College of Education, Department of Kinesiology & Health Promotion Sport Leadership (M.S.)

What can you do with this degree?

The Sport Leadership specialization in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion at the University of Kentucky focuses on preparing leaders in all sport related fields. Our aim is to help sport leadership master’s students develop the knowledge and skills to be more effective practitioners and researchers in the field of leadership.

The sport leadership specialization offers students the choice between the Thesis Option (24 hours of approved course work, 6 hours thesis plus oral thesis defense) and a Course Work Option (30 hours of approved course work, written exams, and an oral exam). There are 6 hours of research and statistics classes and 12 hours of core classes that are required.

Beyond that, the student will choose electives in consultation with the advisor. Even though possible electives are listed for each separate emphasis, it may be permissible to take electives from any of the three areas of specialization listed under Teaching, Coaching, and Sport Leadership. Design of the program MUST be done in conjunction with the advisor. Students choosing the thesis option are required to discuss specific thesis topics and related course recommendations with their advisor. Choosing the proper courses will ensure that students have the skills needed to complete the thesis in a timely manner.

Delivery Method: In-person (online possibilities exist for the stats requirement and electives)

Credit Hours: Varies by program option

Department of Kinesiology & Health Promotion

Hands-on Experience

The specialization in Sport Leadership in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion is designed to enhance leadership and administrative skills for those who work in a variety of leadership settings. The specialization trains you to work in areas such as sport administration (scholastic and collegiate), sport management, coaching, community and youth sports, and recreation (commercial and municipal).

While the emphasis allows for opportunities to take coursework in business, its primary focus is on training leaders, supervisors, and administrators who recognize the need for a wide variety of skills as applied to leadership.