10 Affordable Online MBA in Sports Management Programs 2025

Are you looking to turn your passion for sports into a career? A Master of Business Administration (MBA) in sports management could be the game-changer you're looking for. These programs combine essential business training with industry-focused courses that prepare you for leadership roles in everything from team operations to sports marketing.

Whether you're aiming for a leadership role in professional sports or athletic administration, pursuing an MBA in sports management online could help you get there. Below, we'll highlight affordable online MBA sports management programs that can be completed remotely.

What Is a Master of Business Administration in Sports Management?

An MBA in sports management is a graduate degree that blends core business education with specialized training in the sports industry. It prepares students for leadership roles by covering topics like sports marketing, finance, operations, and event management within athletic and recreational organizations.

How Much Does an Online MBA in Sports Management Cost?

The cost of an online MBA in sports management typically ranges from $10,000 to $25,000. Prices vary based on the school, program length, and whether the institution is public or private. Some universities may offer lower rates for in-state students or military-affiliated learners, as well as scholarships for online students.

Cheapest Online Sports Management MBA Programs

There are many online MBA programs that offer quality education. If you're looking to earn an MBA in sports management, check out the affordable program below.

1. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University offers an MBA in sports management. Students take core business courses with specialized training in areas like sports promotion, facility management, and legal issues.

The 33-credit program is available both online and on campus. No GMAT or GRE scores are required for admission.

• Estimated tuition cost: $319.45 per credit hour
• Program length: One year
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. University of West Alabama

The University of West Alabama offers a sports management MBA online. The program includes a 24-credit core business curriculum, with a nine-credit specialized track focused on sports administration, marketing, and finance.

Students must complete a total of 33 credits. Thanks to the eight-week accelerated courses, students can earn their degrees in only one year.

• Estimated tuition cost: $429 per credit hour.
• Program length: One year
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)

3. Midway University

Midway University offers a flexible MBA program that can be completed entirely online, making it ideal for working professionals. Courses are offered in accelerated eight-week terms, allowing students to finish their degrees quickly.

Students gain practical insights into roles like league administration, facility management, and sport marketing. Both part-time and full-time students may qualify for financial aid, though the school aims to offer low tuition rates as well.

• Estimated tuition cost: $485 per credit hour
• Program length: 15 months
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. American Public University

American Public University offers a fully online MBA program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their business careers in sports management. It offers monthly start dates, does not require GMAT or GRE scores, and can be completed at a flexible pace.

• Estimated tuition cost: $455 per credit hour
• Program length: One year
• Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. (ACBSP)

5. St. Thomas University

St. Thomas University's MBA in sports management is a 36-credit program that can be completed remotely. Enrollees study topics like event and facility management, sports media, marketing, and legal aspects of athletics. The program is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the sports industry.

• Estimated tuition cost: $625 per credit hour
• Program length: One year
• Accreditation: SACSCC

6. Southeastern University

Southeastern University offers a 100% online MBA program. Students can choose a specialization in sports management.

The 36-credit program prepares graduates to become business leaders in the sports industry. Students learn decision-making and human resource management skills.

• Estimated tuition cost: $650 per credit hour
• Program length: One to two years
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. Salem University

Salem University offers an online MBA in sports and recreation management. Students can take online courses in accounting, marketing, and event management. Classes are offered in a monthly format, allowing students to focus on one course at a time.

• Estimated tuition cost: $650 per credit hour
• Program length: One year
• Accreditation: ACBSP

8. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers a fully online sports management degree designed to build key business skills in areas like leadership, strategy, and operations. With multiple start dates throughout the year, the program offers flexibility for working professionals.

The enrollment process requires that applicants hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. The application is free and can be completed in minutes.

• Estimated tuition cost: $659 per credit hour
• Program length: One year
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

9. Ohio Dominion University

Ohio Dominican University offers a master's program in sports management that can be completed remotely. The curriculum covers core courses like marketing, finance, law, and ethics in sports. Graduates can move on to career opportunities as a marketing manager, athletic director, and other roles in the sports industry.

• Estimated tuition cost: $685 per credit hour
• Program length: 16 months
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Lynn University

At Lynn University, students can earn an MBA with a concentration in sports management. Students gain knowledge in areas such as event planning, operations, marketing, and risk management. The 38-credit online program includes an internship so that students develop career-ready skills.

• Estimated tuition cost: $750 per credit hour
• Program length: One year
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

How We Rank Schools

To compile this list, we ranked schools by certain factors, including affordability and program reputation.

• Accreditation: We chose schools that are accredited by a recognized organization, like the HLC, to ensure academic integrity.
• Affordability: All programs on this list have an estimated tuition cost under $1,000 per credit hour. Many schools also offer financial aid to help offset costs.
• Program reputation: We chose well-respected programs taught by expert faculty members and have rigorous curricula.

What To Expect From an Online MBA in Sports Management

An online MBA in Sports Management typically combines core business training with specialized courses focused on the sports industry. Coursework often includes topics like marketing, finance, leadership, sports law, event management, and facility operations. Most programs range from 30 to 36 credit hours and can be completed in about one to two years, depending on the pace you choose.

FAQs About Online Sports Management MBA Programs

Check out these commonly asked questions about sports management degree programs.

Is an MBA in Sports Management Worth It?

An MBA in Sports Management can be worth it if you're aiming for leadership roles in the sports industry. It combines business expertise with industry-specific knowledge, opening doors to higher-paying jobs and broader opportunities in areas like marketing, operations, and team management.

What Careers Can I Pursue With a Sports Management MBA?

Graduates can pursue careers in professional, collegiate, or recreational sports organizations, such as:

• athletic director
• sports marketing manager
• facility manager
• event coordinator
• sponsorship executive
• front-office executive

Are Internships Required for Online Sports Management MBAs?

Internships are not always required in online programs, but many schools strongly encourage them or offer them as electives. They provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities within the industry.

What Is the Highest Salary for an MBA in Sports Management?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, entertainment and recreation managers earn a median salary of $77,180. Those with the highest salaries will likely work in professional sports, as this is a lucrative field.

Learn More: Top-Paying MBA Jobs

How Long Will It Take to Get My Sports Management MBA Degree?

Most online sports management MBA programs take between 12 and 24 months to complete, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time.

Discover Online MBA Programs

If you're ready to move forward in your career and the world of sports, check out the online MBA programs in sports management on Learn.org. When you want to learn more about a particular program, contact them directly.