MSEM Program Essentials
Explore admissions requirements, application details and program information for all Master of Sport and Entertainment Management options. Use the links below to start your application or connect with our team for more information.
WHY CHARLOTTE?
Learn in the Heart of the Industry
Charlotte has emerged as one of the nation's leading sport and entertainment hubs, home to professional sports franchises, major events, media organizations and live entertainment venues. Students benefit from direct access to industry leaders while studying in one of the fastest-growing markets in the country.
Industry Highlights
- Carolina Panthers
- Charlotte Hornets
- Charlotte FC
- NASCAR and major motorsports
- PGA Tour events and championships
- Growing sport media ecosystem
- Major concerts, festivals and entertainment venues
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Hybrid Format
One in-person class meeting each week in Charlotte with additional coursework delivered online.
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Built for Professionals
Continue working while earning your degree.
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Complete in Approximately Two Years
Eight-week courses offered throughout the year.
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Industry Connections
Access USC's extensive alumni network and industry partnerships.
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Sport Media Focus
Additional coursework exploring sports media, digital content and communication.
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USC Excellence
Earn a degree from one of the world's top sport management programs.
CURRICULUM
Business, Leadership and Industry Expertise
The Charlotte MSEM curriculum prepares students to lead across sport, entertainment, media and live events through applied learning and industry-connected coursework.
Areas of Study
- Marketing and sponsorship
- Venue and facility management
- Finance and revenue generation
- Leadership and organizational management
- Sport law
- Event operations
- Analytics and business research
- Digital and social media strategy
- Entrepreneurship
Featured Sport Media Courses
- Athlete Driven Media
- Sports Media Entrepreneurship
- Digital Storytelling in Sports Media
- Contemporary Issues in Sports Media and Communication
- Reputation and Communications Management
LOCATION
Uptown Charlotte
Classes will be held at the University of South Carolina's Charlotte location in Uptown Charlotte.
University of South Carolina — Charlotte
200 South College Street, Suite 110
Charlotte, NC 28202
Located in the center of Charlotte's business and entertainment district, the facility provides convenient access to professional organizations, venues and networking opportunities.
MSEM Success Stories
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Micah Kurtz '08
A connection formed during Micah Kurtz’s time in the USC Master of Sport and Entertainment Management program came full circle, leading to his selection as president of Oak Hill Academy, one of the nation’s premier private secondary schools.
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Brycen Ritchie '25
Brycen Ritchie earned a prestigious NCAA internship, highlighting her ambition, hands-on experience and willingness to embrace new opportunities in the industry following graduation.
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Jarett Gerald '15
Jarett Gerald earned bachelor's and master's degrees in sport and entertainment management and in 2026 became the Vice President of Athletics & Recreation and Director of Athletics at La Salle University following stints at USC, Duke and Mizzou.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes. Students earn the same Master of Sport and Entertainment Management degree offered in-person through USC's David and Nicole Tepper Department of Sport and Entertainment Management.
The program combines weekly in-person class meetings in Charlotte with online coursework designed to accommodate working professionals.
Yes. The program is specifically designed for professionals balancing career advancement with graduate education.
The David and Nicole Tepper Department of Sport and Entertainment Management is the largest program of its kind and offers an unparalleled roster of more than 30 full-time faculty members. Students learn from accomplished industry leaders as well as world-renowned scholars.
Most students can complete the program in approximately two years.
The program is ideal for early-career professionals, individuals seeking leadership opportunities and those looking to transition into sport, entertainment or media-related careers.
Yes. Students may engage with guest speakers, networking events, industry site visits and applied projects throughout the program.
Students gain the benefits of USC's nationally recognized curriculum while learning and networking in one of the country's fastest-growing sport and entertainment markets.
The inaugural Charlotte cohort is expected to launch in Spring 2027.