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Elevating Coaches in Texas

Master of Science in Sports Leadership

Aiming to enhance core analytical, managerial, and administrative skills through courses in problem-solving, decision-making, conflict management, and interpersonal communication, this online graduate program is geared toward making you a better leader in the K-12 sports industry.
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Aiming to enhance core analytical, managerial, and administrative skills through courses in problem-solving, decision-making, conflict management, and interpersonal communication, this online graduate program is geared toward making you a better leader in the K-12 sports industry.

Main Content

ACU understands the importance of preparing sports professionals for their next career move. Whether you’re aiming to become a coach, athletic administrator, or sports executive, we want to guide and support you in achieving your goals. Led by ACU faculty members and industry practitioners, we are committed to investing in sports leaders like you for a fulfilling and impactful career.

One of America’s Best Colleges

Newsweek Top Online Colleges 2024

Recognized as one of America’s Top Online Colleges for the third consecutive year by Newsweek and Statista Inc., ACU proudly stands among the nation’s premier online institutions. Seamlessly combining a top-tier education with the flexibility of an online format, ACU Online offers you a transformative learning experience. Discover the perfect balance of academic excellence and online convenience as you chart your course to success with ACU.

Master of Science in Sports Leadership

elevating coaches

Program Description

ACU’s online Master of Science in Sports Leadership program offers K-12 coaches, administrators, and aspiring sports leaders the opportunity to learn the multiple facets of the sports industry while gaining exposure to the principles, theories, and practical skills essential for effective leadership. You will have the unique ability to take courses with seasoned professionals, current NCAA athletes, and aspiring athletic administrators. This master’s degree allows you to focus on one of three concentrations:

  • Coaching – The Coaching concentration prepares aspiring and current K-12 coaches to optimize athletic performance through effective leadership and holistic athlete development. Emphasizing core principles such as focus, goal setting, and athlete organization, this concentration equips you to enhance athlete injury care, prevention, and psychological dynamics. Graduates are poised for roles as Sports Coaches, Fitness Trainers, and Fitness Professionals, leveraging their expertise to maximize athletic potential while prioritizing athlete well-being.
  • Athletic Administration – The Athletic Administration concentration focuses on developing skills and competencies essential for effective leadership in sports programs and athletic organizations. Through a comprehensive curriculum, you will learn about change management, conflict resolution, and athletic finance, preparing you for roles such as Athletic Director, Facilities Manager, and Sports Information Director. Graduates excel in public relations, managing financial obligations, and team marketing efforts.
  • Analytics – Designed for both seasoned executives and emerging leaders, the Analytics concentration equips you with the ability to analyze and assess data for effective decision-making in sports. Whether it’s working with sports brands, teams, or leagues, this concentration prepares you to make a significant impact in the business of sport.

Program Format

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the M.S. in Sports Leadership consists of 30 credit hours with a completion timeframe of 20 months. ACU’s program produces the next generation of sports leaders, coaches, and staff, influenced by Christian values and dedicated to improving their administrative strategies and impacting their teams.

elevating coaches sports leadership

Program Outcomes

As a student, you will acquire new skills to further define yourself as a leader and role model within your K-12 community and sports setting. The program offers several excellent outcomes for up-and-coming sports leaders, including:

  • Ability to address physical, psychological, human resources, or financial aspects of sports leadership, coaching, or administration.
  • Understanding how to address ethical or legal dilemmas facing sports leaders.
  • Competency in evaluating, designing, or conducting research concerning athletics.

Program Cost

ACU offers a special discount to reduce tuition costs for current educators in participating ISDs who are seeking to earn their master’s degree and enhance their professional careers.

Regular StudentParticipating ISD Teachers
and Educators
Credit Hours3030
Cost Per Credit Hour$650$585
Resource Fee$200$200
Total Cost$21,500$19,550

Other financial aid may apply. Please speak with an admissions advisor to learn more.

WHY GET AN ONLINE DEGREE FROM ACU?

For the fifth year in a row, ACU is the highest-ranking university in Texas in the U.S. News & World Report “Programs to Look For” benchmarks focused on student success – placing in five of eight categories this year. Combine this educational excellence with the flexibility of an online format and it’s easy to understand why earning your degree from ACU Online makes sense. Whether you’re married and juggling work and kids, or a single professional meeting the demands of a growing career, ACU Online can fit into your busy life.