Online graduate programs are a great way to advance your career without interrupting your professional life. But which program should you choose? Study at highly regarded institutions that the U.S. Department of Education has accredited. An accredited school offers quality education and the opportunity to qualify for financial aid.

Accreditation

A master’s in sports management creates a path for you to build your leadership skills and prepare to manage the business side of athletic programs. Programs include courses in marketing, research methods, and the finance and economics of sports. Add significant electives to customize your degree to fit your career goals. An online program’s accreditation status is important to consider. This designation impacts course credit transfer, student eligibility for federal financial aid, and the reputation of your diploma. Look for regional accreditation from one of the country’s recognized accreditors.

An accredited online masters in sports administration allows you to build relationships with peers and industry leaders. Take advantage of this networking opportunity when participating in a culminating experience such as an internship or student-led semester-long project. You can use these connections to build a network for your future career in sports. You may even join a professional association for additional networking and educational opportunities.

Flexibility

Whether you’re the head of sports marketing for a professional football team or running a soccer nonprofit, navigating the unique business processes and regulations of working in sports requires specialized skills. You can gain this with an online master’s in sports administration. An online program is flexible enough to fit your schedule, allowing you to study independently and work on the degree around other life commitments. Online programs typically follow the same rigorous curriculum as traditional brick-and-mortar options, which leads to similar career advancement opportunities upon graduation. An online graduate degree in sports management may also require a research project or internship. It allows you to simultaneously apply what you learn in class to real-life business situations and build a professional network.

Career Opportunities

If you have a passion for sports and want to make a difference in the industry, an online sports administration master’s degree can help you achieve your goals. With this advanced degree, you’ll gain leadership skills and a unique perspective on the industry. Students may choose from various program tracks to prepare for their desired career. These courses often include International Sports Management, which teaches how to manage teams and athletes in foreign settings.

In addition to classwork, an online sports administration master’s degree typically includes a research or internship experience. These experiences give you hands-on experience and can enhance your résumé. You can find these opportunities through universities or private sources. Many students also qualify for government loans and university payment plans to cover tuition costs.

Credential

In the sports industry, a master’s degree is usually required to advance into upper management roles. A master’s in sports administration online can help you distinguish yourself from other applicants, giving you the knowledge and skills to succeed. An online graduate program can allow you to study independently and complete the degree in about two years. It also means that you can continue working in your current job while pursuing your degree, which can benefit your career advancement. Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s online master’s in sports administration teaches students the business side of managing professional, collegiate, or secondary school athletic departments. It covers sports law, research design, and sports governance and operations.