Sports administration refers to the occupational field that focuses directly on sports and recreation management. If you’re interested in jobs in sports, then pursuing a master’s degree in sports administration may be the best path for your career. Many different subjects are incorporated into sports administration. Finance, human resources and marketing are all aspects of this field.
Depending on what kind of jobs in sports that interest you, a sports administration graduate can work directly with athletes, coaches and organizations or can work more behind the scenes as a promoter, marketing manager or sports economist.
What Careers Can You Pursue With a Sports Administration Degree?
There are many career opportunities associated with sports administration. The most popular areas include working for secondary and postsecondary academic institutions, professional sports teams, sports associations and government parks and recreation departments: specifically, careers like athletic director, athletic manager, facilities services manager and promotions and marketing manager.
Athletic Directors
Athletic directors can have one of the most rewarding jobs in sports. Athletic directors are responsible for the direction of an institution’s athletic activities. They coordinate athletic events and manage athletic departments and budgets. Athletic directors generally work for secondary and postsecondary schools. But they can also find positions in parks and recreation departments in local governments. Many athletic director positions require at least a master’s degree. Those who work for postsecondary educational institutions like colleges and universities make an average salary of $88,580. The occupational outlook is good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that there will be 9 percent growth by 2024.
Athletic Manager
Athletic managers work for organizations like sports teams, athletic institutions and schools. Their general responsibilities include managing budgets, operations, marketing and program design. Commonly, they are required to have a master’s degree. The success of athletic managers often hinges on the success of their team, organization or individual athletes who they represent or manage.
Facilities Services Manager
Facilities services management responsibilities may vary from organization to organization. However, the general requirements include planning and scheduling events, responding to maintenance needs and ensuring that the facility’s spaces meet environmental, health and security standards, as well as government regulations. The salary of a facilities services manager may differ from place to place and according to the size of the organization.
Promotions and Marketing Manager
Promotions and marketing management positions for sports organizations are some of the most sought-after jobs in sports. These managers plan campaigns to engage a wider audience for their teams and promote more ticket sales and community outreach. They work with sales staff and other departments to create and implement campaigns and promote their teams. They may work in a variety of media outlets and use different ways of engagement. The job outlook for advertising, promotions and marketing managers is very good. The BLS reports that there will be 9 percent growth by 2024. The average salary is $124,750.