Sport Administration Program

Program Overview

Niagara College's Sport Administration program equips students with the skills and knowledge for a successful career in the sports industry. Combining business fundamentals with sport industry expertise, the program offers practical experience through volunteer, networking, and leadership opportunities with leading sports organizations. Graduates are prepared for various roles in advertising, media, event management, and more.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Sport Administration program at Niagara College is a 2-year diploma program designed for sports enthusiasts who want to pursue a career in the sports industry. The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in amateur or professional sports organizations.

Key Highlights:

• Minor and professional sports play a significant role in the social, physical, and economic health of the economy.
• The program combines fundamental business skills with sport industry knowledge and applications.
• Students gain practical experience through extensive volunteer, networking, and community leadership opportunities with leading industry sports organizations, including the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, and the Canadian Olympic Committee.

Outline:

The Sport Administration program is structured over four terms, with a total of 24 courses. The program curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry, covering various aspects of sport management, marketing, finance, and event management.

Term One (2024 Fall):

• COMM1510 - Communication Foundations (3 credits): This course introduces students to the fundamentals of communication, including verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills.
• MATH1206 - Mathematics of Finance (3 credits): This course covers the mathematical concepts and tools used in financial management, including interest rates, time value of money, and financial statements.
• MICR1583 - Spreadsheet Applications (3 credits): This course teaches students how to use spreadsheets for data analysis, financial modeling, and other business applications.
• SPRT1271 - Leadership in Sport (3 credits): This course explores the principles of leadership in sports, including different leadership styles, team dynamics, and conflict resolution.

Term Two (2025 Winter):

• COMM1520 - Communication Skills for the Emerging Professional (3 credits): This course focuses on developing effective communication skills for professional settings, including presentation skills, negotiation skills, and business writing.
• MKTG1104 - Marketing for Sport and Recreation (3 credits): This course introduces students to the principles of marketing in the sports and recreation industry, including market research, product development, and promotion.
• SPRT1203 - Sport Finance (3 credits): This course covers the financial aspects of sports organizations, including budgeting, financial reporting, and fundraising.
• SPRT1252 - Negotiations and Law for Sport (3 credits): This course explores the legal and ethical considerations in sports, including contracts, intellectual property, and dispute resolution.
• SPRT1268 - Governance of Sport Organizations (3 credits): This course examines the governance structures and decision-making processes of sports organizations, including boards of directors, committees, and membership.
• SPRT1210 - Sport Sponsorship (3 credits): This course focuses on the principles of sponsorship in sports, including sponsorship strategies, activation, and measurement.

Term Three (2025 Fall):

• SPRT1305 - The Sport Consumer (3 credits): This course examines the behavior of sports consumers, including their motivations, preferences, and purchasing habits.
• SPRT1322 - Sales and Promotions in Sports (3 credits): This course covers the techniques and strategies used in sales and promotions in the sports industry, including ticket sales, merchandise sales, and sponsorship activation.
• SPRT1390 - The Global Economy in Sports (3 credits): This course explores the global economic forces that shape the sports industry, including globalization, international competition, and the role of technology.
• SPRT1301 - Media and Sport (3 credits): This course examines the relationship between sports and the media, including media coverage, sports broadcasting, and social media.
• SPRT1361 - Ethics in Sport (3 credits): This course explores the ethical issues and challenges facing the sports industry, including doping, gambling, and corruption.

Term Four (2026 Winter):

• COMM1530 - Industry Reports (3 credits): This course teaches students how to write effective industry reports, including research methods, data analysis, and report writing.
• MATH1310 - Statistical Concepts (3 credits): This course introduces students to the basic concepts of statistics, including data collection, data analysis, and statistical inference.
• SPRT1406 - Human Resource Management in Sports (3 credits): This course covers the principles of human resource management in sports organizations, including recruitment, training, and performance management.
• SPRT1414 - Sport Event Management (3 credits): This course focuses on the planning, organization, and execution of sports events, including event logistics, marketing, and risk management.
• SPRT1439 - Sport Facilities Management (3 credits): This course examines the management of sports facilities, including facility design, operations, and maintenance.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Assignments: Students complete written assignments, case studies, and research projects to demonstrate their understanding of course concepts.
• Presentations: Students deliver presentations on various topics related to the sports industry.
• Exams: Students take written exams to assess their knowledge of course material.
• Practical Experience: Students gain practical experience through volunteer work, internships, and field placements.

Teaching:

The Sport Administration program at Niagara College employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Professors deliver lectures to introduce key concepts and theories.
• Discussions: Students engage in class discussions to share their perspectives and insights.
• Case Studies: Students analyze real-world case studies to apply their knowledge to practical situations.
• Guest Speakers: Industry professionals share their experiences and insights with students.
• Experiential Learning: Students participate in hands-on activities, such as event planning, marketing campaigns, and volunteer work.

Careers:

Graduates of the Sport Administration program are prepared for a variety of careers in the sports industry, including:

• Advertising/Media Coordinator
• Assistant Athletic Director
• Campus Recreation, Fundraising, Facility, Sponsorship, Sport Event, or Varsity Coordinator
• Communications Associate or Director
• Data Management Analyst
• Intramural Manager or Coordinator
• Sales Representative
• Sports Recruiter or Scout

Other:

• The program emphasizes the importance of professional development and networking.
• Students have the opportunity to participate in various student clubs and organizations related to sports.
• The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a competitive job market.