Loughborough University

What you'll study

This MSc combines core management theory with sport-specific applications. You will study modules that typically cover strategic management in sport, sport marketing and sponsorship, finance and commercial management for sport organisations, governance and policy, and operations and events management. Research methods and leadership in sport organisations are included to prepare you for independent study and evidence-based practice.

Teaching is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies and practical workshops. Assessment methods commonly include individual and group coursework, business reports, presentations, exams and a substantial independent dissertation or applied consultancy project that addresses a real-world challenge for a sport organisation.

• Strategic Management in Sport
• Sport Marketing, Sponsorship and Communications
• Finance, Commercialisation and Business Models for Sport
• Sport Governance, Ethics and Policy
• Event and Venue Operations Management
• Leadership, People Management and Organisational Behaviour in Sport
• Research Methods and Applied Research Project or Dissertation

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (typically an upper second-class or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as sport science, business, management, economics, or a related discipline. Candidates with substantial professional experience in sport, leisure, events or the voluntary sector may also be considered.

International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved qualification or recognised test. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview or be asked to submit a personal statement outlining their motivation and relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across the sport and leisure ecosystem, including positions in professional and grassroots clubs, national governing bodies, event organisers, commercial agencies, sponsorship and media companies, and public-sector leisure services. Typical roles include sport manager, commercial manager, events and venue manager, marketing or sponsorship executive, policy officer, and consultant. The programme also prepares students for further study such as research degrees or specialised professional development.

Students benefit from the university’s employer links and industry-facing projects which help with networking, placements and graduate recruitment.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough has a strong reputation in sport-related teaching and research and extensive connections with the sport industry. Students can access exceptional campus facilities, applied laboratories and performance environments that support practical learning. The university’s emphasis on employability means the programme integrates real-world projects, guest speakers from the sector and opportunities to engage with major events and organisations.

Studying at Loughborough provides a professional environment with peer networks of students and alumni working across global sport, giving graduates a strong platform to launch or accelerate careers in sport management.