Master of Arts - Education - Sport Management (Thesis)

Washington State University's (WSU) College of Education offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Sport Management in which students can choose either a thesis option (typically for those pursuing a research degree and the possibility of a Ph.D.) or a non-thesis option (typically for those seeking to work as a practitioner in the sport industry). The program of study in Sport Management is a full-time two year degree. The program offers graduate assistantships teaching lower division undergraduate sport management courses. Graduate assistantships are also available in various departments on campus including the Athletic Department and University Recreation.

Learning Outcomes:

• Incorporate an understanding of ethical, legal, and socio-cultural issues in managerial decision making and policy determinations in sport.
• Employ sound principles of strategic planning, financial management, risk management, and human resource management in sport.
• Apply fundamental knowledge and practical understanding of sport marketing, communication, and event management principles.
• Utilize critical thinking and abstract reasoning skills in analyzing sport management issues and in managerial planning and decision making.
• Demonstrate information literacy and oral, written, and group communication skills.
• Develop research skills and utilize sound theoretical frameworks relevant to the different aspects of the sport industry.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates find jobs in sport industry sectors such as professional sport, collegiate sport, recreational sport, youth sport, and international sport, with careers in areas such as event management, sport marketing and promotion, sport journalism, media relations, recreation management, ticket sales, community relations, etc.

Career Placements:

Intercollegiate athletics departments (vice president for intercollegiate athletics, assistant athletic director for eligibility and student success, general manager of ticket solutions, assistant coach, marketing and promotions coordinator, media relations coordinator, event management coordinator, compliance coordinator, assistant director of athlete academic support services); university recreation departments (assistant director for integrated communications and group fitness; coordinator of competitive sports and youth programs; coordinator of fitness services, strength and conditioning; coordinator of member services; health promotions and engagement coordinator); professional sports teams (group sales account executive, corporate sponsorship assistant director, ticket office assistant director, assistant general manager, sales coordinator); high school athletics director; assistant managers for golf and tennis clubs; championships assistant for intercollegiate athletics conference; assistant director for state high school athletic association; state director of tourism.