Sports Management
The Sports Management Master of Science program at Columbia University is a 16-month graduate degree designed to prepare students for leadership roles across the global sports industry. The curriculum blends business strategy, marketing, analytics, and operations with a deep understanding of the unique dynamics within professional and amateur sports organizations. Students explore topics such as sponsorship, media rights, fan engagement, and sports law while gaining practical skills to manage teams, leagues, agencies, and events in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Housed within the School of Professional Studies, the program offers direct access to industry leaders through faculty, guest lectures, and networking opportunities. Students benefit from Columbia’s location in New York City—home to major sports franchises, media companies, and international governing bodies—which allows them to participate in real-world projects and internships during their studies. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, leadership development, and data-driven decision-making, preparing graduates to navigate the complex commercial, regulatory, and technological landscapes of modern sports management.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Sports Management
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 16 months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 March 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Marketing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Core Knowledge and Industry Fundamentals
- Sports Business and Strategic Management
- Marketing and Sponsorship in Sports
- Financial Accounting and Budgeting
- Sports Analytics and Consumer Data
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Sports
- Leadership and Organizational Behavior
Year 2 – Specialization and Professional Practice
- Global Sports Media and Broadcasting
- Athlete Representation and Contract Negotiation
- Sports Event Planning and Facility Management
- Capstone Project in Sports Business Strategy
- Electives: eSports, NIL, Fan Engagement, or Sports Tech Innovation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for dynamic careers in sports marketing, team operations, event management, player representation, and media strategy. Many secure positions with professional leagues, sports agencies, corporate sponsors, and global event organizers, where they help shape branding, business development, and audience growth strategies. Alumni have also entered roles in sports analytics, community relations, and international sports governance, bringing innovation and leadership to both traditional and emerging markets. Columbia’s deep ties to the sports industry and its career-focused approach give graduates a competitive edge in accessing top roles across the global sports ecosystem.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a powerful blend of business strategy, industry access, and real-world training, making it ideal for those ready to lead in sports. Columbia University’s Sports Management program is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of academia and professional practice, combining classroom learning with direct exposure to the sports industry through internships, projects, and networking. Students engage with top executives and thought leaders, building the skills and confidence to take on high-impact roles in one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors. With New York City as both a learning lab and career launchpad, this program empowers students to shape the future of sports with insight, innovation, and integrity.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
