M.S. in Sports Management and Marketing

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at Marshall University, international students are required to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The minimum academic requirement is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

2. Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 with no individual band (section) score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.                                                                                                                                            

3. Standardized Tests (GRE or GMAT): 

   • GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum GRE score of 295 is required.
   • GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test):  A minimum GMAT score of 500 is required.
      
4. Course by Course WES required.

Marshall University offers several scholarship opportunities to international students to help them with the cost of their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and other criteria. 

1. Marshall University Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to international students based on their academic performance. The specific criteria and the value of the scholarships may vary. Students are automatically considered for these scholarships during the admission process.

2. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarship: Marshall University offers scholarships to students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP) to improve their English language skills before beginning their degree program. These scholarships can help reduce the cost of language preparation.

3. International Student Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. The eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary based on academic achievement and program of study.

4. Undergraduate Competitive Scholarships: Marshall University provides a range of competitive scholarships for undergraduate international students. These may be based on factors like leadership, community involvement, or specific academic achievements.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students have the opportunity to apply for assistantship positions. These positions may involve research or teaching and often include a stipend and tuition benefits.

6. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarships, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Marshall University's International Student Office can provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities.

7. Honors College Scholarships: Exceptional undergraduate students may be eligible for Honors College scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support high-achieving students in their pursuit of advanced academic and research opportunities.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Marshall University offer scholarships or assistantships specific to students in certain fields of study. Prospective graduate students should inquire within their respective departments.

9. Athletic Scholarships: International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for athletic scholarships if they are recruited to participate in Marshall University's sports programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria can change over time.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Sports Management and Marketing program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this dynamic field. Whether aspiring to become sports marketing managers, sports agents, or sports data analysts, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for impactful and fulfilling careers in the sports industry.

1. Sports Marketing Manager: Graduates often find opportunities as sports marketing managers, responsible for promoting teams, athletes, and events, and developing marketing strategies to engage fans and sponsors.

2. Sports Event Manager: Event managers oversee the planning and execution of sports events, such as games, tournaments, and races, ensuring they run smoothly and meet both logistical and marketing objectives.

3. Sports Agent: Sports agents represent athletes, negotiating contracts, endorsements, and sponsorships on their behalf, and providing guidance in career decisions.

4. Athletic Director: Some graduates pursue careers as athletic directors in educational institutions, overseeing sports programs, budgets, and compliance with regulations.

5. Corporate Partnerships Manager: In this role, professionals work for sports teams or organizations, managing partnerships and sponsorships with corporations to increase revenue and brand exposure.

6. Sports Media Analyst: Graduates can become sports media analysts, providing expert commentary, analysis, and insights on sports events for television, radio, or digital platforms.

7. Sports Brand Manager: Brand managers work for sports apparel companies or merchandise brands, overseeing product development, marketing, and brand strategy.

8. Digital Marketing Specialist: Digital marketing specialists focus on online marketing strategies for sports organizations, leveraging social media, email marketing, and online advertising to engage fans.

9. Community Relations Director: Professionals in this role work with sports teams and organizations to create community engagement programs, promote social responsibility, and build positive relationships with fans.

10. Sports Facility Manager: Graduates can work as facility managers, overseeing the operations, maintenance, and scheduling of sports venues, ensuring they meet safety and operational standards.

11. Sports Sponsorship Manager: These professionals secure and manage sponsorships for sports events and organizations, developing mutually beneficial partnerships with businesses.

12. Sports Data Analyst: Data analysts in the sports industry use statistical analysis to evaluate team performance, assess player potential, and optimize decision-making.

13. Public Relations Specialist: PR specialists in the sports industry manage media relations, press releases, and communication to maintain a positive public image for teams and athletes.

14. Ticket Sales Manager: Ticket sales managers work for sports organizations to design and execute ticket sales strategies, reaching out to fans and maximizing revenue.

15. Sports Economist: Graduates can become sports economists, analyzing economic factors in the sports industry, including ticket pricing, athlete salaries, and the impact of sports on local economies.

16. Sports Nonprofit Manager: Working in the nonprofit sector, professionals manage sports-based community organizations focused on youth development, health, and social change.

17. Sports Psychologist: With additional training, graduates can become sports psychologists, helping athletes and teams improve mental and emotional performance.

18. Sports Researcher: Researchers in the field contribute to academic institutions, think tanks, and sports organizations, conducting studies and analyzing trends in the sports industry.