17:1

Student-to-faculty ratio

R1 Ranked

NDSU is a nationally top-ranked research university

94%

Recent graduates employed or continuing education

#1

North Dakota University with the Best Student Life

Step into the dynamic world of sports with NDSU’s sport management program — a premier four-year, full-time degree designed to propel you to the forefront of the sport industry. From managing local youth leagues to leading global professional franchises, the program prepares you to thrive in an ever-evolving field. Through immersive coursework, hands-on industry experiences and a built-in minor in business administration, you’ll gain a competitive edge in today’s sports-driven economy. Explore your passion — whether it’s traditional athletics, cutting-edge eSports or innovative recreation management — and graduate ready to excel in local, national or international roles.

Explore the Curriculum

Graduate Program Information

Post-Graduation Career Snapshot

Explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation with a list of high-demand occupations. Discover how you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles through examples of potential career pathways.

High Demand Occupations

  • Event Coordinator
  • Athletics Operations Assistant
  • Athletic Academic Advisor
  • Assistant Director of Football Operations
  • Quality Control Specialist

National Median Salary

$56,400
The median salary is based on national job listings for the above occupations that require five years experience or less.

Future Career Pathways

As you gain experience, you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles. Here are pathway occupations you might explore:
  • Director of Player Personnel
  • Athletic Director
  • Sports Agent
Data sourced from Lightcast, a leading provider of labor market analytics and workforce data. 2025.

Shape Your Future

NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.

Comprehensive Curriculum

The program provides a well-rounded education with courses laid out to ensure you're heavily involved with sport-related materials during your junior and senior years. A required minor in business administration also provides you with the general aspects of the business world.

Real-World Experience

Complete 516 hours of on-the-job experience through an immersive internship experience where you’ll apply what you learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. Students have completed internship hours in several areas across sport, including NDSU Athletics, Fargo and West Fargo Parks and Recreation departments, Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks, Fargo Youth Hockey, Scheels Arena, U.S. Olympic Committee, the YMCA of Cass & Clay Counties and more.

Professional Development and Leadership

Broaden your horizons and expand your experience outside of the classroom through student organizations, including the Sport Management Association, an organization that provides you with an opportunity to build relationships with peers and industry leaders in sports and recreation. Participation in extracurricular activities help you to build on skills outside of the classroom and develop leadership skills.

Accelerated Master’s Option Available

High-achieving undergraduates can complete both their bachelor's degree and a Master of Science in sport management in five years.

Accelerated Degree Info

Tuition & Costs

NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To support you in covering tuition and expenses, we provide a wide range of need-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid options.

Admission Info

At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking a dynamic learning environment within a supportive, welcoming community.

Excited NDSU marching band members

Now is your moment to expand your horizons for a brighter future at NDSU.

Apply Now

Connect with a Counselor

Discover the right path for you with guidance from your personal admission counselor. We’re here to help you explore programs, navigate the admission process and find scholarships.

Find Your Admission Counselor

Visit NDSU

Experience what it’s like to be part of the Bison community. Tour our campus, meet with faculty, enjoy a meal in a dining center and discover why NDSU feels like home.

Schedule Your Visit

Request Information

Receive personalized information about your program of interest and see how NDSU supports your academic and career goals.

Request Program Information