The Best Online Sports Management MBA Programs 2023

All You Need To Know About Online Sports Management MBA Programs
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Online Sports Management MBA

Sports management focuses on the business attributes of sports. Many working in this industry have obtained a sports management degree like an online sports management MBA. Individuals working in this industry deal with budgeting, planning, organizing, and managing duties. They work in departments or organizations whose primary directive relates to sports or physical activities.

Sports managers handle tasks like event management, finance, marketing, leadership, and facility management. Sports management relates to nearly all types of levels of sports, including:

  • Professional sports,
  • Municipal recreation,
  • Private organizations,
  • College-level athletics,
  • Social organizations,
  • Government athletic activities, and
  • Amateur sport.

What is an Online Sports Management MBA?

Potential business students interested in working in the sports industry should consider an online sports management MBA degree. These programs provide distance learners with a solid understanding of business, management, and sports and how these worlds work together. Graduate students receive instruction directly related to business and sports topics.

Most programs include substantial practical experiences that relate to managing sports organizations and sporting events. Some degree programs enable online MBA students to focus on a particular area of the sports industry like: 

  • Sports tourism,
  • Sports facility management,
  • Golf management,
  • Sports marketing, or
  • Sports communications and media.

What are the benefits of a Sports Management Online MBA?

Sports management programs provide graduate students with various benefits. A top attribute of this program is working with a wide range of professionals who share a shared passion for sports management. The degree also provides valuable experiences. This program is not relegated to one specific geographic location since sports are prevalent worldwide.

Students in sports management MBA programs complete courses that focus on the whole sports industry. This can include intercollegiate and professional sports, the business aspects of sports, and information about sports. They are also exposed to courses that speak into:

  • Sports law,
  • Sports ethics,
  • Sports marketing,
  • Sport finance, and
  • The management of sports facilities.

Undergraduate degree programs prepare students for entry-level sports management careers and help graduates get their professional foot in the door. Graduate degree programs like MAs, MSs, and MBAs provide a more in-depth study of the field. These graduates are prepared to seek upper-level positions and advance in their current positions. Doctorates enable students to become experts in sports management and pursue professional opportunities in research and academia.

The steady growth of the United States’ sports industry has fueled a demand for sports management professionals. Today, sports-related businesses are ranked in the top-fifteen sectors in the nation. Career opportunities for graduate students trained in sports management vary from pursuing positions with professional sports teams to working for a local non-profit organization.

Top Sports Management Jobs

JobAnnual Salary
Director of Sales$98,391
Athletic Director (College/University)$89,243
Sports Facilities Managers$80,000
Sports Marketers$76,000
Athletic Directors$63,000
Parks and Recreation Director$62,761
Account Manager$59,106
Sports Managers$48,000
Event Coordinator$44,943
Sports/Team Scouts$44,000
Data from Payscale.com
what managers do in sports

Sports/Team Scouts

Scouts are responsible for assessing amateur and professional athletes. They look for talent, skill, and potential success in a particular sport. Sports scouts typically work for academic institutions that have amateur teams and professional sports organizations. They pursue athletic talent by:

  • Consulting with high school or college coaches,
  • Scanning local newspapers, and
  • Observing players’ performance to evaluate their skills and future potential.

Many sports scouts meet with young athletes and their families to better understand their background and personality. After evaluating players, sports scouts report data and recommendations back to teams and organizations that analyze prospective value to the team. Sports scouts typically earn approximately $44,000 per year.

Sports Marketers

Sports marketers handle buying and selling brands, individual athletes, teams, or sponsors in the sports world. These professionals create awareness and influence advertising for clients and their brand. They often utilize various mediums to advertise their clients, like:

  • Social networking,
  • Public relations,
  • Media interviews,
  • Public events, and
  • Endorsement deals.

Sports marketers coordinate with their clients to determine needs while implementing campaigns in the most effective ways. They may also conduct surveys to identify the best markets for promoting their clients. A sports marketer’s average salary is approximately $76,000 a year.

Sports Facilities Managers

These professionals run all operations of sports facilities, from small gymnasiums to large football stadiums. Sports facilities managers oversee the daily operations and organize maintenance and other activities required for practical function. They maintain the safety and quality of playing surfaces while implementing specific procedures to ensure all participants and spectators at sports activities are kept safe. They may also keep track of equipment and delegate repair and maintenance tasks. Sports facilities managers are also responsible for ensuring an effective security system is in place.

They prepare annual budgets and estimate operating costs for facilities. The average annual salary for sports facilities managers is approximately $80,000.

Sports Managers

Sports managers direct the scheduling and oversight for sports organizations and individual athletes. These professionals act as intermediaries between teams and players while presenting a positive public image for clients. They concentrate on all business and organizational aspects of sports to enable clients to focus on the game and do their best to win games. Sports managers ensure that their clients are getting adequate attention and training for peak performance. They work for many entities, including

  • Sporting goods organizations,
  • Amateur and professional sports leagues,
  • Academic institutions, and
  • Sports marketing companies. 

The median salary for sports managers is approximately $48,000 each year.

Athletic Directors

These professionals provide leadership in all types of sports organizations. They are found in secondary schools all the way to college athletic departments. They oversee all operations within an athletic program.

Their duties include hiring staff, facility management, and budgets. They work with and provide direction for the team to create schedules for practices, games, and tournaments. Athletic directors allocate funding for travel, equipment, maintenance of facilities, and staff member salaries. These professionals also work with leagues and conferences to schedule events and activities. Athletic directors average just over $63,000.

The Best Online Sports Management MBA Programs

These best of the best Sports Management MBA programs are offered in an online or hybrid format. Each degree holds exceptional business accreditation. Schools are listed in alphabetical order.

Ashland University

Ashland University

One of the nation’s best online MBA programs in sports management is featured at Richard E. & Sandra J. Dauch College of Business & Economics at Ashland University. The Online Sport Management MBA program can be completed in less than a year. The program is affordably priced. It includes all web-based course materials. Distance learners should check this one out.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission

Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University

The School of Business and Management at Azusa Pacific University provides an excellent sports management online MBA. This degree features a dynamic format. The online MBA offers students flexibility. They can take courses wherever and whenever it is most convenient. Enrolled students maximize their interaction with other students and professors. This sports online MBA is exceptional.

Accreditation: IACBE, Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission

Belhaven University

Belhaven University

An online MBA program in sports administration is at Belhaven University’s School of Business. This program integrates the sophisticated academic world, the career world, and the eternal world of the Christian faith. The business curriculum fits into active lives. Belhaven is an accredited online university. It aims to develop rare levels of discernment in demand globally and locally.

Accreditation: IACBE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago’s College of Business features a good sports management online MBA program. This distance degree assists students with business knowledge for their entire careers. Enrolled students can customize the speed and program they need for career goals. The online MBA in sports is a turnkey, cohort format. This accelerated online MBA prepares students for in-demand positions.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission

Dakota Wesleyan University

Dakota Wesleyan University logo

Dakota Wesleyan University’s Graduate Studies features an online MBA with a graduate certificate in Athletic and Activities Administration. It offers various opportunities for students to develop professional skills. They earn credentials that meet their needs. This sports online MBA is cost-effective, practical, and relevant. Enrolled students complete their coursework anywhere and anytime. This is a highly interactive program.

Accreditation: IACBE, Higher Learning Commission

East Carolina University

East Carolina University logo

East Carolina University’s College of Business offers an online MBA with a graduate certificate in sport management. Enrolled students gain a competitive edge and develop valuable skills. They can drive their careers forward with East Carolina University’s Master of Business Administration. This graduate program is a smart choice for students who value high quality and low costs.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University logo

Florida Atlantic University’s College of Business offers an online MBA in sport management. The Online MBA program allows participants to continue their professional responsibilities. They earn an AACSB-accredited MBA degree as full-time students. FAU’s Online MBA is asynchronous. Students access courses at any time and location with an internet connection. This online MBA is superb.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Florida International University

Florida International University

The College of Business at Florida International University features a sports management online MBA. FIU’s College of Business is a pioneer in online instruction. Enrolled MBA students receive exceptional online education and experience. The sports management MBA offers a flexible and robust program. Ambitious professionals will want to advance their careers within this program.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Florida Southern College

Florida Southern College

The Barney Barnett School of Business and Free Enterprise at Florida Southern College offers an online MBA in Esports management. The Esports Management Concentration meets the growing demand for graduates with skills in Esports. The Esports market has surpassed $1 billion. Jobs will be in a surplus in the future. Enrolled MBA students go on to work in the Esports industry.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Franklin Pierce University

Franklin Pierce University

The College of Business at Franklin Pierce University offers an online MBA in sports management. Distance learners find this major a good fit. They can develop a passion for sports, fitness, and active lifestyles. The curriculum features an understanding of physical well-being on human behavior. This sports management online MBA is perfect for working professionals.

Accreditation: IACBE, New England Commission of Higher Education

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University’s Colangelo College of Business offers a sports business online MBA. A master’s degree in business administration enhances marketable skills that give job applicants an edge. The Colangelo College of Business addresses many business issues. It invites students to apply for the MBA with no GMAT required. Future business leaders focus on leadership development and organizational growth.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission

Hardin-Simmons University

Hardin Simmons University

Hardin-Simmons University’s Kelley College of Business has an online MBA in sport business. Enrolled students get the advanced training to take their careers in athletic administration to the next level. HSU offers one of the most well-regarded sports management MBA programs in Texas. Multiple institutions accredit this MBA in sport business. It is considered by some agencies to be the top online sports management MBA program in the country.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Lincoln Memorial University

Lincoln Memorial University

The School of Business at Lincoln Memorial University features a sports management online MBA. This concentration provides intellectual and managerial skills individuals need for career advancement in the sports industry. It develops and deepens a student’s diverse set of skills. The MBA program with this concentration leads to careers in high school or collegiate athletics and professional sports. It is an excellent MBA.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Lindenwood University

Lindenwood University

The Plaster College of Business and Economics at Lindenwood University offers an online MBA in sports management. Lindenwood offers distance learners the chance to earn an MBA with a sports management specialization. Enrolled students study courses from various choices. MBA students looking for sports marketing and promotion lessons, event management, and sports law will enjoy this one.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission

Lynn University

Lynn University

The College of Business and Management at Lynn University features a sports-focused online MBA. Graduates of the programs become athletics managers at the intercollegiate or professional level. The online sports management MBA features a set list of courses. Enrolled students apply the leadership and financial skills the Lynn online MBA program offers. This online MBA in sports management is a great choice.

Accreditation: IACBE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University has an online MBA in sports management at the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship. The program is an MBA in Sport Revenue Generation. It is a leading-edge program and a one-of-a-kind in sports management education. No other curriculum closely mirrors the industry’s growing need for professionals committed to revenue enhancement. This degree generates revenue and excitement.

Accreditation: IACBE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Ohio Dominican University

Ohio Dominican University

The Business Administration Department at Ohio Dominican University offers an online MBA in sports management. The Sport Management Concentration is perfect for students acquiring additional knowledge and skills. These graduates work in the dynamic and growing field of sports. Students select two courses from the business school. Sport Psychology and Sport Marketing are stellar courses within this excellent online MBA.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission

Rider University

Rider University

Rider University’s Norm Brodsky College of Business delivers an online MBA in sports management. Enrolled students earn this degree 100% online. The program is an asynchronous format with small class sizes. Distance learners enjoy the same respected MBA degree the business school awards to traditional students. Sports fans can complete their degree in two years or less.

Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Saint Francis University

Saint Francis University

Saint Francis University’s Shields School of Business offers a sports management online MBA. The Master of Business Administration can fulfill a graduate student’s potential for greater job satisfaction. MBA students enjoy career advancement and have an impact on their organization. The curriculum is infused with the rich Franciscan heritage of the University. This sports management online MBA is a great choice.

Accreditation: IACBE, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Samford University

Samford University logo

An online MBA in sports business is available at the Brock School of Business at Samford University. This stellar degree prepares successful managers and leaders to excel in an evolving global business environment. Core business functions are featured with an emphasis on problem-solving. Enrolled students enjoy a practical application in the workplace. This online MBA has it all.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

San Diego State University

San Diego State University

San Diego State University’s Fowler College of Business features an online MBA in sports management. SDSU’s Sports Management MBA is an accelerated 18-month Sports Management degree. It begins in January each year. Highly motivated students seeking an intensive academic environment love this program. It features extensive hands-on industry experience. This degree is worth its weight in gold.

Accreditation: AACSB, WASC Senior College and University Commission

Shenandoah University

Shenandoah University

The Harry F. Byrd, Jr. School of Business at Shenandoah University features an Esports management online MBA. The Esports Management MBA prepares students for advanced positions in Esports management. This specialization consists of three elective courses. The online program complements the foundation and core of the MBA program. Classes focus on the unique knowledge and experiences needed to be successful in esports.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

St. Thomas Aquinas College

St. Thomas Aquinas College

St. Thomas Aquinas College features an online MBA in sports administration at the School of Business. Working professionals enjoy this program. They get the flexibility they need to pursue degrees while maintaining their careers. Students can complete the MBA program on campus or online. The accelerated online MBA allows incoming undergraduates to take 12 credits and apply them toward the accelerated MBA. This sports administration MBA rocks.

Accreditation: IACBE, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Stephen F. Austin State University

Stephen F. Austin State University

The Nelson Rusche College of Business at Stephen F. Austin State University features an online MBA in sports business. A Master of Business Administration gives enrolled students a competitive edge. Graduate students prepare for many career options with opportunities for advancement and increased earning potential. The benefits of this online MBA reach far beyond the business world.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Temple University

Temple University logo

Temple University’s Fox School of Business offers an online MBA in sport business. This is a highly personalized program. It uses cutting-edge virtual learning technology to keep students ahead of the curve and completely engaged. All courses are taught by award-winning faculty. The program features a convenient and easily customizable curriculum. Fox’s Online MBA is stellar.

Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Texas Woman’s University

Texas Womans University logo

Texas Woman’s University’s College of Business offers an online sports management MBA. Business leaders ready to enter or advance their careers as sports industry leaders will want to take note. TWU’s MBA in Sport Management includes various operations in the ever-evolving and universal sports world. Enrolled students become zealous about applying business concepts in the sporting industry. This is the sports degree for tomorrow’s leaders.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

University of Central Missouri

University of Central Missouri logo

The Harmon College of Business at the University of Central Missouri provides a sports business online MBA. Professionals seeking entry-level positions in sports marketing or operations and those wanting to rise through management ranks will want this degree. UCM’s Master of Business Administration in Sports Business helps students win points with all sports-related organizations. This degree in Sports Business is designed to help you score specific goals.

Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

An online MBA in sports management is at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs College of Business. Enrolled students earn their MBA degrees with ultimate flexibility and around their schedules. This online MBA was launched in 1996. It is an AACSB-accredited degree entirely online. The Online MBA offers eight-week courses. Students take two classes a semester and focus on one course at a time. This online MBA in sports management is excellent.

Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission

University of Colorado Denver

University of Colorado Denver

The University of Colorado Denver Business School features an online MBA in sports and entertainment. This Professional MBA provides built-in flexibility. Enrolled students explore their interests. They receive a solid business foundation applicable to every discipline. Distance learners customize their MBA by taking advantage of elective hours. This sports and entertainment online MBA is a champion.

Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission

University of Lynchburg

University of Lynchburg

The University of Lynchburg’s College of Business offers a sports management online MBA. The Master of Business Administration features a sports management emphasis. It equips graduate students with in-depth knowledge and critical skills. Distance learners understand the commercial and legal aspects of managing sports events and teams. Lynchburg students prepare for careers in team and club management.

Accreditation: ACBSP, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

University of North Texas

University of North Texas logo

The University of North Texas G. Brint Ryan College of Business offers an online sport entertainment management MBA. UNT and the Dallas Cowboys combined to create this professional online MBA program. It provides students the chance to become thought business leaders. Best practices and case studies guide the curriculum. This online MBA is delivered through the collective lens of UNT faculty and Cowboys business professionals.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

University of Southern Mississippi

University of Southern Mississippi logo

The University of Southern Mississippi’s College of Business & Economic Development offers a unique online MBA. This Sports Event Security Management MBA is stellar. Graduates make an impact in the sports security industry. They possess the business knowledge needed to manage operations. This online MBA instills specialized knowledge and skills to cultivate a safe environment for fans and employees.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Wayne State University

Wayne State University

The Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University provides a top online MBA. Wayne State’s Sport and Entertainment Management program is a winner. It emphasizes concept and application while focusing on sports and entertainment organizations. This program underscores management fundamentals. The curriculum equips students with the knowledge and skills to work in elite sports and entertainment.

Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University

The College of Business at Western Carolina University features a sports management online MBA. This MBA curriculum was designed with employers in western North Carolina and WCU College of Business faculty. Students exit the program Business Ready to meet employment needs. All courses are led by qualified Ph.D. faculty. The sports program boasts an excellent curriculum and a group of educators. This online MBA in sports management cannot be beaten.

Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

How Do I Choose the Right Sports Management Online MBA?

sports play

Online MBA programs are well respected and internationally recognized. These advanced business degrees focus on developing the skills and knowledge needed for careers in business. MBA students learn the power of big-picture thinking, strategic decision-making, and core aspects of business management.

Core coursework within an MBA includes business law, accounting, finance, economics, marketing, and management. Concentrations may include:

Most MBA students acquire several years of work experience before pursuing an MBA program. Graduates commonly work as consultants, operators, marketers, and financiers.

Some potential b-school students are unaware that online MBA programs offer the same rigorous curriculum that their on-campus counterparts do. Technology allows location-independent study, opening various attractive educational options for MBA students. A distance-based MBA affords students the chance to attend an out-of-state school without the hassle and expense of relocation. It also permits professionals to have more control over their pace of study.

How is an Online MBA Delivered?

Schools dispatch coursework for online MBA degrees through learning management systems (LMS). Software platforms include Blackboard and Moodle. Teachers administer course content and post material that enrolled business students can access anywhere. The LMS framework integrates cloud-based services and tools like:

  • Lecture capture,
  • Interactive video,
  • Text chat windows,
  • Web conferencing,
  • Streaming video, and
  • Audio discussion forums.

Students can access textbooks electronically through an LMS. They also have opportunities to listen to textbook material through voice recordings.

Instructors release assignments through an LMS. Online MBA students submit completed work within the platform, minimizing reliance on email. This can involve submitting recorded presentations or delivering them in real-time through a webcam. Instructors enable class conversations and allow dialogue for specific assignments, encouraging relevant discussions.

Students can view asynchronous lectures anytime. Interactive classroom sessions are known as synchronous sessions. These require live attendance and interaction between instructors and students. Synchronous meeting participants need a URL and connect through the LMS to join the meeting. They can raise a virtual hand to ask a question at any time during a lesson.

Online MBA students have the chance to take exams at testing centers or through virtual testing services. Fees may sometimes apply for proctoring services. Instructors can also elect to grade tests and assignments manually or automatically. Some instructors prefer asynchronous communication. This accommodates students living in different time zones and enables individualized completion.

How Do Cohorts Work in an Online MBA Program?

Cohort models consist of students who progress through an MBA program and curriculum together within a shared learning process and then graduate as a group. Students are sorted according to similar aptitudes and career goals. Cohorts establish career-building networks of connections that can help distance learners succeed after graduation.

Benefits of the cohort approach include:

  • An ongoing sense of community support,
  • Increased teamwork,
  • Resource sharing, and
  • A priority of collaboration over competition.

Without a cohort, students select courses independently of other students. They typically encounter different student groups in each class. Online MBA programs that facilitate cohorts throughout an entire course of study establish diversity of gender, background, nationality, and work experience. Some schools enlist second-year cohort students to offer peer assessments and coaching support to first-year students. Some schools provide abbreviated on-campus residencies for cohort team building.

calendar planning

Most online MBA programs involve two years of study and between thirty to sixty credits. Some programs allow the flexibility of up to six years for degree completion. Accelerated intensive programs permit eligible students with business backgrounds exemption from foundation courses. They offer the chance for online MBA completion in just about a year of full-time study.

Depending on the course load, students may find a route to graduate ahead of schedule by pursuing more credits each term. A typical online course load is one three-credit core course over five weeks. Some programs offer completion opportunities of six or more credits per period.

What Can I Expect to Pay for an Online MBA Program?

Base tuition rates for on-campus and online MBA programs at a college or university are often identical. Yet, online programs offer other money-saving benefits, including:

  • Fewer fees,
  • Transportation cost savings, and
  • The chance to pay in-state tuition regardless of where students live.

State-subsidized public schools typically cost less than private schools. However, private schools offer more financial aid options. The prestige of a business school also affects the cost of an advanced business degree. MBAs from Ivy League schools come with substantial price tags. Potential b-students should research all their online options to find affordable school choices that work for their needs.

How Do I Apply for a Sports Management Online MBA?

Future MBA students applying to the nation’s top business schools may feel they face a daunting task. Each year, prominent MBA programs turn down three of every four program applicants. The numbers are even more severe at schools like the Graduate School of Business at Stanford and Harvard Business School. Stanford rejects nearly 95% of its applicants, while Harvard only accepts nine out of every hundred.

So, how does one sway the odds in her favor? Much like top-shelf undergraduate admissions, getting into an elite MBA program can be a lot like a marathon. Random and subtle attributes can influence a b-school’s decision on whether to admit or deny. Even some of the most outstanding candidates are denied admission each year. Within all the top school’s candidate pools, much self-selection occurs, so applicants compete against impressive candidates. It’s commonly known that as many as eight of ten candidates in a business school’s applicant pool are qualified to attend and have the real potential to do well in a discerning MBA program. Yet, no elite business school admits 80% of its interested applicants.

Here is what it takes to make the most of your sports management online MBA application process:

1. Research

Do Your Homework and thoroughly research your programs and business schools. Do not haphazardly apply based on an MBA ranking alone. Every business school maintains a detailed website. It is vital to see how each program communicates and presents itself. However, think of these websites as advertisements and an ample opportunity for a b-school to make its best first impression. The next step is to read up on an in-depth and objective third-party report on the school and its online MBA experience.

2. Go To The Source

When interacting with business school leaders, pay special attention to what admission directors say about their schools and the educational process. Many of them maintain blogs on their school websites. Some participate in open forums that are transcribed and recorded. While you can expect some subjective material, a casual conversation that is open to the public is where you can more easily evaluate the difference between candid feedback spin.

Events like the CentreCourt MBA Festival gather MBA gatekeepers at schools like Indiana Kelley, London Business School, MIT Sloan, and Duke Fuqua to share information about their programs. Another event worth attending or reading up on is The MBA Summit at Michigan’s Ross School of Business. At this event, the MBA admission representatives from Ross, Yale, and Berkeley provide uniquely fresh perspectives on their schools and application processes.

test preparation

3. Interview

Interview current students and alumni to discuss the programs you are most interested in joining. Ask them what made them stand out in their applications to the school. Every school administers an ambassador program of student volunteers who speak with candidates. Take advantage of this resource which offers a realistic and relevant glimpse into a program’s content and context.

This is also a way to understand what former students think of the MBA program and gain advice they offer current applicants. Poets&Quants publishes a Meet the Class series that is a resource for candidates. The series gives future MBA students an idea of each school’s ideal candidate. Most importantly, current students provide insights as to why they landed on the business school.

4. Testing

If standardized tests present a challenge, consider resources to help you get the best scores possible. Hire a tutor if you can afford it. Business school applicants need to have solid GRE or GMAT scores to get into an elite MBA program. But even a 780+ GMAT score won’t get applicants automatically admitted to a premium school. Berkeley Haas refuses nearly 60% of its applicants who report a 750 or higher GMAT score. Take practice tests to get used to them and discover what your range is. Spend time researching schools to find the right fit for you. It’s less about finding the school that’s the shiniest and more about finding the one where you will thrive.

How Do I Succeed in a Sports Management Online MBA Program?

-Be as Specific as Possible about Your Educational and Business Goals

Some online business school students savor the chance to study remotely without ever stepping foot on a college campus. In contrast, others enjoy the short residencies and international travel that advanced programs sometimes offer. While it is acceptable not to have any concrete goals for your experience within a program or a set career plan once you graduate, it will prove valuable to begin thinking about them as soon as possible. MBA students have to create a schedule that allows them to pursue goals.

Grow Your Network

Networking can begin long before you even enter business school. During the fact-finding time of your online degree hunt, take note of the professionals in business and education that you interview. This could end up being an essential part of your finding your dream job. Get in the practice of breaking out of your comfort zone and encourage yourself to be bold. Reach out to people and remember that most of today’s jobs are landed through quality networking. Start by using a resource like LinkedIn. Find professionals and alumni in your fields of interest and nurture those relationships.

-Hone your Industry Knowledge 

Your interest in sports management may mean you do not have a business background. Many excellent online MBA programs accept applicants each year who lack an undergraduate degree in business. Start by becoming familiar with business language. Read news outlets like the Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and Financial Times. Continue to expose yourself to outside learning sources as you gain knowledge and skills within your online program. 

Action Plans

With an incredible amount of access to resources and flexibility, today’s online MBA students enjoy many benefits, both during their coursework and after graduation. This is making online programs more attractive than their traditional on-campus counterparts for many students. Here are some action plans you can take now to begin your journey of pursuing a distance degree.

1. Take Advantage of an Online MBA’s Accessibility

Accessing online lectures and other resources anywhere can make a substantial difference to your experience. Choosing the best study locations that match your learning style means you can advance without missing a beat. Study through travel, job transfers, relocation, and other life changes.

magnifying glass

2. Explore Your B-School Options

Maybe you are interested in a program that includes international residencies with long periods of online study. Or maybe you are more interested in a dual-degree option or specialization. Online MBA students are not limited by state of residence restrictions. Distance learners pursuing an online MBA find programs with no regard for geographic limitations.

3. Seek a Diversity Program

Online MBA programs, including those focused on international business and globalization, offer many networking opportunities with fellow students worldwide. Online learners who thrive in diverse environments but live in areas without much diversity find their educational experience very satisfying.

4. Look for a Program that Offers Excellent Use of Technology

Online programs rely on assignments, syllabi, reading lists, textbooks, and announcements in digital format. This structure frees students from worrying about lost, forgotten, and misplaced study materials. Many MBA students find that online formats feature opportunities for class meetings with fewer interruptions, increasing the chance for all students to participate.

5. Find an Online MBA that Features Access to On-Campus Resources

From corporate recruiter networks to career services, many business schools prioritize providing on-campus resources to distance learners. Whether you need guidance from the writing center, technical support, or transcript copies from the registrar, you should expect an online program to provide equal access.

This guide has been presented to provide the potential business school student with facts and perspectives that will prove valuable when considering a degree like the online MBA in sports management. The field of sports management is an exciting one that has a lot to offer. Graduate students who love sports and a desire to see their management prosper will thrive within this advanced business degree.

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