The Business of Sports
Every business wants one thing — a fan base. And nobody does it better than professional sports. Here is a program designed to cover the business side of this exciting world. You’ll hear first-hand from team owners and sports executives. You’ll pick a team and explore program topics through that lens. Study the impact of sports across North America, collective bargaining, how a franchise accrues valuation, and how major stadiums are financed. Examine the shifting demographics of sports fans and see how new technologies are influencing “the game.” If your goal is to work in the sports industry, this program is for you.
Program Dates
Choose the program length that works for you: 2-week sessions and 4-week sessions
Eligibility
For anyone interested in learning about business
Fees
$1995
Explore the business dynamics of U.S. sports
Learn the history, impact, and management of sports in North America.
Delve into the business side of sports through the lens of the four major professional leagues: MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL.
Study how major league teams achieve financial valuation.
Identify the basic drivers of franchise values, including scarcity, prestige, and media. Learn how fan following impacts valuation.
How do major sports arenas get built?
Discover the challenges — political and physical — of building a major stadium. Learn the costs and methods of financing.
Become fluent in the language of sports marketing.
Study the advertising strategies, social media, sponsorships, contracts for athletes, and the changing distribution of sports media content.
Know the emerging issues facing the four major sports leagues.
A look at the future. Review the growth of women’s sports, fan demographic trends, the influence of gambling, and the effects of globalization.
Explore degrees and careers related to sports.
Topics covered in this program offer a good background for those thinking about pursuing a future in sports marketing, management, investment strategies, and sports journalism.
How You Will Benefit
- Be able to discuss the business and impact of sports on the U.S.
- Know the role of business in the sports industry
- Understand how professional sports franchises are valuable investment assets
- Learn the impacts of marketing, social media, and advertising
- Know the role of sports technology in business
- Enjoy flexible learning: online lessons are delivered by dynamic videos so you can tune in whenever your schedule allows
- Earn a certificate of participation from Columbia Business School
Hear From Columbia Business School
Hear From Our Students
The course is designed to study the business dynamics of the four major sports leagues in the USA (MLB, NBA, NFL and NHL) and it really delivers what it promises. There is interesting and thought-provoking content even for professionals who already study the aforementioned leagues. Much of what I learned will be effectively useful for my professional activities and knowledge in general. And there are elements, such as valuation techniques, that you won’t find available out there. Incredibly worth it. - Daniel, sports student from Brazil.
The Columbia Business of Sports program is perfect for students around the world who are passionate about the sports industry. It offers a well-rounded curriculum that dives into everything from marketing and media rights to sponsorship and event management. The best part is that you can set your own pace, so it's great whether you're a full-time student or already working. - Jisel, sports student from FL.
This course would be perfect for undergraduate and graduate students looking to explore a career in the sports industry but want to understand some of the roles that are involved. It is perfect for someone starting out and looking to explore their interests and passions. The material is presented in a clear and concise manner where nothing is taken too far but goes much deeper than surface level. I highly recommend The Business of Sports course. - Dylan, sports student from CA.
Three Learning Advantages Designed For You
Final Project
- Create a presentation for the owner of a sports team — make a bid for their franchise
- Recommend changes to strategy and marketing
- Consider sponsorship and social media components
Mentoring
- Access to a mentor who provides support and answers questions to deepen your learning
- Encouragement and direction on all assignments
- Inspiration and motivation to help you succeed
- Brainstorming and ideation help as you prepare for your final project
Flexible Learning
- 100 percent online; works with your schedule
- 20 to 25 hours of instruction and program work, including engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support
- Access to a mentor who will guide your progress and help brainstorm ideas
Apply Now For the Next Available Program
All program options have the same educational content, learning materials, and number of assignments. We are offering a condensed version of the program in order to accommodate students’ individual schedules.
Faculty
Salvatore Galatioto
Adjunct Professor of Business, Columbia Business School
Mr. Galatioto is President of Galatioto Sports Partners, a top firm in the sports finance and advisory business. He has overseen engagements in more than 100 transactions in the major U.S. professional leagues as financial advisor, arranger, and agent. Clients include the Boston Red Sox, Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Cubs, New York Giants, Seattle Seahawks,Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and many other high-profile franchises.
Program Mentor
Morgan
MBA graduate at Columbia Business School. Worked with professional athletes while at Derek Jeter's sports media startup, The Players' Tribune.
Jayson
MBA graduate at Columbia Business School. Currently has 6 years of professional experience in investment banking.
How To Apply
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Our application asks you to provide the following:
- Your basic contact information
- Why you wish to take this program, and a bit of your story, through writing, video, photos — any media you prefer.
Begin the guided process. It should take only a few minutes to answer the questions.
Begin the process.
Want To Know More?
Sign up for more information and we’ll be in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time do you have to turn around a project? When do you find out if you're admitted?
Answers To Your Questions HereScholarships
We offer need-based scholarships for participating students who exhibit high potential and an inability to pay the full tuition.
- If you haven’t applied to the program, apply here. After submitting your application, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” on the confirmation page to request a scholarship.
- If you’ve already applied to the program, sign in to your profile to check your scholarship status. If we don’t have a scholarship request on file, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” to request a scholarship.
The University reserves the right to modify the program as may become necessary.