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Explore the role of sports journalism in a rapidly changing society and media landscape. You’ll examine how diverse audiences engage with sports and how journalists cover issues like race, gender, and culture with accuracy and context. 

Study real ethical decisions journalists face, and how ethics intersects with core media law principles (privacy, libel, copyright, public records) and professional standards. 

Practice the work: develop sources, pitch stories, interview athletes and decision-makers, and work effectively with media relations; while learning to report digital sports stories under deadline. 

Understand sports media as an industry. Topics include business models, sports analytics, entrepreneurship, contracts, organizational culture, and freelancing—so you can navigate how the business side shapes coverage. 

Build in-depth interviewing skills through journalistic research and real interview work, then present your reporting through podcasts and other digital platforms. 

Finish with a three-course digital project sequence where you research, report, and present a major sports journalism project designed to represent your best work. 

Is the M.A. in Sports Journalism fully online? 
Yes. The program is offered 100% online and designed for flexibility. 

How long are the courses? 
Courses run in 7-week terms. 

How long does it take to complete the program? 
The program is 30 credits and can typically be completed in about 1.5 years. 

Can I work while I’m enrolled? 
Yes. The schedule is designed for working professionals. (Weekly time will vary by course and your pace.) 

Will I have to attend live sessions? 
Coursework is asynchronous. The program may also offer periodic live video masterclass sessions that are open to all graduate journalism students. 

Do I need journalism experience to enroll? 
No. The program is designed to teach foundational journalism skills and apply them directly to sports reporting and digital storytelling. 

What will I graduate ready to do? 
You’ll build skills in sports reporting, interviewing, audio/podcasting, social storytelling, and longform feature writing, grounded in ethics and strong verification habits. 

What is a masterclass? 
Each 7-week term includes a masterclass, a specialty lesson led by an accomplished alum or industry expert .  

What is the capstone / digital project? 
You’ll complete a major digital journalism project sequence designed to showcase your best work—ideal for your portfolio and interviews. 

What are the admissions requirements? 
To be admitted, students must present undergraduate transcripts showing completion of a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5 or higher, plus submission of a writing sample. 

Is there an application fee or GRE/GMAT requirement? 
No application fee and no GRE/GMAT required. 

What should I submit as a writing sample? 
Choose something that shows clear, structured writing (journalism clips, a feature story, an analysis piece, or strong professional writing). If you’re unsure what to submit, and an advisor can help. 

How much does the program cost? 
Tuition is $815 per credit hour ($24,450 for 30 credits), excluding fees. 

Are there additional fees? 
Yes. Additional fees may apply (see the tuition and fees page for current details). 

Is financial aid available? 
Financial aid may be available for eligible students. Request info to explore options and timelines.