Sports and Recreation Leadership
Master of Arts (M.A.)
Quick Facts
Main Campus (Tucson) | Arizona Online Campus
Online
N/A - Apply to start before any 7.5-week session!
The Sport and Recreation Leadership MA program will prepare dynamic leaders in sports and recreation fields. Students will focus on issues of equity and justice in sport and recreation, policy analysis and implementation, coaching, administrative functions related to human resources, finance, and marketing, as well as general best practices in the field.
Develop and align your professional goals with personal values rooted in compassion, equality, and health and wellness
Learn and apply professional best practices to effectively lead in sport and recreation contexts
Engage with faculty who have extensive practical experience in athletics, coaching, recreation, and physical education
As a part of the MA, you will also acquire Graduate Certificates in Sports and Recreation Management and/or Inclusive Leadership in Sport and Recreation. The certificates can be pursued independently from the full MA degree as well.
We recommend reading the student handbook for details about our department and our program.
The Sport and Recreation Leadership academic programs prepare future dynamic leaders to provide quality, inclusive, and accessible sports and recreation experiences.
- K-12 and youth sports coordinator or director
- Collegiate athletics administrator or coach
- Adaptive sports program manager
- Campus recreation manager or program director
- Municipal parks and recreation department manager or coordinator
- Community organization leisure services coordinator (e.g., YMCA, Boys and Girls Club)
- Outdoor recreation planner or guide
- Sports facility manager
Required Coursework
This 30-unit degree includes the following required coursework, plus nine credits of electives you can choose to fit your interests and goals:
- SRL 501: Modern Perspectives on Recreation and Sport
- SRL 502: Organizational Leadership in Sport and Recreation
- SRL 503: Equity and Justice in Recreation and Sport
- SRL 504: Inclusive Coaching and Adapted Physical Activity Programming
- SRL 505: Measuring Policy Impacts in Sport and Recreation Settings
- SRL 506: Finance and Promotion in Sport and Recreation Organizations
- SRL 909: Master’s Report OR SRL 910: Master’s Thesis
Choosing the Right Option: Arizona Online vs. Main Campus
The Sports and Recreation Leadership MA is designed for working professionals and students who need flexibility. While the program is technically listed with both Arizona Online and Main Campus options, all coursework is delivered online.
Why Choose Arizona Online?
- Same Degree, Same Courses, Same Faculty – Whether you're enrolled as an Arizona Online or as Main Campus student, you'll complete the same coursework, taught by the same expert faculty, and earn the same “University of Arizona” diploma.
- Tuition & Fees – Arizona Online students benefit from a tuition structure that often results in lower overall costs compared to Main Campus tuition and fees.
- Flexible for Professionals – If you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments, Arizona Online allows you to complete your degree on your schedule, without needing to be in Tucson.
Unless you have a specific reason for choosing the Main Campus designation (such as eligibility for certain tuition benefits or campus-based services), we generally recommend enrolling through Arizona Online because it offers a more affordable option.
Internships
Gain valuable hands-on experience and real-world training in actual service to a business, non-profit, or government agency. Students may complete multiple internships worth a varying amount of credit. Up to six internship credits may be used toward the completion of this degree.
Ready to learn more?
For inquiries about the program, please contact SRL Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Jesse Stipek.