| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-07-01 | - |
| 2023-12-01 | - |
| 2024-04-01 | - |
Program Overview
The University of Wisconsin-Madison's online Master of Science in Sports Leadership (MSL) program equips students with the knowledge and skills to lead effectively in diverse sports settings. Through a comprehensive curriculum covering topics like athletic administration, coaching, and sports psychology, the program prepares graduates for a variety of career paths in the sports industry. The program's unique features include online delivery, experiential learning, and access to top sports leaders.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Master of Science in Sports Leadership (MSL) program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison prepares students for impactful leadership positions in diverse sports settings, including K-12 and youth programs, colleges and universities, and professional teams. The program draws from the university's world-leading academic and athletic resources to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field.
Objectives:
- To equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead effectively in the sports industry.
- To foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- To promote ethical and responsible leadership practices.
- To prepare students for a variety of career paths in sports leadership.
Program Description:
The MSL program is an online degree program, accommodating students with busy lives throughout Wisconsin and beyond. The program exposes students to top professors, innovative sports leaders, and the highest-level sports experiences at UW-Madison.
Outline:
Content:
The MSL program covers a wide range of topics in sports leadership, including:
- Athletic administration
- Coaching
- Justice in sport
- Legal and financial issues
- Sports psychology
Structure:
The MSL program consists of 30 credits, including:
- Core courses (21 credits)
- Electives (9 credits)
Course Schedule:
The MSL program is offered online, with courses typically lasting 8 weeks. Students can complete the program in as little as 12 months or take longer if needed.
Individual Modules with Descriptions:
Core Courses:
- ELPA 700 Field Experience in Educational Leadership (3 credits): Provides students with hands-on experience in a sports leadership setting.
- ELPA 710 Introduction to Intercollegiate Athletics Administration (3 credits): Explores the history, structure, and governance of intercollegiate athletics.
- ELPA 750 Coaching Athletics 1: Everyday Practices of Top Leaders (3 credits): Focuses on the daily practices and routines of successful coaches.
- ELPA 751 Leadership and Justice in Sports (3 credits): Examines the role of sports in promoting social justice and equity.
- ELPA 752 Coach as Teacher: Mastering Instructional Practice On and Off the Field (3 credits): Prepares students to effectively teach and coach athletes.
- ELPA 753 Psychology and Coaching in Sports (3 credits): Explores the psychological aspects of coaching and athlete performance.
- ELPA 754 Running a Championship System: The Badger Sports Leadership Road Course (3 credits): Provides students with insights into the leadership principles and practices of the University of Wisconsin's athletic department.
- ELPA 755 Coaching Athletics 2: A Bell Cow Way (3 credits): Focuses on advanced coaching techniques and strategies.
- ELPA 777 Higher and Post-Secondary Education Capstone Seminar (3 credits): Culminates the program with a research project or portfolio that demonstrates students' understanding of sports leadership.
Electives:
Students can choose one 3-credit elective from the following options:
- KINES 325 Group Development and Behavior Management
- KINES 527 Principles of Strength and Conditioning
- KINES 555 Sports Science & Athlete Monitoring
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Assignments
- Projects
- Presentations
Assessment Criteria:
Students are evaluated based on their:
- Knowledge of sports leadership concepts and theories
- Ability to apply knowledge to real-world situations
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Communication and presentation skills
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The MSL program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Online lectures
- Discussion forums
- Case studies
- Simulations
- Guest speakers
Faculty:
The MSL program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members from the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis. Faculty members have expertise in a wide range of areas, including sports administration, coaching, sports psychology, and sports law.
Unique Approaches:
The MSL program offers several unique approaches to teaching and learning, including:
- Online delivery: The program is offered entirely online, providing flexibility for students with busy schedules.
- Experiential learning: Students gain hands-on experience through field experiences and internships.
- Access to top sports leaders: Students have the opportunity to interact with and learn from top sports leaders at UW-Madison and beyond.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the MSL program are prepared for a variety of career paths in sports leadership, including:
- Athletic director
- Coach
- Sports agent
- Sports marketer
- Sports journalist
- Sports lawyer
Opportunities and Outcomes:
The MSL program provides graduates with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to succeed in the competitive sports industry. Graduates have gone on to work for a variety of organizations, including:
- Professional sports teams
- Colleges and universities
- K-12 schools
- Sports agencies
- Sports media outlets
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Entry Requirements:
- Official transcripts of prior undergraduate and graduate course completion.
- Resume or CV.
- Supporting document if the undergraduate GPA is below 3.00.
