Sport and recreation management
Bachelor of Science
Overview
Duration:
4 years, 120 creditsLocations:
Moscow, OnlineRelated Topics
Lead the future of sport and recreation
From youth sports and outdoor recreation to collegiate athletics and major sporting events, sport and recreation organizations create experiences that strengthen communities, promote healthy lifestyles and bring people together. University of Idaho's Bachelor of Science in sport and recreation management prepares students to lead those organizations through hands-on learning, industry experience and practical business skills.
Throughout the program, you'll learn how sport and recreation organizations operate while developing expertise in leadership, event management, marketing, facility operations, programming, organizational administration, communication, ethics and innovation. Coursework explores how organizations engage participants, fans and communities while preparing you to solve real-world challenges across collegiate athletics, community recreation, nonprofit organizations, commercial recreation, tourism and sport-related businesses.
Classroom learning is complemented by applied experiences that help students build professional skills and industry connections. You'll have opportunities to work on projects, gain practical experience and explore career paths in sport, recreation and event management while learning from faculty with experience across the industry.
Graduates are prepared for careers in sport management, collegiate athletics, campus recreation, parks and recreation, athletic administration, event management, youth sport, outdoor recreation, tourism, sport marketing, entrepreneurship and nonprofit leadership. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in sport management, recreation administration, kinesiology, business, public administration and related fields.
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy sports, recreation, events or outdoor activities and want to build a career around your interests
- Want to work in collegiate athletics, professional sports, parks and recreation, event management or tourism
- Are interested in leadership, marketing, business, entrepreneurship or organizational management
- Enjoy planning events, leading programs and creating memorable experiences
- Like working with people and building stronger communities through sport and recreation
- Want to develop practical skills that prepare you for a wide range of careers in the sport and recreation industry
Adventure awaits
Curriculum
The B.S. in sport and recreation management is a 120-credit degree offered through a combination of in-person, hybrid, and online coursework. Students should review the Course Catalog for the most current degree requirements and course sequencing.
Program structure
The curriculum introduces students to the foundations of sport and recreation management before progressing into more advanced coursework in areas such as event management, sport and recreation programming, marketing, ethics and policy, facility and operations management, sport coaching and organizational leadership. Students also complete general education coursework and supporting classes that help build communication, problem-solving, business and leadership skills.
Applied learning
The program emphasizes applied learning and real-world preparation. Students explore how sport and recreation organizations serve communities, create meaningful experiences, manage events and facilities, support health and well-being, and operate in collegiate, community, nonprofit, public, private and entrepreneurial settings. Coursework often includes case studies, projects, industry examples, guest speakers and opportunities to connect classroom learning with professional practice.
Practicum and internship experience
Students gain experience through a required practicum and internship. The practicum introduces students to hands-on professional experience in the field, while the internship serves as a culminating experience that allows students to apply their skills in a sport, recreation, event, tourism, athletic or related organization. These experiences help students build professional networks, explore career interests and prepare for employment or graduate study.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
4,275 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Entertainment Managers
$81,810 - Coaches and Scouts
$47,576 - General and Operations Managers
$109,578 - Facilities Managers
$121,195 - Postsecondary Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers
$87,482
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
With Moscow and the surrounding Palouse as your campus, you’ll have access to outstanding sport and recreation opportunities through Vandal Athletics, student clubs, intramural and club sports, and the region’s abundant outdoor resources for hiking, skiing, rafting and more.
Students can also get involved through the Innovation Lab for Sport and Recreation, which provides opportunities to engage in research, industry projects, professional development and collaboration with sport and recreation organizations. These experiences help students connect classroom learning with real-world issues and emerging opportunities in the field.
Additional involvement opportunities may include attending sport and recreation industry workshops, participating in professional development events and pursuing internships or field experiences with professional sport teams and organizations around the country. These opportunities help students build networks, explore career paths and gain practical experience before graduation.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
While paying for college can feel overwhelming, University of Idaho is committed to affordability and clarity about tuition and financial aid. Here are a few key resources to help you understand the cost of your degree and explore available financial support:
Submit your FAFSA: Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to accessing federal, state and institutional financial aid.
Estimate your cost of attendance: Use U of I’s Cost Calculator to estimate tuition and other expenses associated with earning your degree.
Discover scholarship opportunities: When you apply to University of Idaho, you’re automatically considered for scholarships. Additional awards are available based on your previous experience, background and anticipated program of study.
If you have any questions about financial aid, scholarships or cost, U of I’s experienced financial aid counselors can help you make informed financial decisions and navigate each part of the process. Reach out to our Financial Aid Office for assistance.
Idaho LAUNCH
This degree is approved for Idaho LAUNCH, a grant that supports Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Students enrolling under the 2026–27 Academic Catalog may be eligible for up to $4,000 per year / $8,000 total in scholarship funding through the Idaho LAUNCH program.
Learn about eligibility and application deadlines at nextsteps.idaho.gov/launch, or see our full list of approved U of I programs on the in-state scholarships page.
Application instructions
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.
Overview
Duration:
4 years, 120 creditsLocations:
Moscow, OnlineRelated Topics
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty
Brian Fowler
Clinical Assistant Professor and RSTM Program Coordinator
Student finds a future in sports entertainment
Faculty mentorship and a sports sales conference helped students envision futures in sports entertainment
Sports are not a need, they’re a want. You have to make it fun and memorable, so fans buy the experience.
Lizzie Childers, '26
Graduate from sports management