coursework. Some programs have live classes, while others provide all the material and allow students to work at their own pace. Speak with an academic advisor to make sure you have all the required technology to get started.
What Courses Are Included in an Online Sports Management Degree?
Online sports management degrees provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field. Along with knowledge of the sport you’d like to manage, there are laws, regulations, and processes that you need to understand. Courses often fall under three categories: (1) business, (2) interdisciplinary, and (3) sports. Since management is a broad category, students typically learn about the skills they need to hone to become successful managers in addition to sports-specific skills.
The following are some typical core courses you'll find in sports management online programs:
- Business Communications: Since sports managers run the business side of sports, it’s important to understand an audience's needs, develop a professional communication style, and skillfully write business reports, emails, and memoranda. In general, this course teaches both oral and written communication principles.
- Event Management: This course aims to help students understand the basic principles of organizational leadership and management. Some programs may have students administer and manage an event to test their new skills.
- Sports Media and Marketing: An important part of managing a sports team or venue is marketing facilities, programs, and events. Students learn strategies for marketing, improve their understanding of consumer behavior, and implement sports marketing activities.
- Facility and Venue Management: Overall, this course prepares students to plan and manage facilities and venues. Since locations shape the experience of a sporting event, sports managers should understand operations, policy, financing, crowd control, risk management, customer service, and budgeting.
- The Essence of Sports and Fandom: This is a history course where students study organized sport from a historical perspective, explore social issues in sports, and analyze how digital media affects sports.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Sports Management Degree?
Below are some of the most common jobs you can get with a bachelor's degree in sports management, with job data provided from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
represent and promote their clients, who are usually athletes, artists, and performers. Many business managers handle contracts, business deals, and sponsorships. They may also interact with promoters, venues, and team owners to ensure their athletes are getting the best deals possible.
work directly with an organization or venue to maintain facilities and coordinate with sports teams. They keep records, recommend changes, and oversee all systems and staff, to name a few areas of ownership.
coordinate a variety of social and professional events. Teams and venues hire planners to facilitate paperwork, organize hiring, and find potential sites for meetings and events.
control a sports team or other organization’s public image. They meet with donors, develop an organization’s media presence, and work with the relevant executives and spokespeople.
aren’t specific to sports careers, but most sports teams, leagues, and venues have these kinds of managers. They may be hired to advertise a specific event, work with an organization consistently, or manage a venue. They work to make sure events and games are well attended and that an organization or venue’s successes are promoted.
Is Sports Management a Growing Field?
Sports games continue to draw large crowds, and the popularity of sporting events continues to grow. For this reason, most jobs that graduates of a sports management degree program can seek out have a higher-than-average growth rate, as the data points above indicate.
Is Sports Management a Good Career Choice?
Because the sports industry is continuing to grow and expand, more managers are constantly needed. There are many sports leagues, venues, and teams, so a variety of career options are available to graduates of a sports management program. Schools and colleges also need sports managers, which opens the door for even more opportunities.
Is a Sports Management Online Degree Worth It?
If you’re wondering whether it's smart to major in sports management, know that there are both benefits and drawbacks to pursuing an online sports management degree. While there’s a lot of information to learn and skills to develop, it can be worth it if you’re interested in working with athletes, venues, and/or sports fans.
Before deciding whether to pursue a career as a sports manager, consider some pros and cons:
Potential Benefits
- You’ll meet a lot of people. Because sports are a central part of many communities, many people are interested in attending games and events. Through working with teams, venues, or schools, you’ll likely meet a lot of people with the same interests as you.
- Work in a variety of places. Sports managers may work for a league team, a sports venue, their own recreational program, or even an athletic gear start-up. There are as many careers as there are aspects of sports.
- Overall, sports managers are projected to have a high job growth, according to the BLS. In fact, even most related careers have a higher projected career growth than the U.S. average.
Potential Drawbacks
- Your job depends on fans. As a sports manager, your job depends on a team’s popularity. This means that it's crucial that enough people are interested in sports to support your local business, and the public perception of your sport’s industry is relatively high.
- A large time commitment is involved. During sports seasons, teams and venues have a busy schedule. As a sports manager, you’re responsible for making sure everything goes well, which can put a lot of pressure on you and potentially disrupt your work-life balance.
- Competitive Job Market. While the popularity of sports is good for job growth, it also means that the job market is highly competitive. Many people are interested in working with sports teams, athletes, and event venues, so finding a job in a location you want to live may be difficult.
If you’re concerned about paying for your sports management degree online, seek out financial aid opportunities. Many states and institutions offer scholarships, loans, and grants for sports management students.
An online sports management degree can lead to a variety of careers. Whether you’re interested in marketing, event planning, public relations, accounting, or negotiating sponsorship deals, a degree in sports management can provide the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this industry.
Student Reviews of Online Sports Management Programs
Have been in the school for just a little over 6 months. I think they have the right people in place. I think the professors/instructors bring in their individuality, and also have a good sense of helping out students. They are very active in discussion boards, and are also aware of issues through e-mail. The only thing that is growing tiresome, and making me completely unmotivated, is the fact of writing paper...after paper....after paper. Every single class has had a "milestone" that is due, and... Read More
Review Date: 6/5/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Texas at Austin is an amazing school located in the amazing city of Austin, Texas that offers world-class events such as Austin City Limits Music Festival and the South by Southwest Festival. Schools such as the McCombs School of Business and the Moody College of Communication are highly-ranked nationally, and UTs alumni network spans 482,000+ that allows for a vast network after you graduate.
Review Date: 3/17/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The most important factor that attributes to my school's overall greatness is that availability of online courses/degrees. My entire bachelors degree was earned online and I loved the convenience of it. A variety of classes are also available. I also like that my school provides me with early enrollment because it allows me to register for the classes I need ahead of time.
Review Date: 12/27/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
American Military University was the best option for me. The condensed 8 week online courses allowed me to accomplish more classes throughout the year. Taking classes online gave me the flexibility to get class work done when time allowed. I was able to achieve a positive work/life/college balance thanks to the flexible schedule at AMU. I would recommend this school to all military members wishing to pursue higher education. I had a great experience and I look forward to graduate school.
Review Date: 2/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Henderson State was a great place to call home for the past four years. My college experience was everything I could ask for. At the start of my college career I started out in the wrong major, and then I fell behind because I was not content. With all honesty, I failed a class, and my GPA slipped. I believe that was the moment I realized something wasnt right. I can say I matured a lot when I transitioned into a sophomore. Once I got on the right track and found sports management, there has been... Read More
Review Date: 8/7/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
If it was not for the UCF DeVos Undergraduate Sport Business program, I would not be prepared for graduate school in the slightest nor would I have been accepted into two exceptional univerisities to obtain my MBA. When I was a senior in high school, I had every one of my peers and their mother telling me to choose either Florida State University of University of Florida for my bachelor's, but something in me pulled me towards the University of Central Florida. During my sophomore year, I met Professor... Read More
Review Date: 3/23/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This school made me feel comfortable. The small class sizes really helped me to have on-on-one time with the professors and get to know them personally. I was a student -athlete and the teachers worked well with me to get all my classwork and homework done in a timely manner. With this said, I graduated as a student-athlete with a 4.0 with the help of my professors and coach working together to fit my educational needs. Academics was the number one priority. I learned everything that I needed to... Read More
Review Date: 8/24/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
If you are rich this is your school! A bunch of spoiled , bratty empty headed rich kids have this school wrapped around their fingers! Single parent kids are screwed here! Don’t bother administration bends over backwards for money they could care less about diversity and less it’s backed by millions. No diversity !
Review Date: 2/3/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Sport management was a huge disappointment for a major. I didn’t realize until I was further into the major that no sport companies recruit and there are almost no decent paying jobs in the field. A joke. Professors do little to create meaningful job opportunities which continue to be an issue even years after the students leave Rice.
Review Date: 1/8/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Indiana University of Pennsylvania is a great college to attend. I may be a little biased but that's just because it has a huge variety of majors that can lead you into your dream job. The professors are really hands on, and the diversity which the school has amazing. I would recommend this University to anyone who is trying to further their education and wants the best college experience possible.
Review Date: 8/28/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The sport management program was outstanding. I am now furthering my education and receiving my masters here on ESU campus. The program helped me understand More about my career in sport marketing and on the business side of sports. I am prepared for the next chapter in my life.
Review Date: 9/5/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Colorado Mesa University is a phenomenal education institution. During my three years at CMU, I had vast educational and extracurricular opportunities. The school provides substantial amounts of financial aid (both federal and institutional). Since my freshman year, I was honored both merit scholarships and work-study. CMU is extremely engaged in their students' lives and providing the best opportunities and experiences; for example, while the school does not have unlimited work-study or federal... Read More
Review Date: 9/29/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely loved Rutgers, it is the most diverse school in the nation and one of the leading schools in academics. I was an out of state student while majority of the students at Rutgers were from in state. Although a lot of the students knew each other and grew up with each other that was ok because Rutgers has so many organizations to offer. There truly is something for everyone. The one down side is if you are from out of state and need financial aid, it is very difficult to obtain but if you... Read More
Review Date: 12/4/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am still currently in college and it is my first year here at Kearney. Overall, it's a great school and I like it. It has nice upperclassmen dorms, a good cafeteria, and the classes are great. The professors know you by name and are willing to help. My mistake for the first semester was taking classes that are too hard for me, so my advice is don't be afraid to ask questions about the class so then you can make sure it is in your capability.
Review Date: 10/19/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Hands down ETSU was the best decision for my undergraduate degree. After some trail and error I found the degree that would set me on the career path of my dreams. I focused in Park and Recreation Management and I couldn't have made a better decision! From the time I entered my major I found that the professors were great and they really want what is best for their students. I would find myself spending extra time in the classrooms and office hours just to soak up as much information as possible.... Read More
Review Date: 7/25/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Hands down ETSU was the best decision for my undergraduate degree. After some trail and error I found the degree that would set me on the career path of my dreams. I focused in Park and Recreation Management and I couldn't have made a better decision! From the time I entered my major I found that the professors were great and they really want what is best for their students. I would find myself spending extra time in the classrooms and office hours just to soak up as much information as possible.... Read More
Review Date: 7/31/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely loved and appreciated my time at SUNY Cortland. The people and opportunities brought to me at Cortland were forever life-altering. My favorite and most influential part of my undergraduate experience were the people I met; friends, professors, mentors. I had people guide me every step of the way and help me become the best version of myself. My favorite opportunity brought to me at SUNY Cortland was studying abroad. During my sophomore year, I studied abroad in Australia and it was the... Read More
Review Date: 10/21/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Tennessee (UT) is filled with tradition and excellence. Through the Sports Management program, I was able to network with various professionals within collegiate athletics. If you aspire to work in the world of collegiate athletics, UT is the school for you. Although the classes may not be rigorous, you will learn more than you ever expected with professors who have prior experience in the industry. The program is geared around your experience and how you can succeed based on what... Read More
Review Date: 3/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Currently at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, I am majoring in Sports Administration with a minor in Business administration, as well as pursuing my masters in Sport Science and Kinesiology. For my bachelors degree I was required to enroll in classes like Prevention and Care of Injuries, Motor Behavior, and Management Facilities and Events in Sports. I felt that my required courses allowed me to learn about both the financial and physical aspects of the sport industry which will be helpful in... Read More
Review Date: 1/17/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This is a fantastic school to start out in! The campus is beautiful and the environment really is conducive to learning. Being a newer school, the facilities are fresh and clean. There's many resources all over campus which you can use from academic help to personal health. The class sizes are very manageable. Everything you need can be found through gulfline and if you have questions people are available to help.
Review Date: 8/5/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No