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Does a sports management degree include sports analytics?

I want to be a sports analyst and not sure what degree to go for.

Thank you comment icon Aiden, Dr. H already gave you the best advice: a Sports Management degree is mostly business-focused, so if you want to be a true sports analyst, you need to **lean into data science, analytics, or statistics**. His best tip? **Don't just follow the usual route—carve your own path.** That means building your skills outside of class: study real sports data, analyze trends, and prove you can do the job before you even get hired. If you stick to just Sports Management without analytics, you’ll be another generic sports admin. If you master **data-driven decision-making**, you’ll actually shape the game. Mr. Trish

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Dr’s Answer

Alright, Aiden! Here's the thing: you want to dive into the world of sports analytics, and I'm loving that you're thinking about how to blend your passion for sports with numbers and data. Here's the deal—most Sports Management degrees are more about the business side of sports (think sponsorships, marketing, event planning, etc.), so you might not get all the deets on player stats or team performance in the way you'd like. But hold up! There’s hope!

Caroline already pointed out that some schools do offer sports analytics as an elective or even a concentration, so don’t completely rule out a Sports Management degree. You just might need to search for the right one. You’re in Ohio, right? Well, the University of Pikeville sounds like it could be a solid choice for you, but it’s worth checking out other schools that have strong programs in both sports management and analytics. Sometimes, it’s the little-known schools that have the best opportunities, so take a look at what’s out there.

If you want to fully focus on data and analysis (and, let's face it, geek out over player stats!), you might want to also consider degrees in Sports Analytics or even Data Science with a sports focus. That'll have you looking at stats, team performance, and using data to make all sorts of game-changing decisions.

Also, no matter what degree path you choose, there's a ton you can do on the side to build up your skill set! Check out sports data sites (like ESPN’s Stats or Basketball Reference) to practice analyzing real-world data. You can also get into fantasy leagues or even start your own blog to analyze player performance and trends. (Get that extra edge!) Also, shout out to any sports clubs or online communities—networking and talking with others in the field is key.

Don’t just follow the usual route; carve your own path. Whether you’re crunching numbers, analyzing sports data, or planning the next big event for your team, you’ve got a world of possibilities in front of you. Just keep that energy up, and you’ll make it happen!

Oh, and Aiden, I saw your comment about being a bowler and looking to bowl in college – that’s awesome! Being an athlete and diving into sports analytics means you’re already in a great position to blend both worlds. Your real-life experience on the lanes could give you an edge in understanding the game better from an athlete's perspective. Imagine combining your love for bowling with data analysis to improve your game or even helping other bowlers refine their techniques using stats and performance metrics!

If you're serious about bowling at college, you might want to connect with the coaching staff at schools like University of Pikeville to see if they have any connections between sports management, analytics, and bowling programs. Trust me, your passion for both could help you stand out in the application process. Plus, if you can show them how you’re blending your athleticism with data-driven insights, they’ll be all in.

Your unique mix of skills (athlete + data nerd in the making) is going to open up doors you probably haven’t even imagined yet. So whether you’re analyzing a match from a coaching standpoint or smashing those pins in person, you’ve got all the potential to make waves in both fields.

Keep it up, and who knows—you might just revolutionize the way bowling teams use analytics!
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice, Dr. Aiden
Thank you comment icon You're very welcome, Aiden! Wishing you all the best on your journey—keep striving and never stop learning! Dr H
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Caroline’s Answer

Hi Aiden! Great question...

Typically a Sports Management degree mostly focuses on the business side of sports such as, marketing, sponsorships, event planning, and operations. Depending on the school, some programs will include a Sports Analytics course or even a concentration but it's not always a key focus for a Sports Management degree.

Are you interested in the analytics side (player stats, team performance, data-driven decision making)? If so, what school(s) are you interested in getting this degree from? Maybe I can help you figure out what that specific school is offering.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, I want to be more on the analytic side, I am also a bowler looking to bowl in college, The University of Pikeville is my top choice as on now I am a class of 26'. Aiden
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