B.A. in Sports Communication

Chicago, Illinois

 

INTAKE: Jan, April & Sept

Program Overview

The B.A. in Sports Communication at DePaul University is designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the fast-paced world of sports media, journalism, and public relations. This interdisciplinary program combines communication theory with practical experience, preparing graduates for diverse roles in sports organizations, media outlets, and public relations agencies. With a focus on both the business and entertainment aspects of sports, the program helps students develop a strong understanding of the sports industry and the role of communication in shaping its future.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Sports Communication offers a well-rounded education that covers core communication principles, media production, and sports-specific courses. Students take foundational classes in public speaking, digital media, and journalism, as well as specialized courses in sports marketing, sports writing, sports media production, and sports law. Electives allow students to tailor their studies, with options in social media strategy, broadcast journalism, and event management. A capstone project or internship provides practical experience, ensuring that students graduate with real-world skills.

Research Focus: DePaul University encourages students in the Sports Communication program to engage in research that explores the impact of media on sports, fan engagement, and the sociocultural significance of sports in society. Faculty members are active in research areas such as sports journalism, digital sports media, and the globalization of sports. Students have the opportunity to collaborate on projects that analyze emerging trends in sports communication, including the influence of social media, ethical issues in sports reporting, and the role of sports in promoting social change.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a core component of the B.A. in Sports Communication at DePaul University. The program maintains strong connections with leading sports organizations, media companies, and public relations agencies in Chicago and beyond. Students benefit from internships and networking opportunities with major players in the sports industry, including professional sports teams, sports networks, and sports marketing firms. Guest lectures, industry panels, and workshops provide students with insights from professionals in the field, helping them stay ahead of industry trends and demands.

Global Perspective: The B.A. in Sports Communication offers students a global perspective on the role of sports in different cultures and societies. Courses explore the internationalization of sports media, the global reach of sports brands, and the impact of global events such as the Olympics and the World Cup. Study abroad opportunities allow students to gain firsthand experience in international sports media markets, while analyzing how different countries use sports as a tool for diplomacy, cultural exchange, and economic development. This global outlook prepares graduates to work in diverse and international sports environments.

Pollster Education

Location

Chicago, Illinois

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

USD 43665

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

  • IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
  • TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
  • PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
  • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

DePaul University is dedicated to supporting the academic aspirations of international students. The university offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help make education more accessible. 

International Student Scholarships: DePaul University provides merit-based scholarships to international undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships consider academic achievements, test scores, and other criteria.

Global Gateway Scholarships: These scholarships are designed for undergraduate international students who transfer from specific partner institutions to DePaul. They help facilitate a smooth transition.

Dean's Merit-Based Scholarships: DePaul's colleges and schools offer dean's merit-based scholarships to international students within their respective programs. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements and contributions.

International Experience Scholarship: This scholarship is for undergraduate students planning to participate in study abroad programs. It provides financial support to students seeking to gain global perspectives.

Vincent G. Rinn Family Endowed Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students with financial need. It helps cover tuition costs and promote diversity within the DePaul community.

Donor-Funded Scholarships: DePaul University administers a range of donor-funded scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application requirements.

Athletic Scholarships: DePaul offers athletic scholarships for international student-athletes who excel in various sports. These scholarships may cover tuition and related expenses.

External Scholarships: DePaul encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and in the United States.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines can vary among programs and departments at DePaul University.

Graduates of the B.A. in Sports Communication at DePaul University are well-prepared to enter a diverse and growing field of sports media, marketing, and public relations. With a combination of communication skills, industry knowledge, and practical experience, students are equipped for various roles in the sports industry. 

Sports Journalist: Graduates can pursue careers in sports journalism, working for newspapers, online media outlets, television, or radio stations. Sports journalists cover everything from game highlights to in-depth analyses and player interviews. As the demand for digital content grows, sports journalists also create multimedia content, including videos, podcasts, and social media coverage.

Sports Broadcaster: Many graduates find opportunities in broadcasting, where they work as play-by-play announcers, color commentators, or sports analysts. These roles are often within television networks, radio stations, or online streaming platforms that cover live sports events and provide commentary on sports news.

Sports Marketing Professional: With a focus on marketing, graduates can work in the promotion and marketing of sports teams, events, or sports products. Sports marketing professionals manage campaigns to increase ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and fan engagement. This role often involves working with sponsors, organizing events, and executing promotional strategies.

Public Relations Specialist: In the world of sports, public relations specialists manage the public image of athletes, teams, or sports organizations. They craft press releases, manage media relations, and handle crisis communications. PR specialists are also responsible for maintaining and promoting positive relationships between sports organizations and their fan bases or sponsors.

Sports Social Media Manager: With the ever-increasing importance of social media in the sports industry, many graduates work as social media managers for sports teams, athletes, or media outlets. In this role, they create engaging content, monitor fan interactions, and develop strategies to grow online audiences. Social media managers also cover live events and produce digital content that keeps fans connected and engaged.

Event Coordinator: Graduates can work as event coordinators, organizing and managing sports events like tournaments, charity games, or promotional events. Event coordinators handle logistics, marketing, and operations for sports events, ensuring they run smoothly and provide positive experiences for attendees and participants.

Sports Information Director: Often employed by colleges and universities, sports information directors handle the media and public relations for athletic programs. This role includes writing press releases, maintaining statistics, managing media requests, and overseeing the communication strategy for various sports teams.

Brand Manager: Graduates with a strong interest in marketing and brand management can work for sports-related companies, managing brand identity and strategy. Brand managers help build the public image of sports products, gear, or teams by creating marketing campaigns that resonate with consumers and enhance brand loyalty.

Content Creator/Producer: With a focus on multimedia production, graduates can work as content creators or producers, generating video, audio, and written content for sports organizations, media companies, or brands. This can include producing documentaries, game highlights, athlete interviews, or behind-the-scenes content for digital platforms and broadcast channels.

Sports Agent/Manager: Some graduates may pursue careers as sports agents or managers, representing athletes in contract negotiations, sponsorship deals, and public relations. In this role, they work closely with athletes to help them navigate the business side of sports, including endorsements and media appearances.

Sports Analyst: Sports analysts provide in-depth analysis and commentary on sports events, teams, and player performance. Analysts may work for media outlets, sports networks, or data analytics firms. They utilize statistical analysis, data interpretation, and their knowledge of the game to provide insights to viewers or clients.

Athletic Director: Graduates interested in administrative roles may pursue positions as athletic directors, overseeing sports programs at schools, colleges, or universities. Athletic directors manage budgets, hire coaches, schedule games, and ensure compliance with athletic regulations.


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