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Sports Leadership MS

Master of Science in Sports Leadership

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Is this program right for you?

Passionate about sports and impacting lives? UW-Madison, a world-leading academic and athletic institution, is here to help you take the next step toward a career of meaning and influence in athletics. The Master of Science in Sports Leadership (MSL) program will prepare you to lead with distinction in the sports industry.

  • Our program is completely online, so you can complete your degree from almost anywhere in the world
  • You’ll learn about the complexities of diverse sports settings and how to successfully compete and create opportunities across multiple levels
  • You’ll be prepared for a successful career in fields such as athletic administration, coaching, professional sports and club sports
  • Courses include a field internship

Education that works for you

A Master of Science in Sports Leadership will prepare you to make an impact as a coach or leader in the rapidly growing sports industry.

Program type

Master’s degree

Graduate education in a specific area of expertise

Explore program types

Degree awarded

Master of Science in Sports Leadership

Commitment

4 semesters

Tuition

$900 per credit

Format

Online

Primarily online

Credits

30 graduate credits

Admission terms

Program admits for fall, spring and summer terms

Offered by

STEM opt eligible

No

Supports F-1 Visa

Yes, with restrictions.

Learn more

Application deadlines

Fall 2025

  • Deadline : July 1, 2025

Spring 2026

  • Deadline: December 1, 2025

Summer 2026

  • Deadline: April 1, 2026
View UW–Madison’s Guide

Your questions, answered

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Admissions and events

Program requirements

All applicants must:

  • Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0*
  • Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. See the Graduate School Requirements for more information

*The admissions committee may consider an applicant that does not meet these requirements. Supporting factors include documentation of potential for leadership and relevant experiences that affect your ability to serve in leadership roles.

Application materials required

  • Online application
  • Resume/CV
  • Essay
  • Transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation

For complete application details visit UW–Madison’s Guide →

April 9, 2025 from 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Program Overview: MS in Sports Leadership

Learn more about the MS in Sports Leadership, including curriculum, application process, and potential career paths.

Register now →

April 14, 2025 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

Alumni Spotlight: Engineering Management MS (Online)

Engineering Management Master’s Program alumnus Joshua Theiss (Continuous Improvement Specialist, 3M) shares his experience and thoughts on continuous improvement and how the program shaped his career trajectory.

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April 15, 2025 from 5 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Program Overview: Educational Psychology: Learning Analytics

Learn more about the MS in Educational Psychology: Learning Analytics program, including the curriculum, application process and potential career paths.

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April 16, 2025 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Faculty Spotlight: Educational Psychology: Professional Educators

Join a faculty member from the MS in Educational Psychology: Professional Educators program for a talk.

Register now →

April 16, 2025 from 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Application Assistance: Online Engineering Degree and Capstone Certificate Programs

Join program staff to learn about the online engineering master’s and capstone certificate programs and application best practices. You’ll leave knowing what you need, and how to successfully apply.

Register now →

Results that work for you

Sports Leadership MS

#1

The UW–Madison School of Education was ranked third in U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-24 Best Education Graduate Schools rankings — marking the 10th straight year it has been rated among the top five.

U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-24 Best Education Graduate Schools rankings

#3

The UW-Madison School of Education was ranked third in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Overall Best Online Master’s in Education Programs.

U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Overall Best Online Master’s in Education Programs

What you’ll learn

Refine your skills in coaching, leadership and administration for a career in sports with the Sports Leadership MS program. Through a blend of coursework and practical applications, you’ll be prepared to manage and motivate athletes at all levels.

For complete curricular details visit UW-Madison’s Guide →
  • Coaching practices
  • Athletics administration
  • Leadership
  • Psychology and coaching
  • Strength and conditioning principles

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