College of Hospitality & Business

Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (B.S.)

Degree: BS

Locations: North Carolina, Online, Rhode Island

Length: 4 years

Internship: Required, 6 credits

Credits: 108

Creating Exceptional Experiences for Participants and Guests

When the doors open for an unforgettable event or the star-spangled banner is sung before a sports playoff game, your planning is on full display. You’ve helped create an experience that captivates the crowd and participants. It’s all because of your management and preparation.

Whether you’re interested in sports, events, live entertainment or venue management, that experience can be yours. The same is true if you are passionate about promoting a music tour or managing a five-star wedding. The possibilities are endless with a Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management degree.

You’ll have the option of choosing a specialization that aligns with your personal career goals:

Sports Management
Live Entertainment Management
Event Management

Whatever academic specialization you choose, you’ll learn to create exceptional guest experiences that fans, guests and spectators will cherish for a lifetime.

Specializations

Sports Management

With a focus on managing the behind-the-scenes operations of teams, venues and athletic programs, this specialization prepares you to oversee all the moving parts that make sporting events happen. From ensuring facilities are top-notch for athletes and spectators to coordinating guest services, you’ll gain the skills to create smooth, unforgettable sporting events. Your courses will focus on management operations, logistics and the fan experience, making sure every aspect is ready to go from the first whistle to the final score.

Event Management

Whether planning corporate conventions, trade shows, weddings or reunions, this specialization equips you with the skills to manage every detail of an event. You’ll learn how to oversee budgets, secure vendors, manage food and beverages, and ensure the safety of guests. With a focus on large-scale events, this specialization will help you understand event planning fundamentals, including managing alcohol consumption and handling logistics like décor and guest experience. From intimate gatherings to massive conventions, you’ll learn to execute memorable events with precision.

Live Entertainment Management

Live concerts and entertainment events are about more than just the show. You’ll learn how to manage the full range of operations, from ticketing and promotions to organizing concert tours and coordinating event staff. This specialization teaches you to set up venues, manage safety and security, and handle all the front and back-of-house logistics. Your role will ensure that audiences enjoy an unforgettable experience while everything behind the scenes runs smoothly.

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Student Spotlight

Anannya Rawat ’25 is an international student from India who came to JWU for this unique program. “You can specialize in either sports, events or live entertainment; you get to work with concerts, are you kidding me?! I love the fact that someone is able to put their trust in you to help them celebrate an event that is so important in their lives, and that you can be a part of the reason why they’re happy,” she shares.

Career Possibilities

Some professions may require additional study, background checks, certifications, licenses, exams and/or experience as required qualifications for employment. Students are responsible for verifying that they can meet the employment requirements of potential employers..

Advertising Manager
Agents
Brand manager
Esports Producer
Meeting, Convention and Event Planners
Reporters and Correspondents
Set and Exhibit Designers
Social Media Director

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