Sports and Recreation Management
Graduate Certificate
Quick Facts
Main Campus (Tucson) | Arizona Online Campus
Online
N/A - Apply to start before any 7.5-week session!
A certificate in Sport and Recreation Management will develop knowledge and skills in organizational leadership, policy analysis and implementation, as well as administrative functions like human resources, finance, and marketing. Students will engage with faculty who have extensive practical experience in athletics, coaching, recreation, and physical education in flexible and engaging online course options that fit with any schedule.
Demonstrate your commitment to effective and efficient business operations.
Utilize theory and data to persuasively answer questions, appropriately address challenges, and formulate effective policies in the fields of sport and recreation.
Explain sport and recreation leadership in historical, cultural, and applied contexts.
You may also be interested in the Inclusive Leadership in Sport and Recreation (Graduate Certificate) and/or the Sport and Recreation Leadership (Master of Arts).
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 coach, 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 9-unit graduate certificate includes the following required coursework:
- SRL 502: Organizational Leadership in Sport and Recreation
- SRL 505: Measuring Policy Impacts in Sport and Recreation Settings
- SRL 506: Finance and Promotion in Sport and Recreation Organizations
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.
Ready to learn more?
For inquiries about the program, please contact SRL Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Jesse Stipek.
You may also be interested in the Inclusive Leadership in Sport and Recreation (Graduate Certificate) and/or the Sport and Recreation Leadership (Master of Arts).