Sport Fitness and Recreation Leadership

Master of Science

College of Education

MSTravel, Sports, and HospitalityLeadership & InfluenceCareer & Professional ManagementOnline
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Play a leadership role in your area of sports science

The Sport, Fitness, and Recreation Leadership master’s program is designed for the working sports, fitness or recreation professional, with all courses available online. The program focuses on the holistic care and health of athletes and individuals in fitness and recreation settings. You’ll gain an awareness of current trends and issues, build a professional network and earn the credentials needed to pursue leadership positions in sports, fitness and recreation management. After graduation, you’ll be able to work as an athletic director, as well as in leadership or management roles in athletic departments, recreation and fitness facilities, corporate fitness centers, or university athletic programs.

In addition to your online courses you'll attend two, two-day on-campus summer seminars.​

Connect with opportunity in a world-class sports and recreation city

Studying sports management at DePaul means you’ll be surrounded by high school and college athletic departments, professional sports teams, fitness centers, park districts and athletic clubs, providing countless networking and internship options.

Application Deadlines

Applications are now open for the Autumn 2026 Quarter with a deadline of August 15. Apply today.​

Admission Requirements
Submit an online application, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, résumé and personal statement.
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Required Courses
You’ll take 12 required courses and two in-person summer seminars.
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Propel your career with a masters in sport, fitness, and recreation leadership

The sports leadership masters program gives you the chance to develop into an industry leader. The broad scope of kinesiology provides almost unlimited leadership opportunities and our program was designed to help you thrive in whatever area you are passionate about. The program focuses on the holistic care and health of athletes and individuals in fitness and recreation settings. With a thorough understanding of the sociocultural and political context of your environment and knowledge of a variety of approaches, you will be positioned to lead your organization for the good of all its stakeholders.

Quote component
Jonathan (MS ’17)
Executive Director/Head Basketball Coach, City Hoops Institute
Alumni Network
Connect with DePaul’s robust alumni network of 195,500 graduates. You’ll have access to alumni who hold jobs in university athletics departments, schools, health clubs, recreation and fitness centers, and athletics clubs or leagues. 
Scholarships
Graduate school is an investment in your future. Learn more about the financial aid and scholarship opportunities available to you.
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Contact Information
For more information about applying, contact The Office of Graduate Admissions for DePaul’s College of Education at 
   (773) 325-4405 or 
   edgradadmissions@depaul.edu.
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We’ll send you information about the degree, admission requirements and upcoming info sessions. Let’s get started.
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