Bachelor of Science in

Sports Management

With the growing demand for leaders in sports management, the need for skilled professionals has never been more crucial. The Bachelor of Science in Sports Management will help you develop expertise in sports media and management while learning to navigate the industry with integrity. Through a Biblical perspective, students gain the skills to lead, inspire, and promote excellence in a wide range of sporting environments.


On-Campus Start Dates
Fall 2026
Spring 2027
Three male Grace students having a conversation in the Aldrich Athletic Center Gym.

Shaping Management Leaders for Meaningful Impact

At Grace, you are more than just a student. You are a person with unlimited potential made in the image of a loving God. We understand that your calling and career path will be as unique as you are. At Grace, we will help you align your calling with the skills needed for your future careers so you can confidently impact the world, well beyond your time with us.

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Experience an Education with a biblical foundation
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Develop Godly Friendships that will last a lifetime
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Feel Confident and Prepared for your ministry career
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Learn from instructors who really care
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Overview

Happy Communications Professor teaching a classroom of students.

Excellence in Leadership, Grounded in Faith

At Grace, our curriculum goes beyond conventional education, weaving biblical principles into every facet of learning. We aim to develop passionate servants of Jesus that emphasize the integration of character transformation, ministry experience, and biblical truth.

Tuition Cost

An Affordable Sports Management Degree

Explore the pathway to an affordable yet exceptional Sports Management degree. With a range of financial aid options and competitive tuition rates, we’re dedicated to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to excel in the pursuit of their calling without the burden of overwhelming student debt.

$10,150

2026-27 New Student Block Tuition Cost per semester

12-15

Hours per semester

Career Paths

Sports Management Career Paths

Sports Management students will be equipped with a versatile skill set that opens doors to a variety of career opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to journalism, event planning, sales, or beyond, the possibilities are vast.

  • Sports Public Relations Specialist
  • Event or Facility Manager
  • Athletic Director
  • Sports Marketing Coordinator
  • Recreation Manager
  • Sports Information Director
  • Social Media Manager for Sports Organizations
  • Fitness Center Manager
  • Sports Program Coordinator in public or private schools
  • Sports Reporter or Broadcaster
Fitness Center Manager

Sports Management Faculty

Our dedicated faculty members are the heart of our Sports Management program, embodying qualities of care, mentorship, and a steadfast commitment to Christ-centered education. Each member brings a wealth of professional expertise, ensuring that our students receive top-notch instruction grounded in real-world experience.

Course Descriptions

Sports Management Courses

Our Sports Management courses equip you to lead effectively within the sports industry from a biblical foundation. Students will learn to navigate the complexities of sports media, event management, and communication strategies across diverse environments. By the end of the program, students will gain the skills to evaluate sports communication and technology and its impact on the industry and culture.

The Bachelor of Science in Sports Management (120 credit hours) is comprised of:

  • General Education Core (30 credits)
  • Bible and Theology Core (30 credits)*
  • Major (39 credits)
  • Undesignated Electives/Concentration (21 credits)

* 18 credits for Degree Completion Transfer Students

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Interested in Declaring a Second Major in Christian Studies?

Sports Management Major
Arts & Sciences Core
Bible & Theology Core
Marketing Concentration
Minors

Sports Management Major

The Bachelor of Science in Management degree prepares graduates for leadership and administrative positions within the sporting industry. Athletes or those passionate about sports, activity, and people can be courageous ambassadors for Christ in public or private school sports and commercial or recreational sporting opportunities. By effectively applying sports management principles, graduates will have the tools to help others reach their God-given potential.

Principles of Accounting I

BUS 210

An introduction to double-entry financial accounting, including basic accounting theory and principles, financial statement preparation and analysis. Additional course fee required.

3

Credit Hours

Principles of Management

BUS 301

An introduction to the management function within an organization. Topics include basic styles of management, principles of planning, organizing, motivating, directing, supervising, staffing, controlling work, and work performance in a business. There is a major emphasis on business as a mission and how our faith fits into workforce management. Additional course fee required.

3

Credit Hours

Culture and Conflict Management

COM 330

Provides a basic overview of conflict resolution. The history, methods, and theory of conflict resolution will be explored. In addition, strategies in competitive versus collaborative negotiation will be examined in the context of culture and a Christian perspective.

3

Credit Hours

Leadership and Group Communication

COM 350

An introduction to the principles of small group communication, Leadership and Group Communication provides a foundation for understanding teams and groups. Activities will allow students to experience the challenge of learning how to improve their group communication skills through participation. Exploring biblical characteristics of leadership and teamwork will provide students with a framework for communicating and effectively leading in a diverse world.

3

Credit Hours

Social Media Marketing

MKT 265

Uses a biblical framework to determine and guide the identification and use of this rapidly changing media. Students will develop engagement strategies using social media to advance the mission and vision of the organization by creating customer profiles in social media marketing. In addition to the identification of alternative social media platforms, this class will explore various engagement options to ensure cultural awareness in advancing a marketing strategy. Additional course fee required.

3

Credit Hours

Introduction to Sports Communication and Media

SMG 201

An overview of sports communication practices provides students with insights and principles for promoting sports events and teams, advertising, social media, digital platforms, and community relations.

3

Credit Hours

Introduction to Sports, Recreation and Fitness Management

SMG 210

By examining the practices of sports, recreation and fitness management, students develop the skills of leadership, business, and operation in the context of the sports industry.

3

Credit Hours

Sports Coaching Seminar

SMG 300

By exploring different coaching styles, students will develop a personal coaching philosophy with guiding principles. The course provides an overview of what motivates athletes and the elements needed to promote good conduct and sportsmanship.

3

Credit Hours

Sports Regulation and Governance

SMG 345

By providing a foundational knowledge of sports regulation, governance and contracts, students will explore sports law, identify legal issues and be equipped as problem solvers within the sports industry.

3

Credit Hours

Practicum in Sports Event and Facility Management

SMG 390

Students will learn what it takes to manage sporting events and facilities from conception to implementation.  Gaining understanding and insight into planning, budgeting, marketing, and personnel will be part of the course.  Students will put what they are learning into practice through participation in working alongside professionals at sporting events or within sports facilities.

3

Credit Hours

Sports Management Internship

SMG 438

A faculty-supervised internship which provides a managed experience to gain Sports Management skills and build a professional network. Internships require a minimum of 40 hours of contact time per credit earned. The typical internship is three credits, a minimum of 120 hours. Students also complete additional coursework in collaboration with their supervising faculty to integrate classroom concepts and theory into professional situations.

1-6

Credit Hours

Select one (1) of the following:

Intercultural Communication

COM 220

Introduces students to global communication by exploring issues related to intercultural communication practices from a biblical perspective. It examines the important role of social, cultural, and historical context in human interactions.

3

Credit Hours

Interpersonal Communication

COM 250

Focusing on the common barriers that confound relationships, students will explore culture, conflict, gender, and perception of differences. By evaluating personal connections from a Christian perspective, students will identify strategies for improving interpersonal communication effectiveness.

3

Credit Hours

General Education Core

Our Arts and Sciences Core curriculum is designed to cultivate holistic learning outcomes of human understanding, self understanding, and relational understanding. Through a diverse array of courses and interdisciplinary exploration, students delve into a variety of subjects, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around them while honing essential skills for personal and professional growth.

Life Communication

COM 140

Life Communication prompts students to identify their passion and excitement to use the gift of speech for good. By working through the process of topic selection, research, and speech organization, students will build confidence in serving others with their communication. In Life Communication, students will be encouraged to know their story, challenged to live their story, and empowered to tell their story.

3

Credit Hours

Professional Communication

COM 290

Explores the fundamental concepts, principles, and skills needed for effective communication in a global world. Emphasis will be given to communication concepts, skillful writing, professional interviewing, organized informational presentations, and cultural intelligence in the workplace. Prerequisite: ENG 101, COM 140

3

Credit Hours

College Writing

ENG 101

The purpose of this course is to engage students in the writing process which includes prewriting, drafting, composing, editing, and revising to equip them for college-level written assignments. Students will learn to evaluate, synthesize, document and integrate scholarly sources into academic writing while adhering to the conventions of English grammar and mechanics. A final research paper is required. Must be completed with a grade of C- or higher.

3

Credit Hours

History Elective

HST —

Choose any History Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.

3

Credit Hours

Philosophy Elective

PHL —

Choose any Philosophy Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.

3

Credit Hours

Math or Science Elective

MTH or SCI —
Choose any Math or Science Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.

3

Credit Hours

Arts and Science Electives

—
Choose any two Arts and Science Electives. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.

6

Credit Hours

Select one (1) of the following:

Introduction to Literature

ENG 223

With a focus on genres of literature, students will be introduced to the discipline and will develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills through careful analysis of short stories, poems, and dramas.

3

Credit Hours

Studies in Literature

ENG 225

As an introduction to the discipline and study of literature, students will thoroughly read and analyze novel-length texts to develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills through the lens of a Christian worldview. Course focus and readings subject to change with each course offering.

3

Credit Hours

Select one (1) of the following:

Introduction to Psychology

PSY 201

A general survey of the discipline of psychology including the principles, methods, vocabulary, and major theories in the study of human behavior. Consideration will be given to selected application of psychology for life and ministry.

3

Credit Hours

Introduction to Cultural Diversity

SOC 243

An exploration of cultural diversity and multiculturalism from a Christian faith perspective. This course provides a process to understand and practice cultural diversity competence. It is designed to initiate and provide ongoing preparation for effective interaction with everyone in our culturally diverse world. Growth in these skills equips individuals with the social graces needed to form bonds of mutual trust that will bridge the differences that ordinarily divides people.

3

Credit Hours

Principles of Sociology

SOC 251

A study of contemporary Western society with emphasis on culture, socialization, group life, social institutions, social processes and social change.

3

Credit Hours

Bible & Theology Core

Our Bible and Theology Core curriculum is designed to provide students with opportunities for spiritual growth, ministry, and biblical literacy. Through these courses, students learn to analyze biblical texts, engage in service, and practice spiritual disciplines.

Declare a Second Major in Christian Studies

Students who complete each course in the Bible and Theology Core with a minimum grade of C, may elect to declare a second major in Christian Studies. As a rule, the Christian Studies major cannot be declared as a stand-alone major.

Talk to your advisor about your intention to declare a second major.

Old Testament Literature

BBL 102

Survey of the literature of the Old Testament in its historical setting, literary types, and main ideas. Attention is given to outstanding persons, events, and major teachings.

3

Credit Hours

New Testament Literature

BBL 202

Survey of the literature of the New Testament in its historical setting, literary types, and main ideas. Attention is given to outstanding persons and major events.

3

Credit Hours

Bible Study Methods and Application

BIB 205

An introduction to the principles and practice of inductive Bible study, with emphasis on the effective communication of biblical truth. This course will include assignments intended to develop skills in expository writing and biblical instruction. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

3

Credit Hours

Biblical Interpretation

BIB 215

An introduction to the principles and practice of biblical interpretation as well as the primary tools of biblical research. Intended primarily for students majoring in Biblical Studies, this course seeks to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to correctly interpret and analyze various literary genres, as well as develop skills needed for accurate practical application and teaching. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

3

Credit Hours

Upper Division Old Testament Bible Elective

BIB —

Choose any Upper Division Old Testament Bible Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.

3

Credit Hours

Upper Division New Testament Bible Elective

BIB —

Choose any Upper Division New Testament Bible Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.

3

Credit Hours

Christian Worldview

THE 161

Investigates the key aspects of Christian Worldview: Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Reconciliation. The study of these topics will then be applied to cultural challenges facing Christians in postChristian world.

3

Credit Hours

Christian Mission

THE 162

Investigates the key aspects of Christian Mission: Spiritual Formation, Evangelism, and Global Mission. The study of these topics will then be applied to cultural challenges facing Christians sharing the gospel in cross-cultural contexts. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

3

Credit Hours

Biblical Christian Thought

THE 213

Emphasizes Scripture as the basis of Christian thought about God and surveys a range of Christian doctrine from the standpoint of systematic, historical and dogmatic theology. It also includes a survey of the progressive revelation of God’s plan in Scripture as foundational to a Christian worldview; provides a focused introduction to Pauline dispensational theology and its unique ecclesiological and eschatological interests. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

3

Credit Hours

Theology of Spiritual Formation

THE 363

Emphasizes the practical outworking of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Special consideration will be given to how the Holy Spirit equips God’s people for service, a development of a plan for lifelong spiritual growth, and appreciation for the historic spiritual disciplines. Christian ministry requirements are also embedded in this course. Prerequisite: THE 213.

3

Credit Hours

Upper Division Theology Elective

THE —

Choose any Upper Division Theology Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.

3

Credit Hours

Marketing Concentration

Students adding a concentration in marketing to their degree will engage with course work on social media, advertising, market research. They will engage with a biblical framework to determine and guide the identification and use of rapidly changing media and explore various engagement options to ensure cultural awareness in advancing a marketing strategy. Through this concentration, students will learn about marketing research and discuss key concepts, processes, and techniques, as well as their applications.

Social Media Marketing

MKT 265

Uses a biblical framework to determine and guide the identification and use of this rapidly changing media. Students will develop engagement strategies using social media to advance the mission and vision of the organization by creating customer profiles in social media marketing. In addition to the identification of alternative social media platforms, this class will explore various engagement options to ensure cultural awareness in advancing a marketing strategy. Additional course fee required.

3

Credit Hours

Advertising and Promotions

MKT 315

By focusing on using major marketing communication tools, students will explore advertising, direct marketing, the Internet, interactive media, sales promotion, public relations, personal selling, and social and consumer-driven media. After researching and evaluating a company’s marketing and promotional plan, a communication plan will be developed. Additional course fee required.

3

Credit Hours

Principles of Marketing

MKT 330

Covers the role of marketing research, analysis of marketing opportunities, selection of target markets, development of marketing mix variables, management of the marketing effort, and development of the market plan. The specific topics that will be covered include marketing planning, understanding customer’s decision making environment, measurement of market performance, product and branding decisions, advertising and promotions, pricing, and distribution. Additional course fee required.

3

Credit Hours

Marketing Research

MKT 435

Provides a comprehensive introduction to marketing research and discusses key concepts, processes, and techniques, as well as their applications. Besides an overview of marketing research, the course covers research design, addresses the use of marketing research as an aid to making marketing decisions; specifically, how the information used to make marketing decisions is gathered and analyzed. Additional course fee required.

3

Credit Hours

Minors

A Minor is an approved set of courses in a specific discipline that may be used to supplement any bachelor degree Major. Minors are optional and are not required for graduation. No more than six credits in the Minor may duplicate coursework required for the student’s Major.

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Testimonials

What Our Students Are Saying

We believe education is more than just academics. Check out firsthand accounts from students like you who have been impacted by our vibrant community, transformative education, and unwavering commitment to faith.

Kianna N 2
Through Grace’s Business program, I was able to learn all the ins and outs of owning/growing a business. Professor DeYoung helped me understand finances, the cost of owning a business, and how to take steps into launching a business. Also, Professor McMurray helped connect me with local mentors and opportunities to show my photography skills in the real world, as well as how to effectively market my business.
Kianna N
Business, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
Through Grace’s Business program, I was able to learn all the ins and outs of owning/growing a business. Professor DeYoung helped me understand finances, the cost of owning a business, and how to take steps into launching a business. Also, Professor McMurray helped connect me with local mentors and opportunities to show my photography skills in the real world, as well as how to effectively market my business.
Kianna N 2
Kianna N
Business, On-Campus
Kianna N
My time at Grace Christian University helped me not only grow academically, but also spiritually through academics, sports, and community! I gained life long friendships and a Godly community like no other. I'm now working as a photographer for my own business, where I aim to highlight God's beautiful creation through photography while capturing memories that last forever!
Kianna N
Associate of Arts, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
My time at Grace Christian University helped me not only grow academically, but also spiritually through academics, sports, and community! I gained life long friendships and a Godly community like no other.  I'm now working as a photographer for my own business, where I aim to highlight God's beautiful creation through photography while capturing memories that last forever!
Kianna N
Kianna N
Associate of Arts, On-Campus
Landon C
I chose Sports Management because I want to combine coaching and teaching sports with spreading the gospel.
Landon C
Sports Management, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
I chose Sports Management because I want to combine coaching and teaching sports with spreading the gospel.
Landon C
Landon C
Sports Management, On-Campus
Aiden P
I've always been into sports, and I know this program will prepare me to be an athletic director or coach. I already work in the athletic department at Grace, so the hands-on courses help me improve my skills and gain experience in the sports industry.
Aiden P
Sports Management, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
I've always been into sports, and I know this program will prepare me to be an athletic director or coach. I already work in the athletic department at Grace, so the hands-on courses help me improve my skills and gain experience in the sports industry.
Aiden P
Aiden P
Sports Management, On-Campus
Riley M
There's a Bible verse, 1 Corinthians 10:31, that says, "Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it for the glory of God." I really think Grace Christian University lives off of that verse. Whether it be in athletics, or career, or anything else that you do —do it for the glory of God. And I really think that they have supported me and encouraged me through that path.
Riley M
Sports Management, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
There's a Bible verse, 1 Corinthians 10:31, that says, "Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it for the glory of God." I really think Grace Christian University lives off of that verse. Whether it be in athletics, or career, or anything else that you do—do it for the glory of God. And I really think that they have supported me and encouraged me through that path.
Riley M
Riley M
Sports Management, On-Campus
Breylan M
The biggest thing I think I’ve learned so far is how to communicate with different people and how to connect with different people.
Breylan M
Sports Management, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
The biggest thing I think I’ve learned so far is how to communicate with different people and how to connect with different people.
Breylan M
Breylan M
Sports Management, On-Campus
Hunter V
I want to go into teaching history. And if I chose to just focus on education or history, I would miss out on learning opportunities from either one. With my degree, I could focus on both. I have been able to take two different —what would be majors or minors —and put them into one program, which is very helpful for me.
Hunter V
Interdisciplinary Studies, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
I want to go into teaching history. And if I chose to just focus on education or history, I would miss out on learning opportunities from either one. With my degree, I could focus on both. I have been able to take two different—what would be majors or minors—and put them into one program, which is very helpful for me.
Hunter V
Hunter V
Interdisciplinary Studies, On-Campus
Gracie Y
Grace stood out to me because, even as a small Christian university, there were a lot of different areas of psychology I could learn about from a Christian perspective. In my first semester, I was already going into nonprofit organizations around Grand Rapids and learning how they served their communities. Grace has helped me grow in empathy and compassion so that I can use what I’m learning to help people.
Gracie Y
Psychology, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
Grace stood out to me because, even as a small Christian university, there were a lot of different areas of psychology I could learn about from a Christian perspective. In my first semester, I was already going into nonprofit organizations around Grand Rapids and learning how they served their communities. Grace has helped me grow in empathy and compassion so that I can use what I’m learning to help people.
Gracie Y
Gracie Y
Psychology, On-Campus
Emma W
I am continually blown away by how intentional the professors and students are at Grace Christian University. Because of this, I could not be more pleased with my decision to pursue a Communications degree. Through my experience at Grace, God has taught me that people matter. Because of that, I have learned that how we choose to communicate has the power to change lives.
Emma W
Communication, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
I am continually blown away by how intentional the professors and students are at Grace Christian University. Because of this, I could not be more pleased with my decision to pursue a Communications degree. Through my experience at Grace, God has taught me that people matter. Because of that, I have learned that how we choose to communicate has the power to change lives.
Emma W
Emma W
Communication, On-Campus
Kristina B
The Business program at Grace is ministry-focused. It’s about learning how to use what you study to serve in any way God calls you. I really liked the community aspect and how Grace is so focused on ministry in every part of your life — no matter what you end up doing. The community has really shaped me — especially this year. Together we are challenging each other – helping us grow into people who follow God in every part of our lives.
Kristina B
Business, On-Campus
☆☆☆☆☆
The Business program at Grace is ministry-focused. It’s about learning how to use what you study to serve in any way God calls you. I really liked the community aspect and how Grace is so focused on ministry in every part of your life — no matter what you end up doing. The community has really shaped me — especially this year. Together we are challenging each other – helping us grow into people who follow God in every part of our lives.
Kristina B
Kristina B
Business, On-Campus
Take the Next Step

Your Calling to the Ministry World Awaits

Join the Grace community and embark on a transformative journey of faith, learning, and personal growth as you pursue your calling in the Sports Management field.

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