The NDSU sport management program offers the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry and the skills necessary to succeed in various careers within the discipline.
One of the unique aspects of this program is the emphasis on hands-on learning experiences. Students are encouraged to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations through internships, practicums and other experiential learning opportunities. These experiences provide students with valuable industry contacts and practical skills that set them apart in the job market.
Isaac Getz, an NDSU junior from Wahpeton, North Dakota, said sport management is the behind-the-scenes work of the industry and many things come together to create a cohesive product. Getz said facility management and equipment management are perfect examples of the diversity of careers within the discipline. In addition, Getz said the program has prepared him for a success by providing him with hands-on, real-world experiences, like managing the women's basketball team at NDSU. Those experiences helped open valuable networking opportunities, he said.
The sport management program offers a variety of courses that cover a wide range of topics related to the sports industry. Some of the core courses include sport marketing, sport law, sport ethics and international sport. Students also can choose from a variety of electives that allow them to explore specific areas of interest.
"Career paths in sport management are very broad," Getz said. "You can go into professions like athletic directing, coaching or even teaching. It’s all about building that background and resume."
Another strength of this program is faculty. It’s led by experienced professionals with extensive backgrounds in the sports industry. NDSU faculty are passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping students succeed. They are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the sports industry, ensuring that the program remains relevant and cutting-edge.
“The faculty in this program are great,” Getz said. “They’re here to look out for you and help you. They’ve given me a bunch of opportunities to ensure success in the future.”
NDSU sport management professor Kelsey Slater is not only optimistic about her students' futures, but she also is enthusiastic about the future of the program. She said the program's commitment to providing students with unique opportunities will set it apart from other programs in the country.
"In July, the sport management program won an IDEAS grant sponsored by the United States Department of State to increase study abroad participation by U.S. students," Slater said. "Through that grant, we are building partnerships with international sports organizations so that our students can intern with them over the summer. This will be a unique program for NDSU students as not many sport management programs in the U.S. provide international internship and study abroad programs specific to sport management students."
The sport management program at NDSU is an excellent choice for students who are passionate about sports and interested in pursuing a career in a dynamic industry.
For a closer look at NDSU’s sport management program, visit the official university YouTube channel.
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