7 Top Universities Offering a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management Abroad in 2025
The sports management industry has been flourishing in recent years, fueled by the increasing global popularity of sports, the rise of online games, betting, and the growing presence of sports business in the media. As a result, there is an ever-increasing demand for skilled professionals in this competitive yet thriving field. If you are a sports enthusiast and have the business mindset to match, a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management could be your pathway to a prosperous career.
A Sports Management degree prepares students to take on various roles in the sports industry, from managing sports teams to handling public relations for large sportswear companies like Nike or Adidas. And while the degree can certainly lead to becoming a sports coach (like famous footballers Edwin van der Sar and Juan Mata), it also opens doors to a range of exciting opportunities in sports branding, marketing, event management, and more.
Here are some of the best universities abroad offering a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management that will set you up for success in this dynamic field:
1. University of Nicosia (Cyprus)
The University of Nicosia offers a comprehensive Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management that provides insights into the latest management practices within the sports industry. The curriculum includes a deep dive into sports theories, historical perspectives, and the challenges sports face in the international business environment.
Key Features:
- Focus on the global sports industry and its challenges.
- Includes courses on human performance management and sports history.
- Offers an international learning environment.
2. Southern New Hampshire University (USA)
At Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), the B.Sc. in Sports Management combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises in real-world sports settings. Students will learn about legal issues in the sports business and also gain a deep understanding of niche areas such as golf club management and ethics in sports.
Key Features:
- Real-world sports field exercises.
- Focus on identifying legal issues in sports.
- Offers courses on ethics, golf management, and more.
3. EU Business School (Spain)
Located in Barcelona, EU Business School offers a dynamic Bachelor’s in Sports Management program that focuses heavily on the business aspects of sports. Students will learn about advertising, media, and accounting within the sports industry, as well as gain expertise in physical education principles. This program prepares graduates to design and implement effective business strategies for sports-related companies.
Key Features:
- Strong business-focused curriculum with an emphasis on media, marketing, and accounting in sports.
- Exposure to major players and teams within the sports industry.
- Special focus on developing strategic business skills.
4. Richmond, the American International University in London (UK)
Richmond offers an engaging undergraduate degree in Sports Management that balances coaching techniques with management and health practices. Besides learning the fundamentals of becoming a good coach, students will acquire knowledge about nutrition, health practices, and leadership skills specific to sports management.
Key Features:
- A certificate in coaching and an award in management and leadership.
- A blend of coaching and business skills tailored to the sports industry.
- Focus on health and nutrition for athletes.
5. University of Applied Sciences Europe (Germany)
The University of Applied Sciences Europe allows students to specialize in key areas of sports management, including marketing, business administration, sports management, or public relations. A unique feature of this program is the opportunity to work behind the scenes with some of Germany's top basketball clubs, gaining practical experience in a professional sports environment.
Key Features:
- Specialization options in marketing, PR, and sports management.
- Behind-the-scenes exposure to top German basketball clubs.
- A practical, hands-on approach to learning.
6. University of the West of Scotland (UK)
At the University of the West of Scotland, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Sports Development which tackles key issues in international sports management. The curriculum is designed to help students develop practical solutions for various challenges within sports, health, and fitness industries. It also includes courses in coaching, exercise science, and leisure facility management.
Key Features:
- Focus on international sports management issues.
- Includes courses in sport and exercise science and facility management.
- Offers practical, solution-driven learning.
7. Teesside University (UK)
Teesside University, located in the football-centric town of Middlesbrough, offers a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management with a special focus on football management. The university partners with football coaches and experts, providing students with internship opportunities to gain hands-on experience. Along with football business, students will also explore sport finance, economics, and marketing.
Key Features:
- Special emphasis on football management and partnerships with professional coaches.
- Internship opportunities within the football industry.
- Courses on sport finance, branding, and economics.
Why Study Sports Management?
Sports management offers exciting career opportunities in a range of sectors, from working with top athletes to managing international sports teams or even leading sports brands like Nike. Whether you want to handle the business side of sports or get involved with coaching, a Bachelor's degree in Sports Management provides the necessary skills to thrive in this fast-paced industry.
Conclusion
Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Sports Management offers a wealth of opportunities to turn your passion for sports into a successful career. From business management to coaching, marketing, and branding, the possibilities are endless. The universities listed above offer some of the best programs abroad, ensuring that you will gain the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to excel in the sports industry. Whether you’re looking to study in Europe, the USA, or beyond, these institutions are leading the way in sports management education.
By choosing the right university and specializing in your area of interest, you’ll be well on your way to a bright future in the sports business.