Sport Management

There is no doubt that sport is big business. Just think of the global appetite for the Olympics or our own Premier League, the multi-million pound sponsorship deals, the unprecedented sums generated by broadcasting rights, and the way sport can generate economic growth in our communities. Our course is your entrance ticket to this exciting world.

KEY FEATURES OF THE COURSE:

RANKINGS: 100% of students on our BA (Hons) Sport Management course agreed that staff are good at explaining things, that staff make the subject engaging and that the course has challenged them to produce their best work in the National Student Survey 2025. Our Sport and Exercise subject area was also ranked in the Top 15 for learning resources and in the Top 25 for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2025.


- MANAGEMENT SKILLS: Develop strong strategic, leadership and enterprise skills to help you excel in management roles within professional sports organisations.


- WORK-READY: Gain in-depth knowledge of sport marketing, media and PR, finance, business development, commercial hospitality, sponsorship, talent management and event management - a fantastic skill set to enter one of the world's most lucrative sectors.


- GUARANTEED PLACEMENTS: At every level of study, there is the chance for you to work within a professional environment. You’ll also get involved in delivering sports events nationwide - our previous students have assisted in the organisation of Championship and FA Cup football matches, T20 cricket matches and the Derby Half Marathon and 10k races.


- LEARN FROM THE BEST: Drawing on our network of contacts, we offer you the chance to learn from leading industry professionals from around the world – with UK-based guest lectures and masterclasses delivered online from overseas.


- PRESENT TO INDUSTRY LEADERS: Take part in real-life research and consultancy projects on behalf of sports clubs, where you will deliver your findings directly to senior managers.


- TEAM DERBY: If you enjoy a challenge and would like to make the most of your own sporting passion and prowess, you could become involved with Team Derby which is the focal point for the University’s sporting community. It encompasses all aspects of sport, including courses, numerous sports clubs, the Athletics Union and sport development activities.


HOW YOU'RE ASSESSED:


• You will be assessed using a range of methods, including coursework, exams, group work, online discussions, presentations, and case studies. Regular feedback is provided to support assessments and develop a greater understanding of what you need to work in the sports industry.



YOUR CAREER:


• As one of our graduates, you can progress to a wide range of roles within professional sports clubs – such as marketing executive, facility manager, social media manager, commercial sponsorship manager or sport event manager. You could also seek a business management career in broader fields including the events industry with concerts and festivals. In addition, there is the potential to progress to postgraduate study or teacher training with a focus on sport or business.



STUDY OPTIONS:


• This course is available with a Foundation Year option.



• This course is also available with an Industrial Placement Year.

Based solely on more than 24,000 student reviews, we were named Uni Compare's University of the Year 2027, and voted 1st in the UK for employability and 2nd in the UK for course quality. Not only that, but 97% of students would recommend the University of Derby*, which we can offer you industry-relevant teaching, state-of-the-art study spaces, multi-award-winning accommodation, and a welcoming, inclusive community.

*Uni Compare 2027