Sports Business

Penn State offers a multitude of opportunities in Sports Business with a new degree coming, sports marketing courses as a focus within their marketing studies, clubs and internship/job placement programs.

Overhead picture of Beaver Stadium at a whiteout football game with fireworks shooting off before the game starts

Sports Business Programs

A combination of robust industry focused coursework with a vast alumni network in sports business

The Smeal College of Business Sports Business Programs are a premier destination for sports business education as well as a hub for the sports alumni and industry partners. We blend cutting-edge coursework, hands-on industry placements, and exclusive events to equip students with a deep dive into the business of sports, marketing, and management. Our program isn't just about learning; it's about creating the future leaders of the sports industry

Smeal marketing majors entering the workforce after school secure competitive starting salaries which are dependent on industry, location, and company. Many alums become managers and executives later in their careers.

Where Smeal Sports Business Alumni Work

Programming for Current Students

For exceptional students committed to working in the sports industry, the program serves as the staging area for learning the soft skills beyond those currently offered in the classroom. Students will be provided with access to industry professionals as a personal network to help guide and advise them as they prepare to enter the industry. The key deliverables for students are: Internship and job opportunities, on-site visits to sports brands, modern content based on feedback from active industry partners and research as well as experiential learning activities.

Programming for Industry

Student success depends greatly on creating valuable partnerships and strategically placing well-prepared graduates into the sports industry. While our on-campus programs focus on education, industry experience is increasingly important for our students to have an impact quickly. Our programs facilitate these experiences by connecting students with alumni through our official industry mentorship program, our advanced “Top Gun” program for upper-class students (ie. juniors and seniors), and industry site visits and shadowing. We also serve as the official Smeal Sports Business Alumni to connect with each other through our on-campus and future off-campus events.

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Extra Resources for Students

Across the University Park campus, there are multiple students-run clubs which bring together sports fans to talk about and learn more about sports. Weekly meetings, guest speakers, and connection between students.