Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Master's in Sports Administration program at Northwestern University is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and aptitude to lead enterprising sports organizations within an evolving environment. The program offers a wide range of electives, allowing students to focus on their areas of interest, and optional specializations in sports analytics and college sports management.

About the MA in Sports Administration

The MA in Sports Administration program is an interdisciplinary professional program that covers six core courses, three elective courses, a leadership course, and a capstone class or thesis project. The program is taught by faculty members with extensive professional experience in sports, providing students with access to team executives and professionals in areas such as operations, marketing, and sponsorship in collegiate, professional, and amateur athletics.

Build Industry Experience with Unique Opportunities

The program offers several distinctive opportunities to help students build toward their post-program goals, including:

• Student Leadership Council: a board consisting of current students, alumni, and faculty committed to enhancing the sports administration master's experience through social and professional development.
• Revenue Above Replacement Podcast: a weekly podcast hosted by the program, where students taking MSA 401: Sports Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis work to create production plans for the show.
• Networking and Events: regular networking events, guest speakers, and outings to Chicago-area sports operations to expand students' professional circle.
• Sports Administration Symposium: an annual symposium featuring panel discussions and a networking happy hour, providing students with the opportunity to connect with and learn from peers, faculty, and alumni in-person.

Customize Your Degree to Fit Your Goals

The program offers two specializations:

• Sports Analytics
• College Sports Management

Students are required to complete 11 courses to earn the degree, including six core courses, three elective courses, a leadership course, and a capstone class or thesis project.

Flexible On-Campus and Online Format

The program is offered online and at the Evanston and Chicago campuses, allowing students to pursue whichever format best meets their needs, including a blend of both options.

Student Stories

The program has a strong track record of success, with alumni working in various roles in the sports industry. Students and alumni share their experiences and insights, highlighting the program's impact on their careers.

MA in Sports Administration Courses

The program offers a range of courses, including core courses, electives, and specializations. Students can explore the course schedule to see which classes will be offered in upcoming quarters.

Master's in Sports Administration Admission

The program considers a variety of factors when reviewing applications, including background and experience. For a complete list of requirements, see the admission page for SPS graduate programs.

Sports Administration Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition for the program is comparable to similar US programs. Financial aid opportunities exist for students at Northwestern, with complete details available on the sports administration tuition and financial aid page.

Registration Information for Sports Administration

Already accepted into the program? Students can register for classes as soon as possible to ensure maximum efficiency in their trajectory.

Sports Administration Networking Opportunities

Successful networking is crucial to entering the competitive world of sports. The program provides students with opportunities to expand their professional circle through regular networking events, guest speakers, and outings to Chicago-area sports operations.

Careers in Sports Administration

The program prepares students for a range of careers in sports administration, including leadership roles in enterprising sports organizations. With a strong network of alumni and industry connections, students can leverage their education to advance their careers in the sports industry.

Sports Administration Faculty

The program's faculty consists of experienced professionals in sports marketing, public relations, media finance, management, and operations. Students can learn from instructors with real-world experience in the sports industry.

MSA Student Board

The MSA Student Board is a group of students committed to creating and hosting network events for the program. The board provides students with opportunities to connect with peers, faculty, and alumni, enhancing their overall experience in the program.