Program Overview

Bachelor's Degree (BAE) in Sport Leadership

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Sport Leadership program is designed to prepare students for a career in the multi-billion-dollar sport industry. This degree program equips students with the skills to take on leadership roles across a wide range of sport-related careers, including collegiate and professional leagues, coaching, teams, sport marketing firms, event management companies, sport federation bodies, and so much more.

Who is this program for?

A bachelor's degree in Sport Leadership is perfect for students who are passionate about sports and want to develop the skills to lead, manage, and inspire within the sports industry. This program prepares graduates for careers as sports managers, athletic directors, coaching staff, or event coordinators, equipping them with expertise in leadership, sports marketing, and organizational management to succeed in professional, collegiate, or recreational sports settings.

Program Overview

Our Bachelor of Arts in Sport Leadership program is designed to prepare you for a career in the multi-billion-dollar sport industry. This degree program equips students with the skills to take on leadership roles across a wide range of sport-related careers, including collegiate and professional leagues, coaching, teams, sport marketing firms, event management companies, sport federation bodies, and so much more. This program is ideal for students driven by a passion for sport and a desire to thrive in competitive, dynamic environments. It provides the tools and connections to lead the future of sport. Additionally, students are required to complete a practicum course that requires 300 hours of real-world experience.

Track Options

Students can customize the program with one of three track options:

• Careers: Focuses on developing both the leadership skills and career readiness needed to excel in the dynamic and competitive world of the sport industry and administration. This option combines elements of leadership theory, organizational management, communication, and strategic thinking. Students will complete a minimum of 30 hours of free electives and are encouraged to enroll in courses that will benefit career growth.
• Gaming: Prepares you for a career in the emerging Esports and Gaming industry. You'll earn a degree in Sport Leadership, with a minor in Video Game Design and Development.
• Entrepreneurs: You'll learn to develop new commercial ideas as an independent sport entrepreneur or corporate entrepreneur within a sport-related organization. You'll earn a degree in Sport Leadership with an undergraduate certificate in Innovation and Entrepreneurial Thinking.

Related Careers

• Athlete Representation
• Brand Manager for a Sports Product
• Coaching at all levels
• Community Relations Program Manager
• E-Gaming Analyst
• Esport development and leadership
• Equipment Manager for a Sports Team
• Event Management
• Fan Engagement Coordinator
• Gameday Operations Associate
• Recreation Management at all levels
• Scout for a Professional Sport Team
• Sport Agent
• Sport Management
• Sport Marketing
• Social Media Coordinator
• Sports Facility Manager
• Ticket Sales Representative
• Youth Sports Program Coordinator

Program Details

• Offered by: College of Education
• Credit Hours: 120-121
• Credential: BAE

Admission Requirements

• Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
• Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.

Application Requirements

Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the academic year).

Application Deadlines

Freshman

• Early Action: 12/01/2025
• Regular Decision: 02/15/2026

Transfer

• Fall Scholarship: 06/15/2026
• Fall: 08/01/2026
• Spring: 11/15/2025
• Summer: 04/15/2026

Curriculum

The Bachelor of Science in Sport Leadership program explores the principles of leadership, management, and ethics within the context of sport organizations and settings. Students study topics such as sport governance, communication, event planning, and community engagement while developing skills in team leadership, strategic thinking, and organizational development. The curriculum combines theory and applied learning to prepare students to lead effectively in a variety of sport and recreation environments.

Course Progression

• Freshman Year: 30-31 credit hours
• Sophomore Year: 28-29 credit hours
• Junior Year: 30-31 credit hours
• Senior Year: 31-37 credit hours

Major Map

A College of Education academic advisor will help develop a path to graduation that is best suited for you. The major map is a template, and actual progression may vary based on factors such as AP/IB credits, dual enrollment, transfer credits, and individual academic readiness.

Transfer Pathway

This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.

Financial Aid

Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.

Tuition Rate

For residents of the states listed below, this program qualifies you to receive the University of Kentucky's in-state tuition rate through the Academic Common Marketplace.

• Delaware
• South Carolina

Student Involvement

Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!