Sport Management

The core curriculum offers a solid foundation in essential sports management disciplines. Courses such as Sports Marketing, Sports Finance, and Sports Law provide students with critical knowledge of marketing strategies, financial planning, and ethical decision-making within the sports industry.

Concentration and elective courses, including Event Management and Sports Facility Management, enable students to tailor their studies to align with specific career goals. This flexible curriculum supports specialization in areas such as sports entrepreneurship, athletic leadership, or sports analytics, preparing students for success in their chosen fields. 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 are well-prepared for leadership roles across the sports industry. With a strong foundation in marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, along with practical experience and expert guidance, they pursue diverse careers in sports administration and management. Alumni have secured leadership positions in college athletics, sports marketing, and professional sports organizations, entering the workforce with the skills and confidence to succeed. Below are promising career paths for students considering the program:

Athletic Director

Athletic directors lead athletic departments in educational institutions by managing budgets, coordinating sports programs, and overseeing teams. Graduates apply their expertise in sports finance and administration to drive athletic departments toward success.

Sports Marketing Manager

Sports marketing managers create and execute marketing strategies for teams, agencies, or brands. Graduates apply their sports management knowledge to develop campaigns and partnerships that boost brand visibility.

Sports Finance Manager

Sports finance managers oversee financial planning, budgeting, and investments for sports organizations. Graduates use their sports finance expertise to support the financial stability and growth of sports businesses.

Event Manager

Event managers plan and oversee sports events, from local tournaments to international competitions. Graduates apply practical experience from internships and fieldwork to effectively manage the complexities of sports events.

Sports Entrepreneur

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

Prospective students must meet specific academic and professional requirements to enroll in the Master of Professional Studies (Sport Management) program at Fort Hays State University. The admissions process is designed to select motivated individuals prepared to succeed in the program and make meaningful contributions to the sports industry.

Acceptance into Graduate School

Applicants must meet Fort Hays State University’s general graduate admission criteria, which include submitting official transcripts from all prior 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 discipline. Individuals 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: one from a former professor or academic advisor familiar with their academic abilities, and one from a mentor or industry professional who can attest to their leadership skills and work ethic.

Personal Statement

Applicants must submit a personal statement (1–2 pages) outlining their career goals, motivation for the Master of Professional Studies (Sport Management), and how the program fits their aspirations. The statement should highlight experiences showing their passion for sports and readiness for graduate study.

Resume/CV

Applicants must submit a resume or CV highlighting 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 materials, including official transcripts, a personal statement, a resume or CV, and two letters of recommendation.