BA (Hons) Sport Management

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Derby offers various scholarships and funding opportunities to support international students financially. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden of studying abroad and make higher education more accessible for students from diverse backgrounds.

Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The University of Derby offers the prestigious Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for international students. This scholarship provides up to £2,000 for students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate programs. It is awarded based on academic merit and achievements, recognizing outstanding students who demonstrate potential in their field of study.

International Student Scholarship: The International Student Scholarship is designed to assist new international students with their tuition fees. This scholarship offers up to £2,000 for students from specific countries or regions and is awarded to students who meet the academic requirements and demonstrate contributing to the international community at the University of Derby.

Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general scholarships, the University of Derby offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions. These scholarships aim to support students from countries such as India, China, Nigeria, and many more. The value of these scholarships varies, but they often range from £1,000 to £3,000, depending on the country and the student's academic background.

Alumni Loyalty Discount: The University of Derby offers a special alumni discount for students who have previously studied at the university. International students who have completed a degree or program at Derby and return for further study are eligible for this discount, which helps to reduce the overall cost of their education.

Early Bird Discount: International students who apply early may be eligible for the Early Bird Discount, which provides a reduction in tuition fees for students who accept an offer of admission before a specified deadline. This discount is intended to encourage timely applications and assist students with their planning.

External Scholarships: In addition to internal scholarships, international students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities. The University of Derby provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for scholarships offered by government bodies, organizations, and private foundations in their home countries or internationally.

The BA (Hons) Sport Management program at the University of Derby is specifically designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in the ever-growing sports industry. The curriculum offers a solid foundation in both the business and operational aspects of sports management, combined with practical experiences that allow students to apply their learning in real-world environments. As the sports sector continues to expand globally, the demand for qualified professionals with expertise in managing sports teams, organizations, events, and facilities is on the rise. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue successful careers across a wide spectrum of roles within the sports industry.

Sports Event Manager: Sports event management is one of the most popular career paths for graduates. In this role, individuals are responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing the logistics of sports events ranging from small tournaments to large international competitions. As a Sports Event Manager, graduates may work on organizing sporting events such as football matches, marathons, or multi-sport competitions. Key skills include project management, budgeting, and the ability to handle multiple tasks under pressure.

Sports Marketing Manager: A Sports Marketing Manager focuses on creating and implementing marketing strategies to promote sports teams, organizations, or events. Graduates can work for professional sports teams, governing bodies, or sports agencies, designing advertising campaigns, engaging with sponsors, and increasing fan engagement through digital media and public relations efforts. Sports marketing managers need a strong understanding of the sports audience, consumer behavior, and brand development.

Sports Manager: A Sports Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of sports teams or organizations. In this role, graduates may work with amateur or professional teams, sports clubs, or sports governing bodies. They manage the strategic direction of the organization, ensuring smooth operations, financial stability, and effective team management. Sports Managers may also handle personnel management, budgets, sponsorships, and marketing strategies for their respective organizations.

Sports Development Officer: Sports Development Officers work within local, regional, or national sports organizations to increase participation in sports and physical activities. Their role involves creating and implementing programs that encourage people of all ages and abilities to engage in physical activity. Graduates can work for local councils, community organizations, or sports development programs, helping to create opportunities for sports participation and developing community engagement strategies.

Facility Manager: Graduates of the BA (Hons) Sport Management program can also work as Facility Managers, where they are responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of sports facilities such as gyms, stadiums, or sports complexes. This role involves managing staff, coordinating events, ensuring health and safety compliance, handling budgets, and maintaining the high standards required for the facility’s operation. Sports facility management can also involve working with stakeholders, such as local government agencies or private contractors.

Sports Sponsorship Manager: As a Sports Sponsorship Manager, graduates help negotiate and manage sponsorship deals for sports teams, events, and organizations. They are responsible for securing sponsorship agreements with brands and companies, ensuring that both parties benefit from the partnership. This role requires strong networking, negotiation, and communication skills, as well as an understanding of brand marketing and the sports industry.

Media Relations/PR Specialist: A Media Relations or Public Relations (PR) Specialist in sports focuses on managing the public image of sports teams, athletes, or events. Graduates can work for sports organizations, media outlets, or PR agencies, handling media communications, press releases, and public statements. They are responsible for building positive relationships with the media, organizing press conferences, and ensuring that the organization’s public perception aligns with its values.

Commercial Manager in Sport: Commercial Managers are responsible for generating revenue streams for sports organizations, teams, or events. This could involve managing the sale of merchandise, ticketing, hospitality, and other commercial opportunities. Graduates can work in various sectors within the sports industry, including media, sponsorship, and merchandising, driving commercial success and contributing to the overall profitability of the organization.

Sport and Recreation Manager: This role focuses on managing recreational and leisure activities, including overseeing sports programs and services offered by recreation centers or public sports facilities. Sport and Recreation Managers may work in community centers, public parks, or large sports complexes, ensuring that the facilities meet the needs of users and that all programs are run efficiently. They are often involved in planning community sports programs, securing funding, and managing staff.

Sports Analyst: A Sports Analyst evaluates the performance of athletes, teams, and organizations by collecting and analyzing data related to their performance. This can involve reviewing statistics, player performance, and match data to provide insights that improve strategies and team performance. Graduates with a strong interest in data analysis and performance metrics can pursue roles as sports analysts, working for teams, sports networks, or research firms.

Talent Manager in Sports: A Talent Manager works with athletes and players to manage their careers, negotiate contracts, secure sponsorships, and handle their personal and professional development. This role involves working closely with agents, sports teams, and other professionals to ensure that the athletes’ career paths are strategically planned and successful.