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A group of Ferrum College student athletes pose on the football field in Adams Stadium with the Hank Norton Center behind them
Bachelor's Degree

Sports Management Major

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Why Study Sports Management at Ferrum College?

Ferrum College’s Bachelor of Science in Sports Management program equips students to become confident leaders in the global sports industry by blending strong business foundations with the fast-paced world of sports and recreation. What sets Ferrum apart is the way we combine classroom learning with hands-on experience—students don’t just study sports management, they practice it through internships, on-campus opportunities, and collaborations with leading sports organizations. With personalized support, small class sizes, and a focus on ethics and leadership, Ferrum prepares graduates to thrive in careers ranging from professional sports and recreation management to marketing, event planning, and beyond.

Ferrum alumna Carly Coyle is coaching a group of women lacrosse players

Sports Management Sample Classes

The curriculum is multidisciplinary with courses coming from Recreation, Health & Human Performance, Business, Media & Communication, and Psychology. 

REC 350 Risk Management in Recreation and Sports

This course provides a systematic investigation of current trends and court rulings in athletics and recreation, with emphasis on common law.

REC 413 Recreation Facilities Design and Management 

This course provides a comprehensive examination of the strategies involved in planning and managing recreational and sports facilities.

HHP 345 Sports Psychology

This course provides students with an overview of concepts and principles essential to understanding the behavioral aspects of sport and exercise.

BUS 311 Social Media Marketing

This course examines Internet marketing through a marketing management lens, exploring how traditional concepts like segmentation, research, the 4Ps, and relationship marketing are applied using digital tools and strategies within the marketing mix.

BUS 208 Principles of Leadership

This course equips students with contemporary leadership skills by examining leadership theories, exploring cultural and organizational change, and reflecting on their own leadership experiences in the context of a rapidly evolving business environment.

Careers In Sports Management

Sport Marketing Manager

Athletic Director

Oversees athletic programs at schools, colleges, or universities. Responsible for budgeting, hiring coaches, ensuring compliance with governing bodies (e.g., NCAA), managing facilities, and supporting student-athlete development. Acts as a leader balancing academics, athletics, and institutional values.

Event & Facility Manager

Plans, organizes, and executes sporting events, from professional games to community recreation programs. Oversees logistics such as ticketing, staffing, concessions, and security. In facility management, ensures that stadiums, arenas, and fitness centers are safe, profitable, and efficiently run.

Sports Agent

Represents athletes in contract negotiations, sponsorship deals, and career planning. Requires deep knowledge of sports law, finance, and marketing. Agents advocate for their clients’ best interests and manage relationships with teams, sponsors, and media outlets.

Sport Data Analyst

Uses data and statistical methods to evaluate player performance, fan engagement, ticket sales, and marketing effectiveness. Works closely with coaches, front offices, or corporate partners to make data-driven decisions that enhance competitive advantage and business growth.

Corporate Sponsorship Manager

Builds and maintains partnerships between sports organizations and corporate brands. Negotiates sponsorship agreements, activates campaigns, and measures return on investment. Plays a crucial role in generating revenue for teams, events, and facilities.

Compliance & Governance Officer (Sport Law)

Ensures sports organizations follow legal and ethical standards, including league rules, eligibility requirements, and financial regulations. Often works in collegiate athletics or governing bodies to monitor integrity and fairness in competition.

Sports Media & Communications Specialist

Manages public relations, media coverage, and storytelling for sports organizations. Writes press releases, coordinates interviews, oversees social media channels, and serves as the communication link between athletes, teams, and the public.

Fitness & Wellness Manager

Oversees operations of fitness clubs, training centers, or wellness programs. Combines knowledge of exercise science with business management to design programming, hire staff, manage memberships, and promote health and wellness initiatives.

Meet the Faculty

Daniel Caston

Professor of Recreation Leadership, Program Coordinator for Recreation Leadership, Program Coordinator for Sports Management

Karen Carpenter

Associate Professor and Program Coordinator of Health and Human Performance and Program Director of M.S. in Athletic Coaching

Jennifer Mattison

Assistant Professor of Business

Karl Roeper

Associate Professor and Program Coordinator of Media & Communication
Ferrum College
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