As an aspiring sports media professional, you should have a clear understanding of what you can expect as a career in sports media will hold for you. Whether someone wants to become a play-by-play or color commentator, or become a reporter or analyst, the best way to bring these goals to fruition is through formal education.
The Sports Media & Broadcasting program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln focuses on the functions and operations of major professional sports leagues, team management and organizations, and major media outlets. This includes opportunities in marketing, public relations, sales, broadcasting and new media.
The Sports Media degree from CareerKeg is part of the university’s Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BA) program. Our curriculum is designed to give students a solid foundation of communication, media and journalism skills. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in professional sports media such as TV broadcasting, radio broadcasting, writing and editing. The Sports Media degree can also be a great foundation for anyone pursuing an athletic training/coaching degree.
The Sports Media degree prepares students for careers in media, sports marketing or sport management. With a curriculum focused on producing talented professionals capable of covering a range of sports and topics, graduates are prepared to pursue successful careers with media outlets, professional teams, or non-profit organizations.
Sports Media University Courses. Whether you are a recent graduate or looking to go into the field, our university courses can help. Find out more about this exciting new career opportunity here.
So you have a passion for sports and would love to work in the sports media industry. Or you have thought about it and want to at least explore opportunities. Well, whether you’ve already started or are just thinking about it, there are some things you should know before you commit. What type of degree programs can I get? Where online can I get a degree in sports media? How can I know if the school is accredited?
So you have a passion for sports and would love to work in the sports media industry. Or you have thought about it and want to at least explore opportunities. Well, whether you’ve already started or are just thinking about it, there are some things you should know before you commit. What type of degree programs can I get? Where online can I get a degree in sports media? How can I know if the school is accredited?
We created this list of the top affordable sports communication major colleges. They offer a bachelor’s in sports communication. We used the net price figures provided by College Navigator. To be selected for our list, schools needed to hold regional accreditation. They also needed to offer a program with coursework and emphasis in an area for a sports communication degree. Our top 20 affordable bachelor’s in sports communications major and sports media degrees are below.
#20 – Susquehanna University – Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania
Bachelor’s in Sports Media
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Net Price: $26,868
Susquehanna University features a top affordable online bachelor’s in sports media. It is rich with real world experience. Students gain valuable real-world experience working with the Sports Information Department. Some students have interned with organizations such as the Olympics and the Little League Hall of Fame. Sports Media required courses include:
- Sports Media Relations and Promotion
- Fundamentals of Digital Video Production
- Audio Production and Media Performance
#19 – Florida Southern College – Lakeland, Florida
Bachelor’s in Sports Communication and Marketing
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Net Price: $26,135
Florida Southern College is one of the top colleges with sports communication majors. It is located strategically between Orlando and Tampa. FSC features a top affordable sports communication bachelor’s degree program. It has unlimited professional development opportunities. Students work closely with faculty and industry experts. They apply their classroom knowledge to the field. A state of the art broadcast studio and new HR video equipment and software allow students to produce top notch productions. Sports communication majors can participate in the National Student Advertising Competition. They gain real world experience working on an advertising campaign.
#18 – Bradley University – Peoria, Illinois
Bachelor’s in Sports Communication
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Net Price: $26,084
Bradley University offers one of the top-value sports communication majors. BU offers this bachelor’s degree through the Charley Steiner School of Sports Communication. It is the first of its kind in the country. Students are engaged from day one. There are unique opportunities writing for the campus newspaper. There is also the option of interning with one of the multiple Peoria area sports teams. Unique electives are available in areas like:
- Global Media Systems
- Sports Writing and Announcing
- Broadcast News Reporting and Writing
#17 – LeTourneau University – Longview, Texas
Bachelor’s in Sports Communication
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Net Price: $23,386
LeTourneau University offers a best-value sports communication bachelor’s degree for students with a passion for athletics. Students gain a strong background in both kinesiology and marketing. They also develop competency in written and verbal sport communication. Courses include:
- Mass Communication Concepts
- Digital Marketing
- Writing for Digital Media
Students have the opportunity to engage in exciting internship opportunities through:
- KLTV-TV Sports
- LeTourneau Sports
- Longview News-Journal
Graduates are successful in areas like:
- print journalism
- TV broadcasting
- public relations
#16 – University of Evansville – Evansville, Indiana
Bachelor’s in Sports Communication
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Net Price: $23,038
The University of Evansville features a high-value affordable bachelor’s in sports communication. It prepares students for a successful career. Students will study communication in the context of:
- fan engagement
- smart stadiums
- sports media
- other current issues and trends facing the industry
Courses include:
- Sports Writing
- Sports Promotion
- Introduction to Data Analytics
Students have the unique opportunity to gain work experience through a partnership with ESPN3. All students complete three credit hours of practicum experience and one internship credit.
#15 – Webster University – Saint Louis, Missouri
Sports Communication (BA)
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Net Price: $22,727
Webster University features a low-priced sport communication bachelor’s degree program. It is offered through the School of Communications at the St. Louis campus. The program incorporates both the theory and practice of sport across settings and levels. Required courses include:
- Sports Media Strategies
- Culture of Sports and Society
- Introduction to Media Writing
All students have the opportunity to complete a professional media internship, although it is not required. Students can stay current on the latest trends. They take electives in areas like:
- sports analytics
- podcasting
- sports operations and logistics
#14 – Campbell University – Buies Creek, North Carolina
Sport Management, Sport Communication Concentration, B.S.
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Net Price: $22,458
The Department of Exercise Science at Campbell University features an economical bachelor’s in sport communication. This flexible degree program includes a variety of elective courses in:
- physical education
- business
- healthy lifestyle
Required courses include:
- Program Management
- Writing for the Mass Media
- Introduction to Converged Media
All students complete a six credit hour internship, gaining valuable professional work experience.
#13 – East Texas Baptist University – Marshall, Texas
Sports Communication (B.S.)
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Net Price: $21,850
East Texas Baptist University is one of the top sports broadcasting colleges. The School of Communication and Performing Arts offers the inexpensive top bachelor’s in sports communication. This interdisciplinary degree program provides students with the latest strategies and trends in communication. Required courses include:
- Sports Reporting and Writing
- Sports Broadcasting and Production
- Mass Media Writing
Students can choose to complete either an internship in mass media or a course in communication research methods. Electives are offered in a variety of sport and communication areas.
#12 – Upper Iowa University – Fayette, Iowa
Bachelor’s in Communication-Sports Communication
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Net Price: $21,630
Upper Iowa University offers a low-cost sports communication bachelor’s degree program in an online or on-campus format. Students learn to analyze complex communication situations across a variety of sport areas. The affordable degree program emphasizes the relationship between print, broadcast, research, and digital/internet writing. This gives students the tools they need to work in multiple settings and roles. Internships are available both on and off-campus. This allows students to explore their professional interests while earning their degree.
#11 – Culver-Stockton College – Canton, Missouri
Bachelor’s in Communication-Sports Communication
Net Price: $20,327
Culver-Stockton College features a distinctive cost-effective top bachelor’s in sports communication. It is focused on real-world experiences. Students benefit from career-based assignments and hands-on learning through case studies. Courses cover areas like:
- Communication Law
- Mass Media and Society
- Interpersonal Communication
Most students complete an internship experience. This prepares them for success in the workplace after graduation. Graduates are successful working in roles like:
- media producer
- media liaison
- director of communication
#10 – Ashland University – Ashland, Ohio
Bachelor’s in Sport Communication
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Net Price: $20,231
The College of Arts and Sciences at Ashland University offers a top affordable bachelor’s in sport communication focused on theory, research, and application. Students benefit from small class size and experienced faculty. Beginning freshman year, students have the opportunity to engage in sport-center research. They gain hands-on experience in sport public relations. Courses cover areas like:
- Relational Communication in Sport
- Sport Public Relations
- Sport Communication and Culture
Internship opportunities are available with:
- pro sports teams
- public relations firms
- local media outlets.
#9 – Clemson University – Clemson, South Carolina
Sports Communication BA
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Net Price: $19,508
Clemson University created one of the first stand-alone sports communication in the nation. They recognize the specific needs of the industry. Students interact with sports industry professionals, developing their own networks. Research allows students to present at industry conferences or even see their work published. Faculty are active researchers and educators. They share their professional experience with their students. Courses cover:
- Communication in Sports Organizations
- Sports Media Criticism
- Public Relations in Sports
All students are encouraged to complete an internship to supplement classroom learning.
#8 – Belhaven University – Jackson, Mississippi
Bachelor’s in Public Relations-Sports Communication Emphasis
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Net Price: $17,520
Belhaven University features a low-cost bachelor’s in sports communication for students who want a career in sports media or a sport-related organization. Students complete the basic requirements for the Public Relations program. They add specialized sport communication coursework to enhance their degree. Courses cover:
- Understanding Audiences
- Sports Marketing
- Social Media Theory & Communications Strategies
An internship experience is required as part of the program. This professional growth experience prepares students for success in their new career.
#7 – Husson University – Bangor, Maine
B.S. Communications Technology – Sports Journalism
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Net Price: $18,417
The affordable bachelor’s in sports journalism from Husson University is designed for students who aspire to become a multi-media sports journalist. Students benefit from hands-on experience, working for the campus radio station or the student-run newspaper. Courses cover:
- Radio News Writing and Reporting
- Web Reporting
- Sports Play-by-Play
Full-time students can complete the low-cost degree program in four years. Graduates are prepared to join the workforce. They may also continue to graduate school to take advanced coursework.
#6 – Mississippi College – Clinton, Mississippi
Sports Media and Marketing, B.S.
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Net Price: $17,520
Mississippi College offers an economical sports media and marketing bachelor’s degree program. It is a four year, campus-based program offered through a partnership with the Communication Department and the School of Business. The sports media concentration is comprised of 18 credit hours covering areas like:
- Public Relations in College Athletics
- Multimedia Journalism
- Sports Journalism
Students can choose between a communication internship or a journalism internship, depending on their professional goals.
#5 – Oklahoma State University – Stillwater, Oklahoma
Bachelor’s in Sports Media
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Net Price: $15,009
The economical bachelor’s in sports media from Oklahoma State University is the largest stand-alone program of its kind in the country. Faculty have extensive industry experience and share their knowledge with students through classroom and hands-on learning activities. Courses include:
- Sports in the Newsroom
- Sports Reporting
- Data Journalism
Graduates are successful in a variety of roles including:
- sportswriter
- sports reporter
- media coordinator
#4 – Newman University – Wichita, Kansas
Bachelor of Science in Sports Communication
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Net Price: $13,902
Newman University features a cheap bachelor’s in sports communication blending business and communication courses. Courses cover areas like:
- Crosscultural Communication
- Professional Presentation
- Organization and Administration of Sport, Exercise, and Health
Faculty have industry experience in sport communication. They are eager to help students develop a plan for career success. Internship opportunities are available throughout the Wichita community with organizations such as the YMCA and the Wichita Thunder Hockey team.
#3 – Ferris State University – Big Rapids, Michigan
Bachelor’s in Sports Communication
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Net Price: $13,351
The College of Arts and Sciences at Ferris State University features an economical sports communication bachelor’s degree program rich with hands-on learning opportunities. Students develop “soft” communication skills while completing core courses and then select a workplace application area to develop their “hard” skills. Students can choose from:
- Management and Leadership
- Broadcasting/Journalism
- Event and Facilities Management
- Media and Marketing
They also choose an academic minor to gain further marketability. All students complete a hands-on team project to gain professional skills. Students:
- hear from guest speakers
- attend community events
- work internships designed to prepare them for success in their career
#2 – Arizona State University – Phoenix, Arizona
Sports Journalism (BA)
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Net Price: $13,081
Arizona State University features a cost-effective bachelor’s in sports journalism available as an accelerated program. The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication prepares sports journalism students for successful careers in sport media and communication. Courses are available in:
- Sports Writing
- Sports Photography
- Sports Strategic Communication
Internship opportunities are available with well-known organizations including ESPN and Fox Sports
#1 – Youngstown State University – Youngstown, Ohio
Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunication Studies, Sports Broadcasting Track
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Net Price: $11,033
Youngstown State University is one of the top sports broadcasting schools. The most affordable bachelor’s in sport communication to make our ranking is offered by Youngstown State University. YSU features a sports broadcasting degrees track for students interested in both sports media including:
- media sales and advertising
- writing and editing
- production
Hands-on opportunities are available through Youngstown State University Athletics making it one of the best schools for sports broadcasting. Courses in the sports broadcasting degree program cover areas like:
- Broadcast Sports Performance
- Cross-Platform Sports Broadcasting
- Sports Media Production
Graduates are prepared for careers through colleges for sports journalism, public and media relations, media management, and digital media production.
