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Students in Isenberg’s PhD program in sport management are interested in the convergence of sport and business.

From uncovering the unique characteristics of sport monopolies to understanding brand management as it relates to fan behavior, students find their research niche at Isenberg as they become leading academics and scholars the field.

Message from the Coordinator

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The sport industry has rapidly developed into a thriving business, with impacts across society, driving demand for sport business-trained professionals, and pioneering academic research. There are exceptional opportunities for aspiring academics with a passion for sport.

Isenberg has been ahead of this curve, crafting a doctoral program—one of only a handful in the country—that prepares students to meet this demand. By merging the Mark H. McCormack Department of Sport Management, a leader in the field for 40 years, with Isenberg, we can simultaneously provide students with PhD-level training in sport and business management.

We’re proud that our distinguished program also offers:

  • Renowned faculty with diverse research interests who regularly publish scholarly work in top-tier sport journals
  • supportive and collaborative environment that extends beyond the classroom
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio, providing individual attention to doctoral students
  • Customization that encourages doctoral students to pursue their research interests
  • Strong ties to sport industry leaders who can be utilized for research

Our graduates enjoy marketability as both published researchers and seasoned educators. We welcome applicants who are dedicated learners and inquisitive thinkers interested in making real contributions to this exciting and still emerging field.

Elizabeth B. Delia
PhD Coordinator & Associate Professor

About the Program

About the Program

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Sport Management Doctoral Candidates

Sport Management Doctoral Candidates

Watch Video in modal: McCormack Department of Sport Management

McCormack Department of Sport Management

Testimonials from Recent Graduates

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The doctoral program far exceeded my expectations. I got to expand my mind by learning from world-class scholars. In the process, many of them became mentors, collaborators, and close friends. They encouraged me to find my voice in the academic community and supported me every step of the way. UMass encouraged me to be revolutionary in my thinking while giving me the sense I joined a big family.
Ovidiu Cocieru, Assistant Professor
Management, Marketing, & Entrepreneurship, University of Scranton
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My PhD journey undoubtedly prepared me for a career in academia. Not only was I fortunate to have had a mentor who is highly respected in the industry who helped me find my way around my research, but the program also prepared me for teaching in the classroom. I am forever grateful for my experience at UMass and all the support from the McCormack Department of Sport Management. I couldn't have asked for a better education.
Soyoung Joo, Assistant Professor
School of Business, Siena College
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