Summary
The Sport Management major within the College of Education and Human Development focuses on the business aspects of the sports industry, preparing students for diverse roles beyond playing or coaching. Graduates gain the skills to manage teams, market events, handle public relations, oversee operations, and navigate the unique challenges of the sports world, opening doors to careers in professional leagues, collegiate athletics, sporting goods, marketing firms, and more.
Program Stats
97%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
98%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning
95%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working are satisfied with their job
Pursue a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
Through the Department of Human Performance and Health Education, the sport management program combines core business principles like marketing, finance, law, and communication with specialized knowledge of sport organizations, events, and facilities. Completing this degree program is the ideal path for anyone looking to transform their passion for athletics into a dynamic and impactful professional career, managing the intricate business operations that power the global sports industry.
Additionally, the sport management program doesn't just give you a bachelor's degree; it lets you customize your expertise with minors in high-demand fields like general business, communication, coaching, or event management, setting you up for diverse roles in the exciting sports industry. This interdisciplinary approach ensures you graduate with a distinct competitive edge, ready to lead in professional franchises, collegiate athletics, or community recreation.
What you’ll learn
At WMU, you'll gain comprehensive academic preparation and practical training essential for a successful career in the dynamic sport industry. You will acquire knowledge in key areas such as facility management, sport promotion and marketing, sport media, customer and community relations, sport sponsorship, licensing, sport information, and sport law, complemented by a required internship and a chosen minor.
Student quote
I arrived (at Western) a boy from a small town with no clue where to go. Now I'm a man in the Big Apple with an actual path.
Where you’ll be after graduation
A Sport Management degree opens doors to a wide array of exciting opportunities within the booming sports industry. Graduates are highly sought after in diverse settings, including professional sports teams and leagues, intercollegiate athletic departments, sport facilities, sports clubs, interscholastic athletic programs, sporting goods manufacturers and retail stores, amateur sports or athletic associations, sport marketing or public relations firms, and sport radio, TV, or magazines.
For 95% of College of Education and Human Development grads, they got that job or got into that graduate school program after graduation. That is because your journey of self-discovery begins the moment you step on campus. At WMU's Career and Student Employment Services, career specialists help you align your passions and abilities with future careers and advanced degrees. They will connect you to practical experiences like internships, job shadowing, research projects and professional mentors.
What others have achieved
Learn about the successful journeys of recent program graduates and the advice they have to share for prospective WMU students.
Meet Tony
Graduating from WMU in 2017, Tony is now living out his dream in professional sports. In his role as the corporate ticket sales manager with Pacers Sports & Entertainment, he is part of the engine behind the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever.
Meet Warda
Basketball has been a lifelong passion for Warda Niaz. And even though her days on the court are over, she is now teaching the next generation of ballers as the Chicago Bulls' youth hoops coach.
Making the most of your learning experience
In the College of Education and Human Development, you'll embark on an incredible journey of experiential learning that goes beyond textbooks. Collaborating closely with faculty members, you'll dive into cutting-edge research, fieldwork and professional pursuits. Pushing the boundaries of the traditional classroom, you'll gain practical skills and make a tangible impact.
The sport management program emphasizes real-world experience, requiring 100% of students to complete an internship or field experience. This commitment to practical training provides you with invaluable opportunities to work with diverse sport organizations, from professional teams and collegiate athletic departments to local sports clubs and marketing firms, thus preparing you for immediate impact upon graduation.
Banner Image
Are scholarships available?
Yes! You've put in the hard work—now it's time to see your reward.
Scholarships are an excellent way to help the reduce the costs of higher education. Whether you are entering college for the first time, transferring to WMU from another institution or returning from a gap in your education, be sure to check out our scholarship options. Students earn scholarships for financial need, academic success and promoting multicultural awareness. Most are offered on a competitive basis.
