Online Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration
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Online Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration
The online Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration is designed for students looking to gain the leadership knowledge and skills needed to launch or enhance their sport business career.
The Sport Administration undergraduate program at the University of Louisville leverages faculty expertise, hands-on industry experience and a career-focused curriculum to develop your understanding of sport management. Through courses covering topics including administration, finance, economics, marketing and law, you will learn to think critically about current issues in the sport industry and modern methods of addressing such issues in your organization, local communities and around the world.
The Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration is offered through the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Louisville. Our institution’s online bachelor’s Degrees have been consistently ranked among the "Best in the Nation" and "Best for Veterans" by U.S. News & World Report, reflecting its focus on academic excellence and student support.
UofL's Online BSSPAD program
100% online, Follow your passion and set yourself a degree apart from the rest!
Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration
100% Online
The big picture
Sport is a multibillion-dollar global industry driven by strategy, analytics, branding, compliance and leadership. The online Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration prepares you to operate confidently behind the scenes where real decisions shape teams, organizations and fan experiences.
The online BS in Sport Administration helps those interested in a career in sport management to gain the skills and tools needed to thrive in this competitive industry. Whether you see yourself in athletics administration, event operations, sport marketing or facility management, this program equips you with business fluency and industry insight to move from fan to professional.
Online BS in Sport Administration degree highlights
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of the sport administration and management field
- Build in-demand expertise in sport marketing, sport finance, sport law and leadership
- Learn from expert faculty with distinguished academic credentials and industry experience
- Engage with a network of 450+ employers across various sports and business sectors
- Customize your program to match your goals with flexible learning, personal attention and electives designed to match your interest
- Hear from guest lecturers with leadership experience within leading sport business organizations
- Graduate prepared for careers in athletics, recreation, professional sport and nonprofit sport organizations
Built for students who want both credibility and flexibility, the program blends sport-specific coursework with core business foundations in management, finance, marketing and law. You will study contemporary issues shaping sport organizations today, from governance and ethics to revenue strategy and digital engagement, while developing practical skills you can apply immediately in professional or collegiate settings.
"Sport gives us the opportunity to come together, to share passions, to feel part of something bigger. We really focus at the bachelor's level on making our students work ready, so that you're developing skill sets that are going to help you get a job, be successful in those entry level positions and then move on in your career."
Meg Hancock, PhD
Sport Administration, Faculty
Turn your passion for sport into professional momentum!
How to apply to UofL’s Online BS in Sport Administration degree
Check out typical application deadlines for the BS SPAD online program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall | August |
| December 1 | Spring | January |
| April 1 | Summer | May/June |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to Apply for the Online BS in Sport Administration
- Start your application for undergraduate admission
- Submit $30 non-refundable application fee
- Verify your identity - provide ID/documentation as requested
- Complete any checklist items listed on your Application Portal*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: adetran@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Office of Admissions, Dept AO, Louisville, KY 40292
- Create a financial plan
What admissions requirements are for the Online BS in Sport Administration program
New students and transfer students with less than 24 transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- High school diploma from an accredited institution (GED or equivalent also accepted)
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale; AND for transfer students, a minimum college GPA of 2.25; (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
- Composite ACT* score of 21 or higher
Transfer students with 24 or more transferable credits from accredited institutions must have:
- Minimum college GPA of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started an undergraduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
No ACT/SAT? Test-optional admissions are granted on a case-by-case basis and require a comprehensive review of high school transcript, including grades and college-preparatory courses. A personal statement may be requested during the admissions review process.
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselor through an information request.
How much does it cost to earn an online BSSPAD degree at UofL?
Academic year tuition
$559 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
All online courses will be assessed an additional fee of $10/credit hour per University of Louisville policies.
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many employers often have programs available to assist their employees financially in their educational pursuits. Do not miss out on any potential opportunities. Reach out to your organization’s HR department to learn about available options.
What will you learn in the Online BS in Sport Administration?
The Sport Admin online curriculum at UofL is designed to give you both breadth and specialization in sport administration. Core courses develop foundational knowledge in sport leadership, sport marketing, sport governance, ethics and finance. You will explore digital development in sport, facility management, sport communication and sales strategy while strengthening your understanding of legal principles and organizational behavior.
Online courses
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Sport Administration is a 120 credit hour program, offered 100% online. Courses are asynchronous and follow UofL's standard term length.
To see all available online courses and degree requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
Sport Administration majors are strongly encouraged to complete a minor. Admitted students will work with their academic advisors to identify minors or other credentials as part of the program.
Elective courses allow you to tailor your experience toward areas such as event planning, data analytics in sport, nonprofit sport administration, international sport, entrepreneurship or sport for development and peace. The program culminates with a Senior Seminar in Sport Business which helps you translate classroom learning into real-world application.
Take the next step with confidence. Start building your sport business industry expertise.
What can I do with a bachelor’s in sport administration?
The expertise you’ll develop as an online bachelor’s in sport administration student will enable you to become a capable and effective administrator in sports business. You’ll develop a deeper understanding of management, leadership, ethics, communication, financial principles and best practices within the field.
Specific expertise gained in this online program includes:
- Comprehensive understanding of the various management theories and research as well as their application to sport organization and administration
- Awareness of potential legal duties and responsibilities, legal rights, liability prevention, alternatives to litigation and actions to pursue if a situation involves legal proceedings
- Methods for critical thinking and making informed decisions on management and administrative issues in the sport industry
- Application of key marketing concepts and strategies across sport businesses
Online BS in Sport Administration career options
Our program boasts a large network of more than 450 employers who empower our students and alumni to get involved and make a difference in sport management. Career opportunities are available to Sport Administration graduates in fields such as:
- Athletics administration
- Facility management
- Fitness and wellness
- Event management
- Sport marketing and merchandising
- PR and communications
- Ticketing and sales
- Management and leadership
Occupations for skills sports-related professionals are expected to grow 9% from 2025 through 2033 (Lightcast.io). Specifically, careers in areas like administrative services and facilities managers are expected to grow 46% nationwide, which is on par with the national occupational growth rate and have a median annual salary of nearly $107,000 (bls.gov). Career opportunities and earnings vary based on actual job role, geographic location, prior experience and employer. These figures reflect overall industry trends and are not a guarantee of individual results.
Move from fan to front office and start building your future in sport management and administration.
Swing for the fences and request more information about this program today!
What else should you know?
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, application and admission process, credit transfer, financial aid options and how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
Can the entire degree be completed online?
Yes. The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Sport Administration offers all of the required courses online.
Are there specific classes that must be completed first?
Yes. The Sport Administration (SPAD) online program requires completion of SPAD 281 and SPAD 284 with a C or better for you to be admitted into the program.
Are there specific course prerequisites? Is there a specific course sequence?
Yes. It is recommended that you meet with an advisor to determine the best course sequencing for online learning. Many of the BS classes are only offered online in the fall or spring, so it is crucial for online learners to follow the recommended course sequence.
Do I need a minor? Which minor should I choose? How will it benefit me?
While a minor is not required for the bachelor’s in SPAD, it can be a great way to add an additional skillset or gain knowledge to advance the opportunities in a sport career.
How do I declare a minor? How and when does it show up on my transcript?
You can declare a minor online through Education Advising/Student Services Office (EASS). Visit the College of Education and Human Development Advising page to learn more!
What are upper division credits/courses? Do I have to complete a certain number of upper division hours? What classes do these need to be?
Yes. An upper division (UD) course is a junior level or senior level course. These courses are the 300, 400 or 500 level courses. The University of Louisville requires that you complete 50 credit hours of upper division credit. There are 42 upper division credits in the SPAD core. The additional upper division classes may be taken in SPAD, in a minor or in another discipline at the University. Transfer credits can also count toward to total required UD credits when applicable.
What is the minimum GPA needed to enter the program? What is the GPA required to graduate?
The minimum GPA required to declare your SPAD major is 2.5. The requirement to graduate with a BS in Sport Administration is a 2.25 GPA.
How many electives do I need to complete? Which classes should I choose as these electives?
You are required to complete a total of 47 elective credits. You can work with your advisor to find the best combination of electives. Our advisors are experienced at assisting students with the course selection of both the general electives and the specific program electives.
Are there any courses that I cannot take?
No. There are no specific restrictions on taking classes, however there is no guarantee the classes taken will meet the degree requirements for the online BS in Sport Administration. It is always recommended that you follow the course recommendations or speak with an advisor about satisfaction of degree requirements.
How do I get my transferable credit evaluated? How will transfer courses show on my records? How can I see the classes that transferred and what requirements they meet?
The Office of Transfer & Adult Services is available to assist with evaluating your transfer credits. Visit http://louisville.edu/admissions/apply/transfer/ to learn more about the transfer process.
How will I know I am taking the correct courses?
Your academic advisor will help you navigate the curriculum and schedule. You will have an assigned advisor in the College of Education or in the Health and Sport Sciences Department to assist with courses and resources.
What is the expertise of the faculty who teach online classes?
The SPAD faculty who teach online course have extensive experience in the sport industry, have completed online teacher training and have expertise in the subject areas they teach.
What will I do if I need help with my coursework?
You may contact your academic advisor for any coursework needs. Additionally, UofL offers a variety of resources for online learners and support for a fulfilling online learning experience. Visit our enrolled student support resources page for more information. As an enrolled student, you have access to a dedicated student success coach who can work with you through any academic and personal challenges.
How will I complete the required internship online?
The internship requirement for SPAD students can be completed in any location at an approved sport organization internship site. You will work with the Internship Coordinator to find an appropriate internship location that meets your interest and career goals.
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
BSSPAD Support Team
Meet the team that will support your academic success in the online BS in Sport Administration program
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Jacob Wolfe | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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Gin Presley | Program Director | rgpres01@louisville.edu | 502.852.8297 |
Talk to the team about starting your application today!