Master of Arts in Sports Communication
Department: Communication
Graduate Program Director: Joshua Dickhaus
The Department of Communication and the Charley Steiner School of Sports Communication offers a Master of Arts in Sports Communication degree. This online asynchronous graduate will provide an advanced, in-depth study of the philosophies, principles, and practices of sports communication. Learners will acquire skills and knowledge to adapt to increasingly complex, converging, and global sports communication industries, as well as strategies for managing relationships with sports media sources and stakeholders.
Mission
Our mission is to ensure our students are equipped with a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills required to become successful in their chosen path in the sports communication industry. This program is committed to integrating academic learning with course projects to ensure students are prepared for a successful career in a diverse sports society.
Program Goals
The program will employ a project-based focus in which learners engage and apply course content using practical and actionable projects. This program is designed for learners who want advanced training in sports communication, those working or seeking positions in sports organizations and industries, and those interested in further graduate study. At the conclusion of the program, these students will be as prepared as possible to advance themselves in their chosen career path in sports communication.
University Collaboration
This program offers communication and sports communication specific courses. As the Director of the Charley Steiner School of Sports Communication, I have met with the Communication Chair, CFA Dean, and the VP of Online and Distance Education to ascertain resources that will be needed for the successful creation and sustaining of this program. The courses for this program are being developed using instructional designers who work for the university. No courses overlap with other departments at the university.
Enrollment
The program plans to begin marketing and course development for a start date of spring of 2025. There will be a cap of 20 students per class.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. External (non-Bradley) applicants must also submit official transcripts that show a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited postsecondary institution.
Following are requirements for admission to the program:
1. Official transcript confirming an undergraduate degree with a major in game development or the equivalent, and in fulfillment of requirements of Graduate Education. Alternatively, a major in animation, computer science, or user experience without game development would be considered with additional required study.
2. A minimum undergraduate last-60-hour grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is needed for unconditional admission.
3. A portfolio of game development work that demonstrates technical, design, or artistic accomplishment. Applicants should indicate which projects were collaborative efforts as well their role and contribution.
4. One or two letters of recommendation.
5. A statement of one’s interests, abilities, and direction in game design & development. (250 words).
6. Application deadlines are August 15 (for spring entrance) and January 15 (for fall entrance) to be assured full consideration.