The MSc Sports Business and Management offers students a master's level understanding of the global business of sport - its organisations, stakeholders and the disciplines which make it operate successfully - with a business focus on the challenges and opportunities within the global sports business.
The programme provides students with the opportunity to study an MSc Sports Business and Management in a Russell Group University which has an excellent reputation and network within football, horse racing, cricket, rugby and other sports based on its provision of high-quality education in the business of sport over the past 15 years.
The MSc Sports Business and Management programme was designed in consultation with industry employers, including Liverpool and Everton Football Clubs, St. Helens RFLC (Rugby League) and Deloitte, to identify and incorporate the skills required by industry both now and in the future.
Modules cover the global context of sports business, sports marketing and sponsorship, sports operations and events, and leadership in sport.
In the capstone ‘Sports Business Practice’ module students will have opportunities to visit Premier League Football Clubs as well as high-profile sports businesses from cricket, rugby and other sports. Students will have access to excellent sports business speakers to enhance their understanding of the practical aspects of working in the global sports business market.
The University of Liverpool Management School is one of an elite group of institutions worldwide to hold the gold standard ‘triple-crown’ accreditation from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
This 12-month programme consists of eight taught compulsory modules, each focusing on a major area of Sports Business and Management. These are followed by a 60 credit project carried out over the summer period with a choice of either Strategic Business Research for Sport (ULMS500) or Dissertation (ULMS790)
Compulsory modules
THE GLOBAL CONTEXT OF SPORTS BUSINESS (ULMS856)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The evolution of sport into a global structure of social and commercial interaction requires future sports business practitioners to have a robust, reflective understanding of the globalisation of sport – including its history, determining features, influences, and contemporary issues for future practice. This module is designed to introduce students to the complex, multi-domestic environment in which sports business exists. The political, social, economic, and technological significance of sport relative to contemporary issues of governance, ethics and sustainability in the business of sport is of critical importance to this module. Additionally, the internationalization of major sports brands into overseas markets necessitates enquiry into the commercialisation and consumption of sport in both local and international contexts. These topics also act as a primer for later modules in marketing, and sports business practice. International case studies in the business of sport, and guest speakers will be used to punctuate theoretical discussions, and help illustrate core concepts for students. The central aim here is to provide students with an overview of the global sport arena, whilst also equipping them with a critical lens in which to evaluate the practice and impact of sports business. This approach helps to lay the foundations for future modules.
SPORTS MARKETING AND SPONSORSHIP (ULMS857)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Marketing and sponsorship are two of the key commercial drivers of the sports industry. They also differ substantially in both conceptualisation and practical implementation in comparison to other industries. This module introduces students to these fundamental differences, along with the unique management approaches, communication platforms, organisational processes associated with the marketing and sponsorship activities in professional sport. A key part of the module is also to introduce students to the concept of social marketing, drawing attention to the potential for commercially relevant, yet socially impactful marketing and communications practice.
SPORTS OPERATIONS AND EVENTS (ULMS859)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module will provide students with a critical understanding of the concepts and theories of operations and event management with regard to sports organisations. It will enable students to evaluate the operation of sports facilities, stadia, arenas and events through case studies, guest speakers and visits. Additionally, students will undertake a simulation exercise that enables them to apply operations theory and evaluate their own operations practice.
Sports Finance (ULMS722)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module aims to give students an understanding of key finance elements and how they impact upon a sporting institution/body. The module will focus on the balance sheet, breaking it down into the main assets that are used by a sporting institution and the alternative means through which those assets are financed. The concept of profitability and breakeven (for private and non-profit making organisations) from the income statement will be used to identify the main revenue streams and costs involved in running a sporting institution along with the differences between profit and cash flows.
The module will show how to analyse the financial statements of a sports based business through the use of financial metrics and key performance indicators, which identify financial and non-financial trends. Ownership models will be analysed with the emphasis between those which focus on sporting versus financial achievements. Different techniques and models will be used to show how to value a sporting institution, along with the risks of using some of these models.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
This 12-month programme consists of eight taught compulsory modules, each focusing on a major area of Sports Business and Management. These are followed by a 60 credit project carried out over the summer period with a choice of either Strategic Business Research for Sport (ULMS500) or Dissertation (ULMS790)
Compulsory modules
LEADERSHIP IN SPORT (ULMS858)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module will examine leadership in sport from a number of perspectives. It will enable students to reflect on their own perspective of leadership and how this has developed, including the influence of sport. It will then critically examine the range of leadership theories using appropriate cases of leaders/leadership situations within sport. Guest lectures from noteworthy leaders in sport will enable students to appreciate a breadth of leadership approaches. Responsible leadership will be explored in the context of student’s own values and through evaluation of cases of recent scandals and examples of the ‘dark side of leadership’ within sport. The module will also explore theories relating to developing high performing teams. Finally, using appropriate psychometric assessments, students will consider their own leadership development needs.
STRATEGIC ORGANIZATION (ULMS765)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module investigates the intersections between organisation studies and strategy. Drawing on key articles and empirical information, students are invited to apply strategic models and frameworks and to critically reflect on their efficacy. The module makes use of online collaboration tools to stimulate group work and discussion.
SPORTS ECONOMICS AND ANALYTICS (ULMS861)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module is intended to provide students with a better understanding of the main analytical techniques to understand some key issues in sports economics, and related fields of sports business. Further, sports economics will be used as a laboratory to study general economic problems. While the module does not require any previous knowledge in econometrics and quantitative analysis, the ultimate aim is for students to learn to interpret some of the main results found in relevant research papers on the different aspects of sports business. For example, a good understanding of data analytics and the economics of sport are essential in today’s data-driven, technologically leveraged sports industries. The use of digital technology in performance management, marketing, sponsorship and fan engagement all require some level of analytical interpretation and economic appreciation.
SPORTS BUSINESS IN PRACTICE (ULMS860)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module will critically examine business practice in a range of sports organisations from a number of different perspectives. It will particularly examine the impact of contemporary issues on sports organisations and innovative practices being used to address them. This will be through the use of case studies, visits and guest lectures from sports organisations such as the Rugby Football Union, the Football Association, Sport England and Liverpool Football Club. This will enable the integration and application of knowledge and learning from the variety of modules studied within the MSc Sport Business. Based on this integration of knowledge and practice, students will examine their own career aspirations and the attributes they need to develop in order to manage their future career.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final project
This 12-month programme consists of eight taught compulsory modules, each focusing on a major area of Sports Business and Management. These are followed by a 60 credit project carried out over the summer period with a choice of either Strategic Business Research for Sport (ULMS500) or Dissertation (ULMS790)
Compulsory modules
DISSERTATION (ULMS790)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
This module is designed to help students develop an in-depth understanding of a topic within their chosen domain of management and business and for the student to use this knowledge to analyse a management problem or issue. A preparation phase of the module is included to provide the students with the skills necessary in problem analysis and research in order that they can undertake an independent research project. Thereafter, independent, guided study and research are used to develop both theoretical and practical critical-thinking skills, and to present research, analysis and findings. The reflective element of the dissertation gives students an opportunity to critically analyse and evaluate their experience of the learning process.
Strategic Business Research for Sport (ULMS500)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: whole session
This module enables the development of knowledge and understanding of the multi-level processes involved in organisational and managerial practices of sports organisations. The module provides a practical platform to develop business analysis and strategic decision-making skills; additionally it provides the opportunity to demonstrate the ability to research, analyse and present information coherently in order to support a recommended course of action.
The individual assignment provides the opportunity to carry out an in-depth investigation of a management issue relevant to sports organisations. This will require the critical evaluation and synthesise of relevant theories, models and practices of management in order to examine and suggest recommendations to address a specific issue within the sport business environment. The reflective element of the individual assignment enables a critical evaluation of the learning process during the module and programme.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
On our MSc Sports Business and Management, modules are taught using the latest active learning techniques. These include the use of real-world case studies from the world of professional sport, authentic assessment tasks that mimic sports organisation activities and requisite outputs, business scenario and negotiation simulations, use of interactive participation software, and lecture capture. We also ensure that each module has a distinctive contribution from an industry guest speaker, and host a broader “in conversation” series where C-suite executives from the sports industry contribute to engaging discussions with faculty and students.
The principal forms of teaching are lectures and seminars with lectures normally being supported by material such as hand-outs and presentations. Seminars allow for a more detailed discussion of a topic under the direction of a tutor. You are normally expected to prepare work in advance for seminars and may be expected to present work or give presentations.
Following semester two you will complete either a dissertation or the Strategic Business Research for Sport project with the support of an academic supervisor. This final project enables students to specialise in an area of the sports business discipline to deepen their knowledge, understanding and capabilities in this area.
Teaching time will account for an average of 10 hours per week and you should anticipate an additional 24 hours of self-directed study and group work per week.
How you're assessed
In semester one and two, you will take modules totalling 120 credits. The dissertation or research project completed during the summer period is worth 60 credits and students will be supported by their academic supervisor.
Students are required to complete 180 credits to achieve a full MSc.
Subject to meeting specific criteria outlined by the University, students will graduate with a Pass, Merit or Distinction.
Assessment tasks are varied and some may be designed specifically to meet the learning outcomes of a particular programme of study, but students can expect to be assessed via coursework, essay, group work, presentations, case studies, negotiation exercises, reports and examinations. The weighting of individual components will vary from one module to another. All assessment information is included within the module specification.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The School has a thriving international master’s community with a comprehensive, interdisciplinary programme of social and extra-curricular events and dedicated careers and employability support.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
What students say...
I have had a year of cultivating friendships I know will last for the rest of my life. Combining that with the incredible opportunities that the Sports Business and Management MSc gives us, I know I’ll look back on this year as the best decision I ever made.
You will graduate from this programme with the skills necessary to work and engage in business-related roles of sports organisations. These include marketing, finance, strategy, international development, data analytics and research, relationship management, and human resources. Students may also pursue operations-related roles.
The programme makes extensive use of guest speakers from current industry professionals which are woven into modules and smaller, informal networking events.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
You will have access to a specialist, in-house postgraduate careers team and have access to one-to-one careers guidance, workshops, seminars, and employability initiatives.
Graduates from our Sports Business and Management MSc course have secured jobs with companies such as:
Red Bull
Cobalt
Professional Footballers Association
Deloitte LLP
German Football Association
PFC Levski Sofia
UEFA
Procam Television Holdings Ltd
In roles such as:
Commercial Manager
Live Sports Trader
Commercial Executive
Scout Analyst
Senior Marketing Manager
Production Assistant
Business Development Executive
Commercial Executive
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£14,000
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£30,000
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Normally a 2:1 honours degree in any discipline is expected from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution is required.
We are able to offer a level of flexibility for applicants. Those with a 2:2 honours degree will be considered on an individual basis.
Non-graduates with very extensive professional experience and/or other prior qualifications may also be considered.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
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