James Alami
Graduate Recruitment and Partnership Manager
College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management
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.
Transform Your Career with a Top Online Degree
The University of South Carolina’s Master of Sport and Entertainment Management (MSEM) program is globally recognized for its academic excellence and industry relevance. This prestigious degree is designed to help aspiring and current professionals advance their careers in the dynamic sport and entertainment industries. With the flexibility to learn on your schedule, you can achieve your goals without disrupting your life or career.
Why Choose USC’s Online MSEM?
Ranked in the top 10 globally since 2022 in the SportBusiness Postgraduate Rankings, the MSEM program is one of the best in the world for sport and entertainment management education. It combines cutting-edge research, expert faculty and real-world connections to prepare graduates for leadership roles. Students gain access to:
- Industry-Leading Faculty: Learn from experts with extensive professional experience in global entertainment and prominent sports organizations.
- Robust Alumni Network: Connect with professionals working for top sports teams, entertainment venues, agencies and events.
- Global Recognition: Earn a degree from a top-ranked program that opens doors worldwide.
A Curriculum Designed for Real-World Impact
The MSEM curriculum provides tools needed to succeed in this competitive field, focusing on areas such as:
- Marketing and sponsorship strategies
- Revenue generation and analytics
- Event and facility management
- Global entertainment and event leadership
Through a mix of theory and application, students gain the expertise to solve complex challenges and drive innovation in their organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Students develop skills in contract negotiation, event planning logistics, financial forecasting, brand management, and stakeholder engagement — crucial for leadership roles in professional sports, live entertainment, venue operations, and beyond.
Yes. A key component of the program is the focus on sponsorship and revenue strategies within sport and entertainment. Students learn how to create and manage partnerships with sponsors, develop monetization strategies for events and venues, and build sustainable revenue models. This is particularly relevant for students looking to work in areas like brand partnerships, sports marketing, or event production.
Despite being fully online, the program fosters strong peer interaction through group projects, discussion boards, and live virtual sessions. Students come from diverse backgrounds within sports and entertainment, creating opportunities for networking and collaboration. The program also provides access to alumni and faculty connections for potential career development.
Flexible, 100% Online Learning
The program’s fully asynchronous format allows you to study anytime, anywhere. Whether you are a working professional or looking to pivot into a new career, this format offers:
- Convenience: Learn on your schedule while balancing work, life and education.
- Affordable Graduate Education: Save on relocation and commuting costs while enjoying the same competitive tuition rates, whether you're studying online or on-campus.
- Interactive Learning: Engage with peers and professors through an advanced online platform that includes discussion forums and multimedia content.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for:
- Working Professionals: Enhance your credentials and advance your career in sport or entertainment.
- Career Changers: Transition into a thriving industry with the skills and knowledge to succeed.
- Recent Graduates: Build on your academic foundation and practical, real-world experience to expand your expertise and stand out in the competitive sport and entertainment job market.
Beyond the Screen: Get Involved
While the program is fully online, students have the unique opportunity to engage in select on-campus events, such as SEVT, if they choose. Attend department conferences, in-person seminars and networking opportunities to connect with faculty, industry leaders and fellow students face-to-face. Whether online or on campus, you can be part of the USC community.
Deadlines
- Fall Admission: July 1
- Spring Admission: November 15
- Summer Admission: April 1
Program Director
Khalid Ballouli, Ph.D.
MSEM Program Director
Associate Chair
Professor
David and Nicole Tepper Department of Sport and Entertainment Management