Sport Management Association conference
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Sport Management Division
The Sport Management Division prepares you to learn the business of sports both on and off the field. You develop the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in high school, collegiate, amateur, professional, and nonprofit sport settings. The division offers two primary academic pathways: the undergraduate sport management major or minor, and the Master of Arts in Sport Administration. These programs are designed to create seamless learning progression, including a five‑year accelerated option for students who want to earn both degrees efficiently.
Sport management undergraduate program
The undergraduate sport management program offers you a well‑rounded education rooted in the business and operations of sport. You explore governance and organizational theory, sport analytics, economics and finance, marketing and promotions, communication and mass media, and social and global issues in sport as part of the program.
You engage actively in both on‑campus and off‑campus experiential opportunities, building a strong resume through involvement with athletics, community events, and professional organizations. The program’s design emphasizes practical skill development and industry engagement, preparing students not only for internships but for lifelong careers in sport management.
Sport administration graduate program
The Master of Arts in Sport Administration is a practice‑based graduate program designed for individuals seeking leadership roles in sport organizations. You apply theoretical knowledge to real administrative and operational functions, gaining professional experience while advancing academic understanding. Core curriculum includes sport event management, athletic administration, ethical and philosophical issues, facility design, sport law, financial management, marketing, applied research, and human resource management.
You benefit from hands‑on training through internships and practicums with professional teams, collegiate athletic departments, national governing bodies, sports commissions, and related organizations. Assistantships may be available through CMU Athletics, University Recreation, CMU Events, or Ticket Central, offering practical experience that complements classroom learning.
Accelerated pathway
The Sport Management Division also supports an five-year accelerated track for undergraduate sport management students that allows selected credits to be applied toward both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Graduates pursue careers in athletic administration, coaching leadership, event and facility operations, compliance, marketing, fundraising, and other administrative roles within the sport industry.
Signature opportunities
In our programs, you benefit from signature opportunities like the Sport Management Association Conference (SMAC) and the Sport Management Association (SMA). You learn directly from industry professionals, network with alumni, and explore career pathways as part of the SMAC. The SMA provides additional enrichment by offering leadership experiences, travel opportunities, professional networking, and community‑building events.
