Online M.S. in Sport and Fitness Administration

Prepare to Oversee Sport and Fitness Programming in a Leadership Position

Winthrop University's online Master of Science in Sport and Fitness Administration focuses on preparing you for the administrative responsibilities common in the industry, such as facility management, personnel management and program development. In under two years, you'll graduate ready to direct sport and fitness programs in private, public and nonprofit organizations.

Our program gives you the credentials and experience to get ahead in your job search, with a well-rounded sport and fitness administration curriculum. You'll get the same caliber of instruction as Winthrop's on-campus students in small online classes where you can get to know your professors and peers. 

Program Fast Facts

  • Part-time or full-time options, complete the degree requirements at your own pace
  • 100% online courses*
  • Graduate in less than two years
  • Transfer up to 9 credit hours of graduate coursework

Choose a Practicum or Thesis Track to Fit Your Needs

In the practicum track, you can gain hands-on skills related to a particular area of interest such as sport and fitness promotion, financial management, NCAA compliance issues, esports, and sports event management. By completing a practicum as part of your sport and fitness administration master's degree, you'll get industry experience for your résumé so that you can enter the job market as soon as you graduate.

If you complete a thesis on a topic of your choice, you have the chance to examine a particular issue related to the sports business. As you research and analyze ways to address your topic, you'll align the thesis to your goals and apply your specialized knowledge and professional skills to a specific aspect of this field as you earn your sport and fitness administration master's degree.

Why Choose Winthrop’s Master's in Sport and Fitness Administration?

  • Two program options: Complete the sport and fitness administration master's degree with your choice of the practicum or thesis track. You can emphasize the research-based and real-world skills you need for your ideal career.
  • Placement assistance: If you are not currently working in the sport or fitness industry or do not have convenient access to a facility or organization, our faculty will ensure that you gain access to a field experience and practicum location suitable for your circumstances.
  • Committed to you: In Winthrop University's M.S. in Sport and Fitness Administration online program, you'll receive the same mentoring opportunities as on-campus students delivered in an innovative online format.
  • Skill-building relevant to the industry: You'll develop a broad set of management and leadership skills in risk management, marketing and finance in connection with sports businesses and nonprofits.

Program Learning Outcomes

After completing the online Master of Science in Sport and Fitness Administration, graduates will be able to:

  • Plan, administer, budget for, promote and assess sport and fitness programming
  • Make decisions informed by problem-solving, decision-making and moral and ethical reasoning
  • Demonstrate command of diverse research methodologies and their application in sport and fitness programming
  • Consider risk management strategies and legal aspects of sport and fitness

For more information about the online coursework and learning outcomes related to sport and fitness administration management, visit our curriculum page.

    "The sport and fitness administration master’s program at Winthrop has proven to be a great complement to my exercise science bachelor’s degree as I pursue a career in strength and conditioning. I now feel I have the knowledge needed to manage a facility and a budget, which are both important in the coaching world. The faculty within the program are always available to answer any questions you may have via email or even face-to-face."
    Shayna C., Winthrop M.S. in Sport and Fitness Administration May 2020 graduate

    Stand Out in Your Sport and Fitness Career

    Due to the competitive nature of the job market, your master’s degree in sport and fitness administration can catch the eye of potential employers. No matter what your ultimate career goals are, Winthrop University's expert sport and fitness professors provide you with the unique training you'll need to succeed. The program's faculty bring expertise from a variety of disciplines, including coaching, global sports, event management, marketing and sport law.

    In addition, you'll be able to connect with our diverse network of alumni. Our graduates pursue careers in sport and fitness administration programming for environments such as:

    • Fitness centers
    • Geriatric activity centers
    • Health and wellness centers
    • Middle/high school and university athletics
    • Recreation
    • Sports events marketing and management
    • YMCA/YWCAs

    Take the Next Step Today!

    Learn more about how you can become more competitive in the sport business with Winthrop University's online Master of Science in Sport and Fitness Administration. Contact a program manager toll-free at 833-257-1704 or request more information now.

    *Students can choose to complete an in-person practicum