Prepare for leadership in sport with an MSc that covers governance, event management, human resources and commercial strategy, supported by real industry links
The MSc Sport Management is designed for graduates and professionals aiming to work with governing bodies and organisers of elite events—from major football leagues to multi-sport spectacles. Through a curriculum that balances strategic insight and practical application, students develop the skills required to manage people, resources and complex event logistics in an international context.
The programme emphasises contemporary challenges such as governance, commercialisation and equality, giving learners the confidence to operate across professional sport, high-performance events and mass participation initiatives.
This course sits within a market where the UK plays a central role: sport and physical activity contribute £39 billion to the UK economy, and the global sports market is forecast to reach $707.84 billion in 2026.
These figures underscore the demand for skilled managers who can navigate broadcasting deals, sponsorship, and international stakeholder relationships. Prospective students can also join an online webinar on 27 April 2026 to learn how sport management operates behind the scenes at major events; the session runs from 12.00pm to 1.00pm and is free to attend.
What you will learn and how it is taught
The programme covers core areas such as event management, sport governance, financial analysis and human resources in sport. Modules use case studies ranging from local community projects to international competitions so you can apply theory to practice. Teaching includes lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials, led by staff with international delivery experience. Throughout the course you will develop leadership, research and presentation skills, enabling you to propose viable business strategies and evidence-based policy recommendations for sporting organisations.
Practical skills and assessment
Assessment methods mirror professional demands: you will produce essays, industry reports, presentations and portfolios that simulate real workplace outputs. A focus on data interpretation and financial ratios helps you assess the fiscal health of clubs, leagues and events, while marketing modules examine broadcast and media-rights strategies. The course also trains you in stakeholder communication and post-event evaluation, so you can measure social and economic impacts and refine future delivery models.
Entry requirements and language expectations
Academic and professional entry
For the September 2026 or January 2027 intake, applicants typically require a second-class honours degree in Sport, Business or Management. Candidates with unrelated degrees, extensive professional experience or recognised prior learning may be considered on a case-by-case basis; the programme accepts equivalent professional qualifications and informal learning through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). If you are unsure whether your background fits, please get in touch with admissions for guidance.
English language requirements
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at a minimum of IELTS 6.5 with no component below 5.5. Exemptions apply if you hold a UK degree, a degree from a majority English-speaking country, or if you are a national of such a country. Degrees taught solely in English from non-majority English-speaking countries will be assessed individually. If you do not yet meet the required standard you can complete a pre-sessional English programme to reach the necessary level.
Costs, scholarships and practical facilities
Fees for home and international students differ. For full-time domestic students the course fee is £9,700, while international full-time fees are £17,900. Part-time fee schedules are also available and may be subject to change. The university offers targeted support such as an EU scholarship (where eligible), a range of postgraduate loans, and subject-specific bursaries. Athletes competing at a national standard or above can apply for sport scholarships of up to £3,000, with typical awards ranging between £500 and £3,000 per year.
Teaching and practical work take place in modern facilities, including a recently built £50m sports centre featuring an 8-lane swimming pool, virtual skiing and a climbing wall. Students also benefit from on-campus support and a virtual learning environment for materials and feedback.
Time commitment, industry links and career outcomes
A full-time student should expect to allocate around 37 hours per week to study, while part-time students should plan for approximately 18 hours per week. On-campus teaching is concentrated over two blocks, with most in-person sessions on Thursdays and Fridays. From late spring, the course shifts focus toward the development of major assignments such as the Human Resources project.
Employability and professional connections
Graduates leave prepared for roles across sport administration, events and HR. Typical job titles include operations manager, community sports manager, head of PR and communications, marketing manager and chief executive. Alumni have secured positions with governing bodies and clubs such as the Rugby Football Union, professional football clubs, national tennis and cricket bodies, and commercial organisations including event promoters and digital platforms. While there is no formal placement, regular guest speakers and active industry partnerships provide networking routes and work experience opportunities.
Support for international students
The university hosts an international community of more than 5,000 students from over 150 countries. Dedicated teams assist with visas, arrival, and settling in, helping overseas students integrate socially and academically into campus life.
