Master of Sport Directorship (MSD) at Manchester Metropolitan University

Programme overview

Step into one of sport’s most respected and in-demand leadership roles. The global sport business industry is booming, and it needs professionals who understand strategy, leadership and commercial performance. If you're a former athlete or sports professional, or looking to transition from business into sport, this course equips you with the high-level skills to accelerate your career.

What you will study

Designed to fit around your existing commitments, this flexible course blends academic insight with hands-on experience. You’ll develop the strategic, leadership and operational skills needed to thrive in senior roles within elite sport organisations. Year 1 core: Leading for High Performance, Managing Strategic Operations. Year 2 core: Harnessing Creativity and Innovation for Change, Mastering Governance, Finance and Compliance, Sporting Directorship in Practice.

Career pathways

We’re here to help you step confidently into the boardroom and thrive in the world of sport and business. Built in collaboration with industry leaders, this course sharpens your ability to lead people, think strategically and drive innovation.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

It takes a special type of person to participate in the sport directorship course. We're looking for self-starters who possess a rare combination of skills, experience and ambition which provides the foundation for the role of Sports Director. You may already be working in a sporting environment, for instance: in a medical, coaching, finance or marketing role, and looking for the next crucial step in your sporting career. The role of Sports Director is appealing because you recognise it's the way forward in the modern game. Alternatively, you may already be in a business role and seeking to make the move into sport. If you are looking to use your business skills in a new way, the sport directorship course is ideally suited to help you adapt your talents. In addition, this course offers ex-players and sports professionals currently in management a means to acquire the business skills needed to take the step into the position of Sports Director. To assess your eligibility for the course, please contact the MSD team to register your interest: [email protected].

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 2 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.mmu.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/course/master-of-sport-directorship#how-to-apply

Explore more study programmes

Business