If sports management is something you’re interested in, great news: career options are limited only by your own imagination. The sports industry is booming and, according to Forbes, is expected to reach $73.5 billion by 2019—which means there are plenty of jobs available to graduates looking to launch their careers in sports.

Here are four possible paths to consider if you’re interested in a sports management profession:

1. College athletics

The world of sports extends far beyond just coaching. Modern athletic departments employ directors, business managers, compliance officers, and even sales and marketing professionals. There are almost 1,300 NCAA affiliated schools alone, and all have the need for sports management professionals.

2. Professional athletics

Many students are interested in a “front office” career—but what is considered the front office? These opportunities typically include team operations, player personnel, sales, marketing, scouting, and public relations. But that’s not all! A big trend today in sports is data analytics, including dealing with the flow of data and understanding how to gather useful information to benefit the organization.

3. Marketing and digital communications

The traditional definition of “marketing” reaches far past the front office of pro teams and college athletic departments and dips into the realm of digital communications. Sports apparel and shoe companies, sporting goods manufacturers, and mainstream companies of all kinds market in and through the sports industry in some fashion. Between professional teams and outside vendors that participate with a team, there are abundant careers available in everything from advertising, content marketing, and social media.

4. Technology

With the birth of “wearable technology” and virtual and augmented reality, technology specific to sports is currently enjoying a renaissance. Every year, both traditional sport science and technology surrounding the delivery and consumption of sports is growing by leaps and bounds. Consider app companies, videos game manufacturers, and photo and video services—all of these fields need qualified people in management positions.

So what’s your career path? Really, it’s up to you. If you have an interest in professional or collegiate sports, technology, marketing, or any other facet of the sports industry, a degree in Sports, Entertainment, Event – Management from Johnson & Wales University could be the gateway to the career you’ve always wanted.

Want to learn more about earning your online undergraduate degree in Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management or graduate degree in Sport Leadership? Complete the “Request Info” form on this page or call 855-JWU-1881. Click here for information on our other degree programs.