Master of Education in Sports Leadership (online)

Program Overview 

This 24-unit program combines ethical leadership principles with data-informed strategies to guide decision-making. Students may choose a focus in coaching or 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, flexible 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 work in areas such as coaching, athletic administration, and DEI coordination, making impactful contributions to the sports field. 

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 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 a $15,000 scholarship. There is no need to submit a separate application for this scholarship. Recipients are selected 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. Additional scholarship opportunities can be explored through the USC Rossier scholarship finder. 

Financial Aid 

The USC Financial Aid Office provides information on various financial assistance options. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required to assess eligibility for aid packages. 

Career Outcomes 

Graduates of the MSL 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