Sport Management

The sport management major is designed to provide students with the opportunity to develop expertise in management and business with an orientation toward the world of sport. As sports have evolved into an integral part of the American culture, the operations of sports programs have become more sophisticated and complex. People assigned to the responsibility for the management of sports programs and venues must become familiar with the intricacies of sports operations and also be effective as management professionals.

The program of study consists of two basic components: General Education courses and the sport management core. These program components provide a foundation for the development of knowledge and skills required for sport management. Practical experience is provided in many classes that enables students to apply what has been learned in a variety of business settings. During the senior year, students are required to complete a fifteen-week field experience under the supervision of a qualified professional in sport management. This experience affords students the opportunity to nurture acquired skills while functioning in the business of sport. It also facilitates student entry into the employment market upon graduation.

If students opt for an additional semester to satisfy the program’s internship requirement, additional tuition charges will apply.

To view a major program sequence to assist with course planning, click here.

Degree Information

Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a major in Sport Management

(120 credit hours) Requirements are subject to change

Contact Information

For more information about the sport management major, contact Dr. Kevin McAllister, chairperson of the Sport Management and Recreation Department, at (413) 748-3476 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.

Curricular Requirements

I. Core Curriculum (40 credits)

This Core Curriculum is faithful to the Springfield College mission and further strengthens the Humanics philosophy of educating students in spirit, mind, and body. It is a cornerstone of a Springfield College education. Regardless of one’s major, it provides a strong, developmental, and holistic foundation for leaders in service to humanity. Upon completion, all graduates will be prepared to learn, lead, and serve in diverse, multicultural, and global contexts as well as in any career path they may choose. They will have the knowledge, habits of the mind, skills, and abilities to face unexpected situations and challenges, the values and attitudes for self-motivation and a vision of service that stems from hope, optimism and making a difference, as well as the self-determination to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

View the Core Curriculum Requirements (40 credits) section for a complete list of the domains and courses therein.

II. Major Requirements

A. Core Requirements

BUSM 210 - Principles of Accounting I Credits: 3
or
BUSM 230 - Concepts of Accounting Credits: 3
MOST 428 - Sociology of Sport Credits: 3
SMRT 101 - Introduction to Sport Management Credits: 3
SMRT 106 - Dynamics of Leadership Credits: 3
SMRT 116 - Event Management and Promotions Credits: 3
SMRT 250 - International Relations through Sport Management Credits: 3
SMRT 270 - Communication in Sport Management Credits: 3
SMRT 278 - Customer Hospitality Credits: 3
SMRT 340 - Managing Client Services and Sales Credits: 3
SMRT 350 - Marketing and Public Relations for Sport and Recreation Management Credits: 3
SMRT 365 - Venue and Personnel Management Credits: 3
SMRT 384 - Practicum in Sport/Recreation Management Credits: 3
SMRT 420 - Sport Governance and Strategy Credits: 3
SMRT 440 - Ethics in Sport and Recreation Credits: 3
SMRT 475 - Legal Issues in Sport and Recreation Credits: 3
SMRT 478 - Management of Financial Resources Credits: 3
SMRT 483 - Seminar: Business and Professionalism in Sport Credits: 3
SMRT 485 - Undergraduate Internship Credits: 3-12
(must be taken for 12 credits, 540 hours minimum, to meet program requirements)

III. Electives (to complete a minimum of 120 credits)

Students are strongly advised to consider one of the following minor courses of study in order to strengthen their preparation for entry into their profession.

Business Management
Sports Analytics

Program and Advanced Standing Standards

Sport management majors must qualify for advanced standing in order to register for the third- and fourth-year sequences of required courses (including practicum and internship). To qualify for advanced standing, the student must meet the following standards by the conclusion of his or her sophomore year.

An overall GPA (all courses) of 2.500 or higher
Proper professional and responsible behavior is expected of each sport management student. This includes behavior while a student (on- and off-campus) and as a member of the college community.

After achieving the minimum GPA, the student must maintain those standards through the remainder of the program. If the student fails to meet or maintain those standards, the sport management faculty will review the student’s record and recommend departmental probation (with appropriate prescription to overcome the deficiency) or dismissal from the program. A student will not be able to go out on internship without a minimum GPA of 2.500.

Appeal Process
A student may appeal any action taken by the department regarding his or her probation or dismissal from the major. In order to appeal, the student must submit a letter to the department chairperson requesting a review of their status. This appeal must be submitted within two weeks of the student being notified of his or her probation or dismissal. The sport management and recreation chairperson will call a meeting of the appropriate faculty to which the student will be invited. The student will be notified within ten days of the meeting regarding the outcome of his/her appeal.

Academic Catalog