You'll need:
112–128 UCAS points (or equivalent)
Foundation Year: 64–80 UCAS points (or equivalent)
International Foundation Pathway:
64 UCAS (or equivalent)
IELTS: 5.5
UCAS Codes:
NC60
NC61 (If choosing Foundation Year)
Start date(s):
September 2026
Develop leadership strategies for top sports teams and organisations; create marketing and advertising plans for sport brands or deliver community sport initiatives to ensure access to sport for future generations.
At the University of Roehampton, we believe that sport is a powerful force for good. It is a dynamic area where human passion, cultural identity, community wellbeing, and commercial interests come together. Managing this requires a new kind of graduate. Professionals who combine an enthusiasm for sport with the skills and knowledge to find their way in a rapidly evolving and dynamic industry. Our BA Sport Management is designed to create such graduates
This programme equips you with the knowledge and practical expertise to manage sport at every level, from grassroots clubs to global organisations. You’ll explore real-life applications of sport management, preparing you for a wide range of careers across the sector.
Choose an accredited degree
The programme is proudly accredited by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).
This means our BA Sport Management aligns with professional standards for Working in the Community, giving you industry-recognised skills and knowledge. The accreditation reflects our focus on a professionally integrated curriculum, with real-world assessments such as business plans, consultancy projects, and portfolio development. Graduates leave ready to enter the sport sector with a CIMSPA-endorsed qualification and professional membership, enhancing employability and signalling immediate industry readiness.
As part of this course, you’ll benefit from:
- industry informed skills and knowledge that strengthen your employability
- practical experience and digital capabilities valued across sport management and related fields
- accreditation from the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA)
- a student-centred learning approach that reflects the real demands of the sector
- assessments designed to mirror professional practice and support your success.
You’ll gain a solid foundation in understanding the people, business, and communities behind sport, including:
- what motivates athletes, fans, volunteers, and communities
- the cultures, governance structures, and ethical challenges that shape the sector
- strategic planning, marketing, and commercial opportunities
- using data and research to guide effective decision making.
During your time with us, you’ll build industry relevant expertise in areas such as sports leadership, sport business planning, and community engagement. These experiences will help you develop the confidence to think strategically, communicate clearly across varied audiences, and apply strong planning, evaluation, and problem-solving skills, equipping you to make a meaningful impact in sport at local, national, and global levels.
Modules
In this module you will develop the analytical skills needed to navigate the global sports market, using data to inform strategic decisions. You will learn to evaluate commercial opportunities, fan engagement, participation trends, and athlete performance using industry-standard sources such as the Sport England Active Lives Survey. You will explore methods for generating sports-related data, critically assess data quality and bias, and consider the ethical use of information. Through practical analysis, you will learn to translate raw data into evidence-based arguments and strategic recommendations, preparing you to make informed, professional decisions in sports management.
In this module you will critically explore the historical, political, and economic frameworks that shape global sport systems. You will examine the role of national and international governing bodies, and analyse how policy, commercial interests, and community needs intersect in contemporary sport. Using comparative case studies, you will develop analytical skills to address real-world challenges, consider social justice and inclusive access, and evaluate the environmental responsibilities of sporting events. You will use digital tools to research and present policy analyses, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to professional roles in sports policy and management.
In this module you will explore the core business principles that underpin the global sports industry and their application in managing sport events. You will develop knowledge in marketing, finance, human resources, operations, and legal frameworks, using sports event planning as a practical case study. You will analyse consumer behaviour, sports branding, sponsorship, event logistics, digital engagement, and corporate social responsibility. Through assessments such as event proposals and digital audience analysis, you will build professional skills while considering social, environmental, and inclusivity responsibilities, preparing you to operate effectively and sustainably in the international sports sector.
In this module you will explore the human mind and behaviour in the context of sport, physical activity, and organisations, developing insights relevant to performance, leadership, and personal development. You will examine motivation, personality, relationships, group dynamics, diversity, morality, and stress, linking theory to professional practice. Through applied activities, you will build critical thinking skills and understand how human behaviour impacts performance and organisational effectiveness. Additionally, you will engage in transitional seminars designed to support your move into university, focusing on self-awareness, learning ownership, social integration, confidence, and professionalism, helping you adapt successfully to higher education and your future career.
These are the current planned modules on this course and may be subject to change.
In this module you will explore the relationship between sports organisations and their diverse consumers, recognising that people engage with sport in many ways as participants, fans, or followers. You will learn to analyse consumer motivation, involvement, and satisfaction using psychological and sociological frameworks such as the Psychological Continuum Model. You will examine consumer segmentation, constraints to equitable engagement, and cultural influences on sport consumption globally. Through practical problem-solving, you will develop the skills to balance commercial priorities with inclusive and socially responsible strategies, evaluating how external factors and evolving consumer expectations shape brand loyalty and organisational decision-making.
In this module you will examine how sport and sport events can drive social change and development within local communities. You will explore models of community-based sport, addressing challenges such as funding, volunteer management, and sustainable resource allocation. You will learn to design inclusive, accessible initiatives and evaluate their impact, considering strategies to overcome participation barriers and ensure long-term viability. Through case studies and policy frameworks, you will develop practical skills to leverage sport and local events to address social issues, preparing you for professional roles in community sport and event management.
In this module you will develop essential research and analytical skills for the data-driven sports industry. You will learn to source, interpret, and critically evaluate quantitative and qualitative data, using industry-standard tools to address practical challenges. You will cover the full research process, from formulating ethical questions to visualising data for decision-making and storytelling. Applying these skills to real-world scenarios and international datasets, you will prepare for future applied projects. You will also reflect on the ethical use of data, ensuring you can leverage analytics to support strategic, inclusive, and evidence-based outcomes in sports management.
In this module you will explore the commercial health and fitness sector and its evolution towards wellness, examining national and international industry trends, policy, and applied practice. You will investigate individual and psychological aspects of behaviour change, including nutrition, programme design, special populations, and the impact of AI and digital technology. Through real-world case studies, you will apply learning to practical settings. Assessments include creating a podcast analysing a health, fitness, or wellness initiative and developing a behaviour change campaign aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles, enabling you to integrate theory with professional practice in the evolving wellness industry.
These are the current planned modules on this course and may be subject to change.
This course offers all students the option of a one-year paid work placement, to boost your employability even further. If you choose this route, you will take the placement following year two of your course, and then return to complete your degree.
Why take a placement?
A placement year is the perfect opportunity to gain valuable work experience, to build on the career skills we will teach you on this degree. The connections you make on the placement will improve your career prospects further, and equip you with the skills you need to secure graduate-level employment.
How we support you
The University's Placement and Work Experience Team are experts at helping you to secure a placement. They will work closely with you from the start, helping you research potential employers, discover placement opportunities, create and pitch your CV, and will coach you to perform well in interviews. We aren't able to guarantee a placement, but our sector-leading advisors will give you the best possible chance of securing one.
Find out more about how we'll support you
We understand that your plans might change once you start your programme. If you decide not to do a placement, you will have the option of completing the three year version of your programme.
Whatever your choice, you will have access to many opportunities for work experience through our Placement and Work Experience Team, and access to face-to-face and 24/7 online careers support.
In this module you will build on your psychological learning from earlier years, focusing on People Management and Development in professional sports and physical activity contexts. You will explore internal organisational behaviour, covering decision making, teamwork, leadership, conflict management, negotiation, communication, culture, and change management. The module prepares you for real-world careers by guiding you through professional practices and expectations. Assessments include creating a CV, developing a LinkedIn profile, and completing a mock job interview, equipping you with the skills and confidence to navigate recruitment processes and succeed in professional roles within the sports and physical activity sectors.
In this module you will develop and refine your own sports or physical activity-based business ideas, learning how to navigate the journey from concept to potential implementation. You will explore core business functions such as sales, marketing, networking, planning, organisation, cash flow, and finance, applying these to create a realistic and viable business proposal. Assessments include a framework business model, company website, and social media presence. You will also engage with guest speakers, including alumni who have successfully launched businesses, gaining insights and inspiration to take your first steps towards self-employment in the commercial sport and physical activity sector.
In this module you will explore the legal and ethical challenges shaping sport, analysing how global commercial pressures intersect with local and international legal and regulatory frameworks. You will examine the social responsibilities of sports organisations, addressing issues such as integrity, corruption, athlete rights, welfare, and governance of emerging technologies including AI and data privacy. Through the study of legal cases and ethical dilemmas, you will evaluate the impact of law and policy on sport at all levels. The module develops your understanding of how legal structures interact with social forces, including social justice, inclusion, and environmental sustainability in sport.
In this module you will engage with real-world sports management challenges through a year-long applied project, either as a traditional research project or a sports and event consultancy. You will partner with clubs, agencies, or event organisations to address specific industry needs, applying theoretical frameworks to practical scenarios. Working independently and collaboratively, you will develop and demonstrate your ability to analyse issues, refine specialist skills in event organisation and management, and create a portfolio piece showcasing your cumulative knowledge. The project bridges classroom learning with the global sports marketplace, progressing from group collaboration to individual evaluation of your project’s success.
These are the current planned modules on this course and may be subject to change.
This course offers a foundation year, which takes place at the beginning of your studies. Studying a foundation year will give you academic and practical experience, and a strong introduction to your subject, ensuring you succeed on your undergraduate degree.
30 credits
You will develop your core academic and integrated English language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. You will become familiar with key academic skills and concepts, such as referencing methods and awareness of academic integrity and tone. You will apply these skills and knowledge to both broad topics and also your chosen subject pathway.
Teaching and learning
You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.
You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.
You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.
Assessment
You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs.
30 credits
You will develop your core academic and integrated English language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. You will become familiar with key academic skills and concepts, such as referencing methods and awareness of academic integrity and tone. You will apply these skills and knowledge to both broad topics and also your chosen subject pathway.
Teaching and Learning
You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.
You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.
You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.
Assessment
You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs.
30 credits
You will develop your research, numeracy and information technology skills. You will investigate the difference between primary and secondary research, conduct your own research project and demonstrate your findings through data analysis. You will also develop your awareness of equality, diversion and inclusion in the UK, through a real-world issue; discrimination in the workplace.
Teaching and learning
You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.
You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.
You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.
Assessment
You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs.
30 credits
This module will explore critical aspects of research in Sports Science, Management and Therapy through methods of scientific thinking, techniques and experimental design, and will provide an opportunity to investigate the use of several techniques in all three disciplines.
You will be encouraged to explore correlational and experimental methods, the role of statistics, scientific argumentation and ethical working practices in relation to current scientific topics as reflected in news reports, recent academic publications and historical case studies. You will also be encouraged to critically debate relevant topics in sport and evaluate the need for rigorous quantitative and qualitative evidence in sports research.
You will begin with an introduction to the importance of evidence-based practice and the scientific method, progressing to an exploration of qualitative and quantitative research designs, data collection techniques, and ethical considerations. You will also gain hands-on experience with statistical analysis and the use of technological tools in sports research, such as wearable devices and performance monitoring equipment.
Teaching and learning
The module emphasises the development of professional communication skills, including scientific writing, data presentation, and effective poster presentations. Through workshops, case studies, and discussions, you will learn to identify potential biases and limitations in research, critically assess findings, and communicate results in a clear and impactful manner.
The teaching delivery for each module consists of one, one-three-hour lecture and one, two-hour seminar per week.
You will have a diverse learning experience of interactive workshops, case studies, practical exercises, group discussions, problem-based learning and guest speakers.
You will also have an additional 30 minutes of online digital support each week to enhance your understanding and learning.
Assessment
This module will be assessed using an information poster and reflections and a research proposal.
30% - informative poster, you will create a research poster that critically examines two contrasting prospectives on a chosen sports research topic.
70% - research proposal, develop a detailed research proposal on a specific sports-related topic of your choice.
30 credits
This module introduces you to the dynamic and evolving world of sports management, providing a comprehensive foundation for understanding the global sports industry and its diverse career opportunities.
It will cover key aspects of the sports ecosystem, including marketing, media, legal frameworks, financial management, and leadership, while equipping you with practical skills for employability and reflective practice.
You will gain an in-depth understanding of the global sports industry's structure, stakeholders, and career pathways, exploring the roles and responsibilities that drive success in various sectors.
You will examine principles of sports marketing and branding, the influence of media and communication strategies on fan engagement, and the practical aspects of planning and managing sports events. The module also delves into essential topics such as legal and ethical considerations, financial management, and leadership in sports organisations.
Teaching and learning
Through workshops, case studies, and reflective practices, you will develop self-awareness of your strengths and skills, preparing you for future roles in the industry. Emphasis is placed on employability, with opportunities to engage in interviews, participate in employability workshops, and deliver group presentations as part of the module's assessments.
The teaching delivery for each module consists of one, one-three-hour lecture and one, two-hour seminar per week.
You will have a diverse learning experience of interactive workshops, case studies, practical exercises, group discussions, problem-based learning and guest speakers.
You will also have an additional 30 minutes of online support each week to enhance your understanding and learning.
Assessment
This module will be assessed using an interview and reflections and a group presentation.
50% - interview for a position within the sports management industry (10 mins), following the interview you will be required to submit a reflective report on your experience.
50% - group presentation, you will analyse a sports organisation of your choice and develop a business improvement plan.
These are the current planned modules on this course and may be subject to change.
Careers
You will leave this degree ready to turn your passion for sport into a thriving career.
With CIMSPA-aligned professional accreditation, you’ll graduate with credentials that employers trust.
You will gain real-world experience, applying skills in marketing, strategy, people management, and data analysis to live projects. Your capstone, Sport Management in Action, lets you tackle industry challenges and build a portfolio that shows what you can do.
You will graduate with expertise in sports event management, capable of creating impactful experiences in community, commercial, and international contexts. You’ll also develop future-ready skills in data, digital strategy, and ethical decision-making.
By the time you finish, you will be ready to step straight into roles across event coordination, venue management, community sport, and wider global sport careers, making an immediate impact from day one.
Student Blog
We spoke with Joshua Akinwunmi, professional Motorsport Formula 3 athlete and BA Sports Management student, about his experiences balancing life on the track and in the classroom.
Learning and assessment
How you’ll learn
You will learn through an engaging, student-centred approach designed to prepare you for the real-world demands of the sport industry.
Our teaching sees you as an active collaborator, with tutors acting as facilitators to guide your learning. Your experience will be inclusive, globally aware, digitally fluent, professionally relevant, and sustainable.
Your learning is carefully scaffolded across the three levels of study. In your first year, you will build foundational knowledge and core academic skills within a supportive environment. Year 2 focuses on applying theory to practical, industry-aligned challenges, helping you develop analytical and professional skills. By year 3, you will be synthesising knowledge across disciplines, leading projects, and creating innovative solutions as a confident, independent practitioner.
Aligned with CIMSPA professional standards, the programme embeds key business functions, people management, and community engagement throughout modules such as Entrepreneurship in Sport, Working in Sport Organisations, and Transforming Communities through Sport, ensuring you are both academically proficient and professionally ready.
Gain real world skills on placement
This course offers all students the option of a one-year paid work placement, to boost your employability even further. If you choose this route, you will take the placement following year two of your course and then return to complete your degree.
Throughout the course, you’ll be supported by a dedicated and passionate team of lecturers and sector professionals.
How you’ll be assessed
You will be supported throughout your degree with a structured, real-world focused assessment approach designed to help you succeed.
Every major assignment is supported by at least one formative task, such as draft submissions, proposals, or plans, giving you the chance to receive actionable feedback and refine your work before final submission.
Assessments are authentic and professionally relevant, including project-based coursework, consultancy reports, strategic pitches, and portfolio development. Many are informed by real-world challenges faced by existing sport organisations. In previous years, students have completed assessments involving IMG, Harlequins RFC, StreetGames, and Endeavour. Where possible, you will be able to choose your assessment topic, allowing you to highlight your skills in ways that reflect your interests and help shape your future career.
You will be supported to achieve the best grades possible through a range of formative activities and scaffolded tasks which evolve across the programme. At Level 4 you will build foundational skills, at Level 5 you will develop applied problem-solving and collaboration, and at Level 6 you will undertake independent, professional-standard projects. By the end of your degree, you will have the skills, confidence, and professional judgement to excel in both academic and real-world settings.
Staff
Merijn Van Willigen
Hi I’m Merijn, the programme convenor for the BA Sports Management, and a senior lecturer in Sport and Physical Education. I’m a graduate of Roehampton University, having achieved my Master’s in Sport, Culture and Development here in 1999, before I gained a further Master’s in International Sports Law from Anglia Ruskin. I’ve got over 20 years’ experience teaching in Higher Education, and I’ve taught modules at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. My main interests are in policy and politics, inequality and coaching.
Adrian O'Connor
Following a lifetime’s worth of experience in sports, exercise, fitness and health, I joined the University of Roehampton in 2010 to work on the sports programmes. It was my honour to deliver the first ever lecture on the Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching which ‘gave birth’ to today’s full three-year BA Sport Coaching degree. As well as being a Senior Lecturer in the School of Education for coaching, I also work on the new BA Sports Management degree programme, and I am the Programme Convenor for the Postgraduate Certificate in Personal & Professional Development in the Business School. My greatest interest in sport is sports psychology but I’m also really interested in developing the students’ critical thinking skills and how these relate to their next steps and their success after graduation.
Open days
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Applying
Full-time UK undergraduate students apply through UCAS.
Entry tariff
112–128 UCAS points (or equivalent)
Foundation Year: 64–80 UCAS points (or equivalent)
Looking to work out your UCAS points or find out about our entry requirements? Find out more.
When we consider applications to study with us, we form a complete view of your achievements to date, and future potential, and can offer flexibility in entry requirements. Find out more about our Contextual Offer scheme.
General entry requirements
September 2025 entry tuition fees
UK (home) tuition fees
Undergraduate degree: £9,535
Foundation Year: £9,535
We offer a wide range of scholarships and bursaries. See our financial support pages for UK students.
We also provide other ways to support the cost of living, including on-campus car parking, hardship support and some of the most affordable student accommodation and catering in London. Find out more about how we can support you.
International undergraduate students apply through our direct application system.
Entry tariff
112–128 UCAS points (or equivalent)
International Foundation Pathway:
64 UCAS (or equivalent)
IELTS: 5.5
Looking to work out your UCAS points or find out about our entry requirements? Find out more.
When we consider applications to study with us, we form a complete view of your achievements to date, and future potential, and can offer flexibility in entry requirements. Find out more about our Contextual Offer scheme.
General entry requirements
September 2025 entry tuition fees
EU and international tuition fees
Undergraduate degree: £16,950
Foundation Year: £16,950
International Foundation Pathway: £16,950
We offer a wide range of scholarships and bursaries. See our financial support pages for international students.
We also provide other ways to support the cost of living, including on-campus car parking, hardship support and some of the most affordable student accommodation and catering in London. Find out more about how we can support you.
