Master of Education in Sports Administration and Leadership (online)

Program Overview 

Fully taught online and composed of 24 units, the MSAL program combines ethical leadership principles with data-informed strategies to guide decision-making. It can be completed in as little as one year full-time or at a flexible, part-time pace. Students may choose a focus in coaching or postsecondary athletic administration, each offering a tailored approach to achieving their professional goals.

In this program, students will: 

• Earn a degree from USC Rossier, known for advancing equity and social justice in education and sports. 

• Participate in fully online classes designed for working professionals. 

• Gain skills applicable in coaching, athletic administration, and community engagement. 

• Develop evidence-based practices in leadership, mental health support, and strategic communication. 

• Connect with a network of professionals spanning youth, collegiate, and professional sports.

Curriculum 

The curriculum is built on human-centered leadership, promoting athlete well-being, social responsibility, and inclusive practices. Moving beyond traditional business-focused approaches, this program emphasizes holistic athlete support and ethical decision-making. Graduates are prepared to apply these principles in roles such as coaching, athletic administration, player development, and community engagement, leading initiatives that foster growth, well-being, and positive development across the sports landscape.

Students can select electives in Coaching or Postsecondary Athletic Administration. Coaching electives explore topics like coaching philosophy, identity development, and emerging trends, while administration electives focus on athletic management, student-athlete dynamics, and Title IX issues.

Capstone 

The Capstone course allows students to synthesize their learning and apply it to real-world scenarios in their chosen field. Through this project, students will demonstrate critical thinking, ethical judgment, and strategic communication to address relevant issues, highlighting their readiness to lead with integrity.

Online Learning Experience 

The program’s online format blends weekly interactive live sessions with self-paced coursework, offering a structured yet flexible learning experience. Faculty-led discussions foster engagement, while flexible assignments allow you to seamlessly integrate learning into your schedule.

Scholarships 

As an applicant, you will be automatically considered for limited, merit-based scholarships of up to $15,000. There is no need to submit a separate application for these scholarships. The admission committee selects recipients based on academic achievement, demonstrated dedication to the USC Rossier mission and other distinguishing characteristics. Priority consideration is given to those who apply by the Rossier Scholarship Deadline. All USC Rossier scholarships are awarded at the time of admission.

View USC Rossier’s scholarship finder to identify other scholarships and funding opportunities. You do not have to be admitted to apply to these scholarships. Carefully note the scholarship application deadlines, which may occur before the final program application deadline.

Financial Aid 

The USC Office of Student Financial Aid provides information regarding various types of financial aid and financing options.

To be considered for financial aid, you must apply by filing the FAFSA. After you apply, the financial aid office will determine your financial need and inform you of the federal or private loans that are available to you.

Career Outcomes 

Graduates of the MSAL program are prepared to create meaningful, positive experiences for student-athletes and others involved in sports. With a focus on ethical leadership, the program prepares students for impactful roles in sports administration, coaching, and community engagement, empowering them to support inclusivity and foster growth within athletic environments.

Career pathways include: 

• Higher education athletic leadership 

• Coaching 

• High school athletic leadership 

• Youth sports leadership 

• Community sports leadership 

• Professional sports leadership