Sport Management

The MPS with a concentration in Sport Management core curriculum provides a strong foundation in key sports management areas. Core courses such as Sports Marketing, Sports Finance, and Sports Law equip students with essential knowledge of marketing strategies, financial planning, and ethical decision-making in the sports industry.

Concentration and elective courses like Event Management and Sports Facility Management allow students to customize their studies to fit specific career goals. This flexible curriculum supports specialization in fields such as sports entrepreneurship, athletic leadership, or sports analytics, preparing students for success in their chosen paths. Key courses include:

HHP 655: Sport Planning and Promotion

This course covers techniques and strategies for meeting consumer needs in the sports industry, focusing on the uniqueness of sports marketing, industry segments, the role of market research and segmentation, and data-driven marketing for sponsorship and endorsement development.

HHP 800: Administration in Health and Human Performance

This course focuses on the administrative processes in physical education and athletics, with an emphasis on understanding current practices and their application across all levels of interscholastic and intercollegiate educational settings.

HHP 873: Culminating Experience

This independent learning experience is designed to allow students to apply the knowledge gained from the core curriculum in an integrative manner, aligning with their individual goals and objectives. The culminating experience may include, but is not limited to, a project, position paper, or real-world experience, such as organizing and developing a workshop and its related materials.

Discover the full Master of Professional Studies (Sport Management) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Graduates of the Master of Professional Studies with a concentration in Sport Management are well-equipped for leadership roles across the sports industry. The program’s strong foundation in sports marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, combined with practical experience and expert guidance, prepares students for diverse careers in sports administration and management.

Alumni have successfully secured leadership positions in college athletics, sports marketing, and professional sports organizations. Whether advancing in higher education administration or launching entrepreneurial ventures in sports business, graduates enter the workforce with the skills and confidence to excel. Below are five promising career paths for students considering the program:

Athletic Director

Athletic directors take the helm of athletic departments in educational institutions, steering them to success by managing budgets, coordinating sports programs, and leading teams. As athletic directors, our graduates apply their sports finance and administration expertise to guide athletic departments toward victory.

Sports Marketing Manager

Sports marketing managers develop and implement marketing strategies for sports teams, agencies, or brands. In this role, graduates will leverage their knowledge from the sports management program to create effective campaigns and partnerships that enhance brand visibility.

Sports Finance Manager

Sports finance managers manage financial planning, budgeting, and strategic investments for sports organizations and athletic departments. Graduates will apply their understanding of sports finance to ensure the financial stability and growth of sports businesses.

Event Manager

Event managers organize and manage sports events ranging from local tournaments to international competitions. With their practical experience from internships and fieldwork, graduates are well-equipped to handle the complexities of event management within the sports industry.

Sports Entrepreneur

Sports entrepreneurs launch and manage sports businesses in areas such as sports equipment, consulting, or media. The program's focus on sports entrepreneurship allows graduates to explore innovative business models and identify new opportunities in the sports business market.

Prospective students must meet specific requirements that reflect their academic and professional backgrounds to enroll in the Master of Professional Studies with a concentration in Sports Management at Fort Hays State University. Our admissions process ensures we attract motivated individuals ready to excel in this graduate program and contribute positively to the sports industry.

Acceptance into Graduate School

Applicants must meet Fort Hays State University’s general graduate admission requirements. This includes submitting official transcripts from all previous undergraduate and graduate studies and maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credit hours of their undergraduate degree.

Undergraduate Degree in a Related Field

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in sport management, sport administration, business, or a related field. Those with different academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply if they can demonstrate relevant professional experience in sport management.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources. At least one should be from a former professor or academic advisor familiar with the applicant’s academic potential. The second may come from a mentor or industry professional who can attest to the applicant’s leadership abilities and work ethic.

Personal Statement

Applicants must submit a compelling personal statement (1–2 pages) outlining their career goals, motivation for pursuing the MPS with a concentration in Sport Management, and how the program aligns with their professional aspirations. The statement should highlight specific experiences that demonstrate their passion for the sports industry and readiness for graduate study.

Resume/CV

Applicants must provide a resume or CV detailing relevant professional experience, internships, academic achievements, and certifications.

Application Process

Applicants must complete the online application through Fort Hays State University’s Graduate School, pay the application fee, and submit all required documents, including official transcripts, personal statement, resume or CV, and letters of recommendation.