GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College has introduced a new bachelor’s degree in sports management, which combines business, leadership, and communication to prepare students for careers in the rapidly expanding sports industry. The program is accepting applications for Fall 2026.
“The Sports Management program reflects the strengths that define a Thiel education—small class sizes, personalized mentoring, and hands-on learning,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College Sheila Nowinski, Ph.D. “Students will engage in real-world internships and experiential projects that connect theory to practice while developing the critical thinking and decision-making skills that are the foundation of a liberal arts education and essential to professional success.”
Sports industry careers can span professional leagues such as the NBA, NFL, and Major League Baseball to local high schools, colleges, community recreation programs, and nonprofit organizations. Graduates will be prepared for positions in athletic administration, sports marketing and media, event operations, facilities management, public relations, and sports law.
Students in the program will complete courses in business law, strategic management, marketing, advertising, business communication, and writing for mass media. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience and collaboration with industry partners to connect classroom learning with real-world applications.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in sports management-related occupations is projected to grow 7 percent through 2029, with about 108,900 job openings each year. Median annual wages for experienced professionals are near $85,000.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.