Top 10 Sports Management Programs in 2025

1. University of Michigan

The University of Michigan’s sports management program, offered through the School of Kinesiology, is one of the best in the country. The program provides students with an in-depth understanding of the sports industry, combining business principles with sports law, marketing, and management. Students have access to internships and networking opportunities with major sports teams and organizations.

2. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

UCLA’s Master of Science in Sport Management program is recognized for its rigorous curriculum and prestigious faculty. Located in the heart of the sports and entertainment industry, UCLA offers unmatched opportunities for internships and real-world experience. The program is designed for students seeking leadership positions in professional sports, collegiate athletics, and sports marketing.

3. University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst’s Mark H. McCormack Department of Sport Management offers a top-tier undergraduate and graduate program that integrates business and sport. Known for its strong industry connections and successful alumni, UMass provides students with opportunities for internships at major sports organizations like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, offering a comprehensive understanding of sports business operations.

4. Columbia University

Columbia University’s Master of Science in Sports Management program is one of the most prestigious in the field. Located in New York City, the program offers students unparalleled access to the sports industry, including internships with leading teams, media companies, and sponsorship agencies. Columbia’s program focuses on leadership, strategy, and sports marketing, with a strong emphasis on global sports management.

5. University of Florida

The University of Florida’s Master of Science in Sports Management is renowned for its combination of academic rigor and practical experience. With a focus on sports law, event management, and facility operations, the program provides students with the tools they need to excel in the sports industry. The university’s location in a state with a rich sports culture adds to the hands-on learning opportunities.

6. Ohio University

Ohio University offers a well-regarded Master of Sports Administration (MSA) program that is consistently ranked among the best in the country. The program is known for its comprehensive curriculum, which includes coursework in finance, marketing, and law, as well as its excellent internship opportunities with major sports teams and organizations across the U.S.

7. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill’s Master of Arts in Sport Administration offers a world-class education in sports business. The program is designed for those seeking careers in sports management, marketing, and operations. Students benefit from the university’s extensive alumni network, as well as access to internships and job placements with major sports teams and brands.

8. University of Miami

The University of Miami’s Master of Science in Sport Administration program combines business and sports education with practical experience. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in sports management, marketing, and event planning. Miami’s location offers students access to major sporting events, international sports organizations, and a vibrant sports culture.

9. University of Denver

The University of Denver’s Sports Management program provides students with both the business and athletic knowledge required for leadership roles in the sports industry. The program offers a hands-on approach, with opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and research projects. Denver’s strong sports culture and proximity to professional teams make it an ideal location for aspiring sports managers.

10. Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University’s School of Public Health offers an acclaimed sports management program that prepares students for leadership roles in sports business. The program is known for its focus on practical learning, industry internships, and the integration of technology and data analysis in sports management. Students can also benefit from the university’s strong alumni network in the sports industry.

Conclusion

The top 10 sports management programs in 2025 offer a combination of academic excellence, industry exposure, and practical experience. Whether you’re interested in sports marketing, team management, or event planning, these programs provide the tools and resources necessary to succeed in the competitive and growing field of sports management. By choosing one of these institutions, students gain access to world-class faculty, valuable internships, and a strong network of professionals to jumpstart their careers in sports.