Admissions
How are admission decisions made?
After the application deadline, the graduate coordinator evaluates all complete application files. Admission decisions are based on quality of application materials and available openings in the program.
What is the minimum undergraduate GPA accepted for admission?
- The Graduate School has set the minimum undergraduate GPA for admission to 2.75. The same minimum is used for admission into the School of Kinesiology.
- GPA is used as one piece of information that is combined with all other application materials to create an applicant’s admission file.
- Typically, GPAs above 3.3 are desirable. GPAs below 3.0 would be considered low and would require the rest of the application file to be strong. These GPAs are approximations and are relative to the number and quality of applicants in addition to the available openings in the program. The graduate coordinator reserves the right to make subjective evaluations of all application materials.
Is the GRE required?
- No – GREs are not required.
- If a student elects to take the GRE there are no minimum GRE scores. If provided, GRE scores are used as one piece of information that is combined with all other application materials to create an applicant’s admission file.
- GMAT scores are also acceptable, but not required.
If I have an undergraduate degree other than sport management/administration, can I apply to the program?
Yes, students with any undergraduate degree can apply. There are no prerequisites for students without a sport administration degree. However, students should attempt to gain as much sport industry experience as possible before applying.
If I have an undergraduate degree other than sport management/administration will I be behind other students?
Students without a sport management/administration background will have to adapt a bit faster, but concepts will be advanced for all students. There are several students currently in the program that have undergraduate degrees other than sport management/administration.
How many students normally apply, and how many are normally admitted?
- For the March 1st application deadline (summer or fall enrollment) there are typically 20-30 applicants. Approximately 15-25 students are admitted.
- For the November 1st application deadline (spring enrollment) there are typically 3-7 applicants.
- These numbers vary annually. The number of students admitted depends on the quality of applicants and number of available openings in the program.
Program
How many students are in the program?
At any given point there are 25-35 students in the program. Numbers vary from year to year based on the amount of students admitted and retained.
Are any of the courses online?
Yes. Some elective sport administration courses will be available online. These online courses are designed to accommodate students who are completing internships or are away from campus during the summer. Occasionally there are some online elective courses offered during the fall and spring semesters. Overall, students should plan to take most of their courses on-campus during the fall and spring with online courses offered occasionally.
When are classes usually held?
During the semesters (fall and spring) each sport administration course is typically held one day a week on campus from 6:30-9:10pm. Occasionally, elective courses are held at other times depending on a variety of factors. Classes normally start after 5pm to accommodate working professionals.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The 33-hour program is designed to be completed in a two-year period taking 6-9 credit hours (2-3 courses) per semester. It is possible to finish the program in less than two years by taking 9-12 credit hours (3-4 courses) per semester.
Graduate Assistantships
What GA positions are available?
Students in the sport administration program regularly receive GA positions in a variety of different areas on campus. Prospective students are encouraged to seek GA positions anywhere on campus. Most students with GA positions are located in SOK or Athletics.
- Kinesiology – 3-4 GAs are assigned to faculty members in the sport administration program to assist with faculty research and help teach physical fitness and wellness courses. There are 1-2 positions open each year.
- Athletics – A variety of administrative and coaching GA positions exist in athletics. The sport administration program and SOK do not choose these GA positions. Interested students should contact the athletic department directly to inquire about open positions.
What are the benefits of being a graduate assistant?
GAs are expected to work 20 hours per week for their respective department in exchange for tuition reimbursement, stipend, and other perks. The stipend amount varies by department and funding cycle but is usually more than cost of living. GAs must pay student fees each semester.
Is there a separate application for a GA position?
No, there is not a separate GA application for GA positions in our department. When you complete the application to enter the sport administration graduate program there is a question that asks if you are interested in a GA position. If you check that box you will be considered for a GA position in SOK. If you desire a GA position in another department (e.g., athletics or recreation), you should contact those departments directly to inquire about their application process. Other GA positions on campus can be found through the Career Center page with posted assistantships.
Professional Development
Does the program help identify professional development opportunities?
Yes, students are provided access to a variety of professional development seminars, conferences, and workshops. Additionally, the department subscribes to sport-specific job-posting websites regularly utilized to find internships and jobs. Furthermore, during the spring of the first year a professional development section is included within the sport administration course and focuses on finding internships and jobs in conjunction with resume development and interviewing skills. Finally, faculty members assist in all areas of professional development.
What are the job prospects for someone graduating from this program?
Most graduates immediately find jobs in the sport industry, and many find full-time employment from their internship organizations. Some students choose to continue graduate school by enrolling in PhD programs or other master’s programs. Employment placement rates are near 100% but vary slightly from year to year.
How do I set up a visit?
To set up a visit, please contact Amy Vold. Amy is the administrative coordinator for graduate programs within SOK. Amy will customize a visit based on your interests. Amy’s email is avold@bsu.edu. Her phone number is 765-285-4453.