Program Overview

Sports Communication Major

About our program

The sports communication major offers a dynamic path forward for those passionate about sports and wanting to turn that passion into a profession. This program equips students with the tools to succeed in a wide range of sports-related careers, whether on the field, behind the scenes, or in front of the camera. Students gain knowledge in sports communication theories, media practices, and industry trends, while also developing practical skills through hands-on projects, internships, and real-world experiences in a city obsessed with sports.

Benefits of the Program

• Students are immersed in their discipline from the first day on campus, practicing in studios and stages, connecting with alumni and other professionals, and marrying theory and skill to master changing technology and communication across fields.
• Hands-on experience is available through internships, with 84% of students participating.
• The program encourages critical thinking about the role of sports in society, exploring how sports communication can shape culture, build community, and advance social justice.

Career Opportunities

What can you do with a major in sports communication from Marquette?

A sample of employers who have hired graduates includes:

• Chicago White Sox
• DePaul University Athletics
• ESPN
• Good Karma Brands
• Kansas City Chiefs
• Milwaukee Brewers
• Milwaukee Bucks
• NBA
• University of Illinois Athletics
• USA Today

Hands-on Learning for Career Success

The program prioritizes preparing students for what's next, with lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share their passions, and reflecting on how they can make a difference. Opportunities include:

• Spaces to learn, such as Johnston Hall, which offers cutting-edge technology and historic facilities.
• Fine Arts minor, allowing students to supercharge their creativity and learn more about the arts through a unique blend of creative conceptualizing, execution, theory, and technology.
• Internships in a thriving sports city, with opportunities at professional teams, colleges, and media outlets.
• Diederich Experiences, providing unique travel opportunities to engage with alumni and professionals in the field.
• Leadership learning through the C-Lead program, which combines leadership development activities, mentorship, and coursework to unleash leadership potential.
• Study abroad programs, expanding communication education with semester-long studies at prestigious universities around the world.

Facilities and Resources

Spaces to Learn

Johnston Hall offers:

• Black Box Studio
• Virtual production studio
• A/V control center
• Green screen room
• Motion capture and animation
• High-end workstations for design, motion graphics, and 3D modeling
• Professional cameras, audio, and lighting equipment

Fine Arts Minor

The fine arts minor is a collaboration between Marquette and the nearby Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD), giving students a unique blend of creative conceptualizing, execution, theory, and technology.

Internships

Recent internship locations include:

• Connecticut Sun
• Kane County Cougars
• Marquette University Athletics
• Milwaukee Brewers
• Milwaukee Bucks
• Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
• TMJ4
• Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox

Diederich Experiences

These unique travel opportunities engage students with amazing alumni from across the country who work in their specific area of interest, building networks, introducing job options, and providing insight and advice.

Leadership Learning

The C-Lead program completes a combination of leadership development activities, mentorship, and rewarding coursework to unleash leadership potential, making students more competitive candidates and creating relationships that further their careers.

Study Abroad

Expand communication education with a semester abroad, studying program coursework at prestigious universities around the world, with other international opportunities available for digital media students.

Outcomes and Recognition

What to Expect from a Marquette Degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation, and an extended family. Recognitions include:

• #6 Best College in Job Placement / #1 in Wisconsin
• #82 in Student Outcomes by The Wall Street Journal
• #14 Best Colleges for Internships by The Princeton Review (private universities)