Sport Management
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 120 Credits
Sport management is the field that focuses on the business aspects of sports, including marketing, event management, facility management, finance, law, and ethics.
Overview
This program covers the multifaceted nature of sport management, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel within the industry. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experiences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to become transformational leaders in the business and culture of sports.
You will study diverse and essential topics such as sport marketing, sport law, facility and event management, psychology, and sociology. Courses are taught by faculty members with extensive industry experience who bring real-world insights into the classroom. Additionally, you will have opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, volunteer experiences, and participation in the Sport Management Club, which provides valuable networking and professional development opportunities.
GVSU is home to 14 Learfield Directors' Cups, ranking it one of the top schools each year in NCAA Division II athletics. Pursuing sport management at Grand Valley State University offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant sports community. Grand Rapids was ranked the #1 minor league sports city in the USA by Sports Business Journal. The program's strong emphasis on experiential learning, combined with its comprehensive curriculum, ensures that you are ready to enter the workforce with confidence.
Department of Movement Science
Jon Coles, Ph.D., Program Coordinator
4421 Kindschi Hall of
Science
(616) 331-3515
[email protected]
gvsu.edu/sportmanagement
Career Opportunities
Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Speaking
- Active Listening
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 69,906.76 | 10% |
| $ 96,381.34 | 25% |
| $128,078.06 | 50% |
| $168,891.08 | 75% |
| $217,573.29 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client.
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 75,676.08 | 10% |
| $ 91,009.38 | 25% |
| $114,354.20 | 50% |
| $159,180.87 | 75% |
| $196,247.54 | 90% |
Represent and promote artists, performers, and athletes in dealings with current or prospective employers. May handle contract negotiation and other business matters for clients.
Top skills- Persuasion
- Reading Comprehension
- Negotiation
- Speaking
- Active Listening
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 19,694.93 | 10% |
| $ 37,656.29 | 25% |
| $ 61,183.54 | 50% |
| $116,164.69 | 75% |
| $330,278.25 | 90% |
Research conditions in local, regional, national, or online markets. Gather information to determine potential sales of a product or service, or plan a marketing or advertising campaign. May gather information on competitors, prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution. May employ search marketing tactics, analyze web metrics, and develop recommendations to increase search engine ranking and visibility to target markets.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 38,176.07 | 10% |
| $ 48,684.03 | 25% |
| $ 67,116.51 | 50% |
| $ 95,733.13 | 75% |
| $129,831.86 | 90% |
Promote or create an intended public image for individuals, groups, or organizations. May write or select material for release to various communications media. May specialize in using social media.
Top skills- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Social Perceptiveness
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 36,768.16 | 10% |
| $ 45,978.79 | 25% |
| $ 61,159.97 | 50% |
| $ 83,095.64 | 75% |
| $112,557.80 | 90% |
A "Best Bang for Your Buck"
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85%
GVSU Students Receive Offers Before Graduation
"One of the Best Value Colleges in Michigan"
By Direct Parent
Advising
Whether you are a first-year student, a transfer student, or a current student thinking about your career options, advising is an important part of your academic journey.
Coaching Certificate
The Certificate in Sport Coaching provides prospective coaches with theoretical knowledge and practical experiences in accordance with the National Standards for Sport Coaching. Coaching stresses the importance of developing an athlete-centered philosophy and a scientifically-based understanding of current issues in sports medicine, motor learning and coaching theory. Students completing the Certificate in Sport Coaching will have a record of this accomplishment appear on their academic transcript.
Student Organizations
Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years:
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