Prospective Students
Shaping Tomorrow's Sports Industry Leaders
At the University of Maryland's Sports Management Program, we empower students to launch meaningful careers in the fast-paced, ever-evolving sports industry. Our program combines foundational knowledge with hands-on learning and professional connections, equipping future leaders to meet the demands of this dynamic field with confidence and purpose.
Program Goals
- Build Core Expertise: We provide students with a robust education in sports management fundamentals, ensuring they have the skills and insights to thrive across various industry roles.
- Explore Career Paths: Our program encourages students to delve into diverse career opportunities within the sports world, from team operations to marketing and beyond. By understanding different pathways and job requirements, students can make informed career choices.
- Develop Your Network: Networking is a cornerstone of success in sports management. We teach our students how to identify and seize networking opportunities, creating lasting relationships with industry leaders, organizations, and peers.
- Enhance Professional Skills: Through experiential learning, students build essential career development skills. Our co-curricular opportunities prepare students to stand out in a competitive market, bringing value and innovation to every role they take on.
Our Values
- Innovation: We embrace change and promote creative problem-solving, preparing our students for the ever-shifting landscape of sports management.
- Community: The Sports Management Program is a supportive, inclusive environment where collaboration between students, faculty, and industry experts fuels both personal and professional growth.
- Inclusion: We celebrate diverse perspectives, fostering a culture where all voices are heard, respected, and valued.
- Leadership: Our students are proactive leaders in the making, poised to drive positive change and set new standards across the industry.
- Excellence: We set high standards for academic rigor and hands-on learning, inspiring students to achieve excellence in their careers and communities.
Why Choose Maryland's Sports Management Program?
Driven, innovative, and deeply connected to the sports industry, our program embodies a bold spirit that inspires students to push boundaries and embrace challenges with integrity. We’re not just a program; we’re a community of aspiring professionals and leaders who share a passion for sports and excellence. Join us, and be part of a vibrant network where you’ll gain more than an education—you’ll gain lifelong connections and a pathway to a fulfilling career in sports management.
Through SMP, I learned the importance of collaboration, which has been invaluable as a ballpark operations intern with the Baltimore Orioles. Just like in class, where we discussed various sports industry roles, I’ve seen how departments must work together for game day success. Whether collaborating on group projects or stepping into new roles at the Orioles, teamwork is key to making everything run smoothly.
Ally Bloom
Summer 2024 Baltimore Orioles Intern
SMP Cohort 1
Take the Next Step Toward a Career in Sports
Ready to join a community that’s passionate about sports, leadership, and making an impact? Each year, we select a dynamic cohort of 45-50 UMD students who are driven to push boundaries and build a successful future in sports management.
Application Dates
- December 1 - Application opens
- February 15 - Application deadline
Admissions Criteria
To be eligible, you'll need to meet these requirements:
- Be a current UMD College Park undergraduate (from any major) with at least two semesters remaining after admission.
- Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Complete (or plan to complete) 30 credits by the end of the Spring semester in which you apply.
- Be prepared to complete 12 total credits of Sports Management coursework.
Admissions Process
Our selection committee—comprised of current students, faculty, and staff—takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications. Selected students will be invited to participate in a series of interviews, where we look for enthusiasm for the sports industry, leadership potential, and a commitment to building community. Applicants not selected are encouraged to reapply the following year if they continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
What We Look For
We’re looking for students who are knowledgeable about the sports industry, committed to a future in sports, and ready to contribute to our vibrant community. While not required, we encourage applicants to get involved in sports-related activities on campus to enhance their application and show their passion in action.
This is more than a program; it’s a launchpad for leaders who want to shape the future of sports. If you're ready to take on the challenge, we’re excited to see you apply!
Interested in getting involved before applying?
Join the Sports Business Society Intern with Maryland Athletics
Opportunities to Learn More
Sports Management In-Person Information Session
6:00 PM EST
Sports Management In-Person Information Session
1:00 PM EST
Sports Management Virtual Information Session
2:00 PM EST
Associate Director Friday Office Hours
Prospective students applying in the 2024-2025 cycle are welcome to meet with Associate Director Tori Shay for answers to specific questions about the application process or program curriculum. These office hours are intended for detailed, logistical questions around academic requirements or application steps. For a comprehensive overview of the Sports Management Program, we encourage you to attend an information session first. All meetings will take place virtually and on Fridays. Sign up for a meeting with Tori.
As a transfer student, SMP has been instrumental in helping me build a sense of belonging at UMD by connecting me with like-minded peers who share my passion for the sports industry. With the support of the incredible staff, we’ve created a space where we can express ourselves authentically and celebrate each other’s successes. Despite the competitive nature of the field, our community thrives on mutual encouragement and collective growth. Through SMP, I’ve formed lasting friendships and built a strong personal and professional support system. It’s more than an academic program—it’s become a second family that made UMD truly feel like home.
Jarrod Boyer
SMP Cohort 1
What to Expect: Going Beyond the Classroom
In Maryland's Sports Management Program, your learning experience extends well beyond textbooks and lectures. We believe in providing students with hands-on opportunities to grow their skills, build a strong network, and gain insights that only real-world experiences can offer. Here, learning happens everywhere.
Out-of-the-Classroom Opportunities
- Industry Networking Events: Connect directly with sports professionals, alumni, and industry leaders at exclusive events throughout the year, setting the foundation for your professional network.
- Site Visits and Field Experiences: Get a behind-the-scenes look at top sports organizations through visits to professional teams, venues, and collegiate athletic departments. These experiences allow you to see industry concepts in action and understand what working in sports management really involves.
- Guest Speakers and Panels: Hear from experts in fields like sports marketing, finance, media, and operations. Guest speakers and panels offer invaluable perspectives and insights, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
- Cohort Social Events: Our program is also about community. Join social gatherings with your cohort to build relationships with peers who share your passion for sports and drive for success.
Expectations and Flexibility
We expect our students to attend a range of events, both social and professional, as these experiences are essential for developing the connections and insights that will support your career. However, we understand that flexibility is key. While participation is expected, there’s room to balance your commitments so that you can take full advantage of opportunities that fit your schedule and goals.
Embrace these experiences and connections—they’re the cornerstone of your future network in sports management. Dive in, take advantage of every opportunity, and let’s work together to shape your path in the sports industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Sports Management Program is neither a major nor a minor—it’s a unique notation program, offering an immersive, hands-on learning experience tailored to prepare you for a career in the sports industry. Through a concentrated series of courses, you’ll gain marketable skills and practical insights that set you apart. Upon completing the program, you’ll earn a notation on your transcript that reflects your dedication and specialized training in sports management.
Absolutely! Transfer students bring valuable perspectives to our community, and we reserve spots each year specifically for newly admitted transfer students. If you’re an incoming transfer student, you’ll have a chance to apply in early August to start the program that fall.
Eligibility for Transfer Students:
- Admitted and confirmed UMD College Park undergraduate with at least two remaining semesters.
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA from your previous institution.
- Completed at least 30 college credits at the time of application.
- Ability to complete 12 credits in sports management coursework before graduation.
Yes! Studying abroad is a fantastic experience, and we work with students to make it possible. If you go abroad in the spring after being admitted, you’ll have the flexibility to complete required courses, including deferring the Sports Management Capstone (BMGT483) to the following year. To allow for course completion, students should have at least two years left until graduation when applying to SMP if planning to study abroad.
The required coursework can be completed in as little as one year. But your SMP experience doesn’t end there! After finishing, you’re still welcome to join site visits, networking events, professional development sessions, and more. Graduates of the coursework are also eligible for leadership roles, like Teaching Assistant positions, paid student employment, and membership in our Sports Management Leadership Council.
Yes! If you’re not accepted on your first try, we encourage you to reapply the following year, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
The Sports Management Program is designed to fit within your academic schedule, requiring a commitment of 12 credits of coursework over your time in the program. In addition to classes, we offer a range of out-of-the-classroom experiences—such as networking events, site visits, and guest speaker sessions—which we strongly encourage students to attend to get the most out of the program.
While participation in many of these additional events is expected, there is flexibility to balance them with your other academic and personal commitments. Typically, students find that these events and experiences enrich their time in the program and are manageable alongside their other responsibilities. The program’s structure allows you to make the most of opportunities that align with your specific career goals and schedule.
No! The Sports Management Program is open to all UMD undergraduates who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of major.
There are plenty of ways to gain sports industry experience while preparing to apply to the program:
- Join the Sports Business Society: A student organization that connects members with industry professionals, providing insights into the business side of sports.
- Intern with Maryland Athletics: Gain hands-on experience through internships or student employment opportunities in intercollegiate athletics.
- Attend the Maryland Sports Business Conference: Each spring, this event brings together students from the DMV area to learn about the business of sports, network, and gain industry insights.