Sport and Movement Studies

Sport and Athletic Administration, MS—Athletic Administration Specialization

About the Athletic Administration Specialization

The Athletic Administration Specialization is designed to equip both aspiring and practicing professionals in the sports and athletics sectors with the essential knowledge, understanding, and practical skills needed to excel in your career. Our focus lies on theoretical knowledge and the application of leadership and management strategies, processes, and skills relevant to the sporting environment. Come to CWU and join a community where you will thrive.

Visit Department Website

Why Study Athletic Administration at CWU?

At CWU, our faculty are more than academic experts.

They have substantial experience in sports and athletic administration. Their insights and experience greatly enhance the relevance of your learning. Our program supports a cohort model, meaning that you will study alongside a group of peers, emphasizing collaboration, shared experiences, and a strong professional network after you graduate.

Where is this program offered?

• Ellensburg

How much does this program cost?

Explore information on Cost, Aid, and Value to make an informed decision about investing in your education at CWU.

Does CWU offer assistantships?

We offer assistantship opportunities within the Athletics Department and the Sport and Athletic Management Studies Department. These positions are limited and competitive. For opportunities within CWU Athletics, we recommend making direct contact rather than emailing. As for the Sport and Athletic Management Department, graduate assistant positions typically involve teaching activity classes as part of our Activities Program.

Find opportunities to fund your degree through the School of Graduate Studies and Research.

Where can I find more information?

Please visit the CWU Academic Catalog for current information about admission requirements, course descriptions, learner outcomes, and credit information.

Visit the School of Graduate Studies and Research for additional program eligibility information.

Careers and Opportunities

Graduates of this program have diverse career opportunities in sports and recreation, including roles in interscholastic and intercollegiate athletics, professional sports, coaching, private businesses, non-profit organizations, and athletic training. With such a wide range of paths available, graduates are equipped for a successful and impactful future in the sports and recreation industry.

• Athletic Directors: As an Athletic Director, you are responsible for overseeing and managing the athletic programs of a school, college, or university. They handle various responsibilities like budget management, staff supervision, scheduling, facility maintenance, and promoting the athletic department's success.
• Coaches and Scouts: The employment of coaches and scouts is expected to grow by 12% from 2019 to 2029, according to the BLS. This growth may be influenced by factors such as increased participation in sports programs and the demand for skilled coaches.

Highlights

Sport and Athletic Administration Alumni

2020 graduate, Hailey Bator, is now the Athletic Director for the Cle Elum-Roslyn School District. She received a degree in Athletic Administration.

In 2021, Tori Carpenter graduated from the MS Athletic Administration program. She is now the Associate Athletic Director of Compliance at Eastern Washington University.

Riley Lindsey graduated in 2021. After working as the Assistant Director of Ticket Sales and Marketing at the University of Idaho, he is now working at Gonzaga University as the Manager of Annual Giving.

Experience Sports Industry Careers

CWU’s Sports Management program is the home of the Northwest Center for Sports, which provides experiential opportunities and networking for students wanting to enter the sports management field. The center hosts conferences, guest speakers, and field trips designed to spotlight sports industry career opportunities.