Sport & Recreation Management Degree

About the Sport and Recreation Management (SRM) Degree

The Sport and Recreation Management (SRM) degree at Missouri Southern State University prepares students for careers in the sport and recreation industry. Graduates can pursue opportunities at all levels, including professional, collegiate, high school, and community recreation.

This program is designed for both student-athletes and non-student-athletes who want to work in any role within the field. It emphasizes practical career preparation, helping students develop the skills needed for leadership, management, and operations in sports and recreation.

Is the SRM Degree Right for You?

The SRM degree is ideal for students who want hands-on experience in the sport and recreation industry. Internships with MSSU Athletics and professional organizations, along with events like the annual Rod Anderson SRM Symposium, Run with the Pride 5k, and Children's Lifetime Sports Academy help students gain real-world skills.

This program fits you if you:

• Are interested in careers in sport and recreation management, including event operations, marketing, facility management, or athletic administration.
• Prefer hands-on learning with opportunities to intern on-campus with MSSU Athletics, at professional/semi-professional sports organizations, or in community sport and recreation.
• Want to gain practical experience that prepares you for entry-level roles, internships, or future leadership positions in the industry.
• Enjoy connecting with industry leaders and attending networking events like the annual SRM Symposium.
• Are looking for a flexible program that accommodates both student-athletes and non-athletes.

Careers with a Sport & Recreation Management Degree

Graduates of Missouri Southern's Sport and Recreation Management (SRM) program often start in entry-level roles across the sport and recreation industry, with opportunities to advance into leadership or managerial positions.

Common career paths include:

• Athletic or recreation administrator (high school or college)
• Event operations, marketing, or facility coordinator
• Ticket sales, group sales, or guest services specialist
• Public relations or compliance professional

In Missouri, starting salaries for bachelor’s degree graduates typically range from $30,000–$45,000, while master’s graduates can earn $45,000–$70,000. Athletic directors at high schools or colleges may earn $60,000–$1,000,000 depending on the institution.

Curriculum and Courses

The program is structured to provide a comprehensive foundation in the field, combining core coursework, applied learning, and upper-division courses. Students complete the required credit hours for a bachelor’s degree while gaining practical experience through internships and campus-based projects.

For a full list of courses and degree requirements, visit the MSSU Academic Catalog.

Related Programs You Might Like

• Exercise Science – Study human movement, fitness, and athletic performance.
• Food Science and Nutrition – Explore nutrition and wellness principles that complement careers in sport and recreation.
• Business Administration – Build management and leadership skills applicable to sports and recreation organizations.
• Psychology – Understand human behavior and motivation, useful in coaching, team management, and recreation programs.