MS in the Business of Sports

Get in the game with a master’s program that blends sports, business, and real-world experience.

WashU Olin’s MS in the Business of Sports is designed for students who are passionate about turning a love of sports into a dynamic career. This engaging program combines coursework in marketing, analytics, communications, sales strategies, sports media, entrepreneurship, sports law, and more — giving you a well-rounded foundation in sports-related business. Our unique degree prepares you for many areas of this growing industry, including corporate partnerships, digital media, ticketing, pricing analysis, event and venue operations, and business intelligence, working with teams, leagues, or agencies.

Please note: Fall 2026 enrollment for MS in the Business of Sports is currently limited to domestic students. WashU Olin is in the process of securing the required government approvals to welcome international students to this program.

In the classroom

Your business foundation spans marketing, finance, management, sales, entrepreneurship, and data analytics — skills you’ll apply in sports-focused courses taught by industry pros. This dynamic mix of core business fundamentals (35%) and specialized sports curriculum (65%) gives you the strategic edge to thrive in a wide range of sports careers and organizations.

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In the game

You have the opportunity to build relationships with industry leaders through our strong national and regional partnerships. This creates valuable connections for summer internships and, not to mention, full-time roles after graduation. You’ll be able to leverage the power of our network – 600+ people strong across over 450 companies nationwide.

Meet industry leaders

Why we stand out among our competitors

WashU Olin is the only top 25 university in the U.S. whose business school offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in the Business of Sports. Our depth and expertise in sports business give you a front-row seat to the sports industry and an unparalleled educational journey.

Sports Business Immersion Trips

Olin’s MS in the Business of Sports takes students inside the industry through fast-paced immersion trips across the country. You will visit pro teams, college programs, and influential organizations — from venues to management to marketing agencies — while hearing directly from leaders shaping the field. Powered by Olin’s extensive sports business network, these experiences connect you with executives and alumni working in finance, strategy, operations, talent, marketing, and more — helping you turn your passion for sports into a career.

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Sports Industry Contributor

Patrick Rishe, Sports Business Program Director

Dr. Patrick Rishe directs WashU Olin’s Sports Business Program and actively shapes national sports business conversations through contributions to CNBC and Marketscale. His deep knowledge of sports business and his industry connections have helped put Olin on the map as a top sports business program.

Meet Patrick

 

What I found most remarkable about my experience was the mentorship I received.  Classes not only provided a platform for engagement but also helped me establish myself as a meaningful contributor and project leader within the student-led sports business club.

—Kally Wendler, Olin '22, Manager, Brands, Wasserman