The University of North Texas (UNT) in Denton offers a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) in Sport Entertainment Management, providing students with pivotal hands-on experience and networking opportunities in the sports industry. Directed by Bob Heere, a professor of management, the program has successfully placed graduates in prominent positions across major sports organizations such as the Dallas Cowboys, FC Dallas, and the San Antonio Spurs.
UNT’s program is available in two formats: an in-person version and an online-only option. Both formats emphasize connections with industry leaders and practical experience, bolstered by strong industry partnerships. The program’s online offering is particularly distinguished, ranking No. 10 globally according to a 2024 update from SportBusiness, making it the highest-ranked online sports management program worldwide.
A notable feature of the program is its partnership with the Dallas Cowboys, offering students unique opportunities such as semester-long projects, boot camps, and events featuring guest speakers from the team’s executive leadership. This collaboration is a significant draw for prospective students, providing firsthand insights into the workings of a top NFL franchise.
Carly Stephens, corporate partnerships marketing manager for the Dallas Cowboys, highlighted the mutual commitment to excellence shared by the Cowboys and UNT. “Partnering with the UNT sport entertainment management program is an exciting opportunity to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the sports industry,” she stated.
The in-person program, which consists of a 36-credit-hour curriculum alongside a capstone project, offers engagements with various sports industry clients, including recent projects with the Dallas Cowboys, PGA of America, and the Dallas Mavericks.
Students also benefit from professional development events such as the Business Matters Luncheon and the annual Sports Entertainment Management Symposium at AT&T Stadium, which provide invaluable networking opportunities. Xuan Li, a first-year student, emphasized the program’s role in providing unique perspectives and opening pathways into the sports management industry.
The UNT program remains committed to its mission of preparing students for successful careers through innovative education and strategic partnerships, reflecting its status as a leader in the field of sport entertainment management.
