Sports is huge business both in the U.S. and internationally, and experts estimate that the industry has grown by over $145 billion in just the last five years. Part of that growth stems from the influx of business expertise in the industry; today, organizations need business-savvy executives as much as they need star athletes. If you're a sports enthusiast with strong leadership skills, an eye for business development, and a knack for strategic planning, an online sports management degree can give you the expertise you need to land a lifelong career in the field.Aspiring sports professionals can pursue an associate degree and continue their education all the way to the PhD level. This formal training introduces athletics as a business, delivering complex economic and financial concepts in the context of sports. Specialized academic programs not only allow you to focus on a particular area of sports business, but a degree in the field also enhances your career mobility and marketability in a competitive industry.Succeeding in sports administration takes passion and focus. It helps to be somewhat competitive, and a strong work ethic can help you stand out from the pack. Professionals in this field should have an affable personality, a willingness to network, and they must be flexible; travel and long hours at odd times are common in many positions in the industry. If you want to turn your passion for sports into a lucrative career, read on and learn about how an online sports management degree can get you there.
Meet Our Expert: Brandon Schroth
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LinkedInOnline Sports Management Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $13,502 | 17% | 2 years | Not reported | Not reported | 5.6% |
| Bachelor's | $17,171 | 10.56% | 4 years | $37,000 | $72,000 | 4.3% |
| Master's | $19,658 | 7.2% | 1+ years | $58,000 | $94,000 | 4.5% |
Many employers in sports administration prefer candidates to have a bachelor's in sports management, even for entry-level jobs. While it isn't impossible to break into the industry with an associate degree, the field is very competitive and you'll need something alluring on your resume to entice a hiring manager. As with nearly all industries, salary levels rise in conjunction with education and experience.
Online Sports Management Degrees
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Online Sports Management Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Agent | $95,810 | 5% | 8750 |
| Public Relations Manager | $104,140 | 7% | 65800 |
| Sports Broadcaster | $30,080 | -11% | 52500 |
| Sports Marketing Manager | $124,850 | 9% | 225200 |
Online Sports Management Degree in Action
Meet Our Expert: Brandon Schroth
Digital AnalystBrandon Schroth graduated from James Madison University with an online degree in Sports and Recreation Management. He is currently a Digital Analyst on behalf of Florida Virtual School.
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