A comparative study of selected sport management programs at the master's degree level

The phenomenal growth of physical fitness through recreational activities has created a demand for sport management professionals. Current and future job demands require that sport managers possess a depth of knowledge and a broad range of specific competencies in both business and sport to deal successfully with ever changing challenges and problems. Because of the opportunities in recreational sports, there is a need for a model sport management curriculum at the master's degree level to serve as a guide in preparing professionals to successfully function in this field.; This study examined, compared, and contrasted masters degree programs in sport management at 11 universities in the southern United States for the purpose of developing a curriculum that could be recommended as a “best program” model at the master's level. Sport management programs at 11 universities were examined using document analysis. Data collected were analyzed and classified in relation to a framework based on curricula standards developed by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) and the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM) Sport Management Review Council.; The findings of the study indicated that the Master of Science Degree (M.S.) in Sport Management was the most common degree offered. Thirty-six semester hours were the most common number of credits required for the degree. Three basic components comprising sport management curriculums were identified: (a) required courses, (b) elective courses, and (c) culminating experiences. Six to eight required courses generally comprised the core of sport management curriculums. Culminating experiences usually consisted of an internship or practicum. Most programs provided students the option of writing a thesis. Students who chose not to write a thesis were usually required to pass a comprehensive written examination.; A “best program” model for preparing sport management professionals was developed based on the study's findings. The model covers all nine NASPE-NASSM content areas and meets suggested standards.