Department of Kinesiology
Masters of Sport Administration – in 1 Year
An accelerated program built for students ready to launch a career in the sports industry.
Degree Snapshot
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Length: 12 months (full-time)
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Units: 30 units (10 courses)
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Start term: Fall (one cohort per year)
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Format: Face-to-face
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Estimated cost: $13,903 (CA residents)
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Application window: Oct 1 – May 1
About the Program
Fresno State’s M.A. in Sport Administration combines graduate-level coursework with hands-on sport industry experience. You’ll build a clear career direction, gain real experience through internships, and develop the professional skills to prepare you for a career in sport.
Internships
You won’t just learn about sport—you’ll work in sport. Students complete two internships, gaining valuable real-world experience.
Popular internship areas:
- Youth sports
- High school sports
- College athletics
- Olympic sports
- Professional sport settings
Careers
We guide our students through every phase of the sport career process. We help you identify a sport career direction, then build the skills, experience, and network to pursue it with confidence.
Whether you already know your career path or are still trying to figure it out, our #1 goal is to help you reach yours.
Common career paths:
- Athletic administration
- Marketing and communications
- Development/fundraising and external relations
- Operations & event management
- NCAA compliance & administration
- Ticketing, sales & sponsorship
- Athlete services & performance
- More!
Program FAQ
You’re only 12 months away from earning your Master’s degree.
10 courses. One clear sequence. Built to prepare you for your career.
Fall - 3 classes
- Kines 245 - Career Development
- Kines 246 - Sport Revenue
- Kines 230 - Statistics
Spring - 3 classes
- Kines 285 - Sport Internship
- Kines 267 - Advanced High Performance Practices
- Kines 231 - Research Methods
Summer - 4 classes
- Kines 285 - Sport Internship
- Kines 241 - Sport Leadership
- Kines 244 - Sport Law
- Kines 247 - Title IX
Summer courses are designed so you do not need to be on campus during the summer session.
This is a fast-paced, full-time graduate program.
Workload at a glance:
- Fall & Spring: 9 hours/week in class + 25–30 hours/week outside class
- Summer (9 weeks): 20 hours/week in class + 60 hours/week outside class
While the program is demanding, you won’t be doing it alone—we will guide, support, and cheer you on every step of the way.
"Thank you for all your guidance and mentorship. I have developed tremendously in my personal and professional life. I now feel equipped and prepared for my future."
-Mimi Ho, Golf Professional
We evaluate your application focusing on 3 areas: academic history, sport experience, and references. Most successful applicants have a 3.0 GPA or higher, are current or former student-athletes, and/or have experience or a strong desire to work in sport.
Application Checklist: You will need 3 things:
- Official transcripts (bachelor’s degree)
- Personal essay: why you’re applying (and your career goals)
- Two professional reference letters
Apply online via Cal State Apply
(There is a $70 non-refundable application fee)
Dates:
- Applications open: Oct 1
- Deadline: May 1
- Start term: Fall only (no spring or summer applications accepted)
Spots are limited. Apply early to maximize your chance of admission.
Tuition & Fees
Earn a premier master's degree for a fraction of the cost. Estimated cost for California residents: $13,903.
Student Testimonials
What graduates say
"This program prepares you for any job in sports at any level."
-Theresa Kurtz, Associate Director of Strategic Communications, Mountain West Conference
"My early success within the NFL is directly related to the skills & guidance given to me while in the program."
-John Middlekauff, Former NFL Scout, TV & Radio Commentator
"The Sport Administration program at Fresno State is much more than a graduate degree. I developed leadership skills that are essential for my career."
Matt Studwell, Director of Facilities & Operations, Insignia Event Services
Contact Us
Dr. John McMillen
Professor and Sport Administration Graduate Coordinator
johnmcmillen@csufresno.edu
559.278.1123
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