Have you ever wondered what you can do with a Sport Leadership degree from Johnson & Wales University? According to Professor Patrick Leary, EdD, students who study sport leadership can go on to pursue a variety of careers in the sports industry, including athletic administration roles.

We asked him for some specifics, and here’s what he said:

JWU Online: What is athletic administration, and what kinds of positions are available?

Professor Leary: Students often overlook the variety of opportunities within athletic administration that exist across a broad spectrum. Athletic administration encompasses athletic directors at both the high school and college levels, administrators within sports recreation, as well as coaches and administrators within youth, amateur, or intercollegiate athletics. A great area of opportunity for aspiring athletic administrators is intercollegiate athletics. Many NCAA Division I athletic programs can have upwards of 30 to 40 employees with administrative responsibilities. Currently, more than 1,200 colleges and universities belong to the NCAA and are constantly seeking qualified athletic administrators.

Read More: A Closer Look at the Sport Leadership Degree >>

How does the MS Sport Leadership Degree prepare a student for such a career?

Professor Leary: As the sports industry continues to grow and evolve there is a demand for qualified leaders. There are several careers within the global sports industry where a master’s degree can make a difference in opening doors toward a career in athletic administration. The MS – Sport Leadership at Johnson & Wales University is designed to equip graduates with the skills, knowledge, and experience to seek leadership positions in all facets of the sports industry. In addition, all courses within the Sport Leadership program are taught by faculty with relevant industry experience, including former athletic administrators. Core leadership courses within the program include Effective Leadership, Global Issues in Sport Leadership, Contemporary Leadership Strategies in Sport, Effective Communication Strategies in Sport, and Diversity and Social Responsibility in Sport. All courses are rooted in practical application of leadership theory, which is critical to being an effective athletic administrator.

What excites you about the field of sport leadership?

Professor Leary: I began my professional career working in intercollegiate athletics and am excited to see the continual growth and diversification of the sports industry. Forbes projects the sports industry within North America alone to reach $73.9 billion by 2019. The sports industry is a diverse field with tremendous depth and breadth. The industry is not slowing down and will continue to provide tremendous career opportunities for future sports leaders.

Want to learn more about earning your Master of Science – Sport Leadership degree online with JWU College of Online Education?  For more information, complete the “Request Info” form on this page or call 855-JWU-1881.