Admissions

Why Apply to Maryland's Schanwald Sports Management Program?

Driven, innovative, and deeply connected to the sports industry, our program embodies a bold spirit that inspires students to push boundaries and embrace challenges with integrity. We’re not just a program; we’re a community of aspiring professionals and leaders who share a passion for sports and excellence. Join us, and be part of a vibrant network where you’ll gain more than an education—you’ll gain lifelong connections and a pathway to a fulfilling career in sports management.

Admissions Criteria

Take the Next Step Toward a Career in Sports

Ready to join a community that’s passionate about sports, leadership, and making an impact? Each year, we select two cohorts of UMD students who are driven to push boundaries and build a successful future in sports management.

Application Dates

Primary Application Period:

  • February 1 - Application opens
  • February 15 - Application deadline

Secondary Application Period:

  • September 1 - Application opens
  • September 15 - Application deadline

Eligibility

To be eligible, you'll need to meet these requirements:

  • Applicants must be current undergraduate students enrolled at the University of Maryland, College Park, from any major, with a minimum of three full semesters remaining in their undergraduate studies, not counting the semester they were admitted to the program.
  • Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
  • Complete (or plan to complete) 30 credits by the end of the semester in which you apply.
  • Be prepared to complete 12 total credits of sports management coursework.

Admissions Process

The Schanwald Sports Management Program offers two application periods each year, with the primary recruitment period serving as the main entry point to the program. All eligible students are strongly encouraged to apply during this primary period, when most selections for the fall cohort are made.

During the primary recruitment period, strong applicants may also be admitted to the spring cohort or deferred to the secondary recruitment period. Deferred applicants will be automatically reconsidered, without needing to reapply, for admission to the spring cohort.

The secondary recruitment period is designed primarily for new transfer students beginning at UMD in the fall semester and for students who recently learned about the program.

Students may apply once per calendar year. Those who apply during the primary recruitment period and are not selected must wait until the next primary recruitment period to reapply.

Our selection committee—made up of students, faculty, and staff—uses a holistic review process to evaluate each applicant. Selected students are invited to participate in interviews where we look for enthusiasm for the sports industry, leadership potential, and a commitment to building a strong and inclusive community.

Frequently Asked Questions 

The Schanwald Sports Management Program is neither a major nor a minor—it’s a unique notation program, offering an immersive, hands-on learning experience tailored to prepare you for a career in the sports industry. Through a concentrated series of courses, you’ll gain marketable skills and practical insights that set you apart. Upon completing the program, you’ll earn a notation on your transcript that reflects your dedication and specialized training in sports management.

You are welcome to take the elective course if you meet the prerequisites and restrictions for the course. The three core courses (BMGT383, BMGT384, and BMGT483) are all restricted to students in the program and will be taken after students are admitted.

Yes! Studying abroad is a fantastic experience, and we work with students to make it possible. Keep in mind that our courses are sequential and you need to complete BMGT383 and BMGT384 before our capstone course, BMGT483. So long as you are able to complete all program requirements before graduation and meet all the prerequisites, we will work with you to ensure you can partake in both experiences.

The required coursework can be completed in as little as three semesters. But your Schanwald SMP experience doesn’t end there! After finishing, you’re still welcome to participate in all of the programmatic aspects of the program such as site visits, networking events, professional development sessions, and more.

Students may apply to the Schanwald Sports Management Program once per calendar year. Those who apply during the primary recruitment period (February) and are not selected must wait until the next primary recruitment period to reapply. Those who submit an application only in the secondary recruitment period (September) may reapply in the primary recruitment period in February.

The Schanwald Sports Management Program is designed to fit within your academic schedule, requiring a commitment of 12 credits of coursework over your time in the program. In addition to classes, we offer a range of out-of-the-classroom experiences—such as networking events, site visits, and guest speaker sessions—which we strongly encourage students to attend to get the most out of the program.

While participation in many of these additional events is expected, there is flexibility to balance them with your other academic and personal commitments. Typically, students find that these events and experiences enrich their time in the program and are manageable alongside their other responsibilities. The program’s structure allows you to make the most of opportunities that align with your specific career goals and schedule.

No! The Schanwald Sports Management Program is open to all UMD undergraduates who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of major.

There are plenty of ways to gain sports industry experience while preparing to apply to the program:

  • Join the Sports Business Society: A student organization that connects members with industry professionals, providing insights into the business side of sports.
  • Intern with Maryland Athletics: Gain hands-on experience through internships or student employment opportunities in intercollegiate athletics.
  • Attend the Maryland Sports Business Conference: Each spring, this event brings together students from the DMV area to learn about the business of sports, network, and gain industry insights. 

As a transfer student, SMP has been instrumental in helping me build a sense of belonging at UMD by connecting me with like-minded peers who share my passion for the sports industry. With the support of the incredible staff, we’ve created a space where we can express ourselves authentically and celebrate each other’s successes. Despite the competitive nature of the field, our community thrives on mutual encouragement and collective growth. Through SMP, I’ve formed lasting friendships and built a strong personal and professional support system. It’s more than an academic program—it’s become a second family that made UMD truly feel like home.

Jarrod Boyer

SMP Cohort 1

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