Program Overview

Sports Promotion Certificate

The Sports Promotion graduate certificate is a fully online program designed for professionals looking to advance their careers in sports communication. This Big Ten graduate certificate will equip students with the skills to navigate the evolving landscape of sports media, marketing, and fan engagement.

Program Overview

The program requires 12 credit hours and can be completed in as quickly as one year while enrolled part-time. Students will take one required 8-week course and three electives.

Required Course

• ADPR 884: Brands & Branding Explore the managerial structures, techniques, research, budgeting, strategic planning, and overall decision processes behind effective branding and advertising.

Electives

• SPMC 864: Sports Media Relations & Promotions Examine the dynamic relationships between sports organizations, the media, and the public, and study the background and unpredictable nature of the sports industry.
• SPMC 877: Content Strategy in Sports Promotion Develop innovative strategies using emerging media technologies to enhance sports branding and audience engagement.
• SPMC 875: Sports Promotion & Engagement Learn how to reach, engage, and communicate with sports industry consumers and media professionals.
• SPMC 878: Social and Digital Media for Sports Promotion Apply critical thinking and media skills to create engaging social and digital sports promotions.
• SPMC 876: Planning for Sports Event Production Discover the best practices for producing sports events and the entertainment behind it all from in-game promotions to sponsor integration.

Admission Requirements

The Sports Promotion program accepts applications year-round and admits students on a rolling basis for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. A completed Graduate School application includes:

• Official transcripts from all institutions previously attended
• Completed graduate school application and application fee
• Verification of English proficiency is required if the native language is not English
• Current resume
• Three professional or academic references
• Statement of purpose
• GRE or GMAT scores are not required

Application Deadlines

• Fall (August) Start:
  • Priority Admission: July 1
  • Admission Deadline: August 1
• Spring (January) Start:
  • Priority Admission: November 1
  • Admission Deadline: December 1
• Summer (May) Start:
  • Priority Admission: April 1
  • Admission Deadline: April 25

Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

Graduate tuition is assessed by the credit hour and the program. Professional programs may differ.

• Resident Online Tuition and Fees:
  • Per Credit Hour: $365.00
  • 3 Credit Hours: $1,095.00
  • Technology Fee: $11.00
  • Library Fee: $8.25
  • Online Course Fee: $35.00
  • Registration Fee: $20.00
  • University Program and Facility Fees: Waived
  • Total Online Tuition and Fees: $419.25 per credit hour, $1,277.75 for 3 credit hours
• Out-of-State Resident Tuition and Fees:
  • Per Credit Hour: $724.00
  • 3 Credit Hours: $2,172.00
  • Technology Fee: $11.00
  • Library Fee: $8.25
  • Online Course Fee: $35.00
  • Registration Fee: $20.00
  • University Program and Facility Fees: Waived
  • Total Online Tuition and Fees: $778.25 per credit hour, $2,354.75 for 3 credit hours

Students are encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form by the deadline to determine their eligibility for federal and state funds as well as scholarships. Additionally, students should check with their employer to see if they provide financial support for earning their graduate degree.