People are drawn to sport management for many different reasons; the competition, the strategy, the excitement, personal achievement, or maybe just the money. Regardless of motivation there is one common element binding these people together – a love of ‘the game.’ Whether you’re an athlete, coach, fitness enthusiast, official, organizer, or fan, pursuing a career in sports means doing something you’ll love the rest of your life.
The Sport Management Program
If you want to combine your passion for sports with the knowledge base that examines the many facets within the industry, then the Sport Management major at William Penn University may be just the ticket (pun intended). Our carefully crafted academic program combines specific coursework in the sport and recreation fields with the business fundamentals necessary to become a successful professional. The comprehensive curriculum combined with hands-on experience gained through field experiences and internships gives our students the academic knowledge and practical training required for success in the sport and recreation industry.
Careers
Sport is a Top-10 global industry with revenues estimated to be in excess of $200 billion annually. Entry level positions can be found in nearly every community, and as skills, knowledge, and experience is gained, doors will open for jobs around the world. Here are some careers you will be qualified for as a graduate of the program:
Athletic Administration / Director
Business Manager
Club sports
College Athletics
Corporate sales
Director of Youth/Sport Camps
Event Operations
Equipment sales
Facility Operations
Intramural Director
League Director
Olympic Sports
Professional Sports
Special Olympics
Sports Information
Sports official
Sport tourism
YMCA / YWCA
Internships
Integral components of the curriculum include field experience and internship opportunities which allow students to begin career exploration while building a professional contact network. William Penn Sports Management students have recently completed internships at the following locations/organizations:
Des Moines Menace – men’s semi-pro soccer
Iowa Barnstormers – Arena League Football
Iowa Crush – women’s semi-pro football
Iowa Cubs – AAA baseball
Musco Sport Lighting – leading international sport lighting manufacturer
Oskaloosa Public Schools – administrative and coaching
Pella Rec Center – coaching and fitness instructors
William Penn University Athletics – event operations, equipment, and sports information
YMCA of Mahaska County – coaching, facility, and program leadership
YMCA of Ottumwa
Organizations
The Kinesiology Club is for students who share a love of sport and physical activity. Field Trips to sports facilities and events along with presentations by guest speakers from the sport and fitness industry are cornerstones of the club.