Clemson University launches New Master’s in Sports Business and Analytics

September 3, 2024September 3, 2024

The Department of Management in Clemson University‘s Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business is excited to announce the launch of its Master of Science in Sports Business and Analytics (MSSBA) program. This program is designed to empower students with the skills needed for careers in the business side of sports – front office personnel, analytics, general manager and sports executives.

“The business side of sports is exploding – this program will allow Clemson students to have a competitive advantage off the field to not only drive on-field performance to new levels but also the bottom line” says Management Department Chair, Craig Wallace.

Recently approved by the Clemson Board of Trustees and the South Carolina Commission of Higher Education, this 36-credit-hour program addresses the increasing need for professionals skilled in sports business and data analytics. The curriculum covers key areas of study, such as management, operations, strategy, finance, legal issues and ethics in the sports industry.

The MSSBA program spans 14 months, including Summer, Fall and Spring sessions. Recruitment for this program starts in Fall 2024. In Spring 2025, approximately 30 full-time students will be chosen by the Department of Management selection committee. The first cohort of students will start classes in May 2025.

What distinguishes this program from others is its unique integration of business management and analytics in the sports industry. While many similar programs focus on either sports management or sports biometrics, the MSSBA provides a balanced approach found at the intersection of sports business and analytics. Graduates will leave with strong foundational business knowledge and advanced analytics skills—including data mining, cleaning, storage predictive analytics and decision analytics.

David Peyton, clinical professor at the Powers College of Business, has over 20 years of experience in analytical platforms and will be leading the program. “This program offers graduates the chance to excel in sports industry analytics and business leadership roles, leveraging Clemson’s championship athletic culture, brand recognition and top-ranked data science program to become the premier destination for sports analytics and business management professionals.”

Visit the MSSBA website to learn more about the program.