Are you aspiring to advance your career in the field of Information Technology (IT) while also gaining valuable business acumen? Look no further than the best online Information Technology MBA degree programs.
These programs offer a unique combination of IT expertise and business management skills, providing you with a competitive edge in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
In this article, we will explore the top online IT MBA degree programs, their key features, and the benefits they offer to aspiring IT professionals.
The Rising Demand for IT Professionals
In today’s digital age, the demand for skilled IT professionals has reached unprecedented levels. From cybersecurity to data analytics, organizations across industries rely on technology to drive innovation, streamline operations, and stay ahead of the competition. As a result, professionals with a blend of IT knowledge and business acumen are in high demand. The best online Information Technology MBA degree programs cater to this growing need, equipping students with the skills to excel in both realms.
Best Online MBA Degree Programs in Information Technology: What to Look For
When selecting an online IT MBA program, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you make an informed decision. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:
Accreditation and Reputation
Opt for programs that are accredited by recognized accrediting bodies. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain quality standards and is recognized by employers and other educational institutions. Additionally, consider the reputation of the program and the university offering it. Look for institutions known for their excellence in both IT and business education.
Curriculum and Specializations
Examine the program’s curriculum to ensure it covers a comprehensive range of IT and business topics. Look for courses that delve into areas such as IT strategy, project management, data analytics, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Furthermore, consider if the program offers specializations or concentrations that align with your career goals, allowing you to deepen your expertise in a specific IT domain.
Flexibility and Online Learning Experience
As an online student, flexibility is key. Ensure the program offers a flexible schedule that accommodates your professional and personal commitments. Additionally, assess the online learning platform and tools provided. Look for user-friendly interfaces, interactive content, and opportunities for collaboration with fellow students and faculty.
Faculty Expertise and Support
The quality of faculty can greatly impact your learning experience. Research the qualifications and expertise of the program’s faculty members, especially in the IT and business domains. Faculty with industry experience can provide valuable insights and connections. Additionally, inquire about the support services offered, such as academic advising, career counseling, and networking opportunities.
Alumni Network and Career Services
An extensive alumni network can be a valuable resource for networking, mentorship, and career advancement. Investigate the program’s alumni community and their career trajectories. Moreover, consider the availability of career services, such as job placement assistance, resume building workshops, and networking events, to support your career growth.
Methodology
MBA Central collected data on online Sports Management MBA programs and ranked the programs based on the areas of Affordability (33%), Support Services (33%), and Quality of Classes (33%). In addition to the ranking order, every Online Sports Management MBA program is also given an Affordability Score. This score is awarded because of the total base tuition of the MBA degree, with ranges as follows:
Very Affordable: under $15,000
Affordable: between $15,000 and $20,000
Average: between $20,000 and $30,000
Above Average: between $30,000 and $50,000
Expensive: between $50,000 and $100,000
Very Expensive: above $100,000
#1 Southeast Missouri State University Harrison College of Business – Cape Girardeau, Missouri
| Students at Southeast Missouri State University can earn an online MBA in Sports Management degree. This program sits at the top of our list because of its unparalleled affordability, support services, and quality of classes. |
Southeast Missouri State University offers graduate students a flexible Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management, offered through Harrison College of Business. This highly acclaimed 33 credit hour program is prestigiously accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the Network of International Business Schools, and the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation. The curriculum consists of global opportunities, universal competition, and regulatory concerns. Students will also learn business negotiations, and how to utilize technology frequently used in sports management, such as in production, controls, and communication. Internship opportunities are available with the Kansas City Royals to gain insight into what it’s really like to work with a professional sports team. This program is a very affordable master’s with pricing below $14,999. Recent graduates of this MBA in Sports Management have entered successful careers as collegiate athletic directors, athletic stadium general managers, and the field of sports marketing. This flexible degree is sure to set candidates apart in the competitive sporting industry.
Southeast Missouri State University is a public college accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. SEMO was founded in 1873, and currently is home to approximately 11,500 students each year. The main campus can be found in Cape Girardeau, and regional campuses accommodate students in Kennett, Sikeston, Poplar Bluff, and at Cape College Center. Southeast Online is ideal for non-traditional students, and delivers top-ranked, high-quality education according to U.S. News and World Report. Majors are added to keep up with industry demands, and today SEMO offers over 145 undergraduate majors and more than 75 graduate programs through five academic colleges. Internships and study abroad programs are available for all majors. Among the degrees offered to graduate students is the Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management. Potential candidates interested in pursuing the MBA in Sports Management must submit an application, copies of all official college transcripts, and GRE/GMAT scores.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Very Affordable
#2 University of Massachusetts Amherst Isenberg School of Management – Amherst, Massachusetts
| The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers students the opportunity to earn an online MBA including a focus on Sport Management. This degree was selected for our ranking because of their exceptional reputation for preparing students for leadership careers in the sporting industry. |
At the University of Massachusetts Amherst, students can earn a top-rated online Master’s of Business Administration with a focus in Sport Management through Isenberg School of Management. This program is offered entirely online to meet the needs of working professionals, and carries prestigious accreditation with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Additionally, this MBA is noticed by the business industry as being one of the best in the nation and the world. Financial Times ranks the Online MBA 3rd worldwide, and U.S. News and World Report ranks the Online MBA 16th in the country. Further, Sport Business International ranks this program 2nd Best Graduate Sport Management Program in the World. This academically rigorous 45 credit hour program is comprised of 36 hours of core MBA courses and nine hours in the focus area of Sport Management. Graduates of the MBA in Sport Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst will be prepared for successful sport management careers.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is a public university accredited through the New England Commission of Higher Education, and has an annual student body enrollment of over 30,000 students. UMass Amherst was founded in 1863, and serves as the flagship campus in Massachusetts. The university offers over 100 undergraduate majors, 77 master’s degrees, 48 doctoral programs through their 10 academic schools and colleges. U.S. News and World Report currently ranks UMass Amherst 26th among national universities. Additionally, UMass Amherst is listed among the 100 “Best College Values” by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine and by Money Magazine in its most bang for the buck category. Graduate students seeking an MBA in Sport Management can earn their degree through Isenberg School of Management. Prospective students interested in this program must submit a graduate school application, official transcripts from all universities attended, a personal essay, two letters of recommendation, a resume/CV, and GMAT/GRE scores.
Accreditation: AACSB, New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Above Average
#3 Fort Hays State University W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship – Hays, Kansas
| Students can earn an online MBA with a Health and Human Performance/Sports Management concentration at Fort Hays State University. This MBA is recognized for offering a budget-friendly, top-notch education. |
Fort Hays State University features an online MBA with a focus in Health and Human Performance/Sports Management through their elite W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship. U.S. News and World Report ranks the online MBA 108th in the United States. This MBA is 34 credit hours, and covers all facets of the sports industry including sports marketing, planning, promotion, facilities management, and legal issues. This program is a very affordable master’s with pricing below $14,999. In fact, many publishers rank this MBA as one of the most affordable in the nation. Best Value MBA, GetEducated.com, and OnlineU all recognize the FHSU MBA for its economical tuition rates. This high-tech, online degree is not only convenient, but also engaging with lessons delivered via Skype, WebX, Blackboard, YouTube, and GoogleDocs. The FHSU MBA is an excellent launching pad for students looking to enter or advance their career in Health and Human Performance or Sports Management.
Fort Hays State University is a four year, public college, founded in 1902, and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. FHSU currently offers a wide array of courses leading to associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees through four academic colleges to over 15,000 students annually. Over 200 programs are offered through the Virtual College. Online students are provided free online tutoring and writing support, career services, and tech support. Students can get involved in over 200 organizations or travel the world through the study abroad program. Even online students can serve as an officer of the Virtual Student Senate and join honor societies to enhance their leadership skills and feel more connected with their peers. Graduate Students may pursue an MBA with a concentration in Health and Human Performance/Sports Management through Fort Hays State University. Prospective students are encouraged to submit a graduate application, official transcripts, official GMAT/GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Very Affordable
#4 Florida Atlantic University College of Business – Boca Raton, Florida
| Florida Atlantic University’s College of Business offers an online MBA in Sport Management. This distinguished program was chosen for our ranking for their many accolades and prestigious accreditation. |
Florida Atlantic University’s College of Business offers an online MBA in Sport Management. This MBA is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The FAU MBA is recognized as a leader in the business education community. U.S. News and World Report ranks the Online MBA among the top 50 programs in the nation and #1 in South Florida. Additionally, Bloomberg BusinessWeek also identifies this MBA as one of the best in the country. This program is 40-46 credit hours, and takes 23 months to complete. Students are expected to take part in internships and employment opportunities in the sports or entertainment industry to enhance their studies. Students will also participate in a leadership and executive forum, where they will have the chance to view presentations from executives. This online MBA in Sport Management will help students excel as managers and executives in the sports entity.
Florida Atlantic University is a public, four-year university that is regionally accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. The main campus is in Boca Raton, and five satellite campuses offer students the opportunity to study in Dania Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, and in Fort Pierce. FAU offers more than 170 bachelor’s and master’s degree programs through its 10 academic colleges, and serves over 30,000 students each year. The Princeton Review names FAU among the “Best Southeastern Colleges.” The Carnegie Foundation classifies FAU as a research university with high research activity. Among the many academically rigorous degrees offered at Florida Atlantic University is the online Master’s of Business Administration in Sport Management. Ready to apply? In addition to the graduate and departmental application, prospective students must submit a current resume, personal essay, official college transcripts from all universities attended, and GMAT or GRE scores.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Above Average
#5 Franklin Pierce University College of Business – Rindge, New Hampshire
| Graduate students have an opportunity to earn an accredited online Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management at Franklin Pierce University. This elite MBA has a reputation for preparing business leaders in intercollegiate athletics, amateur, or professional sports. |
The highly acclaimed College of Business at Franklin Pierce University offers an online Sports Management MBA. This 39 credit hour program is fully accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education. Additionally, this program has been ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. The curriculum focuses on change management, media relations, and sports facility management. Students have the convenience of completing this program fully online in four semesters. Another option is to complete the Sports Management Graduate certificate, and later fulfill the requirements of the MBA. Tuition for this program is considered average, with pricing between $20,000 and $29,999. Students graduating with this unique Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management outshine other contenders for leadership roles in intercollegiate athletics, amateur, and professional sports. Many graduates have gone on to successful careers as operations directors, facilities managers, business managers and marketers, and sports merchandisers.
Franklin Pierce University is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university, accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. Franklin serves over 2,300 students annually and offers a wide array of associate’s degrees through doctoral degrees. The main campus is located in Rindge, and four additional locations are provided for graduate and professional programs. U.S. News and World Report, ranks Franklin Pierce among the top universities for Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees and Best Online MBA Programs. Working professionals are able to complete a higher education degree in a reasonable amount of time while balance a busy work schedule, family, and convenient online classes that can be accessed from anywhere at any time. A Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management can be earned through the College of Business. Prospective students must submit an online application, official transcripts, an updated resume, outline of professional aspirations, and an essay.
Accreditation: IACBE, New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Average
#6 Concordia University Wisconsin Batterman School of Business – Mequon, Wisconsin
| Concordia University Wisconsin offers a unique online MBA in Sport and Entertainment Business through the Batterman School of Business. This program was recognized on our ranking due to their reputation for preparing students for dynamic careers in sports and entertainment. |
The Batterman School of Business at Concordia University Wisconsin offers an elite online Master’s of Business Administration in Sport and Entertainment Business. This prestigious MBA program is fully accredited by the distinguished International Accreditation Council for Business Education. Students enrolled in this 39-hour program will complete accelerated eight-week courses, and can finish in less than two years. Study abroad programs are offered in China and Austria. Internship opportunities are also available to give students valuable hands-on experience. All students will also complete a capstone requirement during their last semester. This master’s program is average, with tuition costs in between $20,000 and $29,999. The flexibility of an online degree, coupled with study abroad and internship opportunities make Concordia University Wisconsin the perfect place for students to pursue an MBA in Sport and Entertainment Business. Graduates of this program will be prepared for marketing and management careers for non-profit organizations, as well as public and private sectors.
Concordia University Wisconsin is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Concordia was founded in 1881, and is affiliated with the Lutheran Church. The beautiful 200-acre campus is on Lake Michigan. Approximately 7,300 students attend Concordia each year, and are able to choose from 77 bachelor’s degrees, 42 master’s degrees, and six doctoral programs, as well as 40 professional certificates through six academic schools. Concordia has received numerous accolades, including being ranked among the Best Online MBA programs by U.S. News and World Report, and #1 safest school and largest MBA program in Wisconsin. Among the many degrees offered is the highly acclaimed Master’s of Business Administration in Sport and Entertainment Business offered through the Batterman School of Business. In order to apply, students are encouraged to submit an application form, one-page essay, resume with academic and professional experience, two signed letters of recommendation, and all official transcripts.
Accreditation: IACBE, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average
#7 New England College School of Graduate and Professional Studies – Henniker, New Hampshire
| Students can earn a well respected online MBA in Sport and Recreation Management at New England College. This program prepares students to become intercollegiate coaches. |
New England College’s School of Graduate and Professional Studies features a highly acclaimed online Master’s of Business Administration in Sport and Recreation Management. U.S. News and World Report ranks this program among the top online MBA degrees in the nation. This MBA, designed for those interested in becoming intercollegiate coaches, consists of seven core business and leadership courses and three specialty courses. Each course counts as four-credit hours, and this program can be completed in approximately 20 months. Specialty courses include Current Issues in Sports and Recreation, Management and Practice in Sports and Recreation, and Legal Issues in Sports. All students will also complete a capstone component. The tuition for this program is comparable to other Universities, with average pricing in between $20,000 and $29,999. The flexibility and specialty courses offered by this program makes earning an MBA in Sport and Recreation Management at New England College an excellent stepping stone for a budding intercollegiate coach.
New England College is a small, four-year, private, not-for-profit university, which serves about 2,800 students each year. New England College is regionally accredited through the New England Commission of Higher Education. Students are able to choose from 37 bachelor’s degrees, 12 master’s degrees, and one doctoral degree through four academic divisions. U.S. News and World Report ranks New England College among the best “Regional Universities-North, Tier 2.” Additionally, Time Magazine recognizes NEC for showing a large increase in student diversity. Students can complete a well-respected Master’s of Business Administration in Sport and Recreation Management through the School of Graduate and Professional Studies. The outstanding business programs are currently a “Candidate for Accreditation” by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Prospective students must submit an online application, official college transcripts from all universities attended, a personal essay, and a professional resume outlining business and sports experience.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Affordability Score: Average
#8 University of Central Missouri Harmon College of Business – Warrensburg, Missouri
| Harmon College of Business at the University of Central Missouri offers an online Master’s of Business Administration with a Sports Business emphasis. This program is flexible, affordable, and convenient. |
The University of Central Missouri offers an online MBA with an emphasis in Sports Business through Harmon College of Business. This highly respected 33 credit-hour program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. his program is recognized as a Best Online MBA. An extensive range of online services, such as library access, a virtual writing lab, and academic and financial advising are available to help students achieve their educational goals. Students will be taught by the same expert faculty members, and be challenged with experiential learning opportunities focused on preparing them for success in the real world. Tuition is very affordable, with rates below $14,999. Online students qualify for in-state tuition, no matter where they live while obtaining their degree. A Master’s of Business Administration with an emphasis in Sports Business from the University of Central Missouri is what you need to advance your career in the sports field!
The University of Central Missouri is a four-year, public college, established in 1871, and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. UCM has over 12,000 students enrolled each year, and offers more than 150 programs of study leading to bachelor’s and master’s degrees through four academic colleges. Top publications consistently recognize UCM as one of the top universities in the nation. UCM is ranked among the top universities in the Midwest region by U.S. News and World Report and The Princeton Review. Graduate students can earn a prestigious Master’s of Business Administration with an emphasis in Sports Business through Harmon College of Business. Ready to apply? Simply submit an online application, college transcripts, and GMAT or GRE scores. The flexible, shortened semesters allow students to choose from six different start dates throughout the year.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Very Affordable
#9 Concordia University Chicago College of Business – River Forest, Illinois
| Students can earn a top-notch online Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management from Concordia University Chicago. This MBA prepares leaders in various sports management careers. |
Concordia University Chicago offers an elite online Sports Management MBA through the College of Business. Concordia holds regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission, and the COB is a candidate for accreditation with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. This 39 credit hour program is ranked among the top online MBAs by U.S. News and World Report. Students will engage with professors and classmates through online discussion boards and complete learning modules at a time convenient for them. All classes are taught in an accelerated eight-week format, with students focusing on one course at a time. In each course, students will complete a signature project to be added to their Business e-Portfolio. The Business e-Portfolio is an excellent tool for the students to share with future employers to aid in their job application process. Recent graduates of the MBA in Sports Management have entered exciting careers in sports media, administration, marketing, operations, and management.
Concordia University Chicago is a four-year, private, not-for-profit university, founded in 1864, and affiliated with the Lutheran Church. Concordia-Chicago is home to over 5,700 students, and offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degrees through the University’s five academic colleges. Students are able to participate in many service learning and leadership opportunities, such as volunteering with numerous non-profit organizations and churches, and going on national and international missions trips. Study abroad programs are offered in China, South Africa, and New England. Concordia is also a member of the Lutheran College Washington Consortium, a program that allows students to complete one semester of internships and courses in Washington. The College of Business gives graduate students an opportunity to complete their online MBA focused on the exciting industry of Sports Management. Students interested in this rigorous program must submit an application for admission, objective statement, two letters of recommendation, official college transcripts, and a professional resume.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Affordability Score: Average
#10 University of Southern Mississippi College of Business – Hattiesburg, Mississippi
| The University of Southern Mississippi offers a well-rounded online MBA in Sports Event Security Management through the College of Business. This program is the only one in the United States focused on security at sporting events |
The University of Southern Mississippi’s College of Business is well known for its unique online Master’s of Business Administration with a Sports Event Security Management emphasis. This prestigious MBA program holds accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Additionally, the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security partners with USM to offer expertise in addressing threats and risks to safety and security at sports events. This 33 credit-hour program was ranked among the top part-time online MBA programs by U.S. News and World Report. Students can participate in the National Sports Safety and Security conference, learn to utilize cutting-edge security technology, and complete safety and security driven internships. Students taking two courses per semester can graduate in just two years from this affordable program. Tuition is economical, with rates between $15,000 and $19,999. Graduates of the MBA in Sports Event Security Management program pursue a variety of careers within sports organizations, such as director of safety and security at professional sports venues and director of facility and event operations.
The University of Southern Mississippi is a four year, university accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. The main campus is located in Hattiesburg, and an additional campus is in Long Beach. USM has over 14,000 students enrolled annually and offers over 140 undergraduate degrees and more than 220 graduate programs through four academic colleges. The Carnegie Foundation classifies Southern Miss as a “Research University” with “High Research Activity.” Students can also participate in 30 study abroad programs in destinations such as Japan, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. Notable alumni include professional athletes Torie Bowie, Brian Dozier, and Brett Favre. Graduate students can earn an MBA in Sports Event Security Management through the College of Business. In order to apply for this competitive MBA, students must submit an application, original transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and GRE/GMAT/MAT scores.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Affordability Score: Affordable
What will I learn in a sports management MBA?
A Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management is the perfect degree for avid sports fans with a business acumen. Students pursuing a Sports Management degree will take courses covering topics such as marketing, operations management, facility management, and public relations as they relate to sports.
While all MBAs in Sports Management will cover core business courses, such as law, finance, and promotions, there are also a number of specialized Sports Management concentrations. Specializations include Health and Human Performance, Recreation Management, Event Security Management, and Athletic Administration. If you already have an idea of the particular career path you’d like to pursue, it can be beneficial to select a similar concentration. For example, an individual interested in opening a health facility or managing athletic trainers could take the Health and Human Performance route. Someone who has future career aspirations to become a sports camp or youth sports director might consider the Recreation Management specialty. Whereas, an aspiring college athletic director would find the Athletic Administration track most beneficial.
Earning an MBA in Sports Management is a fairly easy process, with top-ranked universities offering flexible programs that meet your needs. Many programs are offered in a fully online format, so you can complete discussion boards and reading assignments at a time convenient with your schedule; even during half-time while watching the game! Typical programs range between 33 and 54 credit hours, with the average program being 36 credit hours. Accelerated programs can be completed within a year or two, so you don’t have to wait long to begin your dream career! An MBA in Sports Management is the ticket to an exhilarating occupation in the growing sports, entertainment, and recreation industry!
What jobs can I get with a sports management MBA?
College and amateur athletes are prime candidates for entering the competitive world of sports management. They are able to draw on their personal experiences to relate to athletes, and have established a network with other coaches, agents, and players. The sports industry is a rapidly growing field, with many exciting career possibilities. Sports Management encompasses careers at the youth, intercollegiate, and professional levels. Some of the unique career possibilities include agents and business managers of professional athletes, college athletic recruiters, marketing managers, athletic directors at universities, sports promoters, public relations managers, and special events managers.
There is a wide range of salaries within the sports industry, depending on the particular career you choose to pursue, level of education, and the level of athletes you work with. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, agents and managers for professional athletes earn a mean salary of $94,870. College athletic directors earn in the range of $52,960 and $182,150, depending on the number of athletic teams they are managing, the size of the university, and the popularity and overall success of the athletic teams. Those working in a recreational setting typically make significantly less money. For example, recreation workers will generally earn a maximum of $42,560. Individuals in Sports Management careers who hold a master’s degree earn approximately 20% more on average than those with just a bachelor’s degree.
There is also a larger than average projected growth in certain sports-related careers. A spike of about nine percent growth is anticipated for athletic administration careers by the year 2024. Those interested in athletic management, marketing, sales, public relations, and other sports-management careers can expect a growth of about six percent in the number of careers available by 2024.
How do I start my career in sports management?
Due to the competitive nature of the sports sector, earning a Master’s of Business Administration in Sports Management is a wise investment to give candidates a competitive edge. In addition to enhancing their resume, students will have the opportunity to get their foot in the door through internships with sports organizations. When selecting an internship, it is imperative for students to think about their future career goals, and try to build that skill set. For example, students interested in sports broadcasting should try to find an internship with a local television network. Students should also seize opportunities to officiate sports, coach youth teams, and volunteer for professional organizations to gain exposure to a variety of sports careers and widen their network. Graduates go on to work in a variety of settings, including fitness facilities, parks and recreation departments, higher education institutions, professional teams, sports associations, and marketing firms.