BA (Hons)
International Sports Management with Men’s Football
Degree Programme

Core courses

• LANG 3100 Fundamentals of English for Academic Writing and Oracy

  This course is designed to enable students to communicate effectively at university level. Students will be provided with input from a range of texts and audio from cross-cultural materials and practice fundamental research and writing and oracy skills. Students will become more familiar with the academic environment and its conventions through spoken and written production. With exposure to a range of academic texts, talks and digital skills, students will appreciate the role of academic integrity. The course gives students the opportunity to think, listen, talk and write with confidence and clarity, which will help them succeed in other courses.

• LIBA 3101 Tools for Change

  In this course, students will be introduced to a range of foundational skills to aid in their progression and success at the University and allow them to begin the process of becoming collaborative and independent learners. These skills will be introduced through investigations of social and/or environmental issues in the local area, using group work and report writing. Students will be introduced to, and use, a range of digital platforms as aids to effective communication through professional academic oral presentations and written reports using secondary sources. In addition,students will be presented with reflective writing tools through a personal development portfolio that can aid in self-improvement, particularly in an academic setting.

• LIBA 3102 Fundamentals of Research and Writing

  This course concentrates on developing the students’ ability to read and think critically, and to read, understand and analyse texts from a range of genres. How do you successfully negotiate a path through a sea of information and then write it up? Using essential information literacy skills to help with guided research, this course develops the ability to produce effective and appropriate academic writing across the curriculum.

• MATH 3102 Fundamentals of Mathematics and Statistics

  This course is designed to be a foundation in mathematics and statistics that will provide students with the necessary knowledge for courses in probability and statistics, mathematics, and data analysis. The course will cover content from solving linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic equations, co-ordinate geometry analysis, function analysis, sequences and series to applied topics such as measures of central tendencies and measures of spread of data calculations with outliers, representations of data, probability calculations and discrete random variables.

• BUSM 3101 Fundamentals of Business

  This module introduces students to the exciting world of business. It explores what businesses are, why they exist, and how they work. Students learn about different types of businesses, from small local shops to huge global companies. The course also looks at the people involved in businesses, what they do, and the challenges they face. This module students gives students a solid foundation for further study in business and management.

• SPRT 3101 Fundamentals of Sport Studies

  Foundations of Sport Studies provides students with a comprehensive foundation to the multifaceted world of sport and provides a critical grounding in sport studies – with a specific focus on sport’s cultural, social, governance and business-related aspects.

Core courses

• SPRT 4101 Global Sport and Social Dynamics

  This course introduces students to the critical examination of how sports reflect and shape broader cultural, social, and political dynamics across the globe. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students will explore key cultural and ideological issues in sport, focusing on how race, gender, class, and disability are both reinforced and contested within sporting contexts. Drawing on foundational social theories, students will analyse the role of sp

• SPRT 4103 Sports Economics

  An introduction to economic principles and methodology applicable to sports. To provide students with the opportunity to explore the way in which economic theory and evidence can be used to analyse important policy issues in sports on the local, regional, national, and or global level.

• SPRT 4102 Introduction to Sport Business

  This course explores the diverse and expanding practice of sport business in an international context. It provides a comprehensive foundation of the economic, organisational and legal components of the sports industry. Students will explore facets of sport business within areas such as sport event management, sports law, and sports marketing. Contemporary issues related to sport business such as the media, sports analytics, corporate social responsibility, and retailing are also examined.

Complete L4 Academic Literacies required course

• LIBA 4301 Academic Research and Writing

  This course is designed to develop students’ critical research and writing skills to be effective in the academic and professional world. It focuses on principles of good scholarship and academic practice that will be required throughout university study and in a future professional work environment. These skills are enhanced throughout the course. Upon completion of this course, successful students will become confident in using available resources to produce well-researched writing that demonstrates critical engagement with a self-selected research topic.

Complete L4 Arts/Humanities required course

• COMM 4301 Introduction to Digital Communication

  Introduction to Digital Communication explores the dynamic intersection of sports media and digital platforms. This course focuses on key digital communication strategies for engaging sports audiences and students will learn essential digital communication techniques, including social media management, content creation, fan engagement and digital storytelling. By examining current case studies and industry trends, students will also develop practical skills to thrive in the fast-evolving world of digital sports media. The course will emphasize hands-on projects to give students experience creating and distributing sports content across various digital channels.

Complete L4 Social/Behavioural Science required course

• PSYC 4301 Introduction to Sport Psychology

  This course enables students to understand the relevance of psychological issues in sport and sports coaching. The influence of the social context on sports participation and performance is emphasised as fundamental in the study of sport and sport psychology. The development of the discipline and current thinking concerning sporting performance and the sports performer is studied and related to students’ personal experiences. The theoretical underpinnings of sport engagement and optimal performance are also explored using case studies, projects, and group interactions. The course examines practical implications and applications of sport psychology via personal experience and use of examples in the media where appropriate to demonstrate theory into practice. An overarching theme of the course is a focus on the use of psychological strategies and interventions to optimize sport experiences, health, well-being and performance of athletes.

Complete L4 Data/Numeracy required course

• MATH 4101 Probability and Statistics

  This course in probability and statistics includes theoretical and applied approaches which are primarily designed for business, data science, social science and psychology majors. The course coverage will include: descriptive statistics, elementary probability theory, random variables and expectations, discrete probability distributions (Binomial and Poisson distributions), continuous probability distribution (Normal distribution), sampling distributions, estimation and hypothesis testing about the mean and proportions of up to two populations, Chi-square tests, One-way ANOVA and F Distribution, linear, multiple and non-linear regression and Non-parametric methods. SPSS lab sessions will be included targeting applications of statistical concepts to business, data science, social science and psychology. All practical work will be produced using SPSS statistical software.

Complete L4 Science required course

• SPRT 4301 Exercise, Nutrition and Lifestyle Management

  The module explores the behavioural aspects of diet and important food hygiene issues. Key topics examined are nutritional interventions before and during performance, recovery strategies, the nutritional needs of special populations, and topical health issues which can be addressed through physical activity and/or dietary manipulation. Students will also investigate the application of these issues in professional practice and examine the translation of knowledge about nutrition and sport, exercise and physical activity into practical guidance for individuals and groups.

Upper-Division Requirements

• SPRT 5103 Sports Management

  This course explores the diverse and expanding practice of sport management in an international context. Alongside the underpinning theoretical concepts, students will explore international sport management theory and practice within functional areas such as leadership, human resource management, organization, and planning as well as from historical, cultural, political, and business perspectives. Contemporary issues related to the management of international sports, such as corporate social responsibility, strategic management, and the media are also examined.

• SPRT 5104 Sports Marketing

  The course introduces students to the core philosophy and process of sport marketing. It examines the essential practices of effective sports marketing including, marketing strategy, product development, segmentation, targeting, pricing, and consumer behavior. Learning activities include in-depth analysis of case studies, sport markets and consumers, market research and sports market segmentation, and sport marketing plans.

• SPRT 5102 Sports Events Planning and Promotion

  This course introduces students to the principles, concepts, and steps involved in planning and executing successful sports events. Students will explore the cultural significance of sports events, studying how they shape and reflect societal values, traditions, and identities. Students will examine diverse and complex sports event management contexts, applying a wide range of techniques and information sources to plan and execute successful sports events. The course covers wide-ranging areas of knowledge, including the latest theories, ideas, and concepts in sports event management, and their application in real-world scenarios. Students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, applying relevant principles and techniques to address complex challenges in sports event management. They will also engage in creative processes to design innovative sports event solutions. The course emphasizes practical skills, including the organization and communication of information, teamwork, and the design and development of sports event projects. Students will develop an awareness of ethical and professional values, taking responsibility for their decisions and actions in the context of sports event management. The course explores current industry standards and emerging trends in sports event management, including sustainability practices, technological advancements, and regulatory requirements. Students will examine various types of sports events, including professional tournaments, community sports festivals, charity runs, and school sports days, and learn to address their unique needs and challenges.

• SPRT 5101 International Sports Governance

  This course examines the governance of international sport with a focus on regulatory functions and organisational structures. Students will evaluate the role of national and international sports governing bodies and analyse ways in which good governance frameworks are embedded in corporate and non-profit sports organisations. The course also explores the role of stakeholding in sports governance and practices of social responsibility within various international sports settings. Students have the opportunity to critically reflect on the strategic organisation of sport in different countries and engage with a variety of contemporary issues and challenges facing international sports organisations.

Complete L5 Research Methods required course

• SPRT 5301 Research Methods for Sports Management

  This course offers a comprehensive exploration of research methods in international sports management. Students will engage with a range of research philosophies and learn how to conduct critical literature reviews. The course emphasizes the application of both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis techniques. By participating in practical exercises and collaborative projects, students will develop the skills necessary to design and conduct research studies, effectively communicate their findings, and critically reflect on ethical considerations in the research process. This course prepares students for their Senior Projects by equipping them with the knowledge and applied skills required to conduct independent research in the field of international sports management.

Complete L5 Service-Learning required course

• LIBA 5302 Service Learning: Leadership in a Globalised World

  This course helps students make a real difference in the world. Service learning as experiential learning combines community service with academic study. This course will apply service learning to global challenges and how to be a leader that creates positive change. Students will work on live projects and challenges to address realworld issues. Students will learn how to lead and work with diverse teams to make a positive impact. Skills will be gained from working on a project with charities, NGOs, or nonprofit organisations on citizenship concepts which will enable the student to critically reflect through service-learning. This course builds professional, entrepreneurial and personal skills to engage with a variety of stakeholders. This course is underpinned by JEDI approaches to justice, equality, diversity and inclusion across the global community.

Core courses

• SPRT 6102 Sport Finance

  This course examines the importance of finance within professional sports. It grounds students in the ‘real world’ of financial management in sport, illustrating how to apply financial concepts and appreciate the importance of finance in sound sport management and operations.

• SPRT 6101 Sports Branding and Sponsorship

  This course explores the strategic role of branding and sponsorship in modern sports business. Emphasizing digital innovations, fan engagement, and corporate social responsibility, students analyse case studies of major sponsorship deals and branding campaigns. The course addresses contemporary challenges in global sports marketing, focusing on building brand equity, maximizing sponsorship value, and navigating ethical considerations.

• SPRT 6103 Team and Leadership Dynamics in Sport

  This advanced leadership course is tailored to the sporting context, focusing on developing indepth critical, analytical, and practical leadership skills. Through case studies, projects, and group interactions, students will engage with complex theories and practices related to group dynamics, small group behaviour, motivation, power structures, and communication, specifically within sports teams. Emphasis is placed on the sociological and psychological dimensions of team leadership, encouraging students to autonomously analyse, synthesize, and solve sophisticated team-related challenges through simulations, real-world sports scenarios, and reflective practice. Students will take responsibility for leading projects, critically evaluating team management approaches, and developing specialist strategies to enhance team performance in complex, dynamic sporting environments.

• SPRT 6110 Senior Project

  The Senior Project in International Sports Management is designed to allow students to design and execute an independent research project in the discipline by applying skills and knowledge gained during their studies. Students develop a research project by establishing a robust framework, conducting a comprehensive literature review, devising an appropriate research methodology to investigate a relevant hypothesis or topic within sports management. Students are also encouraged to collect primary data, analyse and interpret data, and to formulate recommendations for sports industry audiences.

Plus EITHER

• SPRT 6401 Internship

  The internship is a work placement within an organization related to the world of sport management. It provides students with an experiential learning opportunity in which to develop intellectual, professional, and personal skills and prepares students to function effectively in culturally diverse working environments across key sport management sectors. Internships are supervised by faculty and each student will also complete a series of learning activities throughout the internship. These activities are designed to help students reflect on personal development and key skills attained, the benefits gained from the internship experience, and to shape and determine goals for future career pathways.

Or both courses

• SPRT 6104 Coaching and Team Management in Sports

  This module explores the science and practice of coaching. The coach and coaching are at the core of sport and sporting experience. In this course the foci are the coach as a person and coaching practice as a complex social encounter. In the course students will examine practical, vocational and scientific principles that underpin the sports coaching process. This course is practice-oriented and will provide students with skills, knowledge and scientific background needed to prepare athletes and sports people technically, tactically, physically and mentally. This module helps to bridge the gap between coaching theory and from coaching practice enabling students to develop and extend their coaching expertise.

• SPRT 6105 Talent Identification and Development in Sport: Principles and Practice

  This course explores key factors and issues in contemporary sport, including genetics, secondary factors such as birth date, cultural context, and population size, perceptual motor skill acquisition and expertise, and sports development policy. Through in-depth case studies, including European soccer, East African running, and US professional sports, students will critically evaluate these factors and their practical implications. The course emphasizes practical skills, ethical considerations, and an interdisciplinary approach, preparing students for professional roles in sports coaching, development, and talent management.