Frequently Asked Questions
- How is your program different from other sports management degree programs?
- How does this program differ from an M.B.A.?
- I have an M.B.A. Should I apply for this program?
- I do not have the appropriate accounting and finance skills and/or training necessary for this program, but otherwise I think I might be a good candidate. Any advice?
- Do I have to take the required courses in a particular sequence?
- I work full-time and have the occasional evening obligation. Will this program fit into my schedule?
- Is career advising or placement provided to graduates?
- Where do classes meet?
- How do you keep the curriculum current?
- Does the program accept nondegree students?
- Can I enter the program as a nondegree student and subsequently apply as a candidate for the degree?
- Is this program available to international students?
- I have questions that have not yet been answered. What should I do?
How is your program different from other sports management degree programs?
Many sports management degree programs seem to have strayed from being true management-oriented programs and are inappropriate for individuals working in (or seeking positions in) management. This program is a return to a true management program, with emphasis on communicating broad-based knowledge as well as industry (and position) appropriate skills and techniques.
How does this program differ from an M.B.A.?
In an M.B.A. program, management is typically examined within the context of finance, marketing, and human resources. While these are important perspectives, sports managers need to understand managerial issues and challenges in the context of the specific types of work environments and challenges they face.
I have an M.B.A. Should I apply for this program?
It depends on your career goals. The combination of an M.B.A. and an M.S. in sports management could be formidable because it blends a command of high-level finance, management, and marketing with industry-specific knowledge, training, and insight. However, as much of the curriculum relies on courses in the Graduate School of Business. Many of the courses may be redundant. You should speak with the Program Director about your options.
I do not have the appropriate accounting and finance skills and/or training necessary for this program, but otherwise I think I might be a good candidate. Any advice?
Students without the necessary background and training have several options. You can apply to the program, noting on your application essay that you are not yet ready to complete the finance sequence, and take the appropriate prerequisites (such as ECON W2261 Introduction to Accounting and Finance and/or BUSI W3001 Introduction to Finance) as a matriculated student. Alternatively, you may complete the prerequisites through Postbaccalaureate Studies and then apply into the program. This latter method may strengthen your application into the program
Do I have to take the required courses in a particular sequence?
It is highly advised that you take the courses in the sequence suggested, though some deviation is permitted. The finance and marketing courses have prerequisites that must be completed in the proper sequence.
I work full-time and have the occasional evening obligation. Will this program fit into my schedule?
The program was designed specifically with the needs of working professionals in mind. All classes meet once a week in the evenings from 6:10-8:40 PM. In addition, there is group project work, and students are expected to spend approximately ten hours per course outside of class, completing assignments and preparing for class. If your evening obligations are frequent, this program is not suitable for you. In addition, during registration periods and periodically, students are required to take care of University requirements in person on campus, which may mean taking time from normal work hours.
Is career advising or placement provided to graduates?
Throughout the program, students come into contact with a range of people in the sports field. They are encouraged to develop a professional network of instructors, guest lecturers, and fellow students that will be of value to them both during and after the program. Those students who need to hone specific professional skills (resumé writing, interviewing strategy and skill) may also access the services of the Center for Career Education, which also maintains data banks of jobs.
Where do classes meet?
All classes meet at Columbia's Morningside Heights campus, at Broadway and 116th Street.
How do you keep the curriculum current?
The curriculum has been designed by professionals who are working in the field, and from existing university courses. Course content is continually reviewed and modified by the sports management advisory board and instructional staff to remain current. Additionally, the curriculum is subject to regular monitoring by school and university committees.
Does the program accept nondegree students?
Nondegree students may only take SPRT K4220 Social-Historical Foundations of American Sport on a space-available basis and with the approval from the program director. There is often no space available for nondegree students. See Enrollment Options.
Can I enter the program as a nondegree student and subsequently apply as a candidate for the degree?
No. Enrollment in SPRT K4220 Social-Historical Foundations of American Sport is not appropriate for those who may subsequently apply for admission to the Master of Science Program.
Is this program available to international students?
No. Because it is a part-time program, enrollment does not qualify international students for a student visa. The program is designed for working professionals and best-suited candidates are those who currently hold positions in the sports field.
I have questions that have not yet been answered. What should I do?
Contact us to ask questions, and be certain to attend one of our Information Sessions.
