Global Sport Management - BA (Hons)
This course has recently been updated. Please download the course specification for the up to date information. The global sports market is estimated to be worth between £400 billion and £500 billion and is growing at a significant rate year on year....
Studying with us in 2021/22
It is possible that the 2021/22 academic year may be affected by the ongoing disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Any arrangements put in place by the University for the 2021/22 academic year will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, pandemic-related/health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time/Part Time
- Location City Centre
- Award BA (Hons)
- Start date September 2021
- Fees View course fees
- School Birmingham City Business School
- Faculty Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences
Course overview
This course has recently been updated. Please download the course specification for the up to date information.
The global sports market is estimated to be worth between £400 billion and £500 billion and is growing at a significant rate year on year.
Over the past decade there has been a huge increase of career opportunities in the global sport sector that require graduates with the skills, attributes and experience to thrive in such a dynamic industry.
What's covered in this course?
This undergraduate course will provide the academic expertise needed to help students develop an exciting professional future.
Combining theory and practical application this course will draw heavily from practising sports leaders to cover multiple aspects such as technology and digital innovation, marketing, events, operations and analytics. Internships, placements, project fieldwork and workshops will enable students to start a career the second you begin your university degree.
This innovative and on-trend course will give you the skills, experience and insights to develop a career in the growing area of sport management alongside a qualification from the CMI (Chartered Management Institute).
The international focus of the course is derived through a variety of means including the student body, the teaching team and the use of international teaching materials. Moreover, you can choose to spend a year or a full semester studying their modules overseas at a partner institution.
Why Choose Us?
- This is the only undergraduate Sport Management course in the UK to be CMI accredited with no extra cost to the student. The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) is the only chartered professional body dedicated to promoting the highest standards in management and leadership excellence.
- On all of our courses you will gain a professional focus and real world experience of management, ensuring you are equipped to make an immediate impact in the business world. You have the opportunity to embark on a year-long professional placement as part of your degree course.
- Following the globalisation of the sporting industry over the last 25 years, this course will provide global learning experiences for students by combining theory and practical application with close global sport industry links, developing student’s global outlook and preparing them for careers with key global brands.
- There are a variety of exciting possibilities open to you, including our many overseas study exchange programmes.
- Course material is directed to current and future industry demands and aligned to key elements within global sport job specifications, providing you with relevant and real world, professional experience to excel in the marketplace.
- Students will gain contemporary skills in technology and digital innovation; marketing and events; operations and analytics, preparing them for successful graduate roles within the global sport industry.
- Relations with high profile global sport organisations (such as Manchester City) ensure students will gain the technical, behavioural and cognitive awareness that is required of them in the current job market.
- The access to the global sport industry surrounding Birmingham City University (such as the hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2022) allows students to develop a professional and practice-led outlook.
- As a student on one of our undergraduate degrees, you will be able to benefit from our Graduate+ initiative. This three-year award programme enables you to gain award levels for all the extra-curricular activities you undertake so that you can stand out from the crowd on graduation.
- You will study in our state-of-the-art City Centre Campus, ideally located for you to take advantage of our links to Birmingham’s business district, one of the largest in the UK.
- Academic staff have over 17 years of professional sporting industry experience, bringing specialised, real-world examples and insight to student learning.
- You will be able to work on exciting projects for real-life clients through our Business Advice Centre, giving you exposure to the challenges and issues faced by businesses as well as the chance to develop successful solutions. Opportunities are available with local, regional, national and even global businesses such as BMW.
- The Centre also offers expert support for your own entrepreneurial ideas, so you can start planning your own start-up or take your existing business to the next level. Following graduation, you will have the opportunity to apply for STEAMhouse Business Incubator membership.
Find out more
Entry Requirements
We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
Essential Requirements
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BBC or 112 UCAS tariff points from a maximum of 3 subjects. |
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| UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
| GCSE |
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| Irish Leaving Certificate (Ordinary Level) |
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| Scottish National 5 |
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| Plus one of the following Level 3 (and above) Qualifications | ||
| UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
| A level and Advanced VCE |
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| AAT Diploma in Accounting (QCF) |
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| Access to HE Diploma |
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IBO Certificate in Higher Level |
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International Baccalaureate Diploma |
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IFS / LIBF Diploma in Financial Studies |
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Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers) |
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NCFE CACHE Level 3 Applied General Certificate in Health and Social Care |
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OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma |
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OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma |
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OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma |
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Scottish Advanced Higher |
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Scottish Higher |
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T-Levels |
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Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate - Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) |
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Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma – Core (awarded until 2016) ESW/KS Combined component |
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| Other Qualifications | ||
| If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS. Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website. |
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Additional information for EU/International students
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Applications from international applicants with equivalent qualifications to 112 points are welcome. Please see your country page for further details on the equivalent qualifications we accept. In additional to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require the qualifications detailed in this table. |
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| English language requirements 2020/21 | ||
| IELTS |
6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum in all bands If you do not meet the required IELTS score, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses. Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course. More information. |
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| Other accepted qualifications | Visit our English language page | |
Fees & How to Apply
- UK students
- International students
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £9,250 per year
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 5 Years
- Show fees
- Year 1 (60 credits) £4,700
- Year 2 (80 credits) £6,200
- Year 3 (80 credits) £6,200
- Year 4 (80 credits) £6,200
- Year 5 (60 credits) £4,700
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year as shown here.
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £13,200 per year
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead.
Guidance for UK students
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
Register with UCAS
Login to UCAS
Complete your details
Select your course
Write a personal statement
Get a reference
Pay your application fee
Send UCAS your application
International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
Course choice
Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
Career plans
If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
Work experience
Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
School or college experience
Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
Non-accredited skills or achievement
eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Get more information on writing personal statements.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Fees for part time students
If you study this course part-time or via distance learning, you will be charged on a pro-rata basis. This means your fee will be calculated per module.
Course in Depth
Year One
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
20 credits
This module is designed to introduce you to the concept of management in the context of the global sports industry.
The module encourages you to think about what skills, attributes and tasks that managers perform in different situations with the purpose of recognising what makes effective global sport managers. This module aligns with the Course Philosophy by providing an insight into the respective industry, integrating sessions from industry experts to facilitate this. The module balances theory and concepts, supporting you to reflect and apply this content into real life scenarios.
20 credits
Teamwork is a critical component of successful Global Sports Management (whether ‘front-of-house’ organisation, sports team management or within the competition team itself). During each ‘Sporting phase’, (before, during and after) – i.e. explore (market and customer need), engineer (the plan, resources and experience), engage (staff, team and customers), execute (operations and experience), evaluate (impact and delivery) and evolve (proposition and experience) – GSM personnel have to work harmoniously and purposefully together to design, expedite and improve the sporting spectacle, experience and multi-cultural team performance (Edger and Oddy, 2018). Symbiotic multi-cultural teams drawn together with a common purpose working harmoniously with a ‘one team’ philosophy enable ordinary people (staffers, volunteers, casual workers and sportsmen/women) to come together in either national, non-profit or professional sporting contexts to deliver extraordinary sporting occasions! Toxic teams (at any level of the sports organisation) comprised of unfocussed, demotivated and self-interested individuals will deliver suboptimal performances and experiences that will perish quickly as a customer proposition.
In this module you will explore theories, concepts and practice-based insights relating to high performing GSM teams. Beginning with a behavioural overview of team dynamics you will learn about the culture, structures and roles required in different GSM contexts and scenarios. They will be introduced to the importance of labour/shift/team rostering and scheduling and the basics of contemporary HRM techniques relating to the successful recruitment, selection, induction, motivation and development of high performing GSM teams. Towards the end of the module you will be introduced to the concepts of managerial styles within differing ‘team contexts’ and the theory of team lifecycles (form, storm, norm, perform, adjourn etc.)
Principles of Marketing 20 credits
20 credits
This module is designed to introduce you to the concept of management in the context of sporting events. The module encourages you to think about what skills, attributes and tasks that managers perform in different situations with the purpose of recognising what makes effective sport event managers.
This module aligns with the Programme Philosophy by providing an insight into the respective industries, integrating sessions from industry experts to facilitate this. The module balances theory and concepts, supporting you to reflect and apply this content into real life scenarios.
20 credits
This module is designed to introduce you to the concept of employability in the event, venue and experience industries. The module empowers you to build an external profile, experience base, and skill set to be proficient in applying for work experience and placement opportunities. This module aligns with the Programme Philosophy by providing an insight into the respective industries, integrating sessions from industry experts to facilitate this. The module balances theory and concepts, supporting the students to reflect and apply this content into real life scenarios.
20 credits
This module will provide a gentle introduction to the world of accounting and finance for business managers of the future and is designed for those new to accounting or those studying on non-accounting related degree programmes.
You’ll explore key areas of accounting including gaining an appreciation for how basic financial statements are prepared and how you can assess both the financial performance and financial position of a business.
Year Two
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
20 credits
The aim of this module is to provide you with an in depth knowledge of current and future trends in analytics and digital innovation in the context of the global sports industry.
The relevant literature is explored, but with a consistent view of the importance of applying theory and planning in practical sport contexts.
The module is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops in which you will be expected to contribute. Case studies from around the world and presentations will also be used in each session and where possible, guest lectures from sport technology and digital experts will be used.
20 credits
This module builds upon the learning foundation from the first year level 4 module ‘Building Your Brand’. The module approach demonstrates to you the importance of continual self-development in achieving organisational objectives.
You will assess your current skills and competencies with reference to current or future roles and link this to organisational objectives. Analysis and identification of skills and competency gaps, and how these can be overcome, shall be integral to the module.
20 credits
This module furnishes you with a basic introduction to the main elements of Sports Venue Management within Events. Beginning with an overview of the purpose, principles and practices of high performing Sporting Venue Managers students are then taught the five basic elements of outstanding Sports Venue Management, namely; Operations Management, Human Resource Management, Financial Management, Promotions and Marketing and Facilities and Safety Management (Edger and Oddy 2018). The connectivity and inter-relationships between all essential elements are exposed and explained to furnish you with a ‘holistic’ appreciation of high performance in this area.
Culture and Consumer Behaviour in Global Sports 20 credits
20 credits
The aim of this module is to provide you with the knowledge, skills and insights to research a ‘live’ GSM issue with a view to formulating practicable, impactful and value-added research project proposal which will be actioned in the final year.
To this end you will be taught the key stages of methods in GSM Research (i.e. identify question and objectives, isolate key literature and conceptual frameworks, select appropriate research methodology, collect and analyse data and write up a compelling report). You will also be introduced to core concepts and theories relating to Project Management, including in depth appreciation of the Prince 2 Model of designing, implementing and evaluating high performing projects.
20 credits
This module is core for all marketing students, irrespective of their pathway. The reason for this is that marketing communications is a key strategic area for any business, as it gives visibility and understanding of an organisation’s products and or services. It utilises a variety of techniques, communication tools and media to deliver these messages, designing campaigns that drive the desired behavioural responses.
Final Year
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 60 credits).
Marketing Strategy and Leadership 20 credits
Strategic Management 20 credits
Global Sports Law, Policy and CSR 20 credits
In order to complete this course a student must choose ONE of the following optional project routes (totalling 40 credits):
Business Advice Project (Major) 40 credits
Business Research Project (Major) 40 credits
Business Start-Up Project (Major) 40 credits
Community Advice Project (Major) 40 credits
Employability Project (Major) 40 credits
Economics Research Project (Major) 40 credits
Business Research Methodology and Practice + Business Research Project 40 credits
Business Research Methodology and Practice + Business Start-Up Project 40 credits
Business Research Methodology and Practice + Community Advice Project 40 credits
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules.
Contemporary Issues in Global Sport 20 credits
Operational and Process Improvement in Sports Venues 20 credits
Legal Contracts and Bidding in Events 20 credits
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Underpinning the philosophy of the course are the following purpose and objectives:
Purpose
To inspire and equip students with the expertise to develop a high level of academic skills leading to graduate employment and career development within the fast growing ‘Global Sports industry domain’.
Objectives
- Technical: to furnish students with the practical skills and expertise to add high value within the Sports industry
- Behavioural: to nurture the appropriate levels of energy and internal/external ‘customer-centric’ behaviours to create innovative products and services
- Cognitive: to provide students with high levels of critical reasoning and problem solving capabilities that will ensure they stand out among their competitive set
- Be truly global: to provide students with global experiences throughout all levels, making this course unique in the marketplace
Chartered Management Institute
This course is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). This means that you can achieve the Level 5 CMI Certificate in Management and Leadership alongside your degree. The award is conditional on successfully completing the Honours degree programme in the appropriate module areas.
Employability
OpportUNIty
OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.
Business Advice Centre
The Business Advice Centre (BAC) is the Business School's hub that offers a range of support services to you throughout each stage of your student learning experience.
We have a range of support solutions for students as well as opportunities to enhance your employability and entrepreneurial qualities.
Whether you are considering starting your business, connecting with real companies or enhancing your graduate opportunities, the Business Advice Centre can help you.
International Students
Welcome to the Birmingham City Business School, home to students from over 70 countries all around the world!
Birmingham City Business School is one of the UK’s largest, most established and most respected business schools. Our programmes are practice based and many have an international focus, which means your course will be entirely relevant to today’s business world. Almost all of our courses, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level, are open to international students.
We also have links with universities across the world, including Europe, the USA, China, India and Malaysia.
International ServicesOur international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Explore some of the good reasons why you should study here
- Find out how to improve your language skills before starting your studies
- Find all the information relevant to applicants from your country
- Learn where to find financial support for your studies
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Facilities and Staff
Our Facilities
We are constantly investing in our estate and are currently in the process of spending £340 million on new learning facilities.
The Curzon Building
This course is based at our City Centre Campus – and specifically The Curzon Building, alongside other Social Sciences, Law, Business and English students.
The £63m building offers students a unique social learning space, including a dedicated student hub incorporating student support services, in the heart of Birmingham’s Eastside development.
The Business floors house an extensive number of IT facilities, breakout areas, and specialised rooms. The Marketing Link Agency is designed to replicate a modern marketing firm, allowing students to get real-life experience of working in the marketing sector. There is also the City Trading Room, which features state of the art stock market tracking equipment, keeping you up to date with all the financial comings and goings of the London Stock Exchange and Wall Street.
The Curzon building is also conveniently close to Birmingham’s business and financial centre, allowing for strong links between your studies and the real world.
The Curzon Building also features:
- An impressive new library with access to over 65 million full text items and stunning views of Eastside City Park
- Your Students’ Union which is located in a beautifully restored 19th century pub, The Eagle and Ball
- A modern 300-seat food court with space to study and socialise
- Brand new, accessible IT facilities with full Office365 for all students for free
- Shared facilities with the wider campus including the recently opened Parkside Building and Millennium Point
Our staff
Dr Russell Cowley
Senior Lecturer, Programme Director for Global Sports Management
Dr Russell Cowley retired from a professional ice hockey career (2017) that spanned over 17 years, winning a world championship gold medal in April 2017, also his final game at the elite level.
More about RussellDr Richard Oddy
Senior Lecturer and Programme Director
Dr Richard E. Oddy is a Senior Lecturer and Course Director specialising in Marketing, Sport, Event and Esports Management. He has developed and launched a number of new courses in these specific fields, and has over a decade of teaching experience at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.
More about Richard