The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor offers an undergraduate major in sport management through the School of Kinesiology. Top-ranked for its business and marketing programs, this program combines coursework in sports and exercise with business and marketing courses, such as economics of sport. The highly selective program provides numerous internship opportunities, such as at the New York Jets or the PGA. Students study a wide range of subjects under the tutelage of world-renowned faculty, such as legal and ethical issues, promotion and marketing, and fund-raising. Students also have the opportunity to complete a dual degree through the Ross School of Business or study abroad.
The University of Texas at Austin provides a sport management major and also requires students to declare a minor. Top-ranked for its business and marketing programs, the university offers extensive coursework opportunities for students who want a foundation for graduate school or a particular sport. The rigorous program requires the completion of prerequisite coursework in writing, economics and sports management before applying to the program. Coursework includes sports-specific topics, like physiological basis of conditioning, foreign language, marketing, or media and public relations. All students must select an internship experience and students are encouraged to study abroad, such as in Leeds, England, focusing on sport and English society.
Top-ranked University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a major in sport administration, leading to careers in high-level sports settings. Students focus on a number of coursework topics, such as sport marketing, economics, finance, licensing and event management. A strong focus of the program is experiential learning, where students are expected to take sport facility and event management. Students also have the opportunity to explore sport entrepreneurship, such as a course in sport business ventures. In addition, students engage in research issues, such as athlete exploitation. The school also recognizes that internships are crucial; past internships included the Durham Bulls, Carolina Panthers and the Special Olympics of North Carolina.
Indiana University at Bloomington provides a sport marketing and management program through the Department of Kinesiology that prepares students for careers in commercial sports. Top-ranked for its business programs, this highly selective program includes coursework from a number of disciplines, including the Kelley School of Business. Students pursue coursework, such as sport marketing, sport psychology, legal issues in sports, marketing communication and accounting. Program alumni, including some with notable awards, serve as mentors and guest speakers. Students are required to complete an experience requirement, such as a practicum in sport studies or an internship in sport management. Past internship opportunities included the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Colts and the NCAA Headquarters.