SAM 600: Strategic Management of Sports Organizations

Students in this class learn the principles of managing a sports organization and gain a broad overview of the sports business marketplace, including the financial and accounting acumen necessary for success. You will examine various types of sports organizations and study topics such as fiscal and budgetary control, ownership, and day-to-day operations, as well as the techniques, tools, theories, and attributes required in sports leadership and management. You’ll also speak with a sports professional to learn how the concepts and practices in this course play out in real life.

Sample topics of discussion and examination include:

  • Globalization and social responsibility
  • Amateur, action, and recreational sport
  • Professional sports and sports agencies
  • Facility and event management
  • Sport sales, sponsorship, communication, and broadcasting
  • The future of sports in a virtual world

Examples of assignments and projects include:

  • Stakeholder interview with sports industry professional
  • Organizational analysis
  • Organizational data collection
  • Case studies

Course Outcomes

Upon completing this course, you should be able to:

  • Analyze the relationship between the structure of various sports leagues and organizations.
  • Explain the role that a sports franchise plays in the larger community in which it operates.
  • Examine the primary revenue streams and community/social touch points for sports teams and organizations.
  • Develop an understanding of the role sports media and events play in the success of a sports organization.
  • Appreciate the impact technology is having on the global sports industry.

Click here for the official course description from the American University Catalog.

Learn more today. Call us at 855-725-7614 to speak to an admissions adviser, or request more information here.