Sports Leadership MS
Master of Science in Sports Leadership

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
Degree awarded
Master of Science in Sports Leadership
Commitment
4 semesters
Tuition
$900 per credit
Format
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.
Application deadlines
Fall 2025
- Deadline : July 1, 2025
Spring 2026
- Deadline: December 1, 2025
Summer 2026
- Deadline: April 1, 2026
Your questions, answered
Have questions? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
Admissions and events
Program requirements
Application materials required
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.
Register now →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.
Register now →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.
- Coaching practices
- Athletics administration
- Leadership
- Psychology and coaching
- Strength and conditioning principles
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