By Kenny Chan
There is a wider assortment of college majors now than ever before, providing students with great options. One major that rose to popularity during the 1990s was sports management. This field of study applies business principles to the industry of sports. Students study both sports and business topics and when they graduate with a sports management degree, they have some exciting career options.
Courses in management, accounting, economics, computer applications, and marketing are included in the program. The sports management courses focus on facility management, business aspects of sport within culture, sports information, and interscholastic, intercollegiate, and professional sports. Also included are courses on sport marketing, law, finances, and ethics. These classes prepare students for the competitive sector of sport management.
Community sport program director, facilities coordinator, athletic business manager, compliance director, and director of ticketing and finance are a few common positions. It is likely that the manager of a fitness facility graduated from a sports management program. An intramural director of college or university recreation usually has at least a bachelor’s degree in sports management. Semi-pro and professional athletes often have a business manager and this individual often studied the topic.
Though job responsibilities vary depending on area of the industry, level within the hierarchy, and type of organization, there are some commonalities. Each position involves a business aspect of sport and usually requires a 50 to 60 hour workweek, including weekend and night work. The individual may work with a corporation regarding sponsorship or promotion of a special event. He or she could also perform tasks involving financial operations, ticketing, and accounting. Some graduates deal with legal issues within the industry, while others are involved in media relations and broadcasting. Continue Reading
