COURSE CURRICULUM

The Sport Management programme provides students with the knowledge, practical experience and leadership skills required for successful careers in the global sports industry. In the first year, students develop strong academic, research and professional skills while gaining an introduction to sport management, sport marketing, international sport business and practical sport management through industry-focused modules. They learn how to collect and analyse qualitative and quantitative data, conduct academic research, develop digital and presentation skills, and build professional portfolios through the Develop@Derby programme and LinkedIn Learning. In the second year, the course focuses on advanced sport management practice, applied sport business management, entrepreneurship, project management and research methods, preparing students to design research projects, analyse data using specialist software, and understand business operations within sporting organisations. Students strengthen their employability through reflective professional development activities and practical industry engagement. In the final year, the programme explores strategic management, contemporary issues in sport management and development, sport event management and career development while culminating in an independent research project. Students critically evaluate current challenges affecting the sport sector, including governance, sustainability, innovation, commercial growth and organisational strategy, while applying theoretical knowledge to real-world industry situations. Throughout the degree, there is a strong emphasis on leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, entrepreneurship and evidence-based decision-making. Practical learning opportunities, industry projects and professional development activities ensure graduates gain valuable workplace experience alongside academic knowledge. The course equips students with expertise in sport business, marketing, event management, project planning, strategic leadership and research, preparing them for careers in sport management, professional sports organisations, governing bodies, marketing agencies, event management companies, community sport development, business consultancy and entrepreneurship. Graduates leave with a strong combination of academic knowledge, practical experience, research capability and transferable business skills, enabling them to adapt successfully to the rapidly evolving global sports industry and pursue further postgraduate study or professional leadership roles.